Question 1

What should I do immediately after a car accident in California?

Accepted Answer

Seek medical care, call 911, exchange information, document the scene, and contact a California car accident attorney to protect your rights.

Question 2

When should I hire a California car accident lawyer?

Accepted Answer

To protect your legal rights, we strongly suggest that you consult with an attorney immediately after a car accident.

Question 3

How much does a California car accident attorney cost?

Accepted Answer

The Baum Law Firm only accepts personal injury cases on a contingent fee basis, meaning that you pay no fees or costs unless we recover money in your case from an insurance settlement or legal judgment.

Question 4

What compensation can I recover after a California car accident?

Accepted Answer

Generally, depending on the facts in each case, you may seek recovery of medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, loss of earning capacity, and future medical care.

Question 5

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in California?

Accepted Answer

Generally, California's statute of limitations is two years for injury claims and three years for property damage. Claims against the government generally require a Government Tort Claim within six months. There are also some exceptions and tolling provisions in certain circumstances, such as for an injured minor. Because the Statute of Limitations can present complex issues, it is always best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.

Question 6

What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the facts in your case, you can seek recovery under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, medical payments coverage, or other coverage that you might have. You may also sometimes have claims against other responsible parties. In certain cases, it is also possible to seek recovery from an uninsured person to try to collect against his or her assets. It is always best to consult with an attorney to review your options.

Question 7

Do I have to talk to the insurance company?

Accepted Answer

You must report the accident, but you do not have to give a recorded statement. We strongly advise that you speak with an attorney before speaking to the insurance company for any adverse party.

Question 8

How long does a California car accident case take?

Accepted Answer

All cases are different, and each case depends on its own facts and multiple factors, including the nature and extent of injuries, insurance issues, etc. Minor cases may settle in 3-6 months, but cases involving serious injury, insurance issues, or disputed liability can take longer, especially if litigation is required.

Question 9

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Accepted Answer

California uses pure comparative negligence. This means that if the other party was negligent, you still can seek recovery even if you were mostly at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Question 10

Will my case go to court?

Accepted Answer

Most California car accident claims settle out of court, but your attorney may file a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses a fair settlement.

Temecula Car Accident Attorneys & Personal Injury Lawyers

Our Practice Areas

Car Accidents

Motorcycle Accidents

Pedestrian Accidents

Wrongful Death

Premises Liability

Dog Bites/Dog Attacks

Catastrophic Injuries

Assaults & Intentional Injury

Areas We Serve

Temecula

Murrieta

Menifee

Hemet

Lake Elsinore

Palm Springs

California Car Accident Attorney FAQ

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