Best Car Accident Lawyers in Sonoma

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Sonoma Police Department is (707)996-3601.

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

  Please contact the Police Department at 707-996-3602. Give the Report Number, the date, and your contact information. To acquire a copy of the report, you must be mentioned as a party involved in the accident or an insurer of the named party. When picking up the report, please bring photo ID.

• What are the Sonoma insurance policy minimums for car accidents?

  All Sonoma drivers are required by law to have a certain level of liability insurance. The minimum amounts are $15,000 for one person's injury or death and $30,000 for each injury or death caused by the accident. You may submit a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance carrier, but you will not be able to collect more than the policy limitations. Yet, you may be able to launch a case against the careless driver directly.

• Who is liable for multi-car accidents in Sonoma?

  Sonoma drivers follow California's comparative negligence laws, which means that negligence will be divided and allocated based on the person's contribution to the accident. In most cases, experts are consulted to determine how the collision occurred. Any compensation that the driver is entitled to will be reduced by the percentage of fault.

• Is there a time limit for filing a car accident lawsuit in Sonoma?

  Yes. Sonoma drivers have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in order to recover monetary compensation. Legal time limits are required to ensure the preservation of relevant evidence. Most accident cases rely on the accuracy of physical evidence and the reliability of witnesses' memories.

• What are the exceptions to the statute of limitations in Sonoma?

  Property damage, wrongful death, and claims against government entities can all affect the statute of limitations in Sonoma. If the claimant is only seeking compensation for property damage, the statute of limitations is three years, according to Section 338 of the California Code of Civil Procedure. If the defendant is in prison, insane, or out of state, the time limit is also extended.

• How long does it take for an insurance company to settle a claim after an accident in Sonoma?

  According to California state law, insurance companies and claimants involved in car accidents in Sonoma have 85 days to reach a settlement. In most cases, drivers are required to report car accidents to their insurance companies within a few days of the incident in question. Victims of car accidents must also contact the at-fault driver's insurance carrier.

• 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.