Best Car Accident Lawyers in Clovis

FAQs

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

  Dial (559) 324-2800 for a non-emergency response from the Clovis Police Department.

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

  Request a copy of the police report personally at the records window located in the lobby of the police station at 1233 Fifth Street. Office hours are Mondays through Fridays, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, except for Thursdays, which are from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Reports can also be obtained by calling (559) 324-2400.

• Can a driver who is partially at fault in a car accident in Clovis recover compensation?

  Yes. Under CA's comparative negligence rules, drivers partially at fault in a car accident can still collect compensation based on their individual percentage of fault. However, it will be a challenge for at-fault drivers to receive full compensation for their injuries and other damage sustained in a car accident in Clovis.

• Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit for a car accident victim in Clovis?

  The spouse, domestic partner, children, and grandchildren of the victim killed in a Clovis car accident can file the lawsuit on behalf of the family. The lawsuit will pursue compensation for expenses involving funeral and burial, the deceased's medical bills, and the family's emotional trauma and lost income provided originally by the deceased.

• What are the recent recalls on GM vehicles that may affect drivers in Clovis?

  GM is recalling thousands of 2021-2022 MY of Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade due to a problem with third-row seats. According to the NHTSA, over 484,000 of these GM SUVs are being recalled because of an improperly formed rivet on the third-row seatbelt bucket assembly. GM has stated that it has not received any reports of injuries involving the defect but has received several field reports that may be related to the problem.

• What are some of the most-ticketed intersections in Clovis?

  The intersections of avenues such as Willow and Shaw, Villa and Bullard, and Peach and Shaw top the list of the most-ticketed intersections in Clovis, according to the police. The top violations are speeding, using handheld electronic devices while driving, and failure to provide evidence of car insurance. Additionally, the intersections of Clovis and Shaw, McKelvy and Herndon, and Villa and Shaw are highly ticketed intersections.

• Can drivers whose injuries in a Clovis car accident were covered by insurance still file a personal injury lawsuit?

  Yes. A driver injured in a car accident in Clovis can still file a personal injury lawsuit even if the injuries are covered by MedPay and health insurance. This is in accordance with CA's Collateral Source Rule, which states that individuals are entitled to seek compensation for medical bills by filing a personal injury lawsuit, regardless if these bills have already been paid through MedPay or health insurance.

• 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.