Best Car Accident Lawyers in El Cajon, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the El Cajon Police Department is (619) 579-3311.

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

  You can obtain a copy of your accident report by submitting a copy of your photo ID and a completed request form to the El Cajon Police Department located at 100 Civic Center Way, El Cajon, CA 92020. You can access request forms online at https://www.elcajon.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/4740/635779895790270000. A cashier's check, a $10 postal money order, or cash are all acceptable forms of payment. You can also send your request form together with a copy of your photo ID and cashier's check or postal money order for $10 via mail.

• What if the car accident was caused by a government employee in El Cajon?

  You have six (6)months from the date of the accident to file a claim in El Cajon for any damages or injuries you sustained in a car accident with a government entity. When a government employee or agency denies your claim, you have one year to file a lawsuit against them.

• What if you were partially to blame for your El Cajon car accident?

  If you were at fault in a car accident in California, you may be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation you receive is determined by your percentage of fault. For example, you could still receive 85% of the compensation for a car accident in El Cajon that was 15% your fault.

• What happens if the driver who caused your car accident in El Cajon is uninsured or has insufficient insurance coverage?

  If you were injured in El Cajon by an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses. You are not required to have UM/UIM coverage in California. However, insurance companies are required to provide it. In fact, denying UM/UIM coverage requires you to sign a waiver. If you purchased uninsured motorist coverage, your own insurance company may be able to pay for your damages. It is advisable to speak with a knowledgeable lawyer who can investigate all potential sources of recovery.

• What are some of the best auto body repair shops in El Cajon to go to after a car accident?

  It is critical that you choose auto body shops that provide comprehensive services such as painting, dent repair, and auto glass repair. Furthermore, a formal lifetime warranty must cover both the service and the workmanship. The following are some examples of reliable auto body shops in El Cajon:

  • Jack Williams Auto Body Shop: 1336 N Magnolia Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020
  • Fix Auto El Cajon: 1129 Broadway, El Cajon, CA 92021
  • World Auto Body: 187 N Marshall Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020

• What is the value of your El Cajon car accident claim?

  The value of your claim will be determined by several factors, including the cost of your current medical bills, the cost of any future medical care you may require, the cost of repairing your car, the amount of income you lost as a result of your injuries, whether you had to modify your home to accommodate your injuries, and whether your injuries will affect your ability to earn money in the future.

• 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.