Best Car Accident Lawyers in Poway

FAQs

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

  The San Diego County Sheriff's Poway Station can be reached at (858) 513-2800.

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

  You can obtain a police report in Poway by sending a mail request to the SDPD Records MS#726, P.O. Box 121431, San Diego, California, 92112-1431. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. You can also visit in person by going to SDPD Records Public Counter at 1401 Broadway, from Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 4 PM.

  You may send an email to this address to confirm the availability of your report: sdpdreportrequests@pd.sandiego.gov. Please note that the report costs $12.

• Who can be held responsible for a single-vehicle accident in Poway?

  It depends on the circumstances of the car accident. For example, one of the most common reasons for crashes like this involves defective car parts, in which case, the manufacturer of the vehicle may be sued for damages. There are also instances where the local government may be held liable for failing to maintain the integrity of roads and streets in Poway.

• Does the city of Poway have anything in place to protect its elderly drivers from car accidents?

  Yes, Poway City and the rest of California, specifically the Department of Motor Vehicles, require drivers over the age of 70 to take both a vision and written test before they can renew their licenses. Additionally, further restrictions may be imposed upon the driver depending on the result of their test. Some of these include the prohibition of night-time and freeway driving, the installation of an additional right-side mirror, and the mandatory wearing of corrective glasses or contact lenses.

• Can employers in Poway be held liable if their employees get in a car accident while working?

  Yes, they can. This is called vicarious liability. If the employee is able to prove that they were in the middle of performing their duties when the car accident in Poway occurred, then the employer will be responsible for the injured's damages, economic and otherwise. However, the employer may be absolved of culpability if the employee was doing something else other than work, or there was a negligent third-party involved.

• Can the owner of a car that caused a crash in Poway be sued even though they weren't the one driving at the time?

  It depends. If the driver that caused the Poway car accident was disobeying the law (i.e., driving drunk, driving while a minor, unlicensed, etc.) and the owner willfully lent them the vehicle, then yes. However, if the owner had no knowledge that their vehicle was being driven by someone else, such as in cases of theft, or friends and family borrowing the car without asking for permission, then no.

• Is it possible to negotiate with the other party instead of going to trial because of a car accident in Poway?

  It is very much possible, although it all depends on whether or not the other party wants to settle the case this way. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to acquire the legal aid of a Poway car accident attorney, as their presence helps you avoid getting the short end of the stick in negotiations with insurance adjusters and the other party's attorney. The advantage of choosing this direction is that you get compensated faster and there is no added stress of having to appear in court.

• 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.