Best Car Accident Lawyers in Menifee, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Menifee Police Department is 951-677-4964.

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

  You can request for a copy of your police report from the Menifee Police Department Records Bureau. Requests must be submitted in person or by mail. Your request should include the case or event number (if available), the date and time of the incident, the location of the parties involved, and a copy of your valid ID. Reports are available 10 days after submission.

• What types of damages can you recover after a car accident in Menifee?

  If you have been injured or seriously harmed in a Menifee car accident caused by a negligent driver, you can recover compensation for economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include present and future medical expenses, lost wages, property damage expenses, and other expenses related to your car accident. Meanwhile, examples of non-economic damages are emotional pain, distress, suffering, and diminished quality of life.

• Do you need to file a lawsuit if you have been injured in a car accident in Menifee?

  You do not need to file a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident in Menifee. Most car accident claims are handled outside of court through settlement negotiations with the insurance company. However, if you have suffered severe injuries or if you fail to reach a favorable settlement with the defendant's insurance provider, you have the right to file a lawsuit with the help of an experienced car accident lawyer.

• How long do you have to file a car accident claim in Menifee?

  You have two years from the date of the car accident in Menifee to file a lawsuit for your bodily injuries. If you have suffered property damage, you have three years to file a car accident claim from the date of the crash. In addition, if the negligent party involves a government entity, you must file your car accident claim within six months of the incident.

• How do you establish the at-fault driver's negligence in a car accident in Menifee?

  To strengthen your car accident lawsuit in Menifee, your lawyer must prove the negligence of the at-fault driver using these three factors:

  • The negligent driver owed you a legal duty of care.
  • The at-fault driver breached their duty through a negligent act or the omission of a rightful act.
  • The car accident caused your actual injuries.

• Can you recover punitive damages following a car accident in Menifee?

  If you are a victim of a car accident in Menifee, you may be awarded compensation for punitive damages to punish and deter the repetition of the negligent driver's reckless, vile, and reprehensible behavior. However, the court requires substantial evidence to prove the punitive damages caused by the defendant. In addition, the judge or jury has the discretion to award punitive damages.

• 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.