Best Car Accident Lawyers in Whittier, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency number of the Whittier Police Department is (562) 567-9200.

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

  You can request a copy of a police report at the Whittier Police Department Records Bureau. It is located at 13200 Penn Street and is reachable via (562) 567-9150.

• What can a car accident lawyer in Whittier do for your case?

  A car accident lawyer in Whittier can review the crash scene and pore through the evidence to build your case in court or at the negotiating table. An attorney can also scrutinize police reports and witness testimonies to establish the causal link between the injuries you have suffered and the other driver's misconduct.

• What are the damages that can be awarded to your car accident claim by the courts in Whittier?

  The courts covering Whittier can award you various economic damages in a car accident claim, including the recovery of current and future medical treatments and the loss of earnings while seeking medical care. The loss of your vehicle is also reimbursable, as well as the non-economic and intangible emotional distress you have suffered after the crash.

• How must you communicate with the opposing insurance company following a car accident in Whittier?

  Following a car crash in Whittier, you are advised to refrain from negotiating with the opposing insurance company, whose employees may be skilled in extracting out-of-context statements to make you appear liable for the crash and entitled to reduced or denied compensation. It is wise to reach out to a lawyer instead who can directly communicate with the other party's insurers.

• What are the difficulties you may face if a car accident in Whittier is caused by a ridesharing service driver?

  If your car accident in Whittier is caused by a ridesharing service driver, you might face difficulties arising from conflicting laws across state lines. It is possible that the transport service provider is incorporated in a different state with different laws governing civil law torts and accident liability. It is advised to consult with a lawyer who is familiar with conflict of laws principles and how these apply to car crashes.

• How does comparative fault factor into your Whittier car accident case?

  Whittier follows California's comparative fault rules, which call for reductions in the plaintiff's damages if they were partially at fault for the incident. You might have been answering a text message when you were hit by a drunk driver. In this scenario, the court will determine the proportional share in negligence between you and the drunk driver and reduce your award. If the court finds that you were 20% at fault, you will only get 80% 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.