Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lodi, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Lodi Police Department is (209) 333-6727.

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

  If you were involved in a Lodi car accident and need a copy of the police report, you can obtain it from the Department Records Division of the city's police department. You can either go in person to the department located at 215 W Elm St 95240 or request a copy of the report by mail or online. For more information on the procedure to obtain a copy of a police report, visit https://pdinfo.lodi.gov/p2c/accidentdetail.aspx.

• Can a Lodi car accident victim file a personal injury claim against a drunk driver?

  Yes. A car accident victim in Lodi is encouraged to press legal action against a drunk motorist to recover compensation for injuries like broken bones. Drunk driving incidents often cause more severe injuries from vehicle roll-overs and head-on collisions than other accidents. The chances of these events happening in the city are higher than in other regions, as it is home to over 80 wineries and annually hosts the Lodi Wine & Chocolate Weekend.

• Who can be held responsible for a Lodi car accident during incidents of ground fog?

  A skillful attorney can pursue claims against at-fault drivers if evidence shows that they were driving too fast or using their high beams. However, a driver who continues to travel despite zero visibility on Lodi roads will be considered liable. Traveling at a safe speed might not be a strong defense, as insurance agents can claim the driver should not have driven in foggy conditions in the first place. Lodi drivers must know that fog generally forms after soaking rain on clear nights.

• Should an out-of-state auto driver hire a Lodi attorney for a car accident case?

  Yes. Insurance companies generally offer the bare minimum as a settlement for a car driver's injuries. Still, even coverage for medical expenses isn't guaranteed. Retaining the services of a Lodi-based law firm is required to obtain fair compensation for car accident-related injuries from at-fault parties and their insurance companies. Visitors involved in an accident in Lodi should know that they're not alone; the wine-producing region sees roughly two million visitors annually from places like Belgium.

• Can a car accident victim file a lawsuit against Lodi government entities for injuries caused by a police officer?

  Yes. A public entity—including the city of Lodi—is liable for the injury or death of a person caused by a negligent operation of a government-owned public vehicle, according to 17001 of the California Vehicle Code. However, state laws also mention that emergency vehicle drivers may be excluded from some traffic laws if they respond to an emergency call. A skillful attorney must prove that the at-fault police officer did not follow the duty of care while operating their vehicle, like not using sirens.

• What damages can a Lodi car accident victim receive if they collide with animals on the road?

  Individuals that collided with wild animals on the road can receive compensation for costs related to lost wages, medical bills, and vehicle repair expenses from insurance companies. If the animal is domesticated, its owner may be responsible for the accident. An attorney must identify and track down the animal's owner to recover damages for the client's injuries. Lodi currently has deer-crossing signs in nearby foothills to alert drivers of possible deer activity on the road.

• 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.