Best Car Accident Lawyers in West Carson, CA

FAQs

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

  Contact the Carson Sheriff's Station at (310) 830-1123 for non-emergencies.

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

  You can request copies of accident reports by calling 562-345-4441 and scheduling an appointment for the release of the report through an in-person visit at the Public Services Section office located at 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 120, Norwalk. If you request reports through the mail, you may send your query to the address given below. Call 562-345-4448 for more information.

  Records and Identification Bureau Attention: Records Inquiry Non-Law Enforcement Section 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 400 West Norwalk, California 90650

• What are some of the weather-related road conditions that may lead to car accidents in West Carson?

  Icy, slushy, and snowy roads are some of the causes of car accidents in West Carson. Wet pavement accounts for around 70% of weather-related accidents, including injuries and fatalities, according to a 10-year average study from the FHWA. Close to 418,000 people get injured and 5,000 die from weather-related accidents at a yearly average, according to data from the NHTSA.

• If a delivery driver struck a car in West Carson, can the delivery company be sued?

  Yes. You may be able to sue the delivery company of the driver that struck your car in West Carson. The company may be liable if the accident was intentional and the employee was driving within the scope of their employment. The company can also be held responsible for the damage if found to have negligent hiring, loading, and scheduling practices.

• What is the significance of 15/30/5 in a car accident in West Carson?

  15/30/5 stands for the minimum compensation amount that car accident victims in West Carson can obtain, according to insurance requirements. $15,000 is for the bodily injury or death of one person, $30,000 maximum for more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage. All drivers in CA are required by the law to carry the minimum insurance coverage.

• What serious car accidents have happened in West Carson?

  A multi-car accident resulting in serious injuries of five persons occurred on February 2023 at the 1400 block in West Carson. In the same month, two persons were killed in a car collision with an oncoming train at the 1600 block of East 24th Street. In the previous month, an LASD detective died in a single-vehicle accident near the intersection of Vermont Avenue and West Carson Street.

• Who can be held liable for a T-bone car accident in West Carson?

  The driver who violates the rules of the road can be held liable for a T-bone car accident in West Carson. Some examples of road rule violations include speeding, beating the red light, and crossing lanes at an intersection. If T-bone accidents are caused by defective car parts, malfunctioning traffic lights, and improper road maintenance, the parties responsible for these faulty safety measures can be sued.

• 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.