ByLong Beach, California, is a significant port and coastal city in Southern California. It provides a blend of city life and beach-town charm and is well-known for its riverside attractions, varied culture, and significant commercial activity.
Close to six million car crashes are recorded in the US each year. That’s a collision happening somewhere on the road every five seconds. Some are minimal scratches and dents, and others change lives in a split second, leaving injuries, medical expenses, and months or years of fighting to get back what was taken.
The aftermath of a collision can be overwhelming for drivers and passengers—hospital visits, insurance calls, potentially lost wages, and an array of paperwork. This is where having access to legal help after an accident in Long Beach, CA, can be meaningful.
Understanding Your Rights After a Car Accident
California law is clear on the issue of fault in car accidents. Under the state’s comparative negligence statute, more than one driver can be liable in a car accident. In this case, being found at fault for 20% of the crash, you would receive 20% less than what you may be entitled to.
Insurance companies all know this and are on the lookout to place fault back onto you to lower payouts. If you do not retain an attorney, you may settle for less than you deserve. Medical bills, lost wages, and property damage can add up quickly. California law requires every driver to carry minimum liability coverage:
- $15,000 for injury or death to one person.
- $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person.
- $5,000 for property damage.
Why Having a Lawyer on Your Side Matters
1. They Protect You from Insurance Tactics
Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their job is to save the company money. They will ask you leading questions or record your statement about the accident, then use it against you later. An attorney protects you by communicating with the insurance company so you don’t weaken your claim by an unintentional mistake.
2. They Know the Law and Deadlines
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is two years. You lose the right to seek court damages if you miss the window. A lawyer can monitor deadlines, file documents, and make sure you don’t miss deadlines.
3. They Build Strong Evidence
The success of your claim depends mainly on the evidence you gather: police reports, medical records, witness statements, and even expert testimony if necessary. Attorneys will know what evidence is necessary and how to properly preserve it. They may work with accident reconstruction experts or preserve surveillance footage before it is released or deleted.
4. They Negotiate Fair Settlements
Attorneys usually negotiate for compensation amounts that account for:
- Medical care and other treatment for now and in the future.
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Costs related to property damage.
5. They Reduce Stress in a Difficult Time
After a crash, your focus should be on recovery. Dealing with calls, forms, and negotiations can add unnecessary stress. A lawyer carries that burden so you can focus on healing.
Common Mistakes People Make Without Legal Help
- Accepting the first settlement offer (the insurance company doesn’t always offer a fair settlement; in fact, it is often low)
- Admitting fault at the scene of the accident
- Posting about the accident on… social media, for example.
- Missing medical appointments and visits, which could hurt your credibility, and the insurance company can use that evidence against you.
- Missing the deadline for filing the claim or being too late to ask for compensation at all.
Key Takeaways
- Lawyers shield you from insurance tactics designed to reduce payouts.
- They track deadlines and file claims within the statute of limitations.
- Strong evidence is built and preserved by experienced attorneys.
- Legal experts negotiate settlements that reflect the true cost of your losses.
- Having representation reduces stress and lets you focus on recovery.
