Best Car Accident Lawyers in Yuba City, CA

FAQs

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

  The police non-emergency number in Yuba City is 530-822-4660.

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

  You can obtain a police report copy by contacting the Yuba City Police Department's records unit at 822-2064 or visiting its office at 1545 Poole Boulevard.

• How are car accident lawyers in Yuba City paid?

  Car accident lawyers in Yuba City usually follow the practice of charging fees on a contingency basis. This means attorney fees are recovered as a percentage of the settlement or judicial award received by the plaintiff. If the proceedings end in failure, the claimant owes the legal professional nothing.

• Why should you take the financial risk of hiring a car accident lawyer in Yuba City?

  You should take the risk of hiring a car accident lawyer in Yuba City because insurance companies are counting on your unfamiliarity with the law and will intentionally offer an accident liability payout that falls short of the true value of your loss. A lawyer will counteract lowball offers and justify the damages sought for catastrophic injuries.

• What are the bodily injuries that you will likely seek damages for in Yuba City?

  You will likely seek damages in Yuba City for broken bones, infections, and puncture wounds. Organ damage is possible, including nerve damage that causes intense pain. You might become disfigured and suffer injuries to your eyes or head. Muscles and ligaments are also often stretched to their breaking point, which impairs normal motion.

• If your brakes fail in Yuba City and you collide with another motorist, can you sue the manufacturer of your brakes?

  Yes, you may. California's product liability laws covering Yuba City come into play in cases like this. As a plaintiff, you can file a suit against the manufacturer that released brakes that are badly designed or crafted through defective factory processes. However, brake failure is tricky to prove, and the claimant must carefully document all the eyewitness reports and official records that would show a fundamentally broken braking system is to blame for the accident.

• When should you file your car accident claim in Yuba City?

  In Yuba City, you are advised to file your car accident claim within California's statute of limitations. This means if you wish to recover damages solely for lost or deteriorated property, you must go to court within three years of the crash. Additionally, if you want to recover damages for wrongful death or bodily harm, you must file the case within two years of the accident or the date the victim died, whichever comes later.

• 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.