Best Car Accident Lawyers in Encino

FAQs

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

  The nearest police station to Encino is the West Valley Community Police Station located in Reseda. For non-emergency cases, you can contact 877-ASK-LAPD, or (877) 275-5273.

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

  To get a copy of a police report in Encino, you must mail a written request to the Records & Identification (R&I) Division in Los Angeles. You can only get a copy of a police report if you are an authorized person, such as the victim, the victim's representative, or as deemed exempt by Section 6254 of the Government Code.

• Is there a possibility that you would lose your assets if you were proven to be a driver at fault for a car accident in Encino?

  Even if you have a car insurance policy, your financial assets may still be at risk if you are the at-fault driver in a car accident in Encino. This is because insurance policies have limits. If these are maxed out, you will have to pay for the damages using your own money. You can safeguard your assets by consulting a financial planner and a car accident attorney.

• Will you be held liable for a car accident in Encino if you are on over-the-counter medication?

  The California Law–Vehicle Code states that "it is unlawful for a person under the influence of any drug to drive a vehicle." Therefore, a driver under the influence of over-the-counter drugs will face DUI laws. They can also be considered an at-fault driver in a car accident in Encino, and the injured party can file a lawsuit against them for damages or injuries.

• Can dashcam footage be used in a car accident claim in Encino?

  If involved in a car accident, dashcam video footage can help determine the liable party and cause of the accident. The usefulness of a dashcam recording will depend on the system's quality. Car owners in Encino have the freedom to install a dashcam in their vehicles as per California Vehicle Code 26708; however, there are state dashcam mounting laws that should be followed.

• What are your legal options if you had a miscarriage in an Encino car accident?

  If you had a miscarriage in an Encino car accident caused by a reckless driver, you can file a personal injury claim against them and pursue compensatory damages for your injuries. If the at-fault driver acted with fraud, malice, or oppression, you can file for punitive damages. There is no cap on compensatory or punitive damages in California, except in medical malpractice cases.

• Can you file a lawsuit against a mechanic who worked on your car in Encino?

  Yes, you can hold a mechanic liable for a car accident in Encino, if the accident was due to a faulty repair. To make a successful liability claim, there must be proof of direct causation of the mechanic’s faulty work. Do not attempt to fix your car to preserve evidence. There should also be documentation about the damages you have incurred from the car accident.

• 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.