Best Car Accident Lawyers in West Los Angeles, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number of the West LA - The Los Angeles Police Department is 877-275-5273.

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

  To get your police report from the Los Angeles Police Department online, go to https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/ui/report/search?state=CA&jurisdiction=Los%20Angeles%20Police%20Department%20-%20LAPD and complete the forms. You can also request reports via US Mail by downloading and completing the Traffic Collision Report Request and returning it along with a $16.00 money order or check to the Los Angeles Police Department.

• Which factors frequently lead to car accidents in West Los Angeles?

  Some of the most common car wreck causes in West Los Angeles include driving under the effects of alcohol and drugs, speeding, texting or making phone calls while operating a vehicle, falling asleep at the wheel, and running stop signs and red lights. Auto defects, mechanical errors, and road hazards also cause car crashes in West Los Angeles.

• How can you obtain compensation if an underinsured driver in West Los Angeles strikes you in a car accident?

  If you were in an automobile accident in West Los Angeles and the at-fault party had insufficient insurance coverage, you may be able to recover compensation from your own insurance company if you acquired uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. For instance, if the at-fault driver only had $25,000 in liability limitations, but you had a $50,000 uninsured or underinsured motorist policy limit, you would be eligible to receive the full $25,000 difference from your insurance provider.

• How could a West Los Angeles car accident attorney assist you?

  A West Los Angeles car accident attorney will be in charge of handling all legal responsibilities in your case. The attorney will compile supporting documents supporting your claims, such as medical records, police reports, witness testimonies, expert testimony, photographs, and video recordings. The lawyer will also submit your claims with the insurance provider and will take your case to court if you want to get the most out of your car accident claim.

• What factors influence the value of your West Los Angeles car accident claim?

  Your West Los Angeles automobile accident claim's value is based on several factors, such as lost wages, diminished earning potential, and incurred medical costs from hospitalization, surgeries, and rehabilitation therapy. Noneconomic damages like physical suffering, mental agony, and emotional distress also impact the value of your car accident claim.

• Can you still get rewarded even if you partially contributed to a West Los Angeles car accident?

  Because California follows comparative negligence standards, you can still be compensated even if you contributed to a West Los Angeles car accident. This law reduces the amount of compensation that a party can receive based on the percentage of their fault. Even if you are 97% at fault in an automobile accident, you can still receive 3% of the total compensation.

• 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.