Best Car Accident Lawyers in Stanford

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns and incidents, contact the Santa Clara County Office of the Sherriff at 1-800-211-2220 (toll-free) or (408) 808-4400.

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

  You can request a copy of your accident report by completing and submitting a Report Request Form to the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office at the address below. The form is available for download online from the official website of the Sheriff's Office. You can also come in person to the Sherriff’s Office to get the form and submit it to the Records Division window. The first 50 pages of the report are free. A 10-cent fee will be charged for each additional page. Accident reports will only be released to individuals involved in the incident or their authorized representatives.

  Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office 55 W. Younger Ave. San Jose, CA 95110

  You can also request a copy of the accident report online at https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/ui/agency-search

• What damages can car accident victims in Stanford, CA, seek compensation for?

  Car accident victims in Stanford may claim two types of damages: economic and non-economic. Economic damages include medical bills, lost wages, repair or replacement of damaged property, and physical therapy and home modifications needed to rehabilitate the victim. Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, the resulting disability or disfigurement, and reduced quality of life.

• Are car accident settlements and verdict awards taxable in Stanford, CA?

  Generally, personal injury compensation is not taxable in California through an IRS-enacted regulation. The IRS made them tax-free because legal recoveries are meant to compensate victims. It does not matter if you got the compensation by settling or through a court trial. There are some exceptions to this regulation, which a Stanford car accident lawyer can provide counsel on.

• Who can be held legally liable when a minor is at fault for a car accident in Stanford, CA?

  California Vehicle Code, Section 17707 states that the parents/legal guardians of minors under 18 years old have civil liability in this situation. To get a driver's license in Stanford, individuals under 18 years old must have a parent/legal guardian sign their license application. This makes the signatory legally liable when the minor is at fault for a car crash as indicated in Section 17707.

• How long do you have to file your car accident claim in Stanford, CA?

  You have two years from the date of the car accident to file your personal injury claim. However, if you are claiming against a government/public entity in Stanford, you must submit a Notice of Claim within six months from the crash date. If the two-year statute of limitations passes, you may be barred from filing a claim for your damages.

• Do you have to go to trial to get compensation for your car accident injuries in Stanford, CA?

  No, you don’t have to go to court to recover compensation. 90% of cases get resolved before they reach trial. Most car accident lawyers work to obtain fair compensation for the client through a settlement, as trials cost time and resources. It is when the insurance company refuses to offer just compensation for the client's losses that lawyers suggest taking the case to 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.