Getting in a car accident and coping with the aftermath of injuries and property damage can bring on unwanted stress. This is only prolonged by the legal matters that come with it all. The burdens of medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and dealing with insurance companies can be tedious and increase the tension you feel. That’s why you need a California car accident lawyer on your side to help you through it all.
If you find yourself dealing with the fallout of a car accident in California and feel like you don’t know what to do next, a California car accident attorney can help you take the next step toward receiving compensation. Having someone who knows and understands the state laws surrounding car accidents can be invaluable. You can give yourself your greatest chance of being reimbursed for medical bills and auto repairs by having a lawyer who can advocate for your rights.
4 Reasons to Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident Claim in California
- Legal guidance – A key benefit of hiring an experienced lawyer after a car accident is having someone who can guide and support you throughout the process. Your lawyer can assess your case and guide your course of action based on how strong your claim is. They can make sure that you receive compensation for vehicle damages and sustained injuries. Your attorney can also answer any questions you have about your case so that you remain confident in the proceedings.
- Determining liability – In California, it’s important to determine who was at fault for a car accident so that you know who can be held responsible for your injuries and property damage. An attorney can fully investigate the accident to aid in establishing liability. This can become especially important if the other driver claims that you were at fault as well.
- Negotiating a settlement – A lawyer can use their knowledge and skills to get you the settlement you deserve after an accident. Negotiating with insurance companies may be one of the more stressful parts of the process, but you can be confident in the ability of your lawyer to get you the highest possible payment.
- Court representation – If negotiations with insurance companies don’t go as planned, the next step in the process may be taking your claim to court. Here, your lawyer can take care of necessary court proceedings, present your case in court, and continue to advocate for you to get an ideal outcome.
What to Do After a Car Accident
After being involved in a car accident, it is crucial to get the other driver’s information, including the make and model of their car, along with their license plate number. The last two are critical if the other driver decides to leave the scene before the police arrive. You should also take pictures of the scene for your records, seek medical attention, and file a police report of the incident.
If you decide to file a claim against the other driver for causing the accident, you will want to have as much supporting documentation as you can. You will need to prove that they were completely at fault or, at the very least, prove that you had very little fault. Medical records and police reports can help support your claim. Having these ready can also make your lawyer’s job a little easier.
In some accidents, you don’t get the opportunity to get a driver’s information or even an accurate description of their car. In a hit-and-run, where you might never find the driver responsible, you may be inclined to believe that you will never recover damages, but all is not lost. A lawyer can make sure that you still get a settlement from your own insurance company to pay for damages.
Setting up a consultation with a personal injury attorney should be your next step if you want to seek reimbursement for any necessary expenses made due to the accident. Your chances of receiving compensation can improve substantially if you have an attorney working with you. They can tailor their approach to your specific situation and make sure that no mistakes are made.
FAQs
Q: How Much Do Accident Attorneys Charge in California?
A: The cost for an accident attorney varies and is based on multiple factors, like the severity of your injuries, the level of property damage, and if you had any fault in the accident. Your attorney can take a look at all the unique details of your case and decide on a fee that is fair.
Q: Can I Sue After a Car Accident in California?
A: In California, you are within your right to sue after a car accident for any injuries sustained and damages done to your car. You must first file a claim with the auto insurance company of the other driver, but you can also sue the other driver if their insurance doesn’t cover your expenses.
Q: Is California a No-Fault State for Auto Accidents?
A: California is not a no-fault state for car accidents. An individual can take legal action after a car accident, and if the other party involved is proven to be at fault for the accident, they will bear some responsibility for medical expenses and damage done to the other vehicle.
Q: Should I Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident in California, Even If It Wasn’t My Fault?
A: It is always a good idea to get a lawyer for a car accident, even if it wasn’t your fault. This is especially true if you were injured or your car was damaged in any way. Having a lawyer to help deal with insurance, liability, and settlements can be a huge stress reliever for you.
Consult With the Lawyers at Guenard & Bozarth, LLP
The aftermath of a car accident can be extremely overwhelming to deal with on your own, especially the legal aspects. That’s why there are dedicated attorneys available who can assist you through every step. Contact the lawyers at Guenard & Bozarth, LLP. They can answer your questions and give you guidance throughout the entire legal process.
