Best Car Accident Lawyers in Capitola, CA

FAQs

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

  831-471-1141 is the non-emergency dispatch phone number of the Capitola Police.

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

  You can acquire a copy of a Capitola police report in person by visiting the Capitola Police Department at 422 Capitola Ave, Capitola, CA 95010. You can also request a copy via phone by calling 831-475-4242. Its office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and closed during holidays. Police reports cost $0.25 a page that can be paid using cash, credit, or debit.

• Is a court hearing necessary in your Capitola car accident case?

  No. Most Capitola automobile accident victims settle with the driver's insurance provider without having to file a lawsuit or appear in court. Nonetheless, negotiating a reasonable settlement requires a thorough comprehension of the law, attention to detail, and an appreciation of the verdicts that regional juries typically render for comparable injuries. It is, therefore, advisable to retain the services of a qualified car accident attorney who can assist injured parties in pursuing a just resolution of their claims against insurance providers.

• What Capitola junctions are the most hazardous for car drivers?

  The following intersections in Capitola are considered dangerous for car drivers:

  • Capitola Road and 49th Avenue
  • Capitola Road and 47th Avenue
  • Capitola Road and 45th Avenue
  • Capitola Road and 42nd Avenue
  • 41st Avenue and Capitola Road, near the DMV
  • 38th Avenue and Capitola Road
  • 30th Avenue and Capitola Road
  • Thompson Avenue and Capitola Road

• What should you bring to your initial consultation with a Capitola car accident attorney?

  To ensure that your case starts strong, it would be advisable to have the following items ready for your first consultation with a Capitola car accident attorney:

  • Compile your medical records and invoices.
  • Collect any proof you have to show the other driver was at fault.
  • Be ready to transfer any pictures or videos you may have taken of the incident.
  • Write down a list of inquiries you have about your situation and the upcoming weeks and months.

• How should you approach the insurance adjuster in Capitola following a car accident?

  You'd be better off hiring a capable car accident attorney in Capitola to handle the talking rather than worrying about communicating with the insurance adjuster. It's recommended to refrain from conversing with insurance adjusters when they call. They can try to blame the accident on you and turn the tables on you. They are employed by the insurance provider, not by you.

• How long do you have in Capitola to submit a car accident claim?

  A Capitola vehicle accident lawsuit must be filed within two years of the collision, starting from that date. However, there are exceptions to this time limit. For instance, you only have six months to make a claim if one of the involved parties is the government or someone acting on its behalf.

• 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.