Best Car Accident Lawyers in Sierra Madre, CA

FAQs

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

  The Sierra Madre Police Department's non-emergency phone number is (626) 355-1414.

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

  The Sierra Madre Police Department provides two ways to secure a copy of an accident report. You can either obtain it in person by visiting the police station located at 242 W Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre, CA 91024, or you can give them a call at (626) 355-1414 to request your document.

• What’s considered grounds for a car accident claim in Sierra Madre?

  If you wish to file a claim, you must be able to show that the driver had a duty of care to you, breached that obligation, and caused your injuries. When drivers are inattentive, make unsafe turns, drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or exceed the posted speed limit, they are in violation of their duty of care. You have the right to submit a claim and pursue compensation for your losses if a negligent driver was responsible for your car accident in Sierra Madre.

• What evidence do you need to submit a car accident claim in Sierra Madre?

  It is crucial to have as many receipts as you can when making a claim. Depending on the situation, these might include funeral and burial expenses, medical bills, and property repair fees. Other important evidence include dashcam footage, witness statements, and surveillance camera footage. A qualified Sierra Madre car accident attorney can assist you in gathering evidence to prove liability and calculating the appropriate settlement for the collision.

• What is the value of your car accident claim in Sierra Madre?

  It depends. Car accidents in Sierra Madre differ from one another. The following are some of the variables that could affect the outcome of your claim and the amount of compensation you get:

  • Whether your injuries have impacted your ability to generate money in the future
  • The amount of your recent medical expenses
  • The cost of any necessary future medical care
  • Whether you needed to make any adjustments to your home because of your injury
  • Whether your injuries resulted in disability or scarring
  • The price of repairing your car

• Is it still possible to obtain compensation after a hit-and-run incident in Sierra Madre?

  Yes. After getting involved in a hit-and-run accident in Sierra Madre, it is best to call the police as soon as you can so they can look into the incident and determine who was at fault. Once the offender has been identified, you can file a claim and pursue restitution for your damages. However, if the at-fault motorist cannot be identified, you can contact your insurance company to request financial recompense.

• Will your Sierra Madre car accident case go to trial?

  It depends. In Sierra Madre, most car accident claims are settled outside of court. Even if a lawsuit is filed on your behalf, the case may still be resolved out of court. However, if the negligent party's insurance provider refuses to provide you with a reasonable settlement, your case can proceed to trial. This offers your attorney the chance to present your case to a jury and allow your peers to assess the true value of your claim.

• 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.