Best Car Accident Lawyers in Burbank

FAQs

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

  Residents of Burbank are urged to call 818-238-3000 for non-emergency police assistance.

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

  The Records Bureau provides you with a copy of the collision report. However, the Burbank Police Department now allows you to obtain a collision report online for a nominal convenience fee that is added to the cost of the report.

• What would you do if the other driver in a Burbank car accident leaves the scene?

  If the driver of the other vehicle flees the scene of an auto accident in Burbank, you should immediately contact the police to make a report of the hit-and-run. You must provide the police with any identifying information you can gather about the other motorist and their vehicle. In this circumstance, your insurance company may also be able to provide coverage for your damages.

• Where do car accidents occur most frequently in Burbank?

  According to the city, the three most dangerous intersections in Burbank are Victory Place and Burbank Boulevard, Olive Avenue and Buena Vista Street, and Buena Vista Street and Victory Boulevard. However, none of the collisions at these locations resulted in fatalities, and only two resulted in severe injuries. In addition, two of these severe crashes at Olive Avenue and Buena Vista Street involved a car colliding with a stationary object rather than another vehicle.

• Is a bar liable for drunk driving accidents in Burbank?

  No. Bars are generally not liable if one of their patrons leaves drunk and injures someone in a car accident in Burbank. Many states have Dram Shop Laws, where the state may hold the bar responsible for serving alcohol. However, the Dram Shop Laws are different in California, and the bar may only be held liable if serving alcohol to someone under 21. The adult serving the alcohol can be held responsible if a minor drinks alcohol served to them at a bar, restaurant, or even in the privacy of one’s home.

• Can you sue for damages if you were partly to blame for a car accident in Burbank?

  Yes, even if you were partially at fault in a Burbank car accident, you may be able to recover damages. The doctrine of comparative negligence applies in California, which means damages can be allocated based on the degree of guilt of each party. California is a pure comparative fault state, which means that victims can still seek compensation even if they are 99% to blame for the tragedy. In contrast, several other states have a modified comparative fault concept that prevents plaintiffs from receiving damages if they are 50% or more at fault.

• What are the leading causes of car accidents in Burbank?

  According to recent reports, speeding is the main culprit of car accidents in Burbank. Other factors that lead to car accidents include inattentive driving, exhaustion, the effect of alcohol or drugs, and reckless driving. In addition, bad weather, poor road design, and inadequate visibility after dark are all risk factors.

• 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.