Best Car Accident Lawyers in Imperial Beach, CA

FAQs

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

  For a non-emergency dispatch, call 858-565-5200.

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

  You can request the Public Records Center on the website of the San Diego Sheriff's Department or visit its office located at 9621 Ridgehaven Ct, San Diego. You can also go to the police station of the Imperial Beach Substation in person located at 845 Imperial Beach Boulevard and call 619-498-2400 for more information.

• Who can be held liable for airbag injuries that result from a car accident in Imperial Beach?

  The airbag's designers, manufacturers, and installers can be held liable for airbag injuries resulting from a car accident in Imperial Beach. You may recover both economic and non-economic compensation for your injuries caused by airbag malfunction. To be able to sue the negligent parties, you have to prove that defects involving airbag design, manufacturing, and marketing caused the accident.

• Is it better for a car accident claim in Imperial Beach to settle or go to trial?

  It depends on a variety of factors, including the facts of your case and your priorities. You can receive a settlement check as fast as about four weeks, while trials usually go on for years. It may be in your best interest to take cases to trial if the insurance company denies your claim or offers a lowball amount. However, most car accident claims, including those in Imperial Beach, usually settle after several negotiations and before trial.

• What kind of evidence support lost earning capacity in a car accident claim in Imperial Beach?

  Records, assessments, and reports from doctors and therapists, financial analysts, and vocational specialists can be evidence to support your car accident claim in Imperial Beach. These professionals can establish your impairment and how long it will be, identify the jobs you can take after the accident, and pinpoint the earning difference between your previous and post-accident jobs.

• Which intersection in Imperial Beach is considered dangerous?

  The intersection of 7th and Donax in Imperial Beach, which has a school nearby, has been deemed by locals as dangerous because of drivers speeding even at stop signs. The location has been the site of a serious accident that left a bicyclist with internal bruises and unable to walk for several days. Residents say the intersection looks like The Indianapolis 500 during the early morning commute because of cars running over the speed limit, the KUSI News reported.

• Is financial compensation from car accident injuries in Imperial Beach taxable?

  In most cases, no. Financial compensation for injuries sustained in a car accident in Imperial Beach is not taxable whether the financial recovery may come from an out-of-court settlement or jury award. However, reimbursements for lost wages and the excess amount you receive for property damage are taxable. Punitive damages, however rare, are also taxable.

• 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.