Best Car Accident Lawyers in Pomona

FAQs

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

  You may dial 909-622-1241 to call the Pomona Police Department for non-emergency concerns.

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

  To obtain a copy of your accident report in Pomona, complete your request on the official website of the City of Pomona under Collision Reports: https://www.pomonaca.gov/our-city/online-services/collision-reports?locale=en.

• Are you allowed to take pictures of your wrecked car immediately after an accident in Pomona?

  If you get involved in a car accident in Pomona, and you are physically and mentally capable of doing so, you may take pictures of your wrecked vehicle to document the extent of the damage to your property and illustrate the intensity of the impact. You may also capture the weather and road conditions surrounding the scene of the accident. Your attorney can use the photos you take as evidence to help build a case for you.

• Are drivers in Pomona required to have auto insurance?

  Yes. As stated in California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) financial responsibility laws, every driver in Pomona must carry auto insurance that includes liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. Per California Insurance Code §11580.1b, the minimum coverage threshold is as follows:

  • $15,000 for injury/death to one person.
  • $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person.
  • $5,000 for damage to property.

• Is there a time limit for filing a lawsuit after getting involved in a car accident in Pomona?

  Yes, if you get injured by a negligent driver in Pomona, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file your case. This follows California’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases, which include car accidents. If you let the two-year time window lapse without taking legal action, you will no longer be able to recover damages.

• Are there exceptions to the statute of limitations for car accidents in Pomona?

  Yes, there are some exceptions to the statute of limitations for car accidents in Pomona. The two-year deadline may not apply under the following circumstances:

  • The plaintiff is under the age of 18
  • The case is being filed against a government agency
  • The plaintiff is carrying out military service
  • The plaintiff is declared mentally incompetent

• Should you still see a doctor if you feel okay after a car accident in Pomona?

  Yes, you must seek medical attention after getting involved in a car accident in Pomona, even if you feel fine. This is because some symptoms may appear or feel subtle at first and worsen over time. A thorough medical examination can help your lawyer strengthen your case so you can collect proper compensation from the responsible parties. Additionally, continue to watch out for injury symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, memory loss, pain, numbness, and weakness after seeing a doctor.

• 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.