Best Car Accident Lawyers in Montebello, CA

FAQs

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

  The Montebello Police Department's non-emergency contact number is (323) 887-1313.

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

  There are three ways to secure a copy of your accident report in Montebello. You can visit the Montebello Police Department located at 600 W. Beverly Blvd., Montebello, CA 90640, call (323) 887-1313 and ask the officer in charge to mail the document to you, or you can submit a request online at https://montebellopd.org/communications-bureau/#records. An accident report typically costs between $6 and $20, depending on the method you use to obtain it.

• What should you do after getting involved in a car accident in Montebello?

  If you have been in a car accident, you should put your safety first. Seek medical attention for you and your traveling companions as soon as you can. Take photos and videos of the accident scene and exchange contact information with the at-fault party. You can also ask for the contact details of witnesses. Call the police and wait for them to arrive. Additionally, it is advisable to consult with a knowledgeable Montebello car accident lawyer who can assist you in your quest for justice.

• What are the main causes of car accidents in Montebello?

  Car accidents are common in Montebello because of the high population and number of vehicles. Some motorists engage in risky driving habits on the road, such as distracted driving, reckless driving, and driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Poor road conditions, faulty car parts, and hazardous weather are also blamed for deadly car crashes in the area.

• What happens if the driver who caused your Montebello car accident does not have insurance?

  If you have uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage, your policy should pay out benefits if you sustained injuries in a collision caused by an uninsured driver. If you have uninsured driver property damage insurance, this policy should assist in covering the cost of repairing or replacing your car. If you do not have any of these plans or the limits of your coverage aren't high enough, your lawyer might advise you to file a claim directly against the at-fault party.

• What elements might affect the value of your car accident claim in Montebello?

  If you have incurred a lot of debt following a car accident, you might want to know how much your claim is worth. This is a question that your Montebello auto accident lawyer will be able to address after carefully reviewing your case. The cost of your medical care, the amount of lost wages, your own involvement in the accident, non-economic losses, if you made any mistakes, and whether punitive damages are appropriate are a few of the variables that can affect the value of your claim.

• What compensation are you entitled to following a car accident in Montebello?

  You are eligible for two different types of compensation after getting involved in a car accident in Montebello. These are referred to as economic and non-economic damages. Your attorney will assist you in obtaining complete restitution for all of your expenses, including medical bills, missed wages, lost potential income, property damage, funeral costs, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and shock and emotional anguish. The potential compensation from your car accident lawsuit grows in direct proportion to the severity of the causes of your losses. 

• 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.