Best Car Accident Lawyers in Victorville, CA

FAQs

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

  The Victorville Police Department's contact number for non-emergency matters is 760-241-2911.

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

  You can visit the Victorville Police Department at 14200 Amargosa Road for information on how to obtain police reports. It is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You may also request reports at the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department's Records Division. The department is located at 655 East Third Street, San Bernardino, and it is open from Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Its registration desk contact number is 909-888-5916 (press 7).

• Are motorists in Victorville required to have liability coverage?

  Yes, car owners in Victorville are required by California law to carry liability coverage for bodily injuries and property damage in potential accidents. The minimum amounts are $15,000 and $30,000 for injuries per person and per accident, respectively, along with $5,000 for property damage. Drivers can be fined if they do not have insurance, and their licenses can be suspended after repeat violations.

• Can a car accident victim in Victorville file a separate claim if a defective seatbelt caused his/her injuries?

  Yes, car accident victims in Victorville may also file damage claims against the manufacturer of their vehicle if a defective seatbelt is found to be a major factor in their injuries. This can be proven by plaintiffs using material evidence and eyewitness statements, as well as conclusions derived from post-accident investigations. Even if the motorist in question is partially at fault for causing the accident, he/she can file a claim for seatbelt failure.

• What happens if a driver in Victorville hits an illegally parked car?

  In collisions involving an illegally parked car in Victorville, both the driver who hit the vehicle and the owner of the vehicle in question are deemed liable for the resulting damages. This is due to California's pure comparative fault law, which apportions liability to motorists based on their failure to uphold duties of care on the road. In a victim's case, he/she is still obligated to avoid possible collisions, even if they involve a car that is illegally parked.

• Can other parties be held accountable in a car accident in Victorville even if they were not at the scene of the accident?

  Yes, third parties can be charged in specific car accident cases in Victorville. For example, if the offending motorist is an employee who was on duty at the time of the accident and was using a company vehicle to perform a service, his/her employer can be charged with negligence. People can also be held liable for negligently entrusting a vehicle to a driver who lacks a license or is unfit to drive due to age, inexperience, or intoxication.

• Can the driver of an autonomous car in Victorville still be charged for an accident caused by the vehicle?

  Yes, the driver of an autonomous car in Victorville can still be charged in a resulting accident, since he/she is still required to uphold duties of care. These include watching out for other cars and pedestrians, observing speed limits, yielding the right of way, and taking control of the vehicle in question in case its safety alert system detects a failure. Failure to do so counts as negligence, even if the vehicle was self-driving at the time.

• 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.