Best Car Accident Lawyers in Vallejo

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Vallejo police station is 707-648-4321.

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

  You can get a copy of an accident police report in Vallejo using an online citizen police report system: https://secure.coplogic.com/dors/en/filing/submitreport?dynparam=1676287971500.

• Do you need to file a lawsuit right away after a car accident in Vallejo?

  Car accident victims in Vallejo are given two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit according to California's statute of limitations. If you only file a lawsuit after the applicable statute of limitation expires, the judge will dismiss your case if the defendants petition the court.

• What are the most dangerous intersections for car crashes in Vallejo?

  Some of the most dangerous intersections in Vallejo are:

  • Admiral Callaghan Lane at Redwood Parkway
  • Alameda Street at Tennessee Street
  • Diana Drive at Mini Brive
  • Mini Drive at Sonoma Boulevard and State Route 29
  • Admiral Callaghan Lane at Humboldt Street and Tennessee Street Vallejo is Solano County’s second-largest city. According to an annual census, it has over 1.2 million people, making it one of the busiest cities in California.

• What causes car accidents in Vallejo?

  Some common causes of car accidents in Vallejo are speeding, distracted and impaired driving, and illegal lane changes. Car drivers who fail to heed traffic signage are also prone to accidents. According to data from the California Office of Traffic Safety, more than 5,000 people were killed or injured in a motor vehicle accident in the city in a particular year.

• Who will pay for your rental car fees after a car accident in Vallejo?

  If another driver is liable for your car accident in Vallejo, their insurance company will cover the cost of your rental car. However, if the at-fault driver has no insurance, you may have to pay out of your pocket if your insurance does not include liability coverage. You can then sue the driver for damages, but collecting from them may be hard if they do not have enough resources.

• Can you still recover compensation even if you are partially at fault in a car accident in Vallejo?

  Yes, Vallejo follows California's at-fault state rules. Whoever is responsible for the car accident will be accountable for paying the damages. All parties involved should pursue monetary compensation from the negligent driver's insurance company. This includes payment for property and vehicle damage, as well as medical 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.