Best Car Accident Lawyers in Beaumont

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Beaumont, California?

  951-769-8500 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Beaumont.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Beaumont, California?

  You can obtain a copy of the police report through the Records Division of the police station in Beaumont. You can visit the Records Division at 660 Orange Ave, Beaumont, CA 92223 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Fridays. You can also call them at 951-769-8510.

• What are the factors that can influence the settlement value of a car accident in Beaumont?

  Car accident settlements are usually based on lost wages, medical expenses, property damage, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. The amount of insurance available and who is at fault will also have an impact on the average car accident settlement. According to car accident statistics, victims and families who hire an experienced Beaumont car accident lawyer receive more compensation than those who do not.

• How much time do you have to file a car accident claim in Beaumont?

  The statute of limitations for car accidents in California is two years, so you generally have two years to sue after an accident in Beaumont. The statute of limitations in California is three years if you are only seeking damages to repair damage to your automobile or other property losses, according to Section 338 of the California Code of Civil Procedure. If the government is the defendant in a personal injury case, you have 6 months to file a claim.

• What happens if you are at fault in a Beaumont car accident?

  According to California's at-fault accident law, whoever is at fault for the accident must pay for the damages. All parties involved in a Beaumont car accident should file a claim with the person who caused the accident's insurance company. Because California is not a no-fault state, injured plaintiffs must file car accident claims with the at-fault driver's insurance company. This includes identifying the driver who caused the collision and proving that driver's fault during the insurance claims process.

• Should you hire a lawyer if you were in a car accident in Beaumont that was not your fault?

  If you were not at fault for the accident and suffered serious injuries as a result of another person's negligence or wrongful act, you should consult with a Beaumont car accident attorney to ensure you receive a fair settlement as the victim. Because California is a fault state, the at-fault party is usually obligated to pay not only for their own injuries, but also for the victim's injuries.

• What should you not say to your insurance company after a car accident in Beaumont?

  Do not apologize, express your opinion, or make an official statement immediately after the accident. Because the information you provide may be taken out of context and used against you, keep in mind that you are not required to provide a recorded statement. If you are asked about your injuries, do not say that you have not been injured until you have been examined by a doctor. It is best to consult with your Beaumont car accident attorney before speaking with the insurance company.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.