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Understanding Personal Injury Law After a Car Accident

Navigating the legal framework after enduring an auto accident can seem daunting, especially when grappling with injuries and emotional distress. An understanding of personal injury law and the mechanics of personal injury cases can aid in this navigational process and can be influential in securing fair compensation for the incurred damages.

At a foundational level, personal injury law often involves determining liability or who is at fault for the incident. This can have significant implications when it comes to insurance claims and any potential lawsuits. In the event other drivers involved dispute their roles in causing the accident, having collected and preserved evidence from the accident scene can drastically influence the outcomes. This evidence can include photographs, eyewitness testimonies, or even official police records from the scene of the accident in Sherman Oaks.

Insurance companies play a pivotal role in personal injury law following a car accident. They often represent the at-fault party and are pivotal in paying for damages resulting from the accident. However, insurance companies may engage in practices that diminish the value of their responsibility, thus affecting your potential settlement. Understanding these tactics is crucial in advocating for your rightful compensation.

Sherman Oaks car accident statistics

According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), there were 3,292 car accidents reported in Sherman Oaks in 2022. Of these accidents, 442 resulted in injuries, and 12 resulted in fatalities.

The most common time for car accidents in Sherman Oaks is between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM, and the most common day of the week is Friday. The most common causes of car accidents in the city are distracted driving, speeding, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The most dangerous areas for car accidents in Sherman Oaks are freeways, intersections, and residential streets. The most dangerous intersection in the city is the intersection of Ventura Boulevard and Van Nuys Boulevard.

Here are some real-world examples of car accidents that have occurred in Sherman Oaks in recent years:

In January 2023, a car accident involving a drunk driver killed two people and injured three others. The accident occurred at the intersection of Ventura Boulevard and Van Nuys Boulevard.
In February 2023, a distracted driver caused a car accident that injured four people. The accident occurred on the 101 Freeway near the Sherman Oaks Galleria.
In March 2023, a speeding driver caused a car accident that injured two people. The accident occurred on Ventura Boulevard near the intersection of Sepulveda Boulevard.

These are just a few examples of the many car accidents that occur in Sherman Oaks each year. It is important to be aware of the dangers of driving in this city and to take steps to avoid being involved in an accident.

Guide To Pursuing a Wrongful Death Claim

Launching a wrongful death claim following a tragic car accident within Sherman Oaks or surrounding areas such as Los Angeles CA or Van Nuys can be challenging. We understand the emotional distress following such painful incidents and the need for peace, healing, and closure. This guide sheds light on the steps involved and the legal options available to families dealing with loss.

Following an incident, one of the significant steps includes securing a wrongful death attorney with substantial knowledge and expertise in the field. This is vital to ensure that you receive not only legal representation but also well-informed advice during the course of the claim. Remember, the role of a lawyer is imperative from the beginning of the claim to its successful conclusion. The goal is to achieve fair compensation and relative peace of mind for the families left behind.

How Advicase works

Get help for your Sherman Oaks car accident in 3 easy steps

Step 1

Get a case manager that answers your questions and guides you through the process.

Step 2

Schedule a consult with legal representation and a medical provider.

Step 3

Get the help you are entitled to after your car accident.

Common Questions about Car Accident Cases in Sherman Oaks

Everything you need to know about car accidents in Los Angeles

How much compensation can I get?

The amount a person can be compensated after a car accident depends on various factors, such as the severity of their injuries, the cost of their medical treatment, the extent of property damage, and the degree of fault of each party involved.

Compensation can include reimbursement for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and damages for pain and suffering, and emotional distress. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the at-fault party’s actions were particularly damaging.

The compensation awarded can vary widely depending on the case’s specific circumstances. Some car accident settlements or judgments may be in the thousands of dollars, while others may be in the millions.

It’s important to note that every case is unique, and the value of a potential settlement or judgment can only be determined after carefully evaluating all the facts and circumstances surrounding the case. Car accident attorneys can provide more specific guidance on what compensation may be available in your situation.

What to do after you get into a car accident in Sherman Oaks?

If you are involved in a Sherman Oaks Car Accident or one of the car accident victims, you should first make sure that you and any passengers in your vehicle are not injured. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance. If there are no injuries, move your car to a safe location if it is blocking traffic or is not safe to remain where it is. You should then call the police to report the accident and wait for them to arrive at the car crash scene.

While waiting for the police to arrive, you should exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. It’s also a good idea to take photos of the accident scene and any damage to the vehicles involved. If there are any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information.

After the police have finished their investigation and received any necessary medical treatment, you should contact your insurance company to report the car accident claim and begin filling it. You may also want to consult with an auto accident lawyer or attorney experienced in handling car accident cases. Car accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and options and provide valuable assistance in negotiating a settlement or representing you in court if necessary.

What does Sherman Oaks law say about car accidents?

California law requires drivers involved in a car accident to stop their vehicles at the scene of the accident and exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved. If there are any injuries, the driver is required to call 911 and request medical assistance.

If there are no injuries, the driver must report the accident to the police if the damage to any vehicle involved is over $1,000 or if anyone was injured or killed. California is a “fault” state regarding car accidents, which means that the driver who caused the accident is responsible for any damages or injuries resulting from the accident.

However, the state also has a rule of “comparative negligence,” which means that the number of damages that a person can recover in a car accident claim may be reduced by their percentage of fault for the accident. It’s important to note that the specific laws and regulations governing car accidents can vary depending on the law firm, the circumstances of the accident, and the precise details of the case. Suppose you have been involved in a car accident in California or Sherman Oaks. In that case, it’s always a good idea to consult with car accident lawyers who are familiar with the state’s laws and can guide how to proceed with your car accident case or car accident claim.

Does a car accident affect insurance?

It’s generally a good idea to consult with an experienced car accident attorney or lawyers after a car accident, primarily if the accident resulted in significant property damage or injuries. A car accident attorney can help you understand your rights and options and represent you in negotiations with the other driver’s insurance company or court.

The best car accident lawyer can also help you get the compensation you deserve if you are injured in the accident. However, if the accident was minor and there were no injuries or significant property damage, you may not need to consult a car accident lawyer. In that case, exchanging information with the other driver and filing a claim with your insurance company is usually enough.

What types of car accidents are there?

There are many car accidents, and various factors can cause them. Some common types of car accidents include:

Rear-end collisions happen when one vehicle that stops or moves slowly hits the back of another. These accidents are often caused by distracted or inattentive driving, which may affect many car accident victims at once.
Head-on collisions occur when the front of one vehicle hits the front of another. These accidents can be severe and often result in injuries or fatalities.
Side-impact collisions happen when the front or back of another car hits the side of one vehicle. These accidents are also known as “T-bone” collisions.
Single-vehicle accidents occur when a car hits a stationary object, such as a tree or a utility pole. These accidents can be caused by speeding, distracted driving, or poor road conditions.
Rollover accidents happen when a vehicle flips onto its side or roof. Excessive speed, sudden turns, or uneven road surfaces often cause these accidents.

Overall, the type of car accident will depend on the specific circumstances of motor vehicle collisions, accidents, and factors involved.

Sherman Oaks Hit & Run accidents

A hit-and-run accident is a type of car accident in which the driver of one of the vehicles involved in the accident leaves the scene without providing their contact information or offering assistance to anyone who may have been injured. This is illegal in most places, as drivers are required by law to stop and provide their information after an accident.

Hit-and-run accidents can be hazardous because the driver who fled the scene may not have called for help, leaving anyone injured without medical assistance. Suppose you are involved in a hit-and-run accident. In that case, getting as much information as possible about the other vehicle and driver is essential as contacting the police and your insurance as soon as possible.

What to do after a hit-and-run accident?

If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s essential to remain calm and take the following steps:

Check for injuries: If you or anyone else involved in the accident has been injured, call 911 for medical assistance. Do not try to move anyone who is seriously injured or unconscious.

Move your vehicle to a safe location: If it is not damaged or blocking traffic, move it to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot. If your vehicle is damaged or blocking traffic, turn on your hazard lights and wait for the police to arrive.

Call the police: Even if the other driver has fled the scene, it’s essential to contact the police to file a report. The police will investigate the accident and may be able to help you find the other driver.

Gather information: If possible, try to get as much information as possible about the other driver and vehicle. This may include the make and model of the other car, the license plate number, and any identifying features of the driver or vehicle. If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information.

Contact your insurance company: After the police accident report, contact your insurance agent to report the hit-and-run. Your insurance will help you file a claim and will advise you on what to do next.

Staying calm and taking the appropriate steps after a hit-and-run accident is essential. These steps will help ensure that you and anyone involved in the accident are safe and will help you get the compensation you deserve for your car accident case.

Different ways to get compensated after a car accident?

Suppose you were injured or suffered property damage in a car accident. There are several ways you can seek compensation from insurance claims or a lawsuit:

File a claim with the other driver’s insurance: If the other driver was at fault for the accident, you could file a claim with their insurance to seek compensation for your injuries and property damage. The insurance will typically investigate the accident and negotiate with you to reach a settlement agreement.

File a personal injury lawsuit: If the other driver’s insurance is unwilling to offer a fair settlement, or if the other driver does not have insurance, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation. In a car accident lawsuit, you must prove that the other driver was at fault and that you suffered injuries or property damage for your accident case.

File a claim with your own insurance company: If you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, you may be able to file a claim with your insurance to seek compensation. This type of coverage protects you if you are in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance or who does not have enough insurance to cover your damages.

Overall, the best way to get compensated after a car accident will depend on the specific circumstances of the accident report and your personal injury case. It’s always a good idea to consult an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and options and advise you on the best way to seek compensation.

How can an Advicase Sherman Oaks Car Accident Attorney help?

Advicase has a network of car accident attorneys with tremendous experience dealing with car accident cases in Sherman Oaks. If you have been in a car crash, you should only work with experienced car accident attorneys in Sherman Oaks that understand California car accident laws. We can help build your car accident case.

What medical treatments do I need to do after a car accident?

Common car accident injuries can result from a car accident include:

Whiplash: a common injury that occurs when the neck is suddenly and forcibly thrown back and forth, causing strain to the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): These are injuries that occur when a sudden impact on the head damages the brain. Symptoms of a TBI can range from mild (such as a concussion) to severe (such as loss of consciousness or memory).

Broken bones: A car accident can cause bones to break or fracture. Common sites for broken bones in car accidents include the ribs, collarbone, and legs.

Internal injuries: A car accident can also cause internal injuries, such as damage to the liver, spleen, or other internal organs. These injuries may not be immediately apparent and may require medical testing to diagnose.

Soft tissue injuries: These are injuries to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Examples of soft tissue injuries include sprains and strains.

These common car accident injuries depend on specific circumstances, such as the speed of the vehicles involved and the location of the impact. It’s always important to seek medical attention after a car accident, even if you do not think you were seriously injured.

What do I do with my medical bills?

Car accident attorneys are well-versed in personal injury cases and working with your insurance. When working with a personal injury lawyer after an accident, you should provide them with copies of all your medical bills related to the injuries you sustained. Your lawyer will need these bills to determine the compensation you are entitled to for your medical expenses.

Your lawyer will typically negotiate with the insurance company or the other party’s lawyers to obtain a fair settlement for your medical bills. They may also seek compensation for other damages, such as lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

Keeping copies of all your bills and receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to your injury is essential. Your lawyer will need this information to build a strong case on your behalf. Also, inform your lawyer about any new medical bills or expenses during your case.

Car Accident lawyers work with doctors or propose a lien, so you won’t have to pay out of pocket until the case is closed.

Should I consult a car accident lawyer if I get into a car accident in Sherman Oaks?

It’s generally a good idea to consult with a car accident lawyer after a car accident, primarily if the accident resulted in significant property damage or injuries. If necessary, car accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and options in a car accident lawsuit and represent you in negotiations with the other driver’s insurance or court. A car accident lawyer can also help you get the compensation you deserve if you were injured in the accident. However, if the accident was minor and there were no injuries or significant property damage, you may not need to consult with a car accident or personal injury attorney first.

How much does a Sherman Oaks car accident lawyer cost?

The cost of hiring a Sherman Oaks car accident lawyer varies depending on the lawyer’s experience, the complexity of your case, and the location of your case.

Many personal injury lawyers in Sherman Oaks work on a contingency fee basis. They don’t charge any upfront fees but take a percentage of the settlement or judgment awarded to you. Typically, this percentage ranges from 33% to 40% of the total amount recovered.

Some lawyers may also charge an hourly rate or a flat fee, especially for cases that are more complex or require additional legal work.

Discussing the fee structure with your lawyer before hiring them is essential to ensure you understand how they will be compensated and what services are included in their fee. Ask about any potential additional costs, such as court or expert witness fees associated with your case.

What if the accident was partially my fault?

In cases where comparative negligence applies, the amount of damages that a person can recover in a car accident claim is reduced by an amount equal to their percentage of fault for the accident. For example, if a person is found to be 25% at fault for a car accident, they would only be able to recover 75% of the total damages from the other parties involved in the accident.

This is because they are considered partially responsible for the accident and therefore are not entitled to recover the total damages. It’s important to note that the rules regarding comparative negligence and personal injury claims can vary depending on the state where the accident took place. That is why it’s always a good idea to consult with a car accident lawyer familiar with your state’s laws.