Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lynwood

FAQs

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

  For non-emergencies in Lynwood, call the Century Sheriff's Station at 323-568-4800.

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

  To obtain a copy of a police report, visit the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department at 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 120 Norwalk. Call (562) 345-4441 to make an appointment beforehand. You can also submit a written request through the mail, including the required fees and documents, to: Records and Identification Bureau Attention: Correspondence Unit 211 West Temple Street Los Angeles, California 90012

• What kind of medical costs can be recovered for car accident victims in Lynwood?

  Fees from doctors and specialists and expenses incurred from visits to hospitals, mental health clinics, chiropractors, and rehab can be recovered for car accident victims in Lynwood. Also covered are surgery procedures, prescription drugs, massage therapy, and items such as walkers, neck braces, wheelchairs, and crutches prescribed by a medical professional.

• If a driver doesn't have insurance and gets into a car accident in Lynwood, can they recover compensation?

  The compensation of a driver will be limited if they get into a car accident in Lynwood without any insurance or if they have an expired policy at the time of the incident. Without car liability insurance, the driver is only entitled to recover economic damages, such as medical costs and wage loss. Non-economic damages like pain and suffering will not be included in the computation.

• What are some of the most dangerous roads in Lynwood?

  SR 99 and 196th Street SW are two of the most dangerous streets in Lynwood as they are heavily used thoroughfares. Many accidents occur on these roads, such as fatal crashes, instances of DUIs, truck content spillage, hit-and-runs, and pedestrian collisions.

• How long does it take to resolve a car accident case in Lynwood?

  Some car accident cases in Lynwood take weeks, while some conclude after a couple of years. Take note that property damage claims are treated separately from personal injury claims. Additionally, the statute of limitations for the former is three years, while the latter only has a deadline of two years.

• What does 15/30/5 mean regarding insurance coverage for car accidents in Lynwood?

  The 15/30/5 liability coverage refers to the imposed minimum value set by state law for vehicle owners should they cause a car accident in Lynwood. It pertains to a $15,000 coverage per injured or deceased person, $30,000 for more than one injured or deceased person, and $5,000 for damage to properties, such as another car or a house.

• 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.