Finding closure and peace after a bad car accident can be a difficult process to endure. Seeking legal remedies with an experienced car accident lawyer can be a solid first step in the healing process. Depending on the severity of your accident, you may be dealing with a life-changing health condition while also trying to pursue legal action. It is vital that you understand what to do after a car accident in Laguna Beach and know how to protect yourself whenever necessary.
Car Accidents in Laguna Beach
Car accidents can be absolutely terrifying. They can range anywhere from minor irritations to devastating tragedies and anywhere in between. It really depends on the details of the accident, such as who was driving, what caused the accident, weather conditions, road conditions, how many cars were involved, and so much more. When pursuing closure and putting everything behind you, seeking legal recourse can be a good place to start.
Laguna Beach is one of Southern California’s most popular coastal cities. Despite its small population, it often sees a great deal of vehicular and pedestrian traffic during the tourist season. The more out-of-towners a tourist city receives, the higher the likelihood of somebody causing a car accident. According to California’s Office of Traffic Safety, in 2021, there were 95 car accident injuries and fatalities in Laguna Beach. The city’s police and fire departments are in charge of managing accident scenes.
When you make a decision about whether to bring legal action against the responsible party, it is vital to your case that you pay attention to California’s prescripción for car accident cases, which is two years. You will have two years from the date of your accident to:
- Establish strong grounds for your claim.
- Build up your case.
- Gather the evidence you’ll need.
- Discuss your case with a car accident lawyer.
- File a claim to recover your damages.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Laguna Beach
You should never forget that the steps you take in the immediate aftermath of a car accident are going to impact the future strength and validity of your case. With that in mind, you may want to take the proper precautions after you have been in an accident. Making informed decisions can make a significant difference when it comes time to file your claim. Here are some important measures you can take to protect yourself:
- Compruebe si hay lesiones: After an accident, you may be in shock, which might prevent you from noticing any significant injuries you may have suffered. Always check your body for injuries, and do the same for any passengers you might have. Look for wet spots, red areas, bruising, broken bones, and protrusions. If you can’t find any injuries but you’re still in pain, be sure to tell the EMTs when they arrive.
- Llama al 911: As soon as possible, you should call the authorities and get them to the accident scene quickly. You will want law enforcement officials to take control of the scene and EMTs to look over any survivors for injuries. If you are too injured to make the call, try to have someone else at the scene call for you.
- Mueve tu coche: If you are not too injured, you might want to move your car to the side of the road if you haven’t already. The last thing you want is for another accident to happen because you left your car in the middle of the road. If the police clear you, move your car to the shoulder. If you’re too injured or the car is too damaged to move, just leave it there.
- Reúna pruebas: When the police and EMTs have cleared you, you can start documenting the accident scene for your own records. Take plenty of photos of your injuries, the damage to all vehicles, and the conditions of the road. Speak to any witnesses who may be willing to help and get their contact information.
- See a Lawyer: Once you have gathered enough evidence and started to build a compelling case, you should consider bringing everything you have to an experienced Laguna Beach car accident lawyer. They can help you figure out your next steps.
Preguntas frecuentes
What Should I Do in a Minor Car Accident in California?
If you are ever in a minor car accident in California, you should immediately stop the car and exchange insurance information with the other driver. Take photos of the damage to your car and report the incident to your insurance company. You may also want to file a police report if the damage is extensive.
¿Cuánto tiempo tiene para informar de un accidente de coche a su seguro en California?
Technically, there is no legal deadline to report a car accident to your insurance carrier in California. Still, it is recommended that you report the accident to your insurance carrier as soon as you can. Many insurance policies require prompt notification within 24 to 72 hours. Generally, the amount of time an insurance policy gives to report an accident is unique to each policy.
Do I Have to Report an Accident to the DMV in California?
Yes, you have to report a car accident to the DMV in California. You have 10 days to report the accident to the police or the DMV, especially if the accident resulted in serious injury or property damage over $1,000. Failure to report the accident may result in significant penalties, such as a revocation of your driving privileges.
What Happens If You Get Insurance After an Accident in California?
If you get car insurance after you have already had an accident in California, your insurance will not cover the accident you just had. Insurance only applies to situations that occur after the purchase of said insurance. You can’t file a claim for previous accidents. If you attempt to do that, you may be charged with insurance fraud.
Contact Us Today
At Easton & Easton, we can help you figure out the most effective way to pursue legal action after a car accident. Acércate to us today to speak with a valued team member.
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