Best Car Accident Lawyers in Richmond, CA

FAQs

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

  510-233-1214 is the non-emergency number for the Richmond Police Department.

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

  Call the Records Section of the Richmond Police Department at (510) 620-6675 to find out if copies of police reports are available and to find out whether the report is ready for release. Typically, reports are available for pickup seven to 10 days after their completion.

• What should you do following a car accident in Richmond?

  After a car accident in Richmond, the victims should file a police report as required by California law, exchange information with all parties involved, take photos of the accident scene, seek emergency medical assistance, file a report with their auto insurance provider, and see a car accident attorney. If these stages are not followed, a claim may be postponed, reduced, or denied.

• What are the most common reasons for Richmond car accidents?

  There are many different reasons why a car accident can happen in Richmond, but one of the most frequent is distracted driving, which has increased in frequency with the introduction of mobile phones and texting. Speeding, intoxicated driving, disregarding the rules of the road, failing to be aware of other cars and pedestrians, and failing to stop at a stop sign or stoplight are other common causes of automobile accidents in the area. Over 50,000 collisions involving speeding drivers happen annually in California.

• Does one need legal representation after a vehicle accident in Richmond?

  In the event that another person's negligence or recklessness results in a car accident, it is crucial to work with a Richmond car accident attorney to pursue a settlement or verdict on your behalf. Having legal representation increases your chances of receiving compensation for your losses because an insurance company might try to minimize their payout. Having a lawyer represent you in communications with the insurance company gives you someone to advocate for your interests and hold the insurance provider accountable for providing due reimbursement in accordance with the terms of the policy.

• How do you establish a negligence-based car accident case in Richmond?

  In order to establish negligence, it must be shown that the driver had a legal obligation to operate the vehicle safely; that the driver violated the duty by exceeding the standard of care; that the violation directly contributed to the accident; and that the victim suffered losses as a result of the accident. You may reach out to a Richmond car accident attorney for further legal advice.

• What damages can be recovered following your car accident in Richmond?

  Damages that can be recovered after a car accident in Richmond are:

  • Compensation for physical and emotional suffering
  • Present and upcoming medical bills
  • Compensation for impairment or deformity
  • Current and projected wage loss
  • Loss of consortium for your spouse
  • Loss of ability to earn
  • Payment for all property damage to your personal possessions

• 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.