Best Car Accident Lawyers in Fairview

FAQs

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

  Fairview residents can contact the Alameda County Sheriff's Department at 510-667-3622.

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

  You can request a police report of an accident that happened in Fairview by completing a request form and emailing it to ACSORecords@acgov.org.

• After a car collision in Fairview, are motorists required to contact the other driver's insurance company?

  Drivers in Fairview are not legally required to talk to the other driver's insurance company. Victims of car accidents may want to avoid speaking to the other party's insurance company because their insurance adjuster may try to take away fault from their client or get the victim to accept a quick settlement.

• What is the statute of limitations for injuries involving government vehicles in Fairview?

  Fairview residents are subject to California's statute of limitations. According to Section 340 of the California Code of Civil Procedure, people who suffer injuries from a government vehicle have six months to file a lawsuit. If the incident only caused property damage, the victim has up to one year to file a lawsuit against the government entity. For car accidents that don't involve government vehicles, personal injury victims have up to two years to file a lawsuit.

• Who can be held liable in single-vehicle accidents in Fairview?

  Single-vehicle accidents in Fairview can be caused by other parties, such as mechanics, automobile manufacturers, and construction companies. Mechanics may be held liable for a motor vehicle crash if the car was found to have defective vehicle parts that caused the driver to lose control. Construction companies could be at fault if they did not properly mark off a construction zone.

• What is the process for settling a car accident claim in Fairview?

  Settling accident claims in Fairview involves determining fault for the crash and dealing with insurance companies. To determine fault for the car accident, drivers should try to gather evidence and witness testimonies that prove their innocence. Car accident lawyers help victims of motor vehicle collisions prepare their cases and file their insurance claims.

• Can a personal injury claim in Fairview be reopened?

  If the victim has not yet signed a settlement agreement and the two-year statute of limitations has not yet passed, a personal injury claim can be reopened. Two other instances that allow the reopening of a claim are if there is new evidence that shifts liability for the accident and if there was a clerical error.

• 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.