Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lincoln

FAQs

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

  The Lincoln Police Department's non-emergency telephone number is (402) 441-6000.

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

  Citizens in Lincoln can get copies of vehicle accident reports from the Lincoln Police Department's records section, which can be contacted at (916) 645-4040. Reports are also available at the Nebraska Department of Transportation's records department, which can be reached at (402) 479-4645.

• Does Lincoln follow modified comparative negligence laws for car accidents?

  Yes, Lincoln adheres to modified comparative negligence mandates as dictated by Nebraska law. As such, car accident victims who incur 50% of the total fault or more are prohibited from recovering settlements for their injuries and damaged property. If the percentage of fault is less than 50%, their potential compensation in the case is reduced based on their apportioned liability.

• Is automobile insurance required to cover liabilities in car accidents throughout Lincoln?

  Yes, Nebraska law requires Lincoln residents to have automobile liability coverage for uninsured and underinsured claims in the event of an accident. The given minimum for such insurance is $25,000 for injuries per person and $50,000 for multiple people per accident. The monetary damages a plaintiff receives through uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage are separate from those received under an offending driver's liability coverage.

• Does Lincoln limit the potential damages a car accident victim can recover?

  No, since Lincoln has no statutory limits on the economic and non-economic damages that a car accident victim may receive. Such damage caps apply only to medical malpractice cases in the state. However, a victim's overall damages are still affected by the state's modified comparative negligence laws, which deduct settlements based on apportioned fault.

• Are car accident victims required to report accidents in Lincoln?

  Yes, those involved in a car accident in Lincoln are legally required to report the accident in question to the police and the Department of Transportation if there are injuries involved. This is also applicable if the accident results in property damage that amounts to more than $1,000. The deadline for such obligations is 10 days from the accident's date or 10 days from the time a car owner learns about the incident in case the vehicle's operator is physically incapable of reporting it.

• Who can be sued for a car accident caused by bad weather in Lincoln?

  Offending drivers in Lincoln may still be charged for causing accidents if they fail to follow precautionary measures in inclement weather by reducing their speed or ensuring that their vehicle is moving from a safe distance. Government entities can also be sued if poor road designs and maintenance cause crashes in heavy rains and snowstorms. In addition, businesses may be held liable for failing to take the weather into account before allowing an offending driver to work on the road.

• 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.