Car crashes often cause major injuries or fatalities. After a car crash in California, people usually need assistance with insurance firms, medical costs, and potential legal action. An auto accident attorney in California can provide this help.
This article will tell you what you need to know about hiring a California car crash lawyer, the legal process, and how a lawyer can assist you to get the money you deserve. We’ll also talk about key issues like dealing with insurance firms, understanding california car accident laws, and why you shouldn’t try to handle everything on your own.
What Does an Auto Accident Attorney Do?
An auto accident attorney carries out his or her practice in the legal representation of car accident victims. They are employed to stand for you in court and help you obtain compensation for any injury or damage to your car. These lawyers understand how to handle insurance firms, negotiate for settlements, and, should the need arise, go to court to represent your interests.
Some things an auto accident attorney in California will do for you include:
| Investigating the accident | They will answer all your phone calls and handle all of the paperwork so you do not have to. |
| Communicating with insurance companies: | They will answer all your phone calls and handle all the paperwork so you do not have to. |
| Getting a settlement: | They collect information, which includes police reports, pictures, depositions of the witnesses and other important facts. |
| Speaking for you in court: | They will answer all your phone calls and handle all of the paperwork so you do not have to. |
When Should You Call a Car Accident Lawyer?
You should contact a car accident lawyer right after a crash. The quicker you seek help, the better your odds of creating a solid case. California has laws called statutes of limitations that set a time limit for filing a lawsuit. You must submit a personal injury claim two years from the accident date.
Here’s why you need to hire an auto accident attorney california
| Severe Injuries | If you or another person gets hurt, you’ll need a lawyer to ensure you receive enough funds for medical costs, ongoing care, and missed paychecks. |
| Disagreements About Fault | If people disagree about who caused the crash, an attorney can collect proof to support your side. |
| Insurance Problems | Insurance companies frequently strive to pay the cheapest feasible amount. An attorney can speak with them to help you get the money you deserve. |
| Death from Negligence | When a person dies in an automobile accident, their family can claim to recover compensation for their loss. |
California Car Accident Laws
California has its own rules for car crashes. Knowing some key laws helps you see how a lawyer can help you. Here are some important california car accident laws:
1. Fault-Based System:
California uses a fault system so whoever caused the crash has to pay for the damages. This might include doctors’ bills for fixing cars and other costs. If both drivers are to blame, comparative negligence kicks in. This means you might get less money if you played a part in causing the accident.
2. Insurance Minimums:
California law says drivers must have insurance that covers at least:
- $15,000 for causing the loss of one person’s life.
- $15,000 for cases whereby one causes the death of, or grievously assaults, more than one person.
- $5,000 for damaging property.
But these minimums can rarely pay for serious accidents and for this reason, many people have to turn to their own insurance or legal claims to get what they need.
3. Statute of Limitations:
As we informed you earlier, you have two years to file a personal injury claim, and for property damage claims, the period allowed is three years. If you fail to deliver the paper by this deadline, you may be locked out of compensation.
4. Reporting Accidents:
The law says you must report the accident to the DMV within 10 days if it results in personal injuries or property damage exceeding $1,000.
How an Auto Accident Lawyer Helps with Insurance Companies
Interacting with insurance companies after a car crash can be the most stressful process. Insurance companies might offer you less money than you deserve, or they could even reject your claim. Having a car crash lawyer on your side can make a huge difference.
An experienced attorney will:
Handle communications
They’ll take charge of talking to the insurance company, so you won’t need to worry about saying something wrong or feeling pressured to accept a low settlement.
Negotiate a better deal
Based on the argument of your case, your lawyer will appreciate the worth of your claim and ensure you receive the best offer.
Fight for your rights in court
Some insurance companies may decide not to give fair compensation or even deny to compensate you any amount of money for your loss; a lawyer can take the case to court, where a judge and a jury will award you the deserved compensation.
How Much Does an Auto Accident Attorney Cost?
Most car crash lawyers in California work on a “no win, no fee” basis. This means you don’t need to pay anything upfront. Your lawyer gets paid a share of the money you receive from your settlement or court award. The share is around 33% but may change based on how complex the case is.
If you lose your case, you don’t owe anything. This makes hiring a lawyer a low-risk option for most people.
Finding the Best Auto Accident Attorney in California
Also, if you lose your case, then you are not liable to pay any of your money. This makes hiring a lawyer not very expensive, especially for most people, which makes it a very safe investment.
Just so you are aware of a few things, when you are searching for a California auto accident attorney, you want someone with car accident case success stories, satisfied customers, and a record of seeking and getting large sums.
| Read reviews | Check online feedback or ask to speak with past clients. |
| Check their background | Ensure the lawyer focuses on car accidents and has won many similar cases. |
| Book meetings | Check that you understand how lawyers’ fees work and what cut they’ll take if you win your case. |
| Ask about costs | Check that you know how the lawyer’s fees work and what cut they’ll take if you win your case. |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When should I call a lawyer after a car crash?
Call a lawyer right after the crash. The earlier they can begin working on your case the higher your odds of getting fair compensation.
2. How much will a car accident lawyer charge me?
Most car accident lawyers charge based on results. They get paid if you win your case. The typical fee is about 33% of the compensation.
3. What if I share some blame for the crash?
California uses a comparative negligence system. This allows you to get compensation even when you’re responsible, but it reduces your payout based on how much fault you bear.
4. What’s the time limit to sue for a car crash in California?
The time barred for granting personal injuries is two years from the accident and three years for property damage.
5. What types of compensation can I get after a car accident?
You get monetary compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, and auto repairs. An attorney will assist in establishing the actual value of the case that is being taken to court.
Conclusion
Car crashes can shake you up, but having a good auto accident attorney california by your side can make dealing with the law a lot easier. They can help you handle insurance firms, get your head around California’s tricky car crash rules, and push for the money you’re owed.
If you’ve been in a wreck, don’t wait to call a california car accident lawyer. They can boost your odds of getting a good result.
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