Auto Accident Injury in Long Beach, CA

Accidents often leave victims in a state of shock, unsure of their next move. But clarity is within reach. By understanding the process, you can make informed decisions to protect your rights.

Don’t let uncertainty and stress dictate your path forward in Long Beach. Join us as we demystify the journey ahead and help you find local legal help.

Auto Accident Injury Statistics in Long Beach, California

Auto accidents significantly affect many lives in California annually. Data from the Office of Traffic Safety shows that in 2020, there were over 273,000 injuries and fatalities. This figure underscores the daily risks faced by Long Beach residents on the roads.

What to Do After an Auto Accident

It’s important to be prepared in the event you are a victim of a car accident. Below are the steps to remember immediately after your crash.

Receive Immediate Medical Attention

What is the most important step that you need to take after an auto accident? You need to receive immediate and proper medical treatment. You may believe that the injuries sustained after an auto accident are minor. Proper medical treatment helps ensure that you have not sustained any internal injuries that you may not be aware of.

File a Police Report

Even if no one sustained injuries, you still need to call 911 and request law enforcement assistance. When officers arrive, jot down each one’s name and badge number. Answer their questions honestly, but don’t volunteer any unasked for information, especially your thoughts on exactly what happened or who caused the car accident. Be sure to ask the officers for the number of their police report. Also ask when and where you can get a copy of it, including how much it will cost you.

You can request a report from the Long Beach Police Department’s Records Division. Requests can happen online, in person, or by mail.

Gather the Appropriate Documentation

While waiting for officers to arrive after a car accident, collect information from all other drivers involved in the accident, including the following:

• Full name, address, phone number and email address
• Driver’s license state and number
• Auto insurance company name, policy number and phone number

Use your cell phone to take pictures of each driver’s license, auto insurance card, your vehicle and each additional vehicle involved in the car accident. Don’t rely on verbal communication. Having as much information as possible will only help you and your case later on. Try to keep this exchange as civil and friendly as possible. However, do not apologize for causing the accident or indicate in any way that you think you may have caused it.

Recovering Damages After an Auto Accident Injury

After surviving a car accident, the emotional and economic toll it takes can be staggering. You are not only dealing with the mental anguish that comes with being involved in a crash, but you may also be experiencing severe physical harm as well.

Common injuries associated with motor vehicle accidents include:

• Burn injuries
• Back and neck injuries, such as whiplash
• Brain and head injuries
• Broken bones
• Spinal injuries
• Soft tissue injuries

The cost of auto accident injuries in California varies widely, influenced by the severity of injuries. The Insurance Information Institute (III) reported that the average cost for bodily injury claims in car accidents was about $17,262. This estimate, however, only covers direct economic costs. It omits intangible losses like pain and suffering.

Hiring a car accident lawyer ensures you have the financial ability to cover any losses that have occurred as a result of a crash. An auto accident attorney will also help you handle the paperwork that you will have to complete from insurance companies. This boosts your odds of receiving the insurance compensation you deserve.

Auto Accident Laws in California

Liability Laws for Long Beach

When car accidents happen, it is essential to determine who bears responsibility for the resulting damage and medical bills. Determining fault impacts everything from your insurance claim and level of liability to the amount of confusion you may endure during the claims process.

In Long Beach, the state’s comparative negligence laws determine fault and liability based on each party’s contribution to the accident. Also, California operates under a “fault” insurance system. The at-fault driver’s insurance pays for damages.

Statute of Limitations in Long Beach

Each state has its own tort laws that determine the statute of limitations on a claim. In some states, this gives you just one year to file a claim in court, while some others may give you up to six years.

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years. It’s crucial to consult with a legal professional quickly to prepare on time for this deadline.

This is why it is important to consult with an attorney immediately after your car crash. Don’t wait and risk losing out on any compensation they can recover.

Work With an Experienced Auto Accident Lawyer Near Long Beach, CA

After a car accident, you have enough to worry about. We can help you find an auto accident attorney for your unique case. Get the financial restitution that you deserve if you’re the victim of someone else’s conduct. We can even help you connect with legal help across California state lines.

Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an attorney in your area!