Best Car Accident Lawyers in Walnut Creek

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of Walnut Creek police station is (925) 943-5844.

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

  You can get your case number by contacting the records department at 925-943-5890 from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by calling dispatch after hours at 925-943-5844. To gain access to police public records, obtain a report request form from the city hall or through this link: www.walnut-creek.org/home/showpublisheddocument/18561/636722801158300000. You may also opt for a faxed copy by calling 925-943-5890. There are three ways to submit your completed form:

  1. Email it to records@walnut-creek.org
  2. Mail it to: Walnut Creek Police Department Attn: Records 1666 North Main Street Walnut Creek, CA 94596
  3. Submit it in person at the same address mentioned above, from Monday to Thursday at 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

• What is the statute of limitation in Walnut Creek?

  Walnut Creek adheres to California's statute of limitations. Personal injury accident victims in California have two years to file a lawsuit, according to the state's courts. If the injury was not immediately discovered, the complainants have one year from the day the injury was found to take any legal action.

• Is there a chance you might get compensated if you contribute to an accident in Walnut Creek?

  Walnut Creek abides by the law of California, which uses comparative negligence as the benchmark for determining liability. This means that each party is given a percentage of the blame depending on their involvement in the accident. Comparative negligence simplifies the process of calculating the amount of compensation that the victim is entitled to.

• Is Walnut Creek prone to road accidents?

  Walnut Creek is a part of the San Francisco Bay Area, which contains numerous freeways and streets that are packed with cars, trucks, pedestrians, and cyclists. When the roads are not created or maintained sufficiently, this situation can become hazardous. Severe injuries and unfair fatalities can occur in high-traffic areas with poor safety designs.

• Can you file a complaint against the government when you had an accident in Walnut Creek?

  Yes, you can hold the government accountable for your accident if roadway defects like potholes, are the ones that caused it. However, most accidents happen due to human error and negligence like failure to yield and driving under the influence. In that case, the at-fault party's insurance is responsible for paying the other driver.

• What should you do if a hit-and-run accident occurs to you in Walnut Creek?

  Hit-and-run incidents are normally covered by your auto insurance plan. If you were involved in this type of accident, your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage will probably take effect. However, insurance providers are not always willing to offer fair compensation. Consulting a local lawyer can help you deal with complex insurance matters.

• 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.