Best Car Accident Lawyers in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley, CA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley, CA?

  For non-emergency situations in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley, you can contact (415) 479-2311.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley, CA?

  • You can obtain a copy of the police report for the accident in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley through the CHP office.
  • Fill out form CHP 190 and return it to your local office in person or by mail.
  • Photocopy your driver's license or photo identity card and attach it to your request for a collision report. If the CHP receives your request and confirms that you are a proper person of interest, a copy of the report will be forwarded to your address upon receipt of payment.

• Is there a time limit in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley for filing a car accident claim?

  You have two years to file a claim for personal injury or wrongful death if you were hurt in a car accident in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley. Nevertheless, claims for damages against government entities must be filed within six months. According to Section 338 of the California Code of Civil Procedure, the statute of limitations is three years if you are seeking damages to repair damage to your automobile or other property losses.

• How do you find reputable car accident lawyers in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley?

  • Browse the official websites of local bar associations to find reputable car accident attorneys in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley.
  • Consider hiring a car accident lawyer who is a member in good standing and has years or decades of trial experience.
  • You could also hire a law firm that specializes in personal injury or car accidents. You can also ask friends or acquaintances for referrals to an attorney or law firm in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley.

• What happens if you were partially at fault in a Tamalpais-Homestead Valley car accident?

  You can seek compensation even if you were partially at fault in a Tamalpais-Homestead Valley car accident. This is because California is a pure comparative fault state. This means that courts have the authority to award damages to multiple people involved in an accident based on their respective percentages of fault. If you were injured in a car accident, seek medical attention first, then contact your Tamalpais-Homestead Valley attorney for legal advice.

• What happens if the at-fault party in a Tamalpais-Homestead Valley car accident lacks insurance?

  If the person at fault in a Tamalpais-Homestead Valley car accident lacks auto insurance, you may file a claim with your insurance company or sue the negligent party. The coverages for uninsured and underinsured motorists are recommended for drivers. If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, your insurance company will help pay for damages caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.

• What types of compensation are frequently awarded to Tamalpais-Homestead Valley car accident victims?

  Tamalpais-Homestead Valley car accident victims may be entitled to economic, non-economic, punitive, and wrongful death damages, depending on the circumstances. Economic compensation for financial hardships incurred as a result of a car accident may be sought. Examples include medical bills, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. Psychological anguish, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma are examples of non-economic losses. In the event of a fatality, wrongful death damages may be obtained. Punitive damages are awarded in cases of willful disregard for human life or excessive cruelty.

• 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.