Best Car Accident Lawyers in Visalia

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Visalia Police Department is (559) 734-8116.

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

  People can request and obtain accident reports from the Visalia Police Department's Records & Court Services Unit, which is open from Monday to Friday, from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. They can also contact the unit for inquiries at (559) 713-4222. On average, reports become available after around four to eight weeks from the date of an accident.

• How is liability determined in a car accident involving an Uber or Lyft driver in Visalia?

  In Uber and Lyft car accident cases in Visalia, an offending driver is deemed solely liable if he/she had not yet logged into a ridesharing app when the accident took place. Conversely, the ridesharing company in question is deemed fully liable if the driver was logged on and had accepted a ride or was already transporting a passenger. If the driver was on the app but had not yet accepted a passenger request, the company is only partially liable.

• Can a rental car company in Visalia be held liable if their vehicle is involved in a car accident?

  In Visalia, a rental car company can only be held liable if it can be proven that their negligence contributed to the accident. This occurs if the vehicle they rented was involved in an accident as a result of poor maintenance and defective parts, or if they rented it to a driver who has a suspended license and is thus unable to drive. Otherwise, a rental car driver is generally held liable for the accident's damages.

• How does Proposition 213 in California affect car accident settlements in Visalia?

  Victims of car accidents in Visalia are barred from claiming non-economic damages if they fail to comply with Proposition 213, which requires all California motorists to carry liability insurance. There are some exceptions if a victim was injured by a drunk driver, if he or she has insurance but was driving an uninsured vehicle, or if the accident occurred on private property. Passengers who are not the owner of an uninsured vehicle involved in an accident are also exempt.

• When can the spouse of a car accident victim in Visalia file a claim for loss of consortium?

  The spouses of car accident victims in Visalia can file claims for loss of consortium if the accident has negatively impacted their relationship. This can include the loss of intimacy, companionship, moral support, and the ability to have children, as well as the enjoyment of sexual relations. However, such claims are only deemed valid if the victim and his/her spouse are already married or have a registered domestic partnership by the time the accident occurred.

• Can a car accident victim in Visalia be held liable for not wearing a seatbelt?

  Yes, victims of Visalia car accidents can still be held liable if they were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the accident, as required by California law. This does not preclude them from pursuing damages claims, but their potential settlements are reduced in accordance with the state's pure comparative negligence mandate.

• 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.