Frequently Asked Questions | Attorney Mark S. Martinez
What should I do immediately after a car accident?
A car accident can take quite a toll on your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. The first action you want to take after getting into a car accident is at the scene. You’ll want to check yourself and others to make sure everyone involved is safe and that injuries immediately receive attention. Calling 911 will bring the police and medical professionals so injured accident victims can get the care they need. Even if you feel okay after a car crash, it is important to follow up with a doctor because some accident injuries may not show up immediately. After getting medical care, the next most important action to take after being involved in a car accident is to take pictures of the other party’s driver’s license and insurance information. While at the accident scene, you can gather additional evidence. Take photos of the damaged vehicles and property displaced by the vehicle’s impact. Accurately recording details at the scene can help your personal injury attorney strengthen your case. You should make a report with your insurance company immediately. However, it is advised that you do not discuss details with the other party’s insurance company.
How can I determine who is at fault for the accident?
It can be a complex process to determine who is at fault for a car accident. There may be many factors that may have contributed to the accident. It might be another driver’s distracted driving or driving under the influence, or it might be unsafe road conditions caused by a neglectful construction company. In California, speeding, reckless driving, and aggressive driving behavior are among the leading causes of car accidents. It is common for insurance companies to investigate to determine who is at fault for the accident. This may involve gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction. A car accident attorney can help injured car accident victims take action if there is a dispute over which party was at fault. Whichever party is found to be responsible for the accident will be held accountable to pay the damages.
What types of damages can I recover in a personal injury claim?
To recover the maximum compensation after a car accident, injured victims can work with an accident attorney to pursue a personal injury claim. Based on the severity of the crash and the extent of your injuries, you may be able to recover various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Medical expenses can cover the costs of doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, and rehabilitation. This may also include travel expenses for costs incurred while travelling to medical appointments. Lost wages may include income you would have earned if you had not been injured. Pain and suffering damages compensate you for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident. Property damage covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle or other property that was damaged in the accident.
How long does the personal injury claims process take?
Because each car accident case is unique, there is not a predetermined timeframe for this process. The length of time for the personal injury claims process in California depends on the complexity of the circumstances and the severity of your injuries. In some cases, a settlement can be reached with the insurance company within a few months of the accident. In other cases, it may take longer to gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and potentially go to trial. Review your situation with a personal injury attorney who can help navigate the claims process and provide a better estimate of how long it may take based on the specific details of your case.
How much compensation can I expect to receive for my injuries?
The amount of compensation you can expect to receive for your injuries will depend on various factors, such as the extent of your injuries, the cost of your medical treatment, and the impact of the accident on your life. An experienced personal injury attorney can help secure the maximum compensation for your car accident case. Your lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation. Your lawyer may advise you to not speak with the insurance company about the accident. The insurance company will most likely try to settle the case quickly for an amount that is far less than you deserve. They are looking out for their own interests, whereas your attorney will be protecting your rights and advocating for the highest award possible.
Schedule Your Private Consultation to Address Legal Issues
Contact The Law Offices of Mark S. Martinez by calling (714) 442-9741 to arrange for your private legal consultation. From offices in Santa Ana, our team serves clients in Orange County, Los Angeles County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and throughout California.