From Accident to Recovery: The Legal Process in California
Finding Accident Lawyers can be really scary and stressful, especially if you get hurt. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you understand what to do after a car accident in Los Angeles, CA. Knowing the steps to take, from the accident scene to the claims process, can make things a bit easier for you. If you need assistance, the Los Angeles car accident lawyers at VBV Law Group are just a call away.
Why You Might Need a Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer:
Our team of accident lawyers know all about handling car accident claims in California. We’ve dealt with insurance companies and other third parties to make sure our clients get the best results. If you choose our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers to help with your car accident claim, here’s what we’ll do for you:
- Investigate the crash by gathering evidence
- Work to figure out who is responsible and how much your damages are worth
- Handle all talks and messages with the insurance company so you can focus on resting and recovering
- File a personal injury case and take it to court if we can’t reach a fair agreement
Feel free to contact our Los Angeles car accident attorneys for a free case evaluation. Meanwhile, let’s go through what to do after a collision in Los Angeles.
Accident Lawyer: What to Do Right After a Collision in Los Angeles?
The things you do right after a car accident in California can really make a difference if you get hurt. Here are some tips:
1. Stop at the Accident Scene and Exchange Information:
- Names
- Addresses
- Vehicle registration numbers
- Driver’s license or other IDs
- Insurance information
If someone is hurt, call the police or California Highway Patrol (CHP). If it’s just property damage, try to find the owner or leave a note with your details.
*Note: Leaving the scene without doing this is a big no-no and can lead to fines or jail time.*
2. Call 911 to Report the Crash:
Not all accidents need to be reported, but it’s a good idea to call the police. They might send an officer to prepare a report, including who’s at fault.
3. Document the Accident Scene:
Take photos and videos of the scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, and where it happened. These will be important for your insurance claim.
4. Seek Immediate Medical Attention:
Even if you don’t feel hurt, get a checkup. Some injuries take time to show symptoms. Plus, seeing a doctor shows a link between the crash and your injuries.
5. Report the Accident to the DMV:
If the accident caused injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage, report it to the California DMV within ten days.
*Remember, these steps can help protect your rights, especially if you’re injured.*
The Car Accident Claim Process in California – What to Expect:
So, what happens after a car accident? Here are the general steps:
1. Notify the Insurance Company:
Even if it wasn’t your fault, tell your own auto insurance about the accident. Your policy might have reporting rules. Let your lawyer talk to the other driver’s insurance to avoid saying something that could harm your case.
2. Complete Your Medical Treatment:
Serious injuries take time to heal. Wait until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) before talking about compensation.
3. Investigate and Gather Evidence:
You and your attorney need evidence to prove your case, including reports, photos, medical records, and more.
4. Send the Insurance Company a Demand Letter:
Your lawyer will write a persuasive letter to the insurance company, explaining why the other party is responsible and detailing your injuries and losses.
5. Negotiate and Reach a Settlement Agreement:
The insurance company will investigate and may make an offer. There might be negotiations for a few weeks or months. If the parties agree, you’ll get a check.
6. File a Personal Injury Lawsuit if Negotiations Fail:
If you or your attorney fail to reach an out-of-court settlement, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit. California’s statute of limitations is only two years for car accident lawsuits, so your attorney will keep this deadline in mind.
Even if a lawsuit starts, you can still settle before the jury decides. But if it goes to trial, it’ll take longer.
Contact Our Experienced Accident Lawyers for Help:
Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. Find an Accident Lawyer to help you with your claim. If you need help with a car accident claim, contact our experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyers at VBV Law Group. Call (747) 313-7160 or reach out online for a free consultation. We’re here to support and guide you during this tough time.
Take care!