Best Car Accident Lawyers in Camarillo

FAQs

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

  Call (805) 654-9511 to contact the Camarillo Police Department for non-emergency concerns.

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

  A person may request to review and/or obtain a copy of any public record under the Public Records Act unless it is exempt under relevant laws (Government Code Section 6250, et seq.). On typical work days, requests are received between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (Monday through Friday, excluding holidays). If the records are public and available in the city's record system, the city will notify the requestor within 10 days.

• How common are vehicle accidents involving the elderly in Camarillo?

  According to a study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 18% of all traffic deaths occurred among those 65 and older. The American Automobile Association also found that fatal crash rates per mile traveled begin to rise at 75 years old and increase substantially after 80. Although they determined that the cause is more likely to be injuries and medical problems than an increase in crashes, you may have a higher risk if they are driving the car.

• How may Camarillo's comparative fault law affect your car accident case?

  Camarillo follows California's comparative fault law, which states that a plaintiff can get compensation even if they were partly to blame, as long as they were not 100% or entirely at fault. The state uses "pure comparative fault," which means that a plaintiff can get damages even if the driver was partly liable, but the total recovery will be less than it would have been if the driver hadn't been at fault.

• Can you still file a claim if you have a pre-existing medical condition that was aggravated by an accident in Camarillo?

  Yes. Under California's regulations, Camarillo also follows the "eggshell rule" which applies to pre-existing conditions aggravated by accidents. You need to prove this by:

  -Reviewing your previous medical records -Examining diagnostic tests conducted after the accident -Introducing expert witnesses to testify

  Diagnostic tools used in this case include x-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds. Your attorney will review the details of your case to determine the appropriate medical examinations necessary to prove your case.

• Will your company be compelled to pay your medical bills if you were involved in an automobile accident in Camarillo while driving an employer's vehicle?

  If the accident occurred while you were in the course and scope of your employment, you can require your company to cover medical bills by filing a worker's compensation claim. Employers in Camarillo are obliged to carry worker's compensation insurance or self-insure, which covers workplace injuries. You may be required to dispute your injury claims during the claims process, at which point it may be in your best interest to hire a worker's compensation attorney.

• Where are car accidents most likely to happen in Camarillo?

  Recent research indicates that Crestview Avenue and Pleasant Valley Road in Camarillo are the locations of fatal car accidents and other types of traffic collisions. In addition, accidents were also claimed to have taken place on Arneill Road, Earl Joseph Drive, and the intersection of Carmen Drive and E Ponderosa Drive.

• 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.