Best Car Accident Lawyers in Westlake

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number of the Westlake Police Department is 440-871-3311.

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

  You may access a copy of an accident report in Westlake through the webpage of the Accident Investigation Division of the Westlake Police Department: https://www.cityofwestlake.org/205/Accident-Investigation. Just click “accident reports” to be redirected to the search page for reports.

• Can you settle an auto accident claim by yourself in Westlake?

  It is possible to settle an auto accident claim by yourself in Westlake if your injuries are minimal and little or no medical treatment was involved. Nevertheless, it would still be a wise move to enlist an experienced personal injury lawyer to help you with your case, especially if the at-fault party and their insurance carrier are not being cooperative, so you can obtain the compensation you deserve.

• How much do you have to pay a car accident lawyer in Westlake?

  This depends on your agreement with the lawyer you choose to work with, as car accident attorneys in Westlake do not have a fixed rate for their services. Most injury lawyers in the city handle cases on a contingency fee basis. This system guarantees that if your lawyer cannot secure a recovery for you, they will not charge you for legal fees.

• Is auto insurance required in Westlake?

  Yes, the Ohio Department of Public Safety and the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles mandate all drivers in Westlake to carry insurance to drive any motor vehicle. When operating a vehicle, a driver must always have proof of insurance on them to present at traffic stops, accident scenes, and vehicle inspections. Additionally, a vehicle owner may not allow anyone else to drive their motor vehicle without insurance.

• Can you still get compensation after a car accident in Westlake if you are partly at fault?

  Westlake follows Ohio's modified comparative negligence rule in car accident cases. This system allows you still to receive compensation for your losses after a car accident even if you share some blame for the incident, but your total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault for the incident. Under the same rule, if you were found to be more than 50% at fault for the accident, you won’t be able to recover any compensation.

• How much time do you have to file a car accident lawsuit in Westlake?

  According to Ohio Revised Code Section 2305.10, if you wish to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party of your accident in Westlake, you have two years from the date of the accident to bring suit. If you fail to take legal action within the given time window, it may be difficult or even impossible to recover compensation for your losses.

• 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.