Best Car Accident Lawyers in Concord, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency number for the Concord Police Department is 925-671-3333.

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

  Send an email to policerecords@cityofconcord.org with your name, the report number or call history number (the date is required), and a copy of your ID to establish your identification. When you receive a response saying that the report(s) is/are ready for release and that you are authorized to receive the report(s), go to www.cityofconcord.org/ccpayments to make the payment.

• What is the time limit in Concord for filing a car accident lawsuit?

  Concord follows California's two-year limit from the accident date to file a claim. If the accident resulted in a person's death, the countdown for the validity starts on that date and not the inquiry date. Also, there is a strict six-month deadline for filing claims against local governments and the state.

• Who is determined to be at fault in Concord car accident cases?

  In California, a person who injures another is typically held responsible for the victim's financial losses and expenses resulting from the incident. Regardless of whether the injured party contributed to the accident that resulted in their injuries, California law permits the injured party to seek compensation from the party at fault. It is crucial for accident victims in Concord to determine not only who is at fault, but also the extent of each party's responsibility for the damage they have caused.

• How often do car accidents happen in Concord?

  According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), 619 injury and fatal crashes took place in Concord during the most recent year for which data is available. Alcohol played a role in 61 of these collisions, while speeding was a factor in 117 and hit-and-runs were responsible for 32.

• Where do most car accidents happen in Concord?

  Highway 4, at the intersection of Monument Boulevard and Detroit Avenue, is considered dangerous in Concord by the California Highway Patrol due to numerous people speeding and the construction area near the I-680 interchange. Furthermore, arterial roads are busy thoroughfares with a high accident rate. Clayton Road, Concord Boulevard, Contra Costa Boulevard, Cowell Road, Monument Boulevard, Treat Boulevard, Ygnacio Valley Road, and Willow Pass Road are among Concord's arterial roads.

• What is the typical contingency fee percentage for Concord car accident attorneys?

  The majority of attorneys base their contingent fees between 33 and 50 percent of the client's overall settlement. Depending on the agreement a client has with their attorney, this could still change. The size of the lawyer's network as well as additional potential case-related costs may also have an impact on this.

• 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.