Best Car Accident Lawyers in Ceres, CA

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency matters, call the Ceres Police Department at (209) 538-5712.

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

  You may pick up a copy of a traffic collision report at the Records Division of the Ceres Police Department at: 2220 Magnolia Street, Ceres, CA 95307, on Mondays through Fridays, at 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. For inquiries regarding your report, call (209) 538-5714.

• Do you need an attorney after getting injured in a car accident in Ceres?

  If you were involved in a minor collision in Ceres, you may not require the expertise of an injury lawyer. But if you figured in a serious collision that left you injured and unable to work, it would be wise to take a proactive approach and enlist the help of an experienced car accident lawyer to help you secure fair compensation from insurance companies.

• How much will hiring a car accident lawyer in Ceres cost you?

  Car accident attorneys in Ceres do not have a fixed rate for providing their services. Most of them will handle your case on a contingency fee basis. This arrangement essentially means your lawyer won’t ask for upfront fees and only collect payment from you if they successfully win your case and secure compensation for you.

• What are the types of damages that you can recover after getting injured by a negligent driver in Ceres?

  If were injured by a negligent driver in Ceres, you are entitled to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages refer to the quantifiable losses you incurred as a result of the accident. These may include your medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repair costs. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, compensate for losses that are subjective in nature, such as pain and suffering; loss of consortium; and disfigurement.

• Can punitive damages be awarded in car accident cases in Ceres?

  Although rare, it is possible for a judge or jury to award punitive damages in a Ceres car accident case. Punitive damages are not necessarily intended to compensate the injured person for their losses, but it is awarded to punish a person for the reckless or egregious conduct they exhibited. The circumstances wherein punitive damages may be awarded include hit-and-run cases and if the at-fault driver was operating their vehicle while intoxicated.

• Is there a deadline for filing a car accident claim in Ceres?

  Yes, there is a deadline for filing an auto accident claim in Ceres. This legal deadline is called the statute of limitations, and under California law, victims of car crashes due to somebody else’s negligence have two years to submit the damages suit. Failure to take legal action within this time window may forfeit the victim’s right to receive compensation for their losses.

• 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.