Best Car Accident Lawyers in South Gate, CA

FAQs

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

  323-563-5436 is the phone number for non-emergencies in South Gate.

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

  Contact the South Gate Police Department Records Division at 323-563-5401 or visit the police station in-person at 8620 California Avenue from Sunday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• What is the statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits in South Gate?

  The statute of limitations is two years from the date of the South Gate car accident. If the injury was not detected early on, the deadline for filing a lawsuit is one year after the injury was discovered. Additionally, six months is the statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits against government agencies.

• How does a car owner in South Gate file a lemon law claim?

  First, a car owner in South Gate must check the OEM warranty to see if the defective parts are covered. Then, the vehicle must be taken to an authorized dealership for repairs. Records of bills, work orders, and part purchases from each repair attempt must be saved. The lemon law claim notice must be sent to the car manufacturer. Lastly, expect negotiations or claim denials from the car manufacturer.

• Who can be sued for injuries sustained in a police chase accident in South Gate?

  You can hold law enforcement or the subject of pursuit accountable for your accident injuries caused by a police car chase in South Gate. Data analysis from a local paper showed that 10% of LAPD car chases in a span of eight years resulted in bystander injuries. You only have six months to file a lawsuit against a police agency and two years against the subject of the police car chase.

• What do uninsured (UM) and underinsured (UIM) motorist insurance policies cover in a car accident in South Gate?

  An uninsured (UM) motorist insurance provides financial coverage if an uninsured driver hits you in South Gate. The underinsured (UIM) motorist insurance covers the difference between the at-fault driver's minimum coverage and the total cost of the accident damage. UM and UIM can also be used when the at-fault driver illegally leaves the accident scene.

• Will filing a lawsuit be necessary in a car accident case in South Gate?

  It depends. A lawsuit will only be necessary when fair compensation cannot be obtained in a car accident case in South Gate. At times, claims can be resolved through a settlement with the help of a lawyer, eliminating the need for an actual lawsuit. There are many cases as well where a claim settles before trial.

• 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.