It can be hard to recover, both financially and physically, after being involved in a car accident, particularly a bad one. Even a minor incident can cause you some emotional distress, which can be difficult to move past without making some important decisions. If you decide to pursue legal action against the negligent party that caused the accident, you may need the aid of an experienced Newport Beach car accident lawyer. They can help you figure out what to do after a car accident in Newport Beach.
Car Accidents in Newport Beach
Car accidents are often unpredictable. When one happens, it can be hard to cope with, depending on the outcome of the accident in question. These collisions can range anywhere from small irritations to disastrous nightmares. The aftermath of the accident will be entirely dependent on the details that caused it, such as distracted drivers, road conditions, bad weather, and multi-car involvement. Holding the right people accountable can be the start of finding a sense of closure for what happened.
Newport Beach is one of California’s most gorgeous coastal cities, making it a premier tourist attraction for visitors in and out of state. The California Office of Traffic Safety reported 624 vehicle crashes resulting in injuries and/or fatalities in Newport Beach in 2017. Due to increased foot and vehicle traffic alike, the areas of the state that tend to attract tourists also have a higher likelihood of car accidents, as many of these individuals are unfamiliar with local traffic laws and infrastructure.
The Newport Beach Fire Department tends to handle most emergency services in the area. Knowing who to reach out to in the event of an accident can make all the difference. Additionally, if you do decide to take legal action against the party responsible for your accident, it is recommended that you pay attention to the statute of limitations for personal injury cases in California, which is two years from the date of your initial accident.
The state will give you two years to:
- Determine the grounds for your claim.
- Build a strong enough case.
- Gather the right evidence.
- Speak with a car accident lawyer.
- File a claim for compensation.
If you are unable to file your claim before two years have passed, there is a fair chance that your claim will be dismissed outright, and you won’t be able to seek compensation at all. Building a solid case can take time, so you should get started as soon as possible.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Newport Beach
You should always remember that your actions after an accident are going to impact the standing of your accident claim when the time comes to file. It is vital to your case that you take the necessary measures to protect yourself by making informed decisions throughout the aftermath. Here are some steps you can take to protect your accident claim:
- Check Yourself for Injuries: Depending on the nature of the accident, you may be considerably injured, but, due to the shock, you might not be aware of it. After gathering your thoughts, you should take a moment to check your body for injuries. Be sure to do the same for any passengers. Look out for bloody spots, protrusions, broken bones, sprains, and bruising. If you are in pain but don’t appear injured, tell the EMTs.
- Call 911: As soon as you can, you should call 911 and get the authorities to the scene right away. You are going to want law enforcement to block off the scene and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to check survivors for injuries. If you are too injured to call, have somebody else do it.
- Move Your Car: If it is possible to do so, you may want to consider moving your car if it is still sitting in the middle of the road. The last thing you want is to be somewhat responsible for causing another accident because your car is sitting in the path of oncoming traffic. If the police say it’s okay, move your car. If you are too injured or the car is too damaged to move, don’t worry about it.
- Gather Evidence: Once you have been cleared by the EMTs and the police allow it, you can start documenting the accident scene. Take plenty of photos of your injuries, the damage to all vehicles, and the road conditions. Get the contact information of any witnesses, too.
- Exchange Information: You and the other driver will need to exchange insurance and contact information as well.
- See a Lawyer: When you feel you are ready to file a claim, consult a car accident lawyer who can manage your claim.
FAQs
Do I Have to Report an Accident to the DMV in California?
Yes, you have to report an accident to the DMV in California, especially if the accident resulted in at least $1,000 worth of property damage. You legally need to report the accident within 10 days if somebody is injured or killed in that accident. Failure to do so could result in a loss of driving privileges.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim After an Accident in California?
In California, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a claim and seek compensatory damages. There are some exceptions, but the rule is generally two years. If you can’t file before two years are up, your case will likely be dismissed, and your chance to seek compensation will pass by.
Is California a No-Fault State for Car Accidents?
No, California is not a no-fault state for car accidents. California is very much an at-fault state, which means that the driver who is found to be legally responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for reimbursing the other driver for any damages. If you are also found to be partially at fault, your compensation will be deducted by the percentage of fault.
Who Pays Medical Bills in a Car Accident in California?
Since California is an at-fault state for car accidents, the driver who is found to be responsible is the one who would pay for all medical bills as well as lost wages and other damages. While fault is being determined by the court, your own medical insurance may cover the costs initially.
Reach Out Today
At Easton & Easton, we can provide you with quality legal representation in your car accident case. Contact us to schedule a consultation as soon as possible.
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