Best Car Accident Lawyers in West Hollywood

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department West Hollywood Station is (310) 855-8850.

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

  You can get a copy of the police report for the accident at the Records and Identification Bureau of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

• What kinds of damages can a car accident victim in West Hollywood recover?

  A person who has been involved in a car accident in West Hollywood may be entitled to recover economic and non-economic damages. Some economic damages are healthcare costs, property replacements or repairs, mobility aids, loss of earning capacity, and vehicular modifications. Meanwhile, non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of life enjoyment, and inconvenience.

• What are the factors that can affect how long it will take to resolve a case arising out of a car accident in West Hollywood?

  There are several factors that can affect the amount of time that it will take in order to resolve a case arising out of a car accident in West Hollywood, including the strength of the victim’s evidence, the amount of compensation he or she is pursuing, and the types of damages involved. Other considerations are whether the at-fault party refuses to cooperate and whether the injured person’s negligence contributed to the crash.

• What is the period for filing claims arising out of car accidents in West Hollywood?

  The time limit that victims need to be aware of when filing claims arising out of car accidents in West Hollywood is two years. This two-year period for commencing court actions is counted from the date that the vehicular crash happened or from the discovery of injuries resulting from the incident.

• What are the pieces of car accident-related information that a victim in West Hollywood should collect?

  A victim in a car accident in West Hollywood should collect as much information as he or she could gather from the scene of the crash, including the model, year of manufacture, color, and license plate number of the other vehicle involved. The injured party should also gather details such as the name, phone number, license number, and address of the other motorist, as well as the location of the collision.

• Can you recover damages arising out of a car accident in West Hollywood if you were also at fault?

  Yes, you are still entitled to recover damages arising out of a car accident in West Hollywood even if you were at fault. This is because California is a pure comparative negligence state, which means that you can still claim compensation even if your degree of negligence exceeds that of the other motorist's.

• 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.