Best Car Accident Lawyers in Moreno Valley

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency dispatch number of the Moreno Valley Police Department is +1 951 247 8700.

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

  The Moreno Valley Police Department implements a secure online dissemination program for collision reports, which you can access at https://moval.gov/departments/police/report-collision.html.

• What kind of evidence do you need to bring to prove your case after a car accident in Moreno Valley?

  There are various pieces of evidence that you can gather to help strengthen your case in Moreno Valley. These include photographs of the accident scene, the police report about the collision, witness statements and contact information, your own statement about what happened, and medical records detailing all your injuries and symptoms, as well as your out-of-pocket expenses.

• If you get injured in a car accident in Moreno Valley, how can a lawyer help you?

  If you sustain injuries in a car accident in Moreno Valley, a lawyer can provide assistance in investigating your case, represent you in all interactions with the insurance company, build your claim, calculate your damages, negotiate a settlement, and help prove the negligence and fault of the other party. In the event that your case goes to court, your lawyer can also represent you during litigation and all related needs, so you have more time to focus on your recovery.

• Is insurance required on all vehicles in Moreno Valley?

  Yes, all vehicles operated or parked in Moreno Valley are required to carry insurance. As stated in California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) financial responsibility laws, vehicle owners in the city must have auto insurance that includes liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. Per California Insurance Code §11580.1b, the minimum coverage requirements for private passenger vehicles are as follows: -$15,000 for injury/death to one person -$30,000 for injury/death to more than one person -$5,000 for damage to property

• Can you still recover damages if you are partly at fault for a car accident in Moreno Valley?

  If you contributed to the cause of an accident in Moreno Valley, you may still recover damages. However, the compensation you receive will be reduced, following California’s pure comparative negligence law, which states that the percentage of your share of fault in the accident will be deducted from your total monetary award. For instance, if you are awarded $100,000 and found 20% at fault, you will recover only 80% of your award or $80,000.

• When can you file a legal claim after getting injured in a car accident in Moreno Valley?

  If you were injured in a car accident in Moreno Valley, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury claim and three years to file a claim for property damage. These time windows follow California’s statute of limitations. If you fail to take legal action within the given period, you are likely to lose the opportunity to receive compensation for 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.