Best Car Accident Lawyers in Santa Cruz

FAQs

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

  Dial 831-471-1131 for non-emergencies in Santa Cruz.

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

  You can make requests for accident reports online by visiting scc-sheriffca.nextrequest.com. If you're making a request through email or US Mail, you should fill out the request form, which is available in English and Spanish, by downloading it from www.scsheriff.com/Home/SelfHelp/ReportRequests.aspx.

• How often do car accident cases in Santa Cruz go to trial?

  While some go to trial, most car accident cases in Santa Cruz end in a settlement between the claimant and the opposing party. These usually go to the Santa Cruz Superior Court at 701 Ocean Street. Based on an annual report, there were 88 car accident injury lawsuits filed in the court, with only three cases going to trial and the rest being settled within a year.

• What happens if a claimant is partially at fault in a car accident in Santa Cruz?

  If a claimant is partially at fault in a car accident in Santa Cruz, they can still receive compensation with deductions based on their percentage of fault according to the state's comparative fault rule. For instance, if the plaintiff is found to be 30% responsible for the accident, the awarded damages will also be reduced by 30%.

• How many fatal car accidents in Santa Cruz involve drunk driving?

  According to DataShare, it is estimated that 30.9% of car accident fatalities in Santa Cruz involve alcohol use. Statistics spanning several years show that the Santa Cruz value is higher and worse than the state and national values of 27.7% and 27%, respectively. The NHTSA has estimated that alcohol-impaired driving kills 28 people daily nationwide, which translates to a death every 53 minutes.

• What should you avoid doing after a car accident in Santa Cruz?

  Do not give a recorded interview to the insurance adjuster of the negligent party following a car accident in Santa Cruz. You are not legally required to do so, and it is possible for the insurance company's legal team to exploit your statements and use them against you in court.

• How do you preserve evidence after a car accident in Santa Cruz?

  You should do your best, if you can, to immediately photograph the scene, your vehicle's damage, and possible injuries following your car accident in Santa Cruz. It would also be helpful to write down the names, addresses, and contact information of any possible witnesses. Additionally, keep records of medical bills, police accident reports, and accident-related expenses.

• 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.