Best Car Accident Lawyers in Rancho Palos Verdes

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns, call 310-539-1661 to reach the Lomita Sheriff's Station. Through an agreement with the Cities of Rolling Hills and Rolling Hills Estates, the City contracts with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department to provide law enforcement services.

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

  Contact the City Clerk's Office at 310-544-5217, submit the Public Records Request Form (PDF), or complete the Public Records Request Form online to access public documents. Fill out and return the form to the City Clerk's Office. You can also fax the City Clerk at 310-544-5291 or send an email. Furthermore, you can send correspondence to the City Clerk's Office at 30940 Hawthorne Boulevard, Rancho Palos Verdes, California 90275.

• How long does it take to negotiate a car accident settlement in Rancho Palos Verdes?

  Claims can be settled between the plaintiff and the defendants in weeks or months. However, other situations can take a year or longer. Several factors could affect how long an insurance company takes to settle. The typical steps in an automobile accident claim in Rancho Palos Verdes are as follows: -You get your injuries treated and maximize medical improvement. -Insurance investigates. -The insurance company assesses fault. -An insurance company letter reserves your rights. -Your lawyer gets medical records, bills, and other evidence. -Your lawyer sends the insurance company a demand letter. -Insurance responds.

• Should you accept the first settlement offer from your insurance carrier after a car accident in Rancho Palos Verdes?

  No. You should not accept the initial settlement offer from insurance companies after filing a claim following a car accident in Rancho Palos Verdes. Insurance companies usually do not want to pay any settlement offer, if possible, or wish to pay the least amount imaginable. When they have no choice but to assume responsibility for the payout, the insurance company's initial settlement offer is usually small and unreasonable. Consider seeking legal counsel rather than making judgments until you have obtained advice from a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer.

• How long does a Rancho Palos Verdes at-fault accident remain on your record?

  The California Vehicle Code (CVC) sections 1807 and 1808 authorize the DMV to keep and disclose driver records three years after a collision in Rancho Palos Verdes. If law enforcement has reported the incident and the record indicates a commercial vehicle or dangerous chemicals, it is retained for ten years from the collision date.

• Where do most accidents occur in Rancho Palos Verdes?

  In Rancho Palos Verdes, the steep stretch of Hawthorne Boulevard, where signs caution truckers to use lower gears when heading downhill, is considered an accident-prone region. According to a report, the section is so perilous that it has a runaway ramp constructed of thick gravel that serves as a last-ditch safety net for cars in need of an emergency slowdown. In addition, it is reported that there are one or two serious crashes on the road every year.

• What is the most common cause of car accidents in Rancho Palos Verdes?

  Driver distraction is the most common cause of automobile crashes and near-collisions in Rancho Palos Verdes. According to a study published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, 80% of collisions and 65% of near collisions involve some form of driver distraction, with the majority occurring within three seconds of the crash. Using electronic devices, reaching for an object inside the vehicle, staring at an object or event outside the vehicle, eating, and applying makeup are the most common causes of distracted driving and collisions.

• 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.