Best Car Accident Lawyers in Huntington Park, CA

FAQs

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

  The Huntington Park Police Department's contact number for non-emergency inquiries is (323) 584-6254.

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

  Residents can obtain copies of accident reports from the Huntington Park Police Department's Records Bureau. It is open from 8 A.M. to 6 P.M. on Mondays to Thursdays and 8 A.M. and 5 P.M. on Fridays and Saturdays. Additional inquiries can be made by contacting the bureau at (323) 826-6611. The department itself is located at 6542 Miles Avenue. As an alternative, people can visit https://www.hpca.gov/598/Public-Records-Requests and submit an online form via e-mail to HPcityclerk@hpca.gov.

• What types of insurance coverage are usable following a hit-and-run accident in Huntington Park?

  The victim of a hit-and-run accident in Huntington Park can file an injury claim under their uninsured motorist coverage, which insurers are required to offer to motorists. This applies if the offending driver is either eventually located and found to be uninsured or never identified. For latter cases, a victim can also utilize med pay coverage to address any costs related to medical treatments alongside other health insurance policies.

• Who can file a wrongful death claim for the deceased victim of a car accident in Huntington Park?

  In car accidents that result in fatalities in Huntington Park, the deceased's surviving spouse/domestic partner, children, or grandchildren can file a wrongful death claim in line with California law. If a victim has no family members, intestate succession laws allow those entitled to their property to file a claim. Other possible claimants include stepchildren, parents, and legal guardians, as well as a putative spouse and their children if they were financially dependent on the victim at the time.

• Who is liable for a car accident caused by a pet in Huntington Park?

  For car accident cases in Huntington Park, the owner of a pet can be held liable if the animal caused the accident in question. This is because state laws require all pet owners to safely restrain and maintain control over their pets, especially if they are not on an owner's property. However, plaintiffs can only obtain compensation if they manage to locate the pet's owner.

• Can the plaintiff of a car accident case in Huntington Park obtain compensation for an injured pet?

  A Huntington Park motorist whose pet has been injured in a car accident can work with a legal team to obtain compensation using a third-party liability claim against the offending driver's insurance. This claim can include expenses for veterinary care and lost income as a result of the plaintiff taking time off of work to tend to their pet. Potential evidence for such a claim may include records of the pet's injuries and receipts for veterinarian bills.

• Is it possible to include residual injuries in a claim for a car accident case in Huntington Park?

  Yes, a car accident victim in Huntington Park may include residual injuries in a claim against an at-fault motorist. These include disfigurement, joint complications, and ligament damage, and can increase awarded compensation based on their impact on the victim's professional and personal life. A plaintiff can prove that the injuries are residual by consulting with medical experts, who will evaluate whether such harm can impact future physical activity and quality of life.

• 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.