Best Car Accident Lawyers in Hanford, CA

FAQs

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

  The Hanford Police Department's 24-hour non-emergency line is (559) 585-2540.

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

  Traffic accident reports are available at 425 North Irwin Street, Hanford, CA 93230, and requesters may call the Hanford PD's non-emergency line for inquiries.

• What are the damages recoverable in Hanford car accident cases?

  In car accident cases in Hanford, claimants may recover the quantifiable value of their past and future rehabilitation and medical treatments, which extend to travel costs incurred to and from the doctor. The loss of income is also recoverable, as is the expense of repairing or replacing damaged belongings. Intangibles like mental suffering and loss of consortium are also demandable.

• How does negligence often manifest in car accident cases inside of Hanford?

  Driver negligence in Hanford car accident cases often manifests in the form of traffic violations like speeding. Motorists are also likely to drive while drunk or high or to be distracted by technology while behind the wheel. The fault may also lie with government entities that are required to maintain roads and place safety features like rails but fail to do so.

• When is it wise to sue over a car accident in Hanford instead of accepting settlement money?

  It is wise to sue over a car accident in Hanford instead of accepting settlement money when the injuries are serious and the odds of full monetary recovery from an insurer are low. While there are times when the insurer will sufficiently cover the costs of minor scrapes and one is better off working off the difference instead of losing payable hours to litigation, severe injuries are often undercompensated, and going to court will yield full results.

• If a car accident in Hanford happened more than two years ago can a victim still sue?

  It depends on what the victim in Hanford wants to recover. If the claim is for personal injuries, then the action is already overdue because applicable California laws require that a plaintiff go to court within two years of the crash. However, if the individual wants to recover property losses, the time limit is three years, meaning that a suit is still possible.

• If a family breadwinner dies in a car crash in Hnaford, who are the parties entitled to go to court for damages?

  If a family breadwinner dies in a car crash in Hanford, the cause of action is wrongful death, and the parties who are allowed to sue include: the surviving spouse of the deceased, the living offspring, and the grandchildren should the children also be departed. Intestate succession laws are followed if none of these legal heirs exist and cover siblings and parents. Financial dependents like putative spouses and children are also potential plaintiffs.

• 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.