Best Car Accident Lawyers in Fontana

FAQs

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

  You may dial 909-350-7700 to call the Fontana Police Department for non-emergency concerns.

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

  You can obtain a copy of an accident report in either English or Spanish by completing the request form, which can be downloaded at https://www.fontana.org/201/Records-Unit. After filling out the form, mail your request to: Fontana Police Department, Records Unit, 17005 Upland Avenue, Fontana, CA 92335.

• Should you hire an attorney if you get injured in a car accident in Fontana, CA?

  While it is not required, it would be a good idea to seek the advice of a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible if you are involved in a car accident in Fontana. An attorney can help you prove the negligence of the other party by conducting a thorough investigation and gathering important pieces of evidence. They can also handle communication with the insurance company to ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

• Is it possible for both parties to be at fault in a car accident in Fontana, CA?

  Yes, the California traffic law has an existing clause for shared fault claims. As California is a pure comparative negligence state, the courts can rule that both parties share the blame for the accident. The amount that the victim is awarded will then be reduced by the percentage of their share of the fault. A personal injury lawyer can explain this clause in detail to manage the claimant’s expectations.

• Can a car accident victim in Fontana, CA, still get compensation for non-economic losses if their vehicle was not insured?

  Under Section 3333.4 of the California Civil Code, a driver in Fontana who gets injured in a car accident caused by a negligent party cannot recover non-economic damages to compensate for losses like pain and suffering, inconvenience, physical impairment, and disfigurement if they and their vehicle were not insured as mandated by the financial responsibility laws of the state.

• How much time does a person have to file a lawsuit after getting involved in a car accident in Fontana, CA?

  Following California’s statute of limitations for personal injury, a car accident victim has two years from the date of the accident in Fontana to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. If the defendant is a government agency, the deadline is even shorter, which is six months from the date of the accident. If the claimant doesn't file a lawsuit within the two-year period, he or she might not be able to recover damages.

• Are there exceptions to the statute of limitations for car accidents in Fontana, CA?

  Yes, there are instances when victims of car accidents in Fontana get an exemption or an extension for the time they can file a lawsuit: -If the individual injured is a minor, the time limit for filing a lawsuit does not start until their 18th birthday -If the injury was discovered belatedly -If the victim is mentally incapacitated -If the defendant is not available due to incapacitation or serving time in prison

• 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.