Best Car Accident Lawyers in Santa Monica

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns, call +1 310-458-8495 to reach Santa Monica’s Police Department.

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

  There are three ways you can obtain a copy of an accident report in Santa Monica, CA:

  • Online - Fill out the form on the official website of the local government of Santa Monica to file your request: https://www.santamonica.gov/process-explainers/how-to-obtain-a-copy-of-a-police-report.
  • By phone - Call Santa Monica’s Records Unit at (310) 458-8431.
  • In-person- Visit the Santa Monica Public Safety Facility to request a report.

• Does Santa Monica, CA follow the comparative negligence rule?

  Yes, Santa Monica recognizes comparative negligence, which means the court decides what percentage of the fault each party is responsible for to determine the award or settlement that will be given. The amount a defendant is due to pay out is proportional to the percentage of their fault in the incident. For instance, if you are found to be 20% responsible for your accident, the other driver would then be accountable for the remaining 80%. This percentage will be calculated from the verdict.

• Do you have to pay anything under comparative negligence in Santa Monica, CA if you are the plaintiff in a car accident claim?

  If you are the plaintiff in a car accident claim in Santa Monica, CA, you are not expected to pay any amount for the crash unless the court considers you to be more than 50% at fault for the incident and the other party decides to also file a claim against you.

• Is there a deadline for filing a car accident claim in Santa Monica, CA?

  The state of California requires victims of personal injury cases, which include auto accidents, to file their claim against the negligent party within two years from the date of the accident so they can obtain financial reimbursement for damages sustained in the incident. Once the statute of limitations has passed, the victim loses the right to file a lawsuit.

• Is it possible to get an extension for the deadline for filing a car accident claim in Santa Monica, CA?

  Extensions to the statute of limitations are rarely given in Santa Monica and are only considered for specific situations. If the injury was discovered by the car accident victim more than two years after the incident, the victim has one year from the date of the injury’s discovery to file a lawsuit. Those who were involved in a car accident before the age of 18 may also file a lawsuit within one year of their 18th birthday if their parents or legal guardians have not yet filed a claim previously.

• Can you sue the local government of Santa Monica, CA for a car accident?

  It is possible to file a legal claim against the local government of Santa Monica, CA if your case is found to involve a government agency or its employees. However, the statute of limitations for suing government entities in California is even shorter. If your accident results from the negligence of the government, you have six months to file a legal claim.

• 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.