Best Car Accident Lawyers in Parkway, CA

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns in Parkway, call the dispatch phone number of the Sacramento Police Department at (916) 808-5471.

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

  Motor vehicle accident reports with the Sacramento Police Department are available for purchase online at https://www.cityofsacramento.org/Police/How-Do-I/Request-A-Report.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Parkway?

  Parkway is a neighborhood in Sacramento, where thousands of crashes happen yearly. Among the most common causes of accidents in Parkway is driver error, which includes texting, emailing, using apps, eating, or failing to pay attention while driving. Other causes of car crashes in the area are drowsy driving, drunk driving, roadway hazards, and defective vehicle parts.

• Can you sue if an auto defect caused your accident in Parkway?

  It is possible to file a lawsuit if an auto defect is found to be the cause of your accident in Parkway. In the event that you find yourself in this situation, you may hold the car manufacturer, designer, or retailer responsible for your injuries. The financial compensation you may be entitled to can include the losses you incurred if you had to pay out of pocket to replace a defective car part due to an expired warranty.

• What are the forms of damages that you can recover after getting injured by a negligent driver in Parkway?

  If you were injured by a negligent driver in Parkway, you are entitled to obtain compensation for the losses you incurred as a result of the accident. Depending on the type and extent of your injuries, you may be able to recover the money you lost due to medical expenses, lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses. You may also receive compensation for pain and suffering, physical disability, disfigurement, and emotional trauma.

• Are you required to insure your car in Parkway?

  As required by California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) financial responsibility laws, your car in Parkway, whether operational or garaged, must carry an insurance policy that includes liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. The minimum coverage thresholds for private passenger vehicles are:

  • $15,000 for injury/death to one person;
  • $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person;
  • $5,000 for damage to property.

• How much time do you have to file a car accident claim or lawsuit in Parkway?

  Following the legal deadline, or statute of limitations, set by the state of California for personal injury cases, you generally have two years from the date of your accident to take legal action against the at-fault party. Getting your legal claim started within this time window is critical, or you could lose your right to recover damages. If you attempt to file your claim after the statute of limitations has expired, the court can dismiss your claim.

• 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.