Best Car Accident Lawyers in Modesto, CA

FAQs

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

  The Modesto Police Department may be reached at 209-572-9500 for non-emergencies.

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

  To obtain a copy of a police report, contact 209-572-9580 to confirm the amount of pages, then print a Report Request Form, fill it out, and mail it to the Modesto Police Department, 600 10th Street, Modesto, CA 95354.

• Do all car accident cases in Modesto go to trial?

  No, Modesto attorneys will always try to negotiate a reasonable settlement with the insurance company outside of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to pay you the amount you deserve, your attorneys may opt to take the matter to court for a full trial, where a jury will determine whether to rule in your favor and how much to award you in damages.

• Under Modesto laws, can one request emotional damages in a wrongful death accident claim?

  Yes. An individual can obtain compensation in a lawsuit for traumatic losses such as the loss of a parent or a spouse. An award can include emotional support for family members suffering emotional loss as a result of a settlement or trial verdict. California laws, which cover the city of Modesto, imply that victims and bereaved families have 24 months from the date of the accident to file claims.

• What should one do when he or she is contacted by an insurance company following a car accident in Modesto?

  Following the reporting of your accident, representatives from either your or the at-fault party's insurance company may contact you. Avoid communicating with them because they may put you under pressure to sign a settlement that is substantially less than what a Modesto auto accident attorney might get you. Seek the services of a lawyer to negotiate claims on your behalf.

• What are the most dangerous intersections in Modesto?

  Over a recent 10-year period, a law firm conducting its own research found that these intersections were especially hazardous: Bodem Street and Scenic Drive, Carver Road and Briggsmore Avenue, Standiford Avenue and Sylvan Avenue, Burchell Court and McHenry Avenue, Standiford Avenue and Sylvan Avenue, and Norwegian Avenue and McHenry Avenue.

• How long does a claimant have to file a personal injury lawsuit if the accident involves the city of Modesto's vehicle or driver?

  If the collision was caused by the negligence of a city, state, or federal entity, you have six months to bring an administrative claim. This must be performed within six months of the accident. Following that, the government agency has 45 days to respond. If the notice of claim is rejected, you have six months from the day you got the reply in the mail or when it was delivered personally to you to file a claim in civil court.

• 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.