Best Car Accident Lawyers in San Ramon, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the San Ramon police department is (925) 973-2779.

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

  To get a copy of the police report for the accident, drop by the San Ramon Police Department at 2401 Crow Canyon Rd. to speak with an officer during business hours, which are Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM.

• Is it necessary to go to court for a car accident settlement in San Ramon?

  No. Every car accident case in San Ramon is different, and in most cases, personal injury claims can be settled without going to court. There are cases where parties are able to work out a fair settlement through insurance negotiations. Nevertheless, it is still a good idea to work with a car accident attorney, as they can handle the claims process on your behalf.

• What should you do if you were involved in a car accident in San Ramon with an uninsured driver?

  If an uninsured driver caused a car accident in San Ramon, they are personally liable for the damages. However, they probably wouldn't be able to pay since they don't even have the funds to have insurance in the first place. You can still get compensation if you have uninsured/underinsured driver coverage in your personal insurance policy. You can also let them go after the responsible driver to recover the funds. Furthermore, you can ask for the help of your attorney so that they can strategize and gather the necessary materials to seek compensation.

• If you were partly responsible for a car accident in San Ramon, can you still recover compensation?

  In California, the state uses a comparative negligence theory. This means that even if parties are partly liable in a car accident in San Ramon, they can still recover compensation. Unlike other states, at-fault parties are not barred from car accident claims. You can be 99% responsible for a car accident but still get at least 1% of the damages from the other party.

• Is it a requirement to report a car accident in San Ramon?

  The California law states that individuals should report a car accident when (1) the accident resulted in injuries or death, (2) property damage reaches $1,000, and (3) any of the drivers are intoxicated or unlicensed. If you were involved in a car accident in San Ramon, you have 24 hours to report the crash to a nearby highway patrol or police department. The DMV also requires a report of the car accident within 10 days.

• Can self-employed individuals in San Ramon recover compensation for a car accident?

  Yes. However, the process of proving loss of earnings for self-employed individuals in San Ramon can be more complex. The car accident attorney needs to gather enough documentation as proof of self-employment. The documents you can provide include financial statements, tax returns, work orders and invoices, letters from clients, proof of projects canceled due to the injury, and written testimonies from economic loss experts.

• 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.