Best Car Accident Lawyers in Inglewood

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency number for the City of Inglewood police department is 310-412-8771.

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

  You may contact the Records Division at 310-412-5215. Traffic collision reports are also available online at https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/. You need to provide the Traffic Division at least 15 days after the accident day to evaluate and approve the report before releasing it.

• Can you hold a bar or a person responsible for an Inglewood car accident caused by a drunk minor?

  The bar or the adult who served the minor alcoholic drinks may be responsible for any damages if they deliberately harm another person or injure others in a car accident in Inglewood. The adult who serves them alcohol is held legally responsible, not a specific location. This means that either the bartender or the adult who served the alcoholic beverage to the minor will be held liable.

• Can dashcam evidence be used in your Inglewood auto accident claim?

  Yes, Inglewood accident victims can use dashcam evidence to establish fault. It can also assist the insurance company in identifying the responsible person and the incident's cause, making it vital proof. However, there are some situations in which dashcam footage cannot be used as evidence. For instance, footage captured on private land or in a restricted area cannot be used as evidence, regardless of how pertinent the film is to determining fault.

• Do you need a police report in Inglewood to file a car accident claim?

  No, a police report is not required in California to submit a claim with an insurance carrier following an accident in Inglewood. However, having a police record may expedite the claims process because you have solid, convincing evidence. It also makes refuting the evidence far more difficult for the at-fault driver or even your insurance carrier. Additional types of proof may be required to support your version of events if you do not have a police report.

• Who is liable for road debris damage in Inglewood?

  The problem with Inglewood car accidents caused by debris is that you may never know who caused the object to be on the road. As a result, your losses may have to be covered by your insurance. In the worst-case scenario, you could be held liable if your behavior surrounding the object caused a collision with another car. If a judge concludes that you might have safely avoided the hazard but did not, you may be held legally liable.

• Where in Inglewood do most vehicle accidents occur?

  According to recent information, fatal car accidents and other forms of road traffic accidents in Inglewood took place in the following locations: -S Van Ness Ave & W Century Blvd -S La Brea Ave & E Hardy St. -Crenshaw Blvd/Hardy St. -Centinela Ave & N Cedar St. -N Market St & E Florence Ave. -Interstate 405 -Rosewood Ave & Century Blvd. -Hindry Ave & W Manchester Blvd.

• 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.