Best Car Accident Lawyers in North Hollywood

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the North Hollywood Community Police Station is (877) 275-5273.

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

  Victims and victims’ representatives can request a copy of a police report by sending a letter to the Records & Identification (R&I) Division of the LAPD. They can also reach the office through WC-RI@lapd.online and during office hours by calling (213) 486-8300.

• What are the car seat laws a parent in North Hollywood should know?

  Under California car seat laws, children must remain in a car seat until they reach the age of eight or a height of 49 inches. Kids below two years must also use a rear-facing car seat until they weigh 40 pounds or stand 40 inches tall. Parents in North Hollywood who fail to obey these laws may face a fine. When a car seat offense leads to child endangerment, the implicated parent might even get a criminal charge.

• What are some defensive driving techniques you can use to avoid getting into car accidents in North Hollywood?

  As part of Los Angeles, North Hollywood has its fair share of traffic congestion. A driver in this neighborhood may exercise some defensive driving practices to avoid colliding with others. These techniques include:

  • Refraining from distracted driving behaviors
  • Maintaining a safe distance
  • Keeping the speed limit
  • Staying alert, especially during emergencies
  • Checking blind spots and using signals properly

• How can an accident reconstruction expert help a car accident claimant in North Hollywood?

  Accident reconstruction experts can help car accident victims in North Hollywood build a compelling case and maximize compensation. These professionals have the training and qualifications to recreate collisions, using math and physics to determine how the crash occurred and who or what incited it. They investigate accidents and study pieces of evidence to reenact crash scenarios using modeling technology to be presented before the court.

• Can social media posts inadvertently affect your car accident claim in North Hollywood?

  Yes, social media posts can impact your claim in North Hollywood because they are admissible in court and might be used against you. Comments on your posts may also serve as evidence the opposing party can use to contradict your argument. Legal practitioners advise refraining from social media use until the claim gets finalized.

• Do undocumented immigrants in North Hollywood have the right to treatment and compensation?

  Yes, they have. Illegals who get into car accidents in North Hollywood are hesitant to seek medical treatment and file a claim due to their immigration status. The truth is they have the right to get treated by doctors and obtain legal representation. There are plenty of lawyers in the Los Angeles area that injured undocumented immigrants can consult to help them in their cases.

• 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.