Best Car Accident Lawyers in Santa Barbara, CA

FAQs

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

  The Santa Barbara Police Department can be reached at 805-882-8900 for non-emergency concerns.

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

  Police reports are only available to authorized individuals through the Santa Barbara Police Department. You need to complete a Request for Report form, including your signature and confirmation that you are the party of interest authorized to get a copy of the report.

• Who might be responsible for an accident involving a self-driving vehicle in Santa Barbara?

  The operator of the self-driving car will be held responsible for the accident if it can be demonstrated that the operator of the self-driving car could have done something to prevent the accident. Most self-driving cars still need a person in the driver's seat who can take over if needed. However, the driver might not be the only person to blame. A lawsuit can also be filed against the car's maker if the accident happened because of a problem with the "autopilot" system.

• What are Santa Barbara's most dangerous intersections?

  These intersections in Santa Barbara are considered dangerous because of the high number of accidents that have occurred there:

  • De La Guerra Street and Santa Barbara Street
  • West Carrillo Street and Chapala Street
  • Calle Real and Las Positas Road
  • De La Vina and Figueroa Street
  • US 101 and North Milpas Street

• Can a motorist with a medical condition be held liable for a Santa Barbara vehicle accident?

  No. A driver who suffers an unpreventable medical emergency cannot be held accountable for crash damages. According to California's Sudden Emergency defense, a crash can be considered a "non-fault" accident if it meets the following conditions:

  • There was an emergency scenario in which someone was in imminent danger.
  • The driver did not initiate the cause of the emergency.
  • The driver acted fairly, that is, any other reasonable person would have responded to the situation, regardless of whether his choices seem logical in retrospect.

• Whom can you sue if a pothole caused your automobile accident in Santa Barbara?

  A lawsuit may be filed against the city of Santa Barbara for damages or injuries caused by an unrepaired pothole. If the damage or injury occurred outside of the city limits, you must file your claim with the California Department of Transportation. If the city denies your claim, you may take the matter to court within a specific period of time, depending on the type of claim and court.

• What happens if you are injured in a car accident in Santa Barbara caused by an uninsured driver?

  UMC will cover your and your passengers' injuries if you are hit by an uninsured motorist. In most cases, UMC limits correspond to the minimum liability insurance requirements. You can also use your health insurance to pay for your medical treatment. If you have MedPay medical payment coverage, your medical expenses as well as those of your passengers will be covered. You can also file a claim against the driver if he or she has enough assets to compensate you for your losses.

• 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.