Best Car Accident Lawyers in Monterey Park

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns, dial +1 626-573-1311 to call the Monterey Police Department.

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

  To obtain a copy of a collision report from the Monterey Park Police Department, complete the request form, which you can download at https://www.montereypark.ca.gov/423/Records-Bureau. Submit it to the Records Bureau at 320 West Newmark Ave., Monterey Park, CA 91754. The office is open from 7 AM to 8 PM, Monday through Friday, and 8 AM to 5 PM, Saturday and Sunday.

• If hazardous roadway conditions triggered your car accident, can you hold the local government of Monterey Park liable?

  Yes, if unsafe driving conditions are the cause of your car accident and the party responsible for keeping the roads safe showed neglect, you can hold the relevant local government entity in Monterey Park liable. You can file for both property and personal injury damages caused by the government’s negligence.

• How can you get compensation in a Monterey Park car accident if you are riding an Uber or Lyft and the at-fault driver is uninsured?

  If the other driver is at-fault and they are underinsured or completely uninsured, you might still be able to recover damages, as both Lyft and Uber have uninsured driver coverage. Once a driver picks up a passenger, the driver’s company adds extra insurance. Uber and Lyft drivers in Monterey Park provide their drivers with $1 million in liability insurance per incident and $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident.

• How can a lawyer help you if you get injured in a car accident in Monterey Park?

  If you sustain injuries in a car accident in Monterey Park, a personal injury lawyer experienced in handling car accident cases can help you in many ways. These include determining the value of your claim, collecting evidence to prove the other party's negligence, interviewing witnesses, and arranging testimony from expert witnesses, such as medical and vocational experts. Lawyers also communicate with the insurance companies and prepare for trial if the opposing trial refuses to cooperate.

• What does 15/30/5 mean for drivers in Monterey Park?

  The numbers 15/30/5 refer to the minimum thresholds of the mandated insurance that drivers in Monterey Park must carry. According to California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) financial responsibility laws, the minimum coverage requirements for private passenger vehicles are: -$15,000 for bodily injury or death to one victim -$30,000 for injury or death to more than one victim -$5,000 for property damage

• Is there a time limit for you to file a car accident lawsuit in Monterey Park?

  There is an existing time limit when it comes to your right to file a car accident lawsuit in Monterey Park. Called the statute of limitations, the law generally allows you up to two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you fail to bring your lawsuit within the two-year period, it is likely that you will lose the opportunity to recover damages from 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.