Best Car Accident Lawyers in Santa Clara

FAQs

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

  408-615-5580 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Santa Clara.

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

  To arrange an appointment or for assistance in getting a police report, please dial 408-808-4705. All Sheriff's Office records are kept in the Records section, which also serves as the Custodian of Records.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Santa Clara?

  The most frequent reasons for car accidents in Santa Clara include speeding and reckless driving, failing to cede the right of way, operating a vehicle while intoxicated or distracted, and failing to obey traffic laws. An automobile accident lawyer will compile evidence to show the negligence involved and substantiate the claim once the accident's cause has been identified. Police reports, medical records, videos, cell phone records, and eyewitness testimony are all acceptable forms of evidence.

• What types of car accidents occur most frequently in Santa Clara?

  Rear-end collisions, side-impact collisions, head-on collisions, T-bone collisions, rollover accidents, low-speed contact accidents, single-vehicle accidents, and chain reaction accidents are some of the most common types of car accidents in Santa Clara. Car collisions differ from one another, with injuries depending on the type of accident.

• How can you prove car accident liability in Santa Clara?

  A driver's recklessness or negligence must be proven in order to establish liability for an accident in Santa Clara. An attorney may present evidence to support claims that the defendant was speeding, intoxicated, preoccupied while driving, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the collision. If the defendant driver was at work when the accident occurred, third-party employers may be held accountable. Road maintenance workers, auto manufacturers, or the operator of another vehicle involved in the collision may also be held accountable.

• What should you do if you’ve been involved in a car accident in Santa Clara?

  Calling the police should be your first action following an accident in Santa Clara. They will keep a record of what happened and decide who was at fault. Take photos of the accident scene while you wait for the police to arrive, and gather the insurance information from the other party. If an ambulance transports you to a medical facility, your doctor will treat your wounds and give you medical records outlining the extent of your injuries. Finally, get in touch with a personal injury lawyer to pursue the compensation you require.

• How long do you have to submit a car accident claim in Santa Clara?

  According to the state's statute of limitations, California mandates that all personal injury claims be made within two years of the accident. If you wait more than two years to file a lawsuit against the culpable party, you'll probably lose your right to do so. If you believe you can demonstrate that the other party is at fault for your serious injuries after a vehicle accident in Santa Clara, do not hesitate to contact a personal injury attorney immediately.

• 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.