Best Car Accident Lawyers in Walnut Park, CA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Walnut Park, CA?

  909-595-2264 is the non-emergency contact number for the Walnut Park Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Walnut Park, CA?

  You can request a copy of your Walnut Park traffic collision report for a fee by calling the Los Angeles County's Public Services Section at 562-345-4441. You can also send your request to the Records and Identification Bureau with the heading Attention: Records Inquiry Non-Law Enforcement Section and mailed to 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 400, West Norwalk, California 90650.

• How should you deal with an insurance adjuster after a car accident in Walnut Park?

  If you have been injured in a car accident caused by another driver in Walnut Park, you should not speak with the insurance adjuster without first consulting with a car accident attorney. Insurance companies may coerce you into answering questions in a recorded conversation that they can use against you in court, which may affect or nullify your claim for compensation.

• What are the types of damages that you can recover after a car accident in Walnut Park?

  If you were seriously injured in a car accident in Walnut Park, you have the right to seek compensation for losses and damages, like your medical bills, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, rehabilitation costs, and emotional pain and suffering. In some cases, you may also be awarded punitive damages if the at-fault driver is found to have committed negligent and heinous behavior that contributed to the accident.

• What do you do if the negligent driver's insurance fails to provide adequate coverage for your injuries following a car accident in Walnut Park?

  If the at-fault driver's insurance does not cover your injuries after a car accident in Walnut Park, you may be able to recover compensation through your own car insurance policy if you have underinsured motorist coverage. Your car accident lawyer will be able to assist you in exploring all possible options for recovering the maximum compensation you are entitled to.

• How long do you have to file a lawsuit after a car accident in Walnut Park?

  If you suffered bodily injuries from a car accident caused by another driver in Walnut Park, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit, as mandated by California state law. If you suffered damaged property from the accident, you have three years from the date of the crash to sue the negligent driver. If the negligent party is a government entity, you only have six months to file a car accident claim.

• Can you seek compensation even if you were partially responsible for a car accident in Walnut Park?

  Yes, you can seek compensation for your injuries even if you were partially at fault for a car accident in Walnut Park. However, due to California’s pure comparative negligence rule for car accidents, your compensation will be reduced based on the percentage of your fault. For instance, if you are deemed 98% responsible for the crash, you may be able to receive 2% of the total settlement award.

• 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.