Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Fullerton

FAQs

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

  714-738-6700 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Fullerton.

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

  To request a copy of a police report from the Fullerton Police Department, you can submit an online request at https://secure.coplogic.com/rar/startrequest/ or send a notarized written request and a $20.00 check/money order via US Postal Mail to:

  Fullerton Police Department Attention: Records Bureau 237 W. Commonwealth Ave. Fullerton, CA 92832

  Note that all report requests must be reviewed for eligibility for release and may take up to 10 business days to process. Some reports may not be available for release due to ongoing investigations or legal restrictions, and others may need to be redacted or approved by an investigating detective before release.

  Request form: https://www.cityoffullerton.com/home/showpublisheddocument/4846/637793075210530000

• What should you do if you have been involved in an accident in Fullerton?

  Get medical attention if you are injured and gather as much evidence as possible, such as taking photographs and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to property. Any witnesses to the accident should be asked to provide their statements or contact information, and any police reports, medical records, or receipts should be kept. Before speaking to the negligent party and their insurance provider, consult a Fullerton personal injury attorney.

• What is the initial cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer in Fullerton?

  Most personal injury lawyers use contingency fee billing, under which the client pays no upfront legal fees and pays a percentage of the settlement as a legal fee if the case is won. If the case is unsuccessful, the client is not obligated to pay any fees. It is imperative that clients understand the billing practices of the attorney in Fullerton before retaining their services.

• In Fullerton, what are the most common types of personal injury claims?

  The most common types of personal injury claims in Fullerton include car collisions, truck wrecks, motorcycle crashes, rideshare accidents, pedestrian and bicyclist injuries, commercial vehicle and mass transportation accidents, slips and falls, dog bites, and other types of premises liability claims. Additionally, claims for wrongful death and nursing home abuse and neglect are handled by experienced attorneys in the area.

• What does the preparation process for a Fullerton personal injury case involve?

  The preparation process for a personal injury case in Fullerton involves conducting thorough investigations to gather important evidence, such as medical records and accident reports. Attorneys may also conduct further investigations to uncover new supporting evidence that may strengthen the case. A strong case may influence defendants and their insurance companies to offer appropriate compensation and potentially avoid expensive litigation expenses.

• How much can you expect to recover in your Fullerton personal injury claim?

  A specific outcome or dollar amount cannot be guaranteed as every case is different. The value of a Fullerton lawsuit is determined by a variety of factors, such as economic damages that cover actual losses like medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and ongoing care. Non-economic damages are also considered, which include pain and suffering, compromised quality of life, and lasting effects such as scarring or disfigurement. In certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded.

• How to choose a personal injury attorney?

  It's crucial to find a personal injury attorney who is experienced, but it's also important to feel comfortable. Take advantage of free consultations and ask questions about how long each candidate has been practicing, how their fee structure works, and who will be handling the majority of the casework (some big firms may hand off routine tasks to paralegals). Above all, find someone who listens well and believes they can achieve an optimal outcome. Still uncertain? Ask friends for referrals and check out online reviews.

• What does a personal injury lawyer do?

  Personal injury attorneys help those who have suffered due to the negligence of others get the compensation they deserve. That may include negotiating settlements with other people, insurance companies, or even government agencies or arguing the case in court. Some attorneys specialize in a certain type of injury, such as auto accidents or birth injuries, while others advocate for almost any injured party.

• What does personal injury law cover?

  In the legal world, "personal injury" is any kind of injury, physical or psychological, that results from the negligence of a person, business, or other entity. While visible or acute injuries such as a broken leg or concussion are among the most obvious types of personal injuries, this category also covers less tangible injuries such as emotional distress and issues such as asbestos exposure that may contribute to long-term problems.

• What are the most common types of personal injury claims?

  Personal injury claims encompass a wide variety of situations ranging from accidents on privately owned property to injuries in the line of duty to whiplash sustained during a commute. These claims may include car accidents, dog bites, slip and falls, medical malpractice, defamation, product defect accidents, premises liability, product liability, workplace accidents, food poisoning at a restaurant, and boating or aviation accidents.

• How do personal injury lawyers get paid?

  Many personal injury lawyers advertise that they don't get paid unless their client does. This is called "working on contingency," meaning the attorney is compensated only if they win their case. These payments are typically percentage based, giving attorneys a predetermined portion of the court-ordered award. Other lawyers may command an hourly rate or combine an hourly rate with a smaller contingency fee.

• How much do personal injury lawyers charge?

  Personal injury lawyer fees can differ from state to state and may be subject to local regulations. In general, personal injury attorneys work under contingency agreements entitling them to 33% of any related settlement or award. Sometimes lawyers use a sliding contingency, charging 33% for awards agreed upon during pre-trial negotiations and raising the fee to 40% once the matter goes to trial.

• When do I need to hire a personal injury lawyer?

  Anytime an injury is known or suspected to be the result of negligence, it's a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney who can offer insight into the validity of a claim and whether or not that claim is worth pursuing legally. A consultation is particularly important if someone has suffered serious injuries that have left them disabled or otherwise impacted their financial future or quality of life.

• Can I file a personal injury claim without a lawyer?

  It's possible to pursue a personal injury claim without an attorney; however, it's best to save self-representation for cases involving minor injuries or are otherwise considered straightforward. Cases that involve serious injuries that are not completely resolved or where liability has yet to be determined are more complex. Those situations can quickly become stressful and time consuming as they require an understanding of tort law, resources for gathering medical records, and time to review photographs and evidence pertaining to the injury and scene of the accident (if applicable). Bringing on an experienced personal injury lawyer could result in a higher reward while giving the injured party more time to concentrate on their physical, mental, and emotional recovery.

• How long does a personal injury lawsuit last?

  The length of time it takes to settle a personal injury lawsuit is highly dependent on a number of factors ranging from the type of case to the length of medical treatment to whether the suit is settled before court or requires a long trial. While most personal injury cases are resolved within two years, more complicated suits could take longer.

• What are the benefits of hiring a personal injury lawyer?

  It's tempting to save on lawyer's fees by pursuing self-representation, but there are many benefits to hiring a personal injury lawyer including their years of experience. A good attorney will know how to properly assess your damages, including not just medical bills but other concerns, such as lost wages and pain and suffering, to craft a demand that fully reflects the compensation to which the injured party is entitled. They also have the resources and knowledge necessary to consult with experts, negotiate effectively with insurance companies, properly navigate the legal system, and otherwise ensure the best possible outcome.