Best Car Accident Lawyers in Walnut

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Walnut Sheriff's Station is 909-595-2264.

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

  You may obtain a copy of the police report and schedule an appointment to pick it up in person by calling (562) 345-4441. When requesting an appointment, you must provide your full name, date of birth, type of ID to be used, and date, location, or address of the incident. You can request through mail, including the required documents, ID, the address to send the request, and your information, to the Records and Identification Bureau at The Public Section, 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 120, Norwalk, CA 90650.

• What is the minimum amount of auto insurance required for a Walnut driver?

  In Walnut, a driver must carry a minimum liability coverage of $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident for bodily injury. For property damage liability, the coverage should be at least $5,000. For uninsured motorist coverage, the minimum is $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident for bodily injury.

• What are the types of damages available in a Walnut car accident?

  The damages available for car accident victims in Walnut are established by the facts of the case and the type of lawsuit. In general, claims may include medical bills, property damage, lost wages or income, pain and suffering compensation, emotional anguish, and other non-economic losses. Damages may also include the cost of replacing or fixing vehicles that were damaged in the accident. 

• What is the difference between filing a claim and suing for damages in a car accident in Walnut?

  In a Walnut car accident, a claim is a formal request for compensation following an accident. When a person submits a claim, they are not bringing the problem to court but negotiating a private settlement with the insurance company and the other party's firm. However, if the insurance company refuses to satisfy a reasonable demand, the victim may sue for the amount of compensation. The courts must now be used to hold the other parties and their insurance providers responsible.

• What is a victim's case worth in a Walnut car accident?

  The value of a Walnut car accident case is influenced by the severity of the victim's injuries. According to the National Safety Council, injuries in a car accident in Walnut are worth more than $160,000. A noticeable injury costs $345,000, whereas disabling injuries cost more than $1.25 million. To obtain a sense of how much the case could be worth, injuries should be assessed, including their long-term impact on the victim's life.

• What are the most prevalent causes of adolescent accidents in Walnut?

  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car accidents, which include crash incidents in Walnut, are one of the biggest causes of adolescent deaths in the U.S. Many factors contribute to this statistic, but the top five include lack of driving experience, distractions, speeding, the impact on passengers, and drunk driving.

• 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.