Best Car Accident Lawyers in La Verne

FAQs

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

  The La Verne Police Department's non-emergency line for incidents with a criminal aspect is 909-593-2531, while the normal business line is 909-596-1913.

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

  The Records Division of the La Verne Police Department is at 2061 Third Street, La Verne, CA 91750.

• What should car accident victims in La Verne do immediately after a crash?

  Immediately after a crash in La Verne, car accident victims must stay calm and call 911 to get cops and first responders on the scene. Check on the other people in the area to see who sustained injuries and need treatment. Collect as much information as possible and look for the at-fault driver, extracting contact information and the vehicle's plate number in case of flight. But maintain a peaceful demeanor because the other motorist might be drunk and aggressive.

• What are some of the risk factors behind car crashes in La Verne?

  The risk factors behind car crashes in La Verne include inexperience on the part of teenage drivers since beginner drivers lack the experience to maintain safe driving distances and speeds under all types of traffic conditions. Advanced age is an issue since the impaired vision and hearing associated with graying populations reduce awareness of the road. Being distracted is also a problem, as smartphone use has become prevalent.

• Why is it risky for a car accident victim in La Verne to self-represent in court?

  It is risky for car accident victims in La Verne to represent themselves in court because it is vital to gather and preserve evidence as soon as possible and it's lawyers who know which pieces are admissible and persuasive according to courtroom procedure. There is also a limited two-year timeframe to sue under state law applicable in La Verne, and an attorney is better equipped to navigate remedial processes than ordinary citizens.

• Who is liable in La Verne for crashes caused by driverless cars?

  The liability for crashes caused by driverless cars in La Verne currently most clearly lies with the manufacturers of these vehicles, such as Nissan or Google. These cases are akin to product liability suits where a faulty product causes injuries to consumers. There is debate though on how the insurance and legal fields should rewrite policies and laws to establish owners’ liability for AI-operated vehicles.

• If a car accident victim in La Verne was listening to loud music during a car crash, is it still possible to recover damages from the other driver?

  Yes, a car accident victim in La Verne may still recover damages from the other driver even if listening to loud music while driving. The effect of comparative negligence in the metro and the state is not a total denial of a lawsuit claim but a proportional reduction in the damages sought.

• 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.