Best Car Accident Lawyers in Granada Hills, CA

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns, dial 877-ASK-LAPD. The Devonshire Community Police Station serves Granada Hills.

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

  To request a report by mail, download the Traffic Collision Report Request Form at https://lapdonlinestrgeacc.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net/lapdonlinemedia/2022/08/Report-request-form-2022.pdf, complete the information needed, and mail it along with a $16.00 check or money order made payable to the LAPD (do not send cash) to: Los Angeles Police Department Records and Identification Division Document Processing Unit P.O. Box 30158 Los Angeles, CA 90030 Traffic reports are also available online via https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/search/?AGENCY=CA0194200&lang=en.

• Who will be held responsible if you get injured by a self-driving car in Granada Hills?

  Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may hold multiple parties responsible for your injuries if you have been injured in Granada Hills by a self-driving vehicle. There are several possible causes for the collision, some of which are the human operator, the vehicle manufacturer, the technology designer, and even the other vehicle involved in the incident.

• What is the time limit for filing a claim for damages following a car accident in Granada Hills?

  In California, you must file your claim within two years of the date of the car accident in Granada Hills. It is preferable to bring a case sooner to determine how much compensation you should receive for future injuries, treatment, and income loss. However, there are exceptions to the statute of limitations, including injury to minors, unavailability of the negligent party, defendant or plaintiff being mentally incompetent, delayed discovery, property damage, and if the plaintiff is in the military.

• What are the most dangerous intersections in Granada Hills?

  Research conducted by the city found two intersections in Granada Hills are potentially hazardous--the crossroads of Balboa and Devonshire and the junction of Devonshire Street and Reseda Boulevard. Several injury accidents were reported to have occurred in these two locations.

• Will you be entitled to compensation in Granada Hills if you were not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the car accident?

  You will be entitled to compensation after a car accident in Granada Hills since California is a pure comparative negligence state. It implies that any wounded party may request financial compensation even if they share some of the fault. Even if they were up to 99% to blame for the accident, the injured party is still entitled to compensation. As a result, the plaintiff's proportionate share of fault is deducted from the overall settlement sum.

• What will be at stake if you do not hire a lawyer after a car accident in Granada Hills?

  There are hazards associated with pursuing your vehicle accident case in Granada Hills on your own, even if you believe it to be straightforward, considering any potential damages resulting from your injury as you develop your settlement claim. This extends beyond the price of repairs and medical expenses. You risk paying out of pocket for costs not covered by your settlement agreement if you do not retain an expert auto accident attorney.

• 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.