Best Car Accident Lawyers in Solana Beach, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency police number in Solana Beach is (760) 966-3500.

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

  Crime, accident, and arrest reports are kept by the San Diego County Sheriff's Department at John F. Duffy Administrative Center, 9621 Ridgehaven Ct., San Diego, CA 92123.

• What are the common kinds of physical injuries that you could sustain in a car accident in Solana Beach?

  If you are in a car crash in Solana Beach you face a variety of physical injuries ranging from busted ankles and bones to orthopedic and cerebral impairment. Juries have awarded damages for bodily harm that ranged from $1.7 million to $13.5 million while settlements range from $2.65 to $5.2 million.

• Is it best for you to get a car accident lawyer in Solana Beach?

  Yes, it is best for you to get a car accident lawyer in Solana Beach because insurance companies are likely to approach victims while they are traumatized in order to increase the odds of coercing the latter into accepting lower payouts. A lawyer is ideal for negotiating just compensation that covers all of your medical bills.

• What are the common kinds of driver negligence that you will often sue over in Solana Beach?

  In Solana Beach, you are likely to sue a negligent driver for being distracted or impaired behind the wheel because of alcohol use or texting. A motorist might also be violating the speed limit and following your car too closely, resulting in a rear-end collision. Inexperience is also a factor, and teens will probably fail to properly scan the road for incoming traffic and hazards.

• Do you have to prove fault in order obtain damages in a Solana Beach car accident?

  Fault is required before a car accident claimant in Solana Beach can recover damages because the area follows California law, which requires negligence for compensation. If the plaintiff's injuries were partly caused by or made worse by the claimant's actions, the award will not be denied, but it will be reduced based on the relative percentages of the defendant's and victim's mistakes. 

• How long do car accident claimants in Solana Beach have to bring a case before the court?

  Car accident claimants in Solana Beach fall under California's legal deadlines and typically have two years from the date of a vehicular incident to go to court. Insurance companies are aware of this and will often deliberately slow down to make the victim miss the two-year deadline. A lawyer is invaluable for forcing the insurer's hand and preventing delays.

• 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.