Auto Accident Injury in Oakland, CA
Auto accidents have the potential to cause significant physical and emotional harm. Unfortunately, they are frequent due to the many busy roads and highways in Oakland. Even if you drive safely, you may still get involved in an accident.
This article provides an overview of the landscape for auto accidents in California. It will explain laws about fault, liability, and the process for pursuing damages.
Even more critically, reading this guide will give you a framework for what should happen next. Read on and consider why you should schedule a consultation with an attorney from our network today.
Auto Accident Injury Statistics in Oakland, California
The most recent data from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) recorded 187,211 injuries in crashes in one year. These incidents led to 3,438 fatalities and 269,031 injuries. The main reasons behind these accidents were speeding, DUI, distracted driving, and failure to yield. Rear-end, broadside, and angle collisions were the most frequent types of crashes. Almost all of these are preventable accidents.
What to Do After an Auto Accident
Being ready in case you become a car accident victim is crucial. Here are the steps to keep in mind right after the collision.
Receive Immediate Medical Attention
After a car accident, the most crucial action is to find prompt and appropriate medical care. Even if you think the injuries from the collision are minor, obtaining proper medical attention is vital. You should confirm there are no hidden internal injuries and document what happened.
File a Police Report
It is still essential to call 911 if there are no injuries. Upon arrival, take note of each officer’s name and badge number. Respond truthfully to their inquiries, but refrain from providing unsolicited information. In particular, you want to keep opinions on who is at fault to yourself. Make sure to request the police report number and obtain a copy afterward.
Call the Oakland Police Department at (510) 777-3333 to report the accident. The police will come to the scene and create an official report. Depending on the circumstances, the California Highway Patrol may arrive first.
Gather the Appropriate Documentation
As you wait for the police to arrive, gather details from other drivers, such as:
- Name
- Phone number
- Address
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance details, such as the company and policy number
Use your phone to capture photos of each driver’s license, car insurance card, and vehicle. Avoid relying solely on verbal exchanges.
Gathering extensive information can benefit your case later. Aim to maintain a polite and amicable interaction during this process. Nevertheless, refrain from apologizing or implying that you may be responsible for the accident.
Recovering Damages After an Auto Accident Injury
Following a car accident, the emotional and financial impact can be overwhelming. Not only do you face psychological distress, but you might also cope with significant physical injuries.
Typical injuries resulting from car accidents are:
- Bone fractures
- Painful burns
- Spinal cord injuries
- Head or brain trauma
- Whiplash
- Cuts and other abrasions
The costs of these incidents have wide variations. However, there are some general estimates for motorists in Oakland to consider. According to Forbes, most settlements are for less than $10,000. But more damaging and dangerous events can justify $23,000 or more.
Engaging a car accident attorney ensures you have the financial means to address any losses. A skilled auto accident lawyer can also assist you in managing paperwork required by insurance companies. Their help can be invaluable in improving your chances of securing compensation.
Auto Accident Laws in California
Liability Laws for Oakland
In the aftermath of a car accident, it is crucial to establish who is accountable. Identifying the responsible party influences various aspects of what happens next. It will affect your insurance claim, liability level, and long-term financial prospects.
Several liability laws may apply to car accidents in Oakland. Some prominent examples are:
- All drivers must exercise reasonable care while driving. If a driver breaches this duty, they may be negligent and held liable.
- California follows a system of comparative negligence. Consequently, liability for damages varies based on the percentage of fault.
- Vehicle owners may be vicariously liable for accidents caused by someone driving their automobile.
Statute of Limitations in Oakland
Every state has differing tort laws that define the statute of limitations for filing a claim. You may have as little as one year in some jurisdictions. Meanwhile, others may be more generous and give up to six.
An Oakland resident injured in an auto accident typically has two years to file a lawsuit. But there are some exceptions. For instance, the time frame may be shorter if the accident involves a government entity or employee.
Therefore, finding legal counsel promptly after a car accident is necessary. Avoid delaying and jeopardizing the compensation you may be able to recover.
Work With an Experienced Auto Accident Lawyer Near Oakland, CA
Following a car accident in California, you already have plenty on your plate. We can assist you in locating a suitable auto accident lawyer for your situation.
Obtain the financial compensation you deserve if you suffered due to another party’s actions. We also can help with legal support across California state lines.
Contact us online through the website or call today at (866) 345-6784!
About the Author
Aaron is a professional legal writer with a B.S. in English Education from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. He has written, published, and edited thousands of legal articles for RequestLegalHelp, which has connected over 5 million people to legal help in the United States.
With over five years of experience writing thousands of legal articles for law firms across the U.S. and Canada, Aaron specializes in covering federal, state, and city-level legal issues ranging from auto accidents to wrongful terminations.
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