Accidents happen, and sometimes, they may be your fault. If you find yourself in this situation and you're not sure how to handle it, help is at hand.
Antaramian Law, APC has assisted countless individuals dealing with the aftermath of an accident. Attorney Andrew Antaramian focuses on pursuing his clients' rights and fighting for justice and compensation.
As a former defense attorney for insurance companies, Attorney Antaramian is familiar with the laws governing accidents. He is uniquely positioned to provide support and guidance to those in need.
Serving California residents in numerous counties including Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, Ventura, and Kern, he is here to help you explore your next steps if you find yourself at fault or comparatively at fault in an accident.
If you realize you may be at fault for an accident, there are specific steps you should take. These commonly include:
Remain at the scene - Leaving the accident scene could result in additional legal consequences, such as a hit-and-run charge. Instead, remain at the scene and make sure all parties involved are safe and secure.
Exchange information - Collect contact and insurance details from the other party or parties involved in the accident. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance information.
Report to authorities - Contact local law enforcement to report the accident. A police report is an important piece of evidence in legal proceedings.
Avoid admitting fault - While honesty is an admirable trait, avoid admitting fault at the scene. Legal fault is not always clear, and such statements could be used against you later. Consult with an attorney before admitting or denying fault.
Seek medical attention - Even if you feel fine, have a medical professional assess you for injuries as soon as possible. This can serve as valuable evidence for your case, and some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Contact your insurance company - Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible after the accident. Be factual about what occurred, but avoid speculating about fault or liability.
Document the scene - Take photographs of the accident scene, including any damages to vehicles and the road conditions. Collect witness statements and contact information, if possible, for potential support in claims or defenses.
Keep thorough records - Maintain detailed records of all expenses and correspondence related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, and legal documents. This documentation can help resolve insurance claims and any legal issues that may arise.
Consult an attorney - Reach out to an experienced car accident attorney, like Antaramian Law. Understanding your rights and potential liabilities can help guide your next steps effectively.
Stay calm - It is natural to feel anxious or upset after an accident, but maintaining composure can help you think clearly and follow procedures efficiently. A level head can help you communicate more effectively with law enforcement.
Review your insurance policy - Know the details of your insurance policy and understand your coverage and obligations. This will prepare you for discussions with your insurance company and any claims that might arise.
Insight and familiarity with California state laws can help you secure better outcomes for your case. Here are some key points:
California follows the "pure comparative negligence" rule, which means that even if you are found to be partially at fault for an accident, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. It is necessary to act within this time frame to safeguard your right to seek compensation.
California law requires drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. These amounts include $15,000 for injury or death to one person, $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage.
As a plaintiff, you must take reasonable steps to reduce the financial impact of the accident, such as seeking immediate medical treatment and following medical advice to improve your condition. Failure to do so could affect the compensation you receive.
Though not mandatory, California drivers are encouraged to carry uninsured motorist coverage to provide additional protection in cases where the other party involved in the accident does not have insurance. This coverage can help cover medical expenses and other damages if an uninsured driver is at fault.
In the event of an accident, drivers must provide proof of financial responsibility, usually through insurance coverage. Failure to do so can result in the suspension of one's driver's license. California law mandates that any vehicle involved in an accident must have adequate insurance to cover potential damages.
Andrew Antaramian spent over eight years as a defense attorney for insurance companies before turning to personal injury law. With his knowledge of legal processes and strategies, he strives to help accident victims secure the best possible outcomes.
If you're grappling with the aftermath of an accident and uncertain of your legal standing, call Antaramian Law, APC for help.
Accidents happen, and sometimes, they may be your fault. If you find yourself in this situation and you're not sure how to handle it, help is at hand. Antaramian Law has assisted countless individuals dealing with the aftermath of an accident. Andrew Antaramian focuses on defending clients' rights and fighting for justice and compensation.
Accidents happen, but the aftermath can leave a lasting impact on your vehicle's worth. Even after repairs, a car might not regain its pre-accident value, leading to what's known as diminished value.
