Best Car Accident Lawyers in East San Gabriel, CA

FAQs

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

  The nearby police office to eh East San Gabriel census-designated place is that if the San Gabriel Police Department which is reachable at 626-308-2828.

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

  The station is located at 625 S. Del Mar Ave., San Gabriel, CA 91776, while the records division supervisor is reachable a 626-308-2848, ext. 9018.

• What may car accident victims in East San Gabriel recover from a defendant?

  Car accident victims in East San Gabriel and the county can sue a negligent defendant for the tangible value of past and future medical and rehabilitation expenses. Wages left unearned due to spending time recovering are also compensable, plus the value of property lost. Intangibles like emotional pain and suffering are also up for grabs.

• If a car accident claimant in East San Gabriel already has a lawyer, is it improper to seek advice from another attorney?

  No, there is no ethical or moral issue with consulting another attorney even if a car accident claimant in East San Gabriel and the state already has a lawyer. This is a practice akin to seeking a second opinion for a medical condition. The client is also at liberty to replace a legal representative should there be dissatisfaction with an insurance payout or negotiation strategy,

• If a car accident claimant in East San Gabriel is strapped for cash, is it ok to represent one's self instead of getting an attorney?

  While a car accident claimant in East San Gabriel and the state is at liberty to represent oneself in court, this is not advisable since it is possible to obtain a lawyer who will work on a contingency basis. This arrangement means that an attorney won't ask for upfront professional fees and instead demand a cut of the settlement or court award, with nothing owed if the client loses.

• If a car accident victim in East San Gabriel died from a car accident after spending a year in a coma, is it too late to seek redress in court if two years and a day have passed since the accident?

  No, it is not too late to seek redress with the court for the victim in East San Gabriel who spent a year in a coma before dying. While the law of California requires that a personal injury suit be brought two years after a crash, the bereaved in this case can still file a wrongful death suit because the deadline for that is counted from the date of death and not the accident.

• What is the implication of pure comparative negligence to car accidents in East San Gabriel?

  The state's pure comparative negligence rules as applied to car accidents in East San Gabriel allow a personal injury claimant to seek damages in court even if there's partial fault on the plaintiff's part. The "pure" modifier indicates that the party suing could go to court even with the greatest share in the guilt, unlike in other jurisdictions where the individual cannot be more than 50% to blame. The consequence is a reduced award, not a denial.

• 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.