Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lincoln

FAQs

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

  Dial (916) 645-4040 to get in touch with the Lincoln Police Department.

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

  You can ask for accident report copies in person at the Lincoln Police Department (LPD) Records Unit located at 770 7th Street or through the mail and online. The LPD can be reached at 916-645-4040. Car accident reports involving felony hit-and-runs, emergency vehicles, and juveniles subject to criminal citations cannot be released online. Allow at least 45 days from the date of the accident when making a request.

• Which intersections in Lincoln are dangerous for drivers?

  The intersections of Lincoln Boulevard between Ferrari Ranch Road and Joiner Parkway, 2nd and 3rd Street, Sterling Parkway, and 5th Street are considered some of the most dangerous intersections for drivers. Driving along Lincoln Boulevard is especially challenging due to the traffic to and fro many strip malls and malfunctioning traffic signals in the area.

• If a driver gets into a car accident in Lincoln, who pays for their medical bills?

  A driver who gets into a car accident in Lincoln will have to rely on their own health insurance policy and any umbrella insurance for Med Pay coverage. If another driver has been found to be at fault for the accident, the injured can file a lawsuit against the negligent driver to recover compensation for past and current medical expenses, as well as any future disabilities or medical conditions related to the accident.

• What is the deadline for filing injury claims for car accidents in Lincoln?

  Persons injured in car accidents in Lincoln are given two years to file claims after the accident happened. If the cause of the injury is not immediately identified, the injured person is given only a year after the injury was discovered. However, it is recommended to file claims as soon as possible for better chances of financial recovery.

• What is the value of a car accident claim in Lincoln?

  It depends. The value of a claim is subject to the individual circumstances of each case, including the types of injuries and the kinds of medical treatments. A person injured in a car accident in Lincoln that was caused by a negligent driver can recover financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, disability-related costs, and pain and suffering.

• When should a person injured in a car accident in Lincoln hire a lawyer?

  If a person is injured in a car accident in Lincoln and is still undergoing treatment after more than a month, they should seek a lawyer's assistance as soon as possible. If they do not need to see a doctor after an accident, chances are a lawyer may not be needed in this case. However, it may be best to consult a lawyer since most personal injury law firms offer free consultations.

• 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.