Best Car Accident Lawyers in San Gabriel, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the San Gabriel Police Department is 626-308-2828.

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

  You may obtain a copy of the police report for your accident at the San Gabriel Station, located at 625 S. Del Mar Ave. You may also email a Report Request Form, which can be downloaded from https://sangabrielcity.com/DocumentCenter/View/15738/SGPD-REQUEST-FOR-POLICE-REPORT to records@sgpd.com.

• How often do car accidents occur in San Gabriel?

  In data gathered over five years by the California Office of Traffic Safety, San Gabriel sees an average of 179 car accidents annually. The majority of these accidents happen in the months between August and December. Additionally, more car accidents in San Gabriel occur at nighttime than during the day.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in San Gabriel?

  One of the most common causes of San Gabriel car accidents is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The San Gabriel Police Department has made an effort to deter this through DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols. Other common causes of car accidents in San Gabriel include speeding and low visibility during nighttime.

• What are the common injuries sustained by car accident victims in San Gabriel?

  Common car accident injuries in San Gabriel include fractures and broken bones, whiplash, friction burns, Facet joint syndrome, and traumatic head injuries. Victims also suffer from mild or major post-traumatic stress disorder. In car accidents resulting in fatalities, the surviving families of the deceased may be entitled to wrongful death compensation.

• How long do San Gabriel car accident victims have to pursue legal action?

  As per California’s statute of limitations laws, car accident victims in San Gabriel have two years to seek compensation for their losses. However, exceptions may be granted in cases involving minor, imprisoned, or mentally deficient parties. In addition, victims seeking compensation for property damage have three years to file their claims.

• What damages can San Gabriel car accident victims recover?

  The amount of compensation San Gabriel car accident victims can obtain depend on their medical expenses, as well as the costs of ongoing treatment and lost wages. In severe cases involving permanent injuries, they can also recover damages for pain and suffering and loss of quality of life. Claimants may consult with a San Gabriel car accident attorney to determine what their case is worth.

• 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.