Best Car Accident Lawyers in Merced

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for Merced Police Department is (209) 385-6905.

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

  A copy of a car accident’s police report may be retrieved at the Merced Police Department at 611 W 22nd St. Individuals can also request a copy through the mail by sending a letter along with a payment of $.50 per report and a self-addressed stamped envelope to Merced Police Department - Records, 611 W 22nd St, Merced, CA, 95340.

• What kinds of damages are available for Merced car accident victims?

  Merced car accident victims can recover compensation for their economic and noneconomic losses following a car accident. These include medical expenses, lost earnings and future earning capacity, pain and suffering, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment. Since there is no cap award for personal injury compensation in California, injured victims can collect the maximum compensation available for their injuries and losses.

• Do you need an attorney after a car accident in Merced?

  It is highly suggested to hire an attorney after a Merced car accident, especially if there are serious injuries involved. Negotiating directly with insurance companies may result in lowball offers which may not be enough to cover all the medical-related and rehabilitation expenses and the noneconomic losses of the victim.

• How do you prove negligence in a Merced car accident?

  To prove the negligence of another party involved in a Merced car accident, there should be evidence that the at-fault driver failed to obey traffic laws, breached their duty to operate their vehicle safely, and conducted actions that directly caused injuries and monetary losses to the other driver and any passengers involved. For accidents caused by a lack of proper road maintenance, victims can file a case against the city, state, or department responsible for road conditions.

• Can you be partially responsible for a car accident in Merced?

  Each driver involved in a Merced car accident may be held responsible for a percentage of a fault, according to the state’s comparative negligence law. As such, a driver who is 10% at fault for an accident that caused $200,000 in damages, for example, can only be awarded $190,000 in damages.

• Should you still seek medical treatment after a Merced car accident even if you are not badly injured?

  It is advised to seek immediate treatment for victims involved in a car accident in Merced, even if they don’t have visible or severe injuries. There are types of internal or head injuries that may not be obvious and can be extremely life-threatening. Getting immediate treatment also provides victims with the necessary documentation, which can be useful if they decide to file a claim for the injuries they sustained due to the accident.

• 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.