Best Car Accident Lawyers in Upland

FAQs

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

  You may contact 909-946-7624 for police assistance in non-life-threatening situations in Upland.

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

  You may call the Upland Police Department Records Division at 909-946-7624 to arrange your over-the-phone registration for a police record request.

• What types of damages can you seek after a car accident in Upland?

  Following a car accident, you may file a claim for compensation to cover your immediate and long-term medical expenses, lifelong care, support and care during your recovery, and pain and suffering. Other types of recoverable damages include lost wages, a reduction in your earning potential, changes to your way of life, property damage, and punitive damages. To demonstrate your need for these sorts of compensation at trial or in a settlement, your Upland auto accident attorney will assist you in compiling documents and supporting proof.

• What types of injuries are frequently sustained following a car accident in Upland?

  There are various kinds of injuries exist in an Upland car accident, but they all fall under one or more categories of injuries. These include abrasions, cuts, and bruises; head trauma; internal damage; spinal cord damage; bone fractures; harm to the nervous system; emotional distress; and pain and suffering.

• How is liability proven in an Upland car accident case?

  Liability can be established using eyewitness accounts of the incident, video and photo surveillance, depositions of all parties involved, and depositions of the at-fault driver or their insurance provider. If the insurance company can prove that you contributed to the incident, they may be willing to pay less in a settlement. It can be challenging to determine responsibility after a collision. Still, it's important to work with an Upland car accident lawyer to obtain all accident and police reports about the incident.

• What are the primary factors that lead to car accidents in Upland?

  The most frequent reasons for car accidents in Upland are speeding, tailgating, distracted driving, breaking traffic laws, and driving under the influence. The most hazardous behavior is speeding, which resulted in 90,000 injuries during the most recent reporting year. Both tailgating and distracted driving have the potential to result in major car accidents. In California's most recent reporting year, drunk drivers were responsible for 31% of all road fatalities and more than 26,000 injuries.

• How does an Upland attorney look into car accidents?

  An Upland attorney typically looks into an accident by analyzing the evidence, recording the facts, finding witnesses, interviewing them, preserving the evidence, and taking pictures of the accident scene and the vehicles involved. Before having your car fixed, if you were significantly hurt in an accident, you should talk to a personal injury attorney. Remember that after repairs are done, crucial evidence could be lost.

• 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.