Best Car Accident Lawyers in Davis

FAQs

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

  530-747-5400 is the non-emergency contact number for the Davis Police Department.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the accident's police report from the main repository of police department records. The public can visit the records unit (excluding holidays) from Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Call (530) 752-6823 to get in touch with the records unit staff. A report costs $7.

• What intersections in Davis are most prone to accidents?

  Larger highways like Covell Boulevard, Russell Boulevard, or 5th St. are also frequently involved in accidents, as are California State Route 113 and Interstate 80. Accident victims can get help from Davis car accident lawyers to protect their rights and interests from careless drivers and insurance companies. 

• What should you do right after a car collision in Davis?

  Calling 911 should be your first action after a car accident in Davis. Notify the police, no matter how minor you believe the accident to be. The officer will record the collision and submit a police report, and a medical team will be dispatched to look for any injuries. If you decide to proceed with filing a personal injury claim, this paperwork is crucial.

• Will your insurance premium increase if you are injured in a car accident in Davis but is not at fault?

  Due to the point-based method used to calculate insurance premiums, your rates will normally not increase if the Davis car accident was mostly or entirely the fault of another motorist. Your rates will probably increase, however, if you are more than 50% to blame for an accident. If you made a standard mistake in judgment, these rate hikes are typically not large, but if you were in a more serious accident and broke the law, such as by driving while intoxicated or recklessly, your insurance rates might climb significantly.

• How to handle medical bills after a Davis car accident?

  Dealing with escalating medical expenses after a Davis car accident is one of the most challenging aspects of a personal injury. Many times, car accident attorneys can work out a deal with your doctors and hospitals so that you can pay your unpaid expenses with the money from your personal injury claim.

• How long do you have to file a lawsuit after a car accident in Davis?

  Under the California Code of Civil Procedure, you have two years from the date of a car accident in Davis to file a personal injury lawsuit. But it's crucial to speak with a qualified lawyer as soon as you can. Finding evidence and identifying witnesses that might be essential to the outcome of your case might grow increasingly challenging as time goes on.

• 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.