Best Car Accident Lawyers in Tustin

FAQs

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

  For dispatch and non-emergencies, you may call the Tustin Police Department at 714-573-3225.

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

  You can get a copy of a traffic accident report in Tustin by way of the following: • Lexis Nexis (https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/) • Tustin PD Records Unit Fax (714-730-8027) • By mail, complete with return address, email address, and phone number on the application • at the Tustin Police Department front desk during regular operating hours, with the address at Tustin Police Department, 300 Centennial Way, Tustin, CA 92780.

• How long does a car accident lawsuit take to settle in Tustin?

  Settlement of a claim following a car accident in Tustin might take a long time, often years. The length of time it takes to complete each stage of the process is affected by several factors, including the complexity of the case, the quality of the defendant's legal representation, and the quantity and quality of evidence that must be collected.

• What are the advantages of hiring legal counsel following a car accident in Tustin?

  Getting an experienced lawyer to help you will go a long way in getting your life back on track after a car accident. Technically, you could handle an auto insurance claim and even a personal injury claim on your own. Still, you probably would not get the same good results that an experienced Tustin car accident lawyer could have obtained for you. In the end, anyone hurt in a car accident will likely face many problems when seeking compensation for their injuries.

• Should I document my auto accident in Tustin?

  If you are physically and mentally capable of doing so, one of the most important things you can do after an auto accident is to ensure that it is properly documented. Certain steps should be taken as soon as possible. These include making a video or taking as many pictures as you can of the scene and the injuries, finding eyewitnesses and knowing their contact information, and recording on video statements from yourself and your witnesses.

• How much will a Tustin car accident claim be worth?

  A Tustin automobile accident case will be worth what the lawyer can negotiate for the plaintiff in compensation. The claim for damages and losses may likely include expenses for vehicle repairs, costs of hospital stays and doctor visits as well as future medical costs, therapy sessions required for recovery, lost wages from missed work, injuries that seriously impair the ability to work, punitive damages, and financial relief for pain and suffering.

• Should I sign a settlement form after a car accident in Tustin?

  No, a car accident victim in Tustin should not sign a settlement form right away. When someone gets hurt in a car accident, he or she can file a claim with the insurance company of the person who caused the accident. But before signing a document with an insurance company to settle a car accident claim, it is very important to talk to a determined Tustin car accident lawyer who can explain the claims process. An experienced Tustin car accident lawyer will tell if the car accident settlement agreement form is valid and in the plaintiff's best interest.

• 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.