Best Car Accident Lawyers in San Bernardino, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the San Bernardino Police Department is 909-383-5311.

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

  You can obtain a copy of your traffic collision report from the San Bernardino Records Bureau. Fill out a Report Request form located in the lobby and submit it together with a valid ID. Copies of traffic collision reports cost $0.25 per page. However, you must wait 10 days from the date of the car accident before you can make a request. Some requests may take three to four weeks.

• What types of compensation can you recover after a car accident in San Bernardino?

  If you were seriously injured in a car accident in San Bernardino as a result of the negligence of another driver, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses, including past and future medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and emotional pain and suffering. You can also recover punitive damages if your legal party can prove that the defendant's behavior was particularly intentional or malicious.

• What are your legal options if you lost a loved one in a car accident in San Bernardino?

  If you lost a family member in a San Bernardino car accident and are their next of kin, you have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party. This will allow you to recover damages such as medical bills, lost income, funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of consortium.

• How long can you file a personal injury claim after a car accident in San Bernardino?

  Under California law, you have two years from the date of your car accident in San Bernardino to file a personal injury claim. If you miss this deadline, the court will likely dismiss your complaint, and the negligent party will not be held responsible for your losses following the accident.

• What are the financial responsibilities of a car owner in San Bernardino?

  California requires all car owners in San Bernardino to meet their financial responsibilities, which include obtaining motor vehicle liability insurance, making a cash deposit of $35,000 with the DMV, holding a DMV-issued self-insurance certificate, and getting a $35,000 surety bond from a licensed business in California. Failure to meet these requirements is considered a criminal offense under state law.

• How soon should I file a report with the local law enforcement after a car accident in San Bernardino?

  In most cases, the San Bernardino Police Department or the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will respond to the scene immediately following a car accident. If local police officers fail to arrive at the scene of the incident, you have 24 hours to report it to the nearest police station or CHP Office. State law also requires you to notify the DMV if anyone was injured or died, or if the accident is suspected of having caused $1,000 or more in property damage.

• 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.