Best Car Accident Lawyers in Palm Desert

FAQs

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

  The Riverside County Sheriffs Department, Palm Desert Station is reachable at 760-836-1600 for routine calls and 760-836-3215 if there might be criminal liability involved.

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

  You can request a police report copy at the Palm Desert Station records department at 73705 Gerald Ford Drive.

• How can you prove fault on the part of the defendant in a car accident case in Palm Desert?

  You can prove fault on the defendant's part in a Palm Desert car accident case by establishing their negligence. This is achieved by observing evidence like eyewitness accounts and the locations of the impact and the vehicles. You can prove that a party was to blame for a rear-end collision if eyewitnesses see the other driver strike the back of your car and the photos show dents on your vehicle's rear and their car's front.

• Why should you get a car accident lawyer in Palm Desert?

  You should hire a car accident lawyer in Palm Desert because it is difficult to obtain full and just compensation on your own. If you go to the insurance company to make a claim, the latter is inclined to reduce or deny it. This necessitates a lawsuit, which would require an attorney. Having a legal professional around during insurance negotiations could also convince the insurer to grant the claim outright since going to court would cost them more.

• What are the common kinds of bodily injuries incurred in Palm Desert car accidents?

  In car accidents that happen in Palm Desert, you will commonly encounter broken ribs and bones that lead to injured chests and hearts. Cranial and brain damage and bleeding are also common. It is imperative that you seek medical care immediately since the adrenaline rush following a crash might prevent you from realizing the severity of your wounds.

• What are the usual causes of car accidents in Palm Desert that you can sue for?

  The usual causes of car accidents in Palm Desert that you can sue for include inexperience or distraction on the other driver's end that may be worsened by poor car upkeep on their part. The offending motorist might also be drunk and in violation of traffic regulations, like the speed limit and right-of-way rules.

• What is comparative negligence and what are its effects on car accident cases in Palm Desert?

  In Palm Desert and the rest of the state, comparative negligence is a legal concept in personal injury and car accident law that allows a plaintiff who was partially at fault to recover damages at a rate reduced in proportion to their negligence. This is in contrast to stricter states that completely prevent at-fault claimants from receiving recovery.

• 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.