fbpx

When to Get an Attorney for a Car Accident in California

When to Get an Attorney for a Car Accident in California

You should consider hiring an attorney after a car accident in California if you’ve suffered significant injuries, are facing disputed liability, encounter challenges with insurance claims, or anticipate complex legal issues.

Such expert legal counsel is vital for helping you understand the legal process, negotiating with insurers, and advocating for fair compensation on your behalf.

Knowing the right time to contact a car accident attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Here's when to call a car accident attorney

This is a common question after an accident, even if you believe the other driver is clearly responsible. While it may not always be necessary to hire an attorney after every car accident, there are many situations where the need for legal help can be unclear.

Here are some key situations where you should hire a car accident lawyer as soon as possible:

  • You or anyone involved in the accident has sustained severe injuries or long-term disabilities.
  • Death due to the accident.
  • Dispute over who is at fault for the accident.
  • Insurance company is denying your claim or offering a settlement that is too low.
  • Multiple parties or complex circumstances such as commercial vehicles or pedestrians.
  • At-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.
  • Missed work due to injuries from the accident, resulting in lost wages.
  • Significant emotional distress or psychological trauma.
  • Your vehicle or other property has been significantly damaged.
  • If the accident has exacerbated pre-existing conditions.
  • You need assistance with gathering evidence, documentation, and paperwork.
  • If you need to ensure that you meet all legal deadlines for filing claims or lawsuits.
  • Help negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
  • If your case goes to trial and you need representation in court.
  • The accident has caused significant financial hardship and you need to explore all avenues for compensation.

If any of the above situations apply to you, contact a San Bernardino car accident lawyer today for a free consultation.

The benefits of having an attorney on your side

After a car accident, the legal process can be overwhelming. An experienced car accident attorney can be your strongest advocate, working tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

We can also guide you through complex decisions, such as what happens when you reject an insurance settlement offer.

Here’s how a skilled attorney can benefit you:

  • Building a Strong Case: We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and utilize accident reconstruction experts to build a compelling case that supports your claim.
  • Expert Legal Navigation: Our team understands the complexity of the law and deadlines, ensuring a smooth and efficient process while protecting your rights every step of the way. We can also help manage expectations by explaining how long a car accident settlement takes in California, which can range from a few months to over a year depending on the case’s complexity.
  • Access to Resources: We leverage our network of experts, like medical professionals and investigators, to strengthen your case with valuable testimony and evidence.
  • Skilled Negotiation: Our experienced attorneys are adept at negotiating with insurance companies. They understand their tactics and can counter them with strong evidence and legal arguments to secure a fair settlement that reflects the full value of your claim.
  • Litigation Strategy: In the event your case requires court, we develop a strong litigation strategy to maximize your chances of success.
  • Contingency Fee Arrangements: At Feher Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only if we win compensation for you. This structure ensures our focus aligns perfectly with yours: achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

How to assess the value of your car accident claim

To evaluate whether you have a viable car accident case and determine its worth, start by examining liability and fault. Evidence like police reports, witness statements, and photos from the accident scene can support your claim.

Also consider the extent of your injuries and damages, as severe injuries and significant property damage make for a stronger case. Thorough medical reports documenting your injuries, treatments, and any long-term effects are essential in demonstrating the impact of the accident on your life.

Financial losses are another important factor, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs resulting from the accident. While the average car accident settlement in California can vary depending on the severity of injuries and other factors, it’s important to understand the full value of your claim.

This is where an experienced personal injury attorney comes in.

A lawyer can assess and calculate the value of your case by analyzing evidence, consulting with medical professionals, and estimating non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

They also consider how the accident affects your daily life and relationships. Having an attorney can improve your chances of a fair settlement by negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary, ensuring all aspects of your claim are adequately compensated.

What to do after a car accident in California

What to do after a car accident in California

Knowing what to do after a car accident in California helps car accident victims with filing a claim and seeking justice:

  1. Safety First: Ensure safety by checking for injuries and moving to a secure location if possible.
  2. Call 911: Immediately contact emergency services to report the accident and request medical assistance if necessary.
  3. Exchange Information: Gather details like names, phone numbers, insurance information, and license plate numbers from all involved parties.
  4. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries for insurance and legal purposes.
  5. Notify Your Insurance: Inform your insurance company promptly about the accident to begin the claims process and protect your rights.

Additional reading: should I get a lawyer for a minor car accident

Car accident laws in CA

Here’s a detailed overview of some of the most notable auto accident laws in California: 

  1. Fault Determination: California follows a comparative fault rule, meaning each party’s percentage of fault determines their liability. If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can recover damages proportionate to the other party’s responsibility.
  2. Statute of Limitations: You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1). For property damage claims, the statute of limitations is three years.
  3. Minimum Insurance Requirements: California law mandates drivers to carry liability insurance with minimum coverage limits of $15,000 for injury or death to one person, $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage (California Vehicle Code section 16056).
  4. No-Fault Rules: California operates under a fault-based system, not a no-fault system. This means the at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers damages. However, drivers can opt for personal injury protection (PIP) insurance for additional coverage.
  5. Hit-and-Run Penalties: Leaving the scene of an accident without providing contact and insurance information is a serious offense in California, punishable by fines, license suspension, and potentially criminal charges (California Vehicle Code sections 20001, 20002).
  6. Reporting Requirements: California law mandates reporting accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to the California Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days (California Vehicle Code section 16000).
  7. Seat Belt Laws: All drivers and passengers in California must wear seat belts. Failure to do so can result in fines and potential liability issues in accidents.

Involved in a car accident? Contact us for a free consultation

At Feher Law, we understand the challenges you’re facing. From understanding your rights to fighting for fair compensation, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait, a lawyer can help. Let us provide the legal expertise and compassion you deserve during this challenging time. Together, we can ensure your rights are protected and pursue the compensation you need to move forward with confidence.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

Related Posts

Recent News

Categories

Skip to content