Best Car Accident Lawyers in Hollywood, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency number of the LAPD is 1-877-275-5273 while the local Hollywood station is 213-972-2971.

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

  Reports may be requested by mail from the Los Angeles Police Department Records and Identification Division Document Processing Unit at P.O. Box 30158 Los Angeles, CA 90030.

• What tactics do insurance companies in Hollywood employ when dealing with car accident claims?

  Insurance companies in Hollywood and across the state are adept at minimizing the sums released to car accident victims. They will approach the injured parties immediately after the incident in an attempt to catch the latter before a lawyer can be reached. Adjusters will seek recorded statements and scrutinize the plaintiff's medical records to look for any pre-existing conditions that can be blamed for the injuries, all to justify reduced coverage.

• What is negligence per se and how does it apply to car accidents in Hollywood?

  In Hollywood car accidents, negligence per se means a fault in itself or self-evident wrongdoing. This is applied to instances where the driver of the vehicle that caused the accident was also breaking general safety practices or the law when the incident happened. Speeding when a crash occurs is a common example, and it relieves the claimant of the obligation to prove the usual elements of negligent conduct.

• Medical costs are recoverable in Hollywood car crashes, but what exactly do these expenses cover?

  Medical costs in Hollywood car crashes cover the value of traditional healthcare treatments that include surgical procedures and hospital stays, prescription drugs, support devices like neck braces or crutches, and physical rehabilitation. Mental health remedies like counseling are recoverable. It also extends to processes that are alternative in nature, like chiropractic therapies and massages.

• What information should you obtain from the other driver after a car crash in Hollywood?

  When you are in a car crash in Hollywood, you should obtain the other motorist's driver's license and insurance data, preferably by taking pictures of the pertinent physical cards. You should also acquire the license plate number of the offending vehicle and the employment phone number of the defendant. You can also take note of any company information on the other vehicle as it could establish liability on the automobile's owner.

• What are the other causes of car accidents in Hollywood besides driver error?

  Besides driver error, car crashes in Hollywood happen when the roadway is defective and a driver loses control because of potholes or nasty bumps. Poor weather is a probable cause of crashes as reduced visibility impairs perception. Animals could also appear out of nowhere and force swerves. The vehicle itself might be faulty and give rise to a product liability suit against the manufacturer.

• 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.