Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dublin

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Dublin is (925) 462-1212.

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

  You can get a copy of the police report at the Dublin Police Services Business Office at 6361 Clark Avenue. You can also contact them at (925) 833-6670, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays. A copy of a police report costs $5.

• How long does a car accident case in Dublin take to settle?

  Every case has unique circumstances. Some cases resolve quickly, while others drag on for years. The timeframe in which a car accident case in Dublin is resolved will depend on factors such as determinations of fault, calculations of damages, and the length of time it takes to achieve maximum medical recovery.

• What factors determine much money you can recover from a car accident case in Dublin?

  The amount of compensation you may recover from a car accident case in Dublin depends on the extent of your injuries and the circumstances surrounding the accident. If it is proven that you were partially responsible for the car accident, the amount of compensation that you can obtain may be decreased, depending on the percentage of fault. Note that you cannot recover non-economic damages if you do not have liability insurance.

• How much is the average settlement amount if you suffered back and neck injuries after a car accident in Dublin?

  For those who were involved in a car accident in Dublin and suffered from minor injuries in the back and neck, the average settlement amount can be $10,000 or less. However, if the injuries are serious, debilitating, paralyzing, and require hospitalization, the settlement amount can go up to as much as hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars. Overall, the total amount will still depend on the extent of the injuries, the degree of fault on the part of the other party, and the amount of insurance coverage available.

• Do you need to call the police for a minor car accident in Dublin?

  The law does not technically require individuals to call the police if there is no injury, but notifying the authorities will be helpful for your own protection. California law states that all drivers involved in a car accident must stop, regardless of the severity of the accident. If you were part of a car accident in Dublin, you have the legal obligation to stop and exchange details with the other party. You may be charged with hit-and-run if you drive away from the accident scene. Call 911 or the local non-emergency number, especially if the accident caused a death or injury.

• Do you need to carry an uninsured/underinsured car accident insurance policy as a driver in Dublin?

  No. An uninsured/underinsured car accident insurance policy is only optional. However, California law requires auto insurers to offer such coverage to their clients. While having uninsured/underinsured coverage is not mandatory, having it as a driver in Dublin is a good idea. An uninsured motorist policy pays for the victim's medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering fees in the event that the at-fault driver does not carry car insurance. On the other hand, underinsured motorist coverage picks up where the coverage of the at-fault driver stops.

• 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.