Best Car Accident Lawyers in Arroyo Grande, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency number of the Arroyo Grande Police Department is (805) 473-5110.

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

  Accident reports can be obtained from the Records Section of the Arroyo Grande Police Department. It runs from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, under the supervision of the Support Services Commander. The Records Section can be reached at 805-473-5110.

• How would you determine if the driver who caused your car accident in Arroyo Grande was impaired?

  After an Arroyo Grande accident involving injuries or fatalities, it is essential to contact law enforcement. Police personnel are trained to detect drug or alcohol impairment and will take the appropriate measures to confirm or refute their suspicion. It involves giving a breathalyzer at the scene or detaining the driver(s) for medical evaluations, which include blood testing, to identify whether the at-fault driver or any other drivers involved in the collision were impaired.

• Will the driver in front always be held responsible for a rear-end collision in Arroyo Grande?

  It depends. Usually, rear-end collisions in Arroyo Grande are caused by the carelessness of the driver in the rear. This negligence can include texting while driving, distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield the right-of-way, driving too near to the vehicle in front of them, and loss of vehicle control. Nonetheless, the driver in front may share the blame for a rear-end collision in certain circumstances. The preceding driver may also have been negligent in this instance.

• When is a mechanic liable for an Arroyo Grande car accident?

  While not often the cause of an Arroyo Grande automobile accident, defective components are responsible for a few incidents each year. Manufacturing is usually at fault when a malfunctioning part causes an issue. Otherwise, the mechanic who last worked on the vehicle may be held liable. As long as the owner did not neglect the car by skipping tune-ups or disregarding maintenance problems, these could lead to a wreck for which a mechanic is held accountable. These include overlooking the faults, utilizing inadequate parts, and cutting corners when performing the service.

• How long do you have to file a claim following a car accident in Arroyo Grande?

  If you were involved in an automobile accident in Arroyo Grande, you could seek compensation from negligent parties. But you must submit your claim within the timeframe. In California, you have two years to make a claim for personal injury or wrongful death resulting from an auto accident. A statute of limitations begins when you become aware that you may have a legal claim, which is the date of the accident. But, if someone dies and the family decides to file a wrongful death claim against the party at blame, the statute of limitations begins to run on the date of death.

• Where do crash accidents happen in Arroyo Grande?

  According to recent reports, fatal automobile crashes and other road traffic incidents in Arroyo Grande occurred on El Camino Real, Valley Road, E Grand Avenue, Bell Street, and US-101. There were four vehicles involved, four fatalities, and two people were intoxicated. The cause of most of these collisions is speed-related.

• 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.