Hire a lawyer to defend your car accident case
That is why at Kannan Law we want to offer you our specialized traffic accident lawyers because they can make the difference when fighting your case. Fighting on your own can put you at a clear disadvantage when it comes to winning your case.
It is true that even if you are a cautious driver, who does not speed, does not look at your phone while driving, avoids blocking intersections, and even driving on dangerous streets, not everyone is as cautious as you are, which is why traffic accidents in the United States are common and you can find yourself involved in one when you least expect it.
It is best to be prepared for a situation like this so that if a collision occurs, you will know exactly how to act to protect your rights and interests.
What should you do in the event of a traffic accident?
At our law firm, we are aware that remaining calm may not be easy in the case of a car accident, but our experience tells us that it is important for you to think rationally. Letting yourself be carried away by emotions can make the situation worse. Therefore, we will give you some advice on how to act after a collision has occurred.
Beyond the witnesses who may be involved in the collision, photographic or video evidence is an excellent way to support everything that happened, from the damage your vehicle has suffered, to you or third parties, and even private property that has been affected.
It is important to have proof of the facts since memory is not reliable evidence unless there are several witnesses at the time of giving a statement. On the other hand, visual evidence is always an excellent way to face litigation.
Contact the authorities
Never, under any circumstances, engage in an in-depth conversation with the person involved before calling the police, as they are the experts in the area who can guide you at the time of the collision. You may think that because it is a minor accident it is not necessary, but the reality is different, especially if the responsibility for the accident does not fall on your shoulders.
Keep in mind that the police officer is the one designated to make a report and collect information about what has happened, which will help you build your case. This can make the difference between the person involved and guilty of the accident being forced to take responsibility for the damages or not.
In addition, you can and should also, if necessary, request or go to a doctor to have the necessary tests done and help you if applicable to your case, as these medical reports will also be relevant when litigating your case.
Get relevant information
Another important detail after suffering a traffic accident is to obtain information about the person involved, including name, insurance information, phone number, addresses, vehicle registration, driver’s license, and if possible, take a photo of the other person’s face.
Additionally, you should also collect information from witnesses, especially if you believe that their testimonies can attribute and prove the other person’s fault in the traffic accident. Remember to ask for contact information from your potential witnesses so that they can testify before a jury if necessary.
Hire a lawyer
Your insurance may try to minimize the real amount of compensation that corresponds to you, denying claims. They may even sustain that the extent of some injuries is not so serious as to imply their participation in covering the total expenses.
That is why we recommend that you contact a lawyer as soon as possible if you intend to take your car accident to court, as it can make the difference between being compensated or not. At Kannan Law, we will be happy to help you and guide you at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a car accident in San Diego?
The deadline to file a car accident lawsuit in California is generally two years from the date of the accident for personal injury claims and three years for property damage claims. However, if the claim is against a government entity, the deadline may be much shorter. It is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that you meet legal deadlines.
What should I do if the other party’s insurance company contacts me after the accident?
You should be very cautious when speaking with the other party’s insurance company. Do not admit fault or accept an offer without consulting an attorney, as insurance companies often try to minimize payments. It is best to refer any communication to your attorney, who will negotiate on your behalf.
How much does it cost to hire an attorney for a car accident case?
Most car accident attorneys work under the contingency fee model, which means you won’t pay anything upfront and the attorney will only collect a percentage of the settlement or compensation you receive. At Kannan Law, we can explain in detail how this system works and what percentage will apply in your case.
What if the at-fault driver is uninsured or flees the scene of the accident?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or flees the scene of the accident, you may still be able to receive compensation through the uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage of your own insurance policy. An attorney can help you explore all of your legal options and find the best way to get the compensation you deserve.
Can I get compensation if I was partially at fault in the accident?
Yes, comparative negligence applies in California, which means you can still get compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, the amount you receive will be reduced by your degree of responsibility for the accident. An experienced attorney can help you prove that your percentage of fault is minimal to maximize your compensation.