Best Car Accident Lawyers in Agoura Hills

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Agoura Hills, CA?

  Residents in Agoura Hills can relay non-emergency matters to the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff Station of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department by contacting (818) 878-1808.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Agoura Hills, CA?

  People throughout Agoura Hills can visit the Public Services Station of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department to request and obtain copies of accident reports. They can call (562) 345-4441 to schedule an appointment for pickups. The Public Services Station is located at 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 120, Norwalk, California 90650. They can also send requests via mail their requests to the Records and Identification Bureau, 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 400 West, Norwalk, California 90650.

• How long is the statute of limitations for car accident claims against the government in Agoura Hills?

  In Agoura Hills and the rest of California, car accident plaintiffs have up to six months from the date of the accident to file an administrative claim against government agencies. This is one of the situations where the government's negligence in designing and maintaining roads leads to a crash or collision. If the government rejects a claim, a plaintiff has another six months to file a new one from the date that the denial was issued.

• What determines liability in a car accident concerning failure to yield the right of way in Agoura Hills?

  A driver in Agoura Hills can be held liable for an accident if he or she violates a given road or safety regulation involving the right of way and the violation results in another motorist's injuries. The right of way is often given to emergency vehicles and those that are already on main roads or intersections where a car may be turning or merging into. As such, a driver must let such vehicles pass before crossing, merging, or completing a turn.

• What does the seatbelt defense mean in car accident cases within Agoura Hills?

  The seatbelt defense is a law in California that says a plaintiff is partly to blame for their own injuries if they were not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident. As such, a car accident plaintiff in Agoura Hills can have their potential settlement reduced in line with the state's comparative negligence laws for their failure to wear a seatbelt.

• What is the time limit for reporting a car accident in Agoura Hills?

  Motorists within Agoura Hills who are involved in a car crash or collision have up to 24 hours from the time of the accident to file a report at the California Highway Patrol or the police department that oversees the area of the crash. They also have up to 10 days to file a report at the California DMV. Reports are required if there are injuries or fatalities involved in the accident.

• Does auto insurance cover injuries in accidents caused by road rage in Agoura Hills?

  The Insurance Information Institute states that most types of auto insurance do not cover injuries brought on by road rage accidents. This is because such incidents are regarded as instances caused by reckless behavior rather than simple accidents. However, the victim of a road rage-related accident in Agoura Hills can still recover compensation for injuries, lost income, and damaged property by filing a personal injury lawsuit against an offending motorist.

• 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.