Best Car Accident Lawyers in Downey

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency situations in Downey, residents may contact the local police by calling (562) 861 0771. Examples of non-emergency cases are noise from loud parties, vandalism, parking complaints, crimes where the suspect is not at the scene, such as vehicle break-ins, and property damage accidents.

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

  A Downey Police Department traffic collision record may be seen online. To acquire a copy of an accident report, please create an account at https://ecrash.lexisnexis.com. Anyone desiring to pick up their report in person during normal work hours may do so at the Records Bureau's main desk. Before requesting a copy, the review and approval procedure must be completed, which takes at least 10 days following the incident.

• What are the factors to consider when hiring a car accident lawyer in Downey?

  Years of experience, legal fee structure, locality, and comfortability are all important elements to consider when picking a car accident attorney in Downey. Retaining a competent lawyer fosters faith that your case will be handled appropriately, and they may be able to provide a general estimate of the legal fees. Having a lawyer nearby will also bring comfort and ease in the event of in-person meetings.

• What kinds of evidence should be collected at car accident scenes in Downey?

  Capturing images and videos of the aftermath of the collision from every aspect, as well as the conditions that may have caused the accident, is one of the quickest methods to acquire evidence at a car accident scene in Downey. As further proof, contact information and statements from eyewitnesses may be gathered. Last but not least is your recollection of how the accident happened.

• What are the most common reasons for Downey car accidents?

  Car accidents in Downey can be caused by a variety of factors, the most common of which are drunk driving, speeding, disobeying traffic laws, and distracted driving, and determining the cause of the accident is the first step toward obtaining just compensation. Numerous people have been killed and injured as a result of these reckless actions.

• Which intersection is the most dangerous in the city of Downey?

  The intersection of Firestone and Lakewood is ranked as the fourth most dangerous in California. Other dangerous intersections in Downey include Florence Avenue and Old River School Road, Lakewood Boulevard and Stewart and Gray Road, Florence Avenue and Little Lake Road, Downey Avenue and Firestone Boulevard, Downey Avenue and Florence Avenue, and Brookshire Avenue and Florence Avenue .

• Are there exceptions to the statute of limitations for car accidents in Downey?

  There are exceptions to the two-year statute of limitations in California for car accidents occurring in the area of Downey. The exceptions are only given to car collisions involving government entities, wrongful death, property damage, impaired judgment, injuries involving minors, and if the defendant files for bankruptcy or is unavailable.

• 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.