Best Car Accident Lawyers in Glendale

FAQs

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

  Residents are urged to call 818-548-4840 for non-emergency incidents.

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

  Visit the customer service desk, which is open Monday thru Friday between the hours of 7:30 am and 4:30 pm. You may also call (818) 548-3131 for more information.

• Where do car accidents usually happen in Glendale, CA?

  Brand Boulevard, a major north-south axis, is one of the most accident-prone streets in Glendale. This boulevard contains several notoriously hazardous junctions, including those with Sanchez Drive, Goode Avenue, and Colorado Street. In addition, the infamous Highway 138, also known as “Death Road,” goes north of Glendale and is notorious for frequent fatal accidents.

• What happens if one is at fault in a car accident in Glendale, CA?

  Due to the fact that California is a fault-based auto accident state, the person deemed responsible for an accident will be held liable for the resulting damages. However, because the state also employs a comparative fault standard for apportioning liability, even injured victims might be deemed partly responsible for their own accidents. For instance, if you are found guilty of 20% of the collision, you will be responsible for 20% of your own damages.

• Is there a deadline to file a car accident claim in Glendale, CA?

  The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in California, which includes the city of Glendale, is two years from the date of the incident. This is not the day that an injury is discovered; rather, it is the date of the mishap that caused the injury. It is recommended that you file your claim as soon as possible, as the incident will still be vivid in everyone’s minds and proof will be more easily available.

• Who pays for medical bills and lost wages until the car accident claim in Glendale is settled?

  Cases involving personal injury can take time to resolve, particularly when serious injuries and compensation are involved. In such a scenario, you may be required to pay certain bills and fees up front, while others may be compensated by workers' compensation or auto insurance. Hiring a qualified and experienced personal injury attorney in Glendale as soon as possible is considered an effective strategy to obtain compensation quickly and efficiently.

• Under Glendale laws, can one still file a claim if they were hit while driving without insurance?

  California enforces the “No Pay, No Play” regulation for uninsured drivers involved in accidents. This implies that it is illegal to drive in Glendale if you are uninsured, and if the other driver is at fault for an accident, your ability to recover damages is severely restricted owing to your lack of insurance. If the other motorist caused the collision, you can seek economic damages from their liability coverage, but you cannot sue for non-economic losses like pain, suffering, or quality of life.

• 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.