Best Car Accident Lawyers in Huntington Beach

FAQs

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

  You can reach 714-960-8825 for non-emergency police dispatch.

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

  The Huntington Beach city's records bureau recommends using their online Police Records Request to obtain a copy of your police report or call for service. Additionally, they require proof of valid identification for individuals who want a copy of a Huntington Beach police report.

• What causes the majority of car accidents in Huntington Beach?

  Drunk driving is the leading cause of car accidents in Huntington Beach. Drunk driving deaths in California continue to grow, as evidenced by three fatalities and 110 injuries in Huntington Beach. According to the California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), Huntington Beach vehicle accident statistics showed ten deaths and more than 1,000 injuries over a year. Other causes of car accidents are speeding, running red lights, failure to follow traffic instructions, and aggressive driving behaviors.

• What would you do if you were involved in an automobile accident in Huntington Beach without insurance?

  California is a "tort state" and does not use the "no-fault" insurance system. Therefore, if you cause a car accident and someone is injured, they can file a claim to obtain compensation for their losses, damages, and injuries. You are individually liable for paying the injured person's losses if you don't have vehicle liability insurance coverage. The "no pay, no play" law in California states that if you didn't have auto insurance when the accident happened, you can't be fully reimbursed. Additionally, uninsured drivers may face criminal and administrative penalties, including substantial fines, if they cause car accidents. License suspension is possible.

• Who is responsible for a self-driving car accident in Huntington Beach?

  In the event of a car accident in Huntington Beach involving a self-driving car, victims can sue the manufacturer, the driver, and the vehicle's owner. The manufacturer may be held accountable if the car is undergoing testing and is not yet available to the general public. In addition, if the driver was compelled to stop the vehicle in the event of difficulty, the driver might be held partially accountable for the collision. Lastly, the injured victim can sue the vehicle owner and the owner's insurance company.

• How long do you have to notify your insurance after a car accident in Huntington Beach?

  Most insurers require drivers to report Huntington Beach car accidents within 24 hours, but you must review the conditions of your insurance to establish whether this time limit applies in your situation. If you intend to submit a claim against another driver's policy, you must also tell that driver's insurance carrier of your intentions. You do not need to make your claim immediately; each motor insurance provider has various time limits for filing claims. However, you must immediately tell the insurance company of the accident. Once you report an accident, the insurer will often tell you the deadline for filing a claim.

• Where in Huntington Beach are the accident-prone areas?

  As per Orange County Crash Risk Index data, the intersection with the highest accident rate in Huntington Beach is where Ellis Avenue intersects Newland Street. The location is only a short distance from Beach Boulevard, which connects Westminster to the north with Huntington Beach to the south and is considered one of the busiest junctions in the Huntington Beach area. When the intersection is congested, the brick walls enclosing the intersection along either walkway frequently cause visibility concerns for cars.

• 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.