Best Car Accident Lawyers in Citrus Heights

FAQs

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

  The Citrus Heights police department's non-emergency 24/7 number is 916-727-5500.

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

  The Records Unit of Citrus Heights Police Department handles all documents for the courts, such as police reports, traffic tickets, criminal reports, and subpoenas. You can send a fax to (916) 727-4973, send a text message to (916) 417-1297, or send an email to ReportRequest@citrusheights.net to ask for a report. Your request must include a picture of you holding your government-issued ID. Requested Reports can be sent by mail, emailed, or picked up during normal business hours at 6315 Fountain Square Drive. Call (916) 727-5500 to make sure that the report is ready to be given out before you come in.

• What are the most hazardous roadways around Citrus Heights?

  There are car accidents in different parts of Citrus Heights, just like there are in other parts of California. There are wrecks at busy intersections along Greenback Lane and with big rigs and trucks on Interstate 80. Accidents with cars can happen on any street, but the following are some of the most accident-prone ones:

  • Sunrise Boulevard
  • Auburn Boulevard
  • San Juan Avenue
  • Mariposa Avenue

• How often do accidents happen in Citrus Heights?

  According to data from the Office of Traffic Safety, there were 417 car accidents in Citrus Heights that hurt or killed people within a year. After taking into account population and miles driven, the OTS ranked Citrus Heights as having the 70th worst accident rate out of 102 cities like it. In most accidents in Citrus Heights, speed plays a crucial role. The California Office of Traffic Safety reports that 131 accidents in Citrus Heights were caused by excessive speed. Out of 102 similar California towns, Citrus Heights has the 13th worst rate of injury accidents caused by speeders.

• Should you share your automobile crash in Citrus Heights on social media?

  Posting about your Citrus Heights accident online is not advised. The court doesn't believe what people say on social media. This means that not all of your posts can be used in court as proof. But for insurance claim adjusters to deny or reduce your claim, your posts don't have to be admissible. Certain kinds of posts might seriously affect how well you recover from a car accident as a result. Consider how the insurance provider might utilize the information before making any updates regarding your accident or your post-accident health.

• What should you do if your car hits an animal in Citrus Heights?

  Never approach the animal if a collision occurs. The behavior of a huge animal in distress can be dangerous to both the driver and the animal. If the car can be driven, it needs to be moved to the shoulder. Notify the proper authorities in Citrus Heights and file any necessary insurance claims as soon as possible. Animal collisions are expensive and upsetting, and they have long-lasting effects. Staying aware and driving safely, like going the speed limit, will make it much less likely that you will hit an animal.

• What should you not do after a car accident in Citrus Heights?

  The following is advised when involved in a Citrus Heights car accident: -Don't leave the scene. That is a crime, and it hurts your ability to get paid. -Call the police right away. -Never admit fault. Doing so will only make it harder to get fair payment. -Don't forget to write down what happened. Take pictures of the cars and find out who saw what. -Don't say anything on record to an insurance adjuster. They might ask you hard-to-answer questions to trip you up and get you to say you did something wrong.

• 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.