Best Car Accident Lawyers in Yucaipa, CA

FAQs

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

  The City of Yucaipa Police is reachable at (909) 918-2305 but citizens are advised to course non-emergency matters through the local government's smartphone app. Inquiries about the app are answered at 909-797-2489, 507.

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

  Yucaipa's police keeps their reports with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department which has its records division at 655 East Third Street, San Bernardino, California 92415. It is reached by phone at (909) 888-5916.

• Why do you need a car accident lawyer in Yucaipa?

  You need a car accident lawyer in Yucaipa to protect yourself from insurance corporations and counter the latter's tendency to give low settlement offers. An attorney stays updated on the statutes and judicial precedents surrounding automobile crash claims and uses these to paint a favorable picture of their client's cases in court.

• What are the common injuries you face if you are in a car crash in Yucaipa?

  If you are in a car crash in Yucaipa, you risk suffering permanent scarring because of the crash. Loss of limbs is possible because of amputations to save healthy tissue from rot. The spine and brain may also be impaired, leading to lifelong reductions in the activities you used to do. Burn injuries are also common. It is important that you hire a lawyer who understands the ramifications of these injuries and seeks the compensation you deserve.

• Are you advised to negotiate with the insurance company after a car crash in Yucaipa?

  Yes, but not on your own and always with your Yucaipa car accident lawyer. A legal professional will tell you what you can keep to yourself and what could safely be disclosed during negotiations. The insurer's interest is in reducing the amount you will receive even if the final sum is below the real cost of your treatments. The stress of simply surviving the accident also makes it mentally challenging to talk with adjusters without counsel.

• What are the damages you can recover in a Yucaipa car accident case?

  You can recover economic damages, which are the liquidated sums that go into paying for medical bills, lost wages, and car repairs or replacements sustained following a crash. Sums reaching $4.75 to $4.95 million are not unheard of whenever head-on collisions happen or if there's a commercial vehicle involved.

• How long do you have to sue for a car accident case in Yucaipa?

  Yucaipa follows California statutes which give car accident claimants two years from the date of an accident to bring a case before the courts. Property damage matters must be raised within three years of the incident. If you were harmed by a government entity or agent, you need to assert a personal injury suit within six months, and a property claim within a year.

• 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.