Best Car Accident Lawyers in San Fernando, CA

FAQs

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

  Residents can reach the San Fernando Police Department at 818-898-1267 for non-emergency matters.

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

  The San Fernando Police Department's Records and Identification Division issues car accident reports to citizens upon request, either in person or by mail. A person must provide proof of identity and the accident report number when submitting a request. The department's address is 910 First Street, and the records division is open from 8:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M., from Monday to Friday. Additional inquiries can be made by contacting the department at 818-898-1267.

• Is liability insurance required for car owners in San Fernando?

  Yes, California law requires motorists in San Fernando to possess liability insurance to cover injuries and damaged property in a potential car crash. The minimum required by law follows the 15/30/5 format, or $15,000 for injuries and fatalities per person, $30,000 for all injuries and fatalities per accident, and $5,000 for property damage.

• How does strict liability apply in car accidents caused by vehicular defects in San Fernando?

  According to California law, strict liability means that auto manufacturers and retailers may be held responsible in a car accident case in San Fernando. This applies if the victim used a car or its feature in a reasonably foreseeable way and a defect in the vehicle or its components caused an accident. Factors that count under strict liability include improperly manufactured vehicles or products, poorly designed parts, and insufficient or improper warnings regarding specific defects.

• How much does Uber or Lyft allocate for accident compensation in automobile accident cases throughout San Fernando?

  In San Fernando, ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft are required by law to allot $1 million to compensate the victims of accidents caused by their employees. However, this only applies if the employee in question was already transporting a passenger or was on thei way to pick one up when the accident occurred. If a driver was logged onto a TNC application and was still waiting for a ride request, a company is required to cover only partial damages.

• What does comparative negligence mean in car accident cases in San Fernando?

  As per California law, comparative negligence means that a plaintiff in a car accident case in San Fernando can still recover damages even if they are found partially liable. The state follows pure comparative negligence mandates, meaning that a plaintiff can still obtain compensation even if they are 99% at fault for the accident. However, their recoverable damages are deducted in accordance with their liability percentage as apportioned by a jury.

• When must a car accident in San Fernando be reported?

  California laws require all San Fernando motorists who are involved in an accident to report the crash if there were any injuries or fatalities or if the resulting property damage amounts to over $1,000. All reports must be submitted to the state DMV within 10 days and the California Highway Patrol or the police department that has jurisdiction over the accident site within 24 hours.

• 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.