Best Car Accident Lawyers in San Marino, CA

FAQs

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

  The San Marino Police Department is reachable at 626-300-0720.

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

  The office is at 2200 Huntington Dr, San Marino, CA, United States, California, and can be requested online at https://www.cityofsanmarino.org/government/departments/police/online_form.php.

• Why is it important for car accident claimants in San Marino to take pictures of the scene after a crash?

  Car accident claimants in San Marino must take pictures of the scene after a crash to preserve the evidence for future use. The victim's personal evidence stash will prove which party was at fault and the extent of the severity of the damage sustained. It is also indispensable should the police refuse to respond to the scene.

• What are the details that car accident victims in San Marino must take note of before the initial consultation with a lawyer?

  Car accident victims in San Marino must note what they were doing when the accident happened and any activities performed after. They must observe if the police responded to the scene and if anyone was arrested. It is advised to take the names and contact information of the witnesses at the location for deposition purposes. Additionally, claimants must keep track of social media posts they make about the incident.

• What kinds of assistance other than legal aid could car accident lawyers in San Marino provide?

  There are car accident lawyers in San Marino who could connect their clients with car repair shops and towing services to move and restore wrecked vehicles. Attorneys may have ties with medical care practitioners and businesses that offer emergency cash advances for cash-strapped victims. They can also be acquainted with transport providers who bring patients to doctors.

• If a car accident victim was sleepy behind the wheel, is there no recourse in San Marino court against the other driver?

  No, legal recourse is still possible if a driver in San Marino is sleepy behind the wheel. California law follows pure comparative negligence principles, allowing a party partially to blame for an accident to claim damages. The state doesn't even require that the plaintiff be less at fault than the defendant--even if one is 90% at fault, the courts will allow a recovery of 10% of the award sought.

• If a car accident claimant in San Marino is strapped for money, is it advisable to cheap out on legal representation and go solo?

  It is not advisable for a cash-strapped individual in San Marino to cheap out on legal representation and go solo for car accident cases. It is a common personal injury and automobile crash sector practice to accept payments on a contingency basis. This makes the payment of fees depends on the client's victory, and no sums are owed if the suit fails. The attorney will take a cut of the award or negotiate a settlement.

• 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.