Best Car Accident Lawyers in Tracy, CA

FAQs

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

  The Tracy Police Department's non-emergency phone number is (209) 831-6550.

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

  You can get a copy of your Tracy car accident report by visiting the Tracy Police Department located in 1000 Civic Center Drive Tracy, CA 95376 or you can give them a call at (209) 831-6550. You can also file a request form online at https://www.ci.tracy.ca.us/?navId=4084. The price of an accident report ranges from $6 to $20.

• Which intersections in Tracy are the riskiest to cross?

  Some of Tracy's busiest crossroads are frequently the scene of fatal car accidents. Here is a list of the city's dangerous intersections:

  • 9th Street at Tracy Boulevard
  • Central Avenue at 8th Street
  • 11th Street at 9th Street
  • 10th Street at Tracy Boulevard
  • 11th Street at Roosevelt Street
  • Tracy Boulevard at Tennis Lane

• What are the most frequent reasons for car accidents in Tracy?

  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 42,000 Americans lost their lives due to a car accident in 2021. In Tracy, there are numerous factors that contribute to car crashes. These include tailgating, speeding, running red lights, driver fatigue, distracted driving, reckless driving, and driving while intoxicated. Bad weather and poor road conditions also cause car collisions in the city.

• Is there a deadline for filing a lawsuit after a car accident in Tracy?

  There are two distinct statutes of limitations for bringing a Tracy car accident claim under California law. One states that you have two years from the date of the accident to submit a claim. However, if your accident included a public entity of any kind, you have only six months from the date of the accident to file a claim. Public entities include buses, public trains, hospital and publicly owned ambulances, municipal or state government vehicles and entities, and vehicles owned by other governmental departments.

• How can a Tracy car accident lawyer establish negligence in court?

  A lawyer must be able to demonstrate negligence in order to win a case. The attorney must establish that (1) the defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care, (2) the defendant failed to fulfill or violated their duty of care, (3) the accident was brought on by the negligence of the opposing party, and (4) the accident resulted in losses eligible for compensation.

• What can you recover following a car accident in Tracy?

  If you sustained minor or fatal injuries in an automobile accident in Tracy that was the result of someone else's negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation from the at-fault party. Car accident victims are eligible for financial aid for their pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and diminished earning ability. If you lost a loved one in a tragic car crash, you may also be entitled to monetary compensation for funeral and burial expenses.

• 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.