Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer
Don't Accept a Settlement Offer From an Insurance Company!
If you have been hit by a negligent driver, you will most likely be contacted by that driver's insurance company, and you may immediately be offered a monetary settlement. At Smolich & Smolich, our Sacramento car accident attorneys strongly advise clients not to take it.
Insurance companies thrive by encouraging motor vehicle accident victims to accept low settlements immediately following an accident. After signing on the dotted line, you will have no legal right to pursue further compensation. Accepting a swift settlement often means insufficient coverage for the long-term impact of injuries. What seems like a reasonable offer at first can quickly become inadequate when facing ongoing medical bills, lost income, and other unforeseen expenses. This is why informed decision-making is crucial during these uncertain times.
Contact our experienced team of Sacramento car accident lawyers online or call at (916) 571-0400 today!
How Long You Have to File a Car Accident Claim
According to the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1, the statute of limitations in California is two years. This means you have two years from the date your car accident occurred to file, or you will most likely lose your right to file along with your right to pursue compensation.
There are, however, exceptions to this law that can change your filing time period, so it’s important to speak to an experienced car accident lawyer in Sacramento about the specifics of your case as soon as you can. Beyond the statute of limitations, in the days following your accident, there may be documents or evidence that can be helpful in your case. These can include witness statements, medical reports, and accident scene photographs. Acting promptly ensures that crucial evidence is preserved and strengthens the foundation of your claim.
By hiring an attorney, you will have a team to investigate the accident, compile important and helpful documents, and work hard to ensure that all important deadlines are met. At Smolich & Smolich, we are here to review your case for free and can help you understand your opportunities for financial recovery following your accident.
Sacramento Attorneys Protecting Victims of Negligent Driving
If you find yourself with costly medical expenses, an inability to work and support your family, and bills piling up after your auto accident, you may have options available for seeking financial compensation, and we are here to help you understand what they are.
Our firm has more than 40 years of experience helping victims of highway and roadway negligence throughout Northern California. You can count on us to determine exactly how much compensation you deserve for your auto accident and to work hard to make certain that you do not get a penny less. We pride ourselves on our strategic negotiation skills and our tenacity in pursuing fair settlements while preparing a strong case for court if required.
Our Sacramento car accident attorneys handle cases involving:
Did the Negligent Driver Have Insurance?
Unfortunately, there are many drivers on the road with insufficient insurance or even no insurance at all. Our attorneys have the experience to handle uninsured and underinsured motorist accident claims. This may necessitate turning to the victim's own policy for compensation. Understanding your own policy's terms can be crucial, as policies may offer different levels of coverage for uninsured motorist incidents, dramatically affecting your compensation path.
In these types of claims, your insurance company steps into the shoes of the responsible negligent party. A claim is then pursued against your insurance company for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These claims require careful navigation to avoid pitfalls and ensure maximum policy benefits are attained, reinforcing the importance of legal support in such cases.
Contact our Sacramento car accident attorney by calling (916) 571-0400 today!
What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?
Car accidents can be traumatic and life-changing. Beyond physical injuries, victims often face mounting medical bills, emotional distress, and the challenges of navigating complex insurance claims. A car accident lawyer is a legal professional who assists individuals involved in auto accidents. Their goal is to protect your rights, ensure you receive fair compensation, and guide you through the often-complicated legal process. Below, we’ll explain the key roles and responsibilities of a Sacramento car accident lawyer.
Investigating the Accident
One of the first things a car accident lawyer does is investigate the accident in detail to establish fault and liability. This process can include:
- Gathering Evidence: Collecting police reports, photographs of the accident scene, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
- Reconstructing the Accident: Collaborating with accident reconstruction experts to understand how the crash occurred.
- Evaluating Damages: Assessing the full extent of your injuries, property damage, and other losses.
This thorough investigation helps build a strong case to support your claim. Our detailed approach ensures we uncover all contributing factors, securing comprehensive evidence to strengthen your position in negotiations or court proceedings.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be tricky, as they often prioritize their own profits over providing fair settlements. A car accident lawyer acts as your advocate during negotiations by:
- Handling Communications: Managing all correspondence with insurance adjusters to prevent you from saying anything that could harm your claim.
- Proving Liability: Presenting evidence that shows the other party was at fault for the accident.
- Demanding Fair Compensation: Advocating for a settlement that covers all your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Lawyers are well-versed in insurance tactics and can push back against lowball offers to ensure you aren’t shortchanged. Our mission is to navigate through the fine print, making sure every potential benefit is maximized in your favor.
Filing Claims & Lawsuits
If negotiations with the insurance company fail to result in a fair settlement, your car accident lawyer can escalate the case by filing a lawsuit. This involves:
- Preparing Legal Documents: Drafting and filing the necessary paperwork to initiate a lawsuit.
- Meeting Deadlines: Ensuring all legal actions are taken within the statute of limitations, which varies by state.
- Engaging in Discovery: Collecting additional evidence and conducting depositions to strengthen your case.
While most car accident cases are resolved through settlements, having a lawyer ready to take the case to court sends a strong message to insurers about your seriousness. This readiness not only shows commitment but also demonstrates preparedness to protect your rights at any cost, ensuring you have a comprehensive strategy for justice and recompense.
Representing Clients in Court
If your case goes to trial, a car accident lawyer will represent you in court. Their role entails:
- Presenting Your Case: Arguing on your behalf before a judge or jury, supported by evidence and expert testimony.
- Cross-Examining Witnesses: Questioning witnesses brought by the opposing side to challenge their credibility.
- Seeking a Favorable Verdict: Striving to secure the maximum compensation allowed by law for your damages.
Assisting With Compensation
A key responsibility of a car accident lawyer is helping you secure compensation for the damages you’ve suffered as a result of the accident. This can include:
- Medical Bills: Covering hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and future medical care.
- Lost Wages: Recovering income lost due to missed work, as well as compensation for diminished earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work.
- Property Damage: Repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal items damaged in the accident.
- Pain & Suffering: Addressing emotional distress, physical pain, and the impact on your overall quality of life.
An experienced lawyer ensures that all your losses, both economic and non-economic, are factored into your claim. Our commitment is to meticulously account for every aspect of your situation, leading to a well-rounded approach in securing justice and fair compensation.
A car accident lawyer’s primary role is to support you after a car accident, ensuring you receive fair compensation and alleviating the stress of legal and insurance matters. From investigating the incident and negotiating with insurers to representing you in court if necessary, they handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on recovering. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, consulting an experienced lawyer can make all the difference in protecting your rights and securing a successful outcome.
Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer After a Car Accident
If you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident, hiring a lawyer can be a game-changer. Not only can they help you navigate the complex legal process, but they can also ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
At Smolich & Smolich, our skilled Sacramento car accident lawyer can help collect evidence to support your case and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Additionally, we are ready to represent you in court if necessary, increasing your chances at a successful outcome. Our proactive approach ensures you are never left alone in this daunting process, with a clear focus on securing your interests.
The aftermath of a car accident can be a highly stressful experience that can leave injury victims with serious financial and physical burdens. When an accident happens, make sure you consult with an attorney to determine the best course of action.
A high-speed collision between two cars can result in:
- Injuries ranging from minor to catastrophic
- Significant property loss
- Emotional trauma
- Bereavement
A skilled car accident lawyer will also be able to help you in a contested case. Whether you must pursue relief from an insurance provider or directly from the parties that hurt you on the road, our lawyers at Smolich & Smolich will be able to properly analyze all of the facts regarding your case and, if needed, file a compelling claim that truly speaks to the gravity of your injuries. When facing a contested case, the strategy becomes pivotal. Our seasoned lawyers ensure every piece of evidence is leveraged to your advantage, making a substantial difference in the pursuit of justice.
Let our Sacramento law firm begin work on your case right away by calling us at (916) 571-0400 and scheduling a free, no-obligation case evaluation with our Sacramento car accident lawyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Sacramento?
In the immediate aftermath of a car accident in Sacramento, it's crucial to ensure your safety and the safety of others. First, if it's safe, move to the side of the road to prevent further incidents. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if necessary. Even in minor accidents, a formal police report can be beneficial for insurance purposes and future legal actions. Collect the contact information and insurance details of all parties involved. Furthermore, document the scene with photographs, including vehicle damage, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Witnesses' contact information can also be valuable. Seek medical evaluation even if you feel uninjured, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Finally, refrain from making statements about fault at the scene.
How Can Smolich & Smolich Assist With My Claim?
At Smolich & Smolich, we approach each car accident case with a strategy tailored to the individual's circumstances. Our comprehensive services encompass thorough case investigation, dedicated negotiation with insurance companies, and skilled representation during litigation. We focus on ensuring your compensation reflects the full extent of your physical and emotional damages. By emphasizing personal attention and the use of our 40+ years of legal practice, we can offer insights and strategies aimed at achieving favorable outcomes. Whether handling negotiations or preparing for trial, our firm’s commitment is reflected in our strong community ties and deep understanding of Sacramento's legal landscape.
What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents in Sacramento?
Car accidents in Sacramento may arise from a variety of factors, influenced by the city's unique roadways and weather conditions. Common causes include distracted driving, speeding, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Additionally, insufficient road maintenance and unclear signage contribute to potential hazards. Furthermore, Sacramento's increasing traffic congestion can lead to rear-end collisions, especially during rush hours. Understanding these prevalent issues is crucial for developing safe driving strategies and mindful of common accident locations, such as busy intersections or highways like I-5 and US-50. By recognizing these risks, drivers can adopt preventative measures, reducing the likelihood of accidents.