Best Car Accident Lawyers in Mountain View, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for Mountain View police station is 650-903-6344.

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

  Police reports in Mountain View are only released to authorized parties and according to state law. To determine if a report can be released to you, contact the Records Division at 650-903-6344.

• If you have been involved in a car accident in Mountain View, how can you determine the fault of the other party?

  If you have been injured in a car collision in Mountain View, you need to prove that the defendant's negligence directly or proximately caused the accident. Each of the elements must be proven by the weight of the evidence. These elements of negligence include: • You were injured and suffered compensable harm due to the defendant's conduct. • The defendant's actions were a breach of the duty of reasonable care. • The defendant owed a duty of reasonable care to the plaintiff.

• Who can qualify as a witness for a car accident case in Mountain View?

  Witnesses for car accident cases in Mountain View are those who were at the scene of the accident, excluding vehicle drivers and pedestrians involved in the crash. This could include people in other cars and pedestrians walking near the area. Sometimes, passengers in the involved cars can be witnesses, as long as they are credible and do not act in a biased fashion.

• How long can you file for a car accident claim in Mountain View?

  In California, most personal injury cases can be filed two years from the date of the accident. In line with state law, car accident victims in Mountain View must file within the given time frame to prevent claims denial. If the claim is just for property damage, the state allows people three years to process their lawsuits. On the other hand, if a car accident is caused by a government vehicle, the deadline is shorter.

• What factors lead to car accidents in Mountain View?

  According to the Mountain View Police Department, distracted driving is the most common cause of car accidents in the metro. In Mountain View, it is illegal to use hand-held devices behind the wheel as it may result in serious injuries and property damage. Adverse weather, mechanical failures, road construction, and aggressive and intoxicated driving are also included on the list.

• Who can be held accountable if you were a victim of a hit-and-run car accident in Mountain View?

  The best way for negligence victims to recover compensation after a hit-and-run accident in Mountain View is to file a claim with their own insurance company. In some instances, plaintiffs sue another motorist who contributed to the accident, the employer of the at-fault driver (if the driver operates a commercial vehicle), and car manufacturers of defective products.

• 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.