Best Car Accident Lawyers in San Clemente, CA

FAQs

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

  Call (949) 770-6011 for non-emergencies.

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

  If the California Highway Patrol (CHP) has investigated the accident, reports can be obtained from the CHP website or in person at the CHP office nearest you. You can also call 1-800-TELL-CHP (1-800-835-5247) for more details. If the Orange County Sherriff's Department has investigated the accident, call the Records Unit at 714-834-6454 first to confirm if the report is available. Phone lines are available from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays. If you don't know the investigating agency, you can call the San Clemente Police Office at 949-770-6011 or visit it at 910 Calle Negocio.

• When should a person injured in a car accident in San Clemente contact a lawyer?

  If you have been injured in a car accident in San Clemente, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible. There is a potential of accepting a lowball settlement offer or mishandling a significant conversation with the insurance representative if you are not guided and represented by a legal professional. A lawyer can prevent missteps that could damage the recovery of your compensation.

• Which intersection in San Clemente is dangerous?

  One dangerous intersection in San Clemente is North El Camino Real and Canada, which is located just a few blocks from downtown. As reported by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, many car collisions and pedestrian accidents resulting in injuries and even death have occurred in this intersection.

• How can you know if you can pursue legal action after a car accident in San Clemente?

  Generally, if you get injured in a car accident in San Clemente because of the negligence of another person, company, or government agency, you have the grounds to file an injury claim. The financial recovery for injuries and property damage would then depend on the type of injuries you have sustained, your insurance coverage, the negligent party's financial capacity, and the documentation of the accident.

• What happens if a person dies after a car accident in San Clemente before they can file a lawsuit?

  Surviving family members, such as children, siblings, grandparents, spouses, and domestic partners, can pursue a wrongful death lawsuit for a fatal car accident victim in San Clemente. The priority of the claim is dictated by the relationship between the decedent and the person filing the claim. The types of damages that can be pursued include funeral and burial costs, financial support the survivor would have received from the decedent, and the value of the household services the decedent provides.

• How much do personal injury firms charge for car accident cases in San Clemente?

  Most personal injury firms usually work on a contingency basis, which means a plaintiff doesn't have to pay anything upfront. According to the American Bar Association, lawyers often charge 30% to 40% of the amount their client receives in settlements and awards. Additionally, in this case, if your San Clemente car accident case loses in court and you don't receive anything, you don't have to pay for the legal services.

• 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.