Best Car Accident Lawyers in Seal Beach, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Seal Beach Police Department is (562) 594-7232.

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

  Download a request form at https://sealbeachpd.com/forms-applications/. You may then obtain a traffic collision report from the Seal Beach Police Department by submitting a duly completed request form via email at records@sealbeachca.gov or via mail to:

  Seal Beach Police Department 911 Seal Beach Blvd Seal Beach, CA 90740 Attn: Records

• Is it necessary to hire a lawyer if you get hurt in a car accident in Seal Beach?

  Although not required, it would be wise for you to seek the help of a car accident lawyer if you sustain injuries following a Seal Beach car crash. A skilled personal injury attorney will represent your best interests and protect your rights from being exploited by lowballing insurance companies. Your lawyer will handle every step of the process, from the initial report to the final appeal, to fight for the compensation you deserve.

• What is the worth of a car accident claim in Seal Beach?

  To help you determine the value of your claim, a lawyer will factor in your medical expenses, the work days you missed, if your injuries will affect your income-earning capacity in the future, the cost of repairing your vehicle, and if you’ve made any mistakes that could affect your claim. Ultimately, your accident case is worth the maximum amount of compensation your lawyer can negotiate for you.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Seal Beach?

  Car accidents in Seal Beach occur for a wide variety of reasons. Among the most common causes of car accidents in the city are speeding, distracted driving, tailgating, drunk or drugged driving, and driver fatigue. There are instances when adverse weather events, such as wind, fog, snow, and ice, can cause a car crash. Other causes that have been reported include poorly maintained vehicles and defective car parts.

• What are the car insurance requirements in Seal Beach?

  All vehicles in Seal Beach, whether being operated or garaged, are required to carry insurance. California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) financial responsibility laws stipulate that vehicle owners in the city must have auto insurance that includes liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. Per California Insurance Code §11580.1b, the minimum coverage thresholds for private passenger vehicles are as follows:

  • $15,000 for injury/death to one person
  • $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person
  • $5,000 for damage to property

• How much time do you have to file a car accident claim in Seal Beach?

  You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a legal claim in Seal Beach. This deadline is called the statute of limitations, and the two-year window applies to all injury claims in California. If you do not file your claim within the given time frame, it is likely that the case cannot proceed and you will be barred from receiving any compensation.

• 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.