Best Car Accident Lawyers in Goleta

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Goleta Police Department is 805-683-2724.

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

  Your Goleta police report is available through the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office Records Bureau. Call the Records Unit at 805-681-4180 to determine if a report is available. The time it takes for a report to be completed by the deputy, accepted by the Sergeant, and delivered to the Records Unit is usually 7 to 10 days. Also, it can take the Records Unit up to 10 days to examine your request and decide whether to grant you access to the report.

• Which Goleta intersections are the riskiest for car drivers?

  The following intersections in Goleta are among the riskiest for car drivers:

  • La Patera Ln and Covington Way
  • Los Carneros Rd and Hollister Ave
  • Los Carneros Rd and Calle Koral
  • Calle Real and Carlo Dr
  • Fairview Ave and Rt 101
  • Storke Rd and Hollister Ave
  • Covington Way and Camino Talavera

• What are the typical reasons for car crashes in Goleta?

  The most typical reason for car accidents in Goleta and surrounding areas in California is negligent driving. This behavior includes speeding, driving while tired or distracted, and operating a vehicle while under the effects of drugs or alcohol. Unsafe conditions, such as poorly maintained roadways and inclement weather, are other common causes of car accidents in Goleta.

• How can a Goleta car accident attorney assist you with your case?

  Goleta car accident attorneys can aid you in receiving reasonable compensation for you and your family. They examine the relevant facts of your situation and assist you in choosing the best course of action. If they determine that your case has value, they will open an investigation, gather proof, and develop a settlement negotiation plan to support you in pursuing the highest settlement amount. They also collaborate with a network of experts to help clients strengthen their claims.

• What factors affect your settlement amount in a Goleta car accident claim?

  The following variables affect the settlement amount that you can receive in a car accident claim in Goleta:

  • Medical costs, including current and upcoming treatments
  • Missed income, if you had to take time off work to recover and rest
  • Lost earning potential, if you were compelled to cut back on hours worked or switch jobs
  • Loss of consortium, if a loved one was killed in an accident
  • Pain and suffering

• How do you pick the best Goleta car accident attorney?

  It would be best to choose a Goleta car accident lawyer who only handles personal injury law since they are more experienced in negotiating settlements. The attorney you select should also have a proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts, be willing to take your case to trial if necessary, and have the financial resources to do so.

• 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.