If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Long Beach, you’re likely facing a multitude of challenges, including medical bills and uncertainty about the future. As you move forward, it’s important to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation.
We at J&Y Law understand that this can be an overwhelming experience, and our experienced Long Beach car accident lawyers can provide you with the guidance you need.
To get started, it’s important to understand the process and what to expect. For instance, you may want to consult with a Long Beach personal injury lawyer to discuss your case and determine the best course of action.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Long Beach
One major contributor to car accidents is driver error. This can take many forms, including speeding, reckless driving, and distracted driving. You might be surprised at how often accidents occur because someone is texting behind the wheel or fails to check their blind spot. Additionally, driver fatigue and intoxication are significant factors in many crashes.
Another common cause of car accidents is road hazards. You’re probably familiar with the potholes and uneven lanes that can send your vehicle careening out of control. Inclement weather, such as fog or heavy rain, can also reduce visibility and make it harder to stop in time. Furthermore, construction zones and poorly designed intersections can create confusing and hazardous conditions for drivers.
For a free legal consultation with a car accident lawyer serving Long Beach, call (877) 735-7035
Injuries and Damages You Can Claim in Long Beach
You may be entitled to claim various types of injuries and damages if you’ve been involved in a car accident in Long Beach. These can include physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial losses.
Types of Injuries
Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are suddenly and forcefully jerked back and forth, straining the muscles and ligaments.
You may also have suffered spinal trauma, which can result in herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, or vertebral fractures. These types of injuries can be severe and potentially permanent, leading to chronic back pain, limited mobility, and even paralysis.
Other common injuries resulting from car accidents include broken bones, lacerations, and internal injuries. If you’re experiencing any of these injuries, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. A thorough medical evaluation will help identify the full extent of your injuries, which can be pivotal in building a strong case for your claim.
Monetary Compensation Claims
Following a thorough medical evaluation, it’s imperative to assess the economic impact of your injuries and explore the monetary compensation you’re entitled to claim. You may be eligible to claim compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes past, present, and future medical bills, hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation costs.
- Lost wages and earning capacity: If your injuries have prevented you from working or reduced your earning capacity, you can claim compensation for lost income and future earnings.
- Pain and suffering: You can claim compensation for the physical and emotional pain, distress, and suffering you’ve endured as a result of the accident.
It’s important to consult with a Long Beach car accident lawyer to determine the full extent of your damages and negotiate a fair settlement. We can help you handle the claims process, gather evidence, and build a strong case to maximize your compensation.
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Steps to Take After an Accident in Long Beach
After a car accident, you’ll want to take immediate action to protect yourself and your potential claim. Here are the steps you should take:
Report the Accident
Safety takes priority in the chaotic moments immediately after an accident. Your first instinct may be to call a loved one or try to assess the damage, but it’s important to follow proper accident protocol to safeguard everyone‘s safety and protect your rights.
You should report the accident to the authorities as soon as possible. This is especially important if someone is injured or there is significant property damage. Police involvement can provide an objective account of what happened, which can be beneficial when dealing with insurance companies or filing a claim.
Gather Evidence Quickly
As you deal with the aftermath of the accident, it’s important to prioritize gathering evidence to support your claim. This is an important step in building a strong case, and it’s imperative to act quickly. Start by documenting the scene of the accident and taking photos of the damage to all vehicles involved and any visible injuries.
Next, focus on collecting witness statements. Talk to anyone who saw the accident and get their contact information. Ask them to describe what they saw and take detailed notes. Witness statements can be incredibly valuable in supporting your claim, so don’t hesitate to reach out to anyone who may have witnessed the accident.
Seek Medical Attention
Following a car accident, it’s important to prioritize your physical well–being by seeking medical attention, regardless of whether you believe your injuries are minor or severe. You should visit an urgent care center or emergency room to get a thorough examination and diagnosis. Be sure to:
- Provide detailed information about the accident and your injuries to the medical staff
- Ask for copies of your medical records, including any test results, diagnoses, and treatment plans
- Follow the recommended treatment plan and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
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Insurance Company Tactics a Long Beach Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Avoid
After a car accident, you’re likely to deal with insurance companies, and it’s important to be aware of their tactics to avoid being taken advantage of. Insurance companies often prioritize profits over policyholders, and their strategies can be misleading or unfair.
One common tactic is bad faith dealings, where the insurance company fails to investigate your claim, denies your claim without reason, or delays payment. They might also try to settle your claim quickly before you’ve had a chance to consult with a lawyer or fully understand the extent of your injuries.
Another tactic is exploiting policy loopholes. Insurance companies may try to find obscure clauses or exclusions in your policy to deny your claim. They might argue that your policy doesn’t cover certain types of accidents or injuries or that you failed to disclose information.
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Proving Liability in a Long Beach Car Crash
Proving liability in a crash is important for securing the compensation you earn. Liability can stem from various factors, including:
- Driver error: Reckless driving, speeding, or distracted driving can lead to accidents. If the other driver’s negligence caused the crash, you may be able to hold them liable.
- Faulty maintenance: Failure to maintain a vehicle properly can lead to mechanical failures, which can cause accidents. If the other driver’s vehicle was not properly maintained, you may be able to hold them or their employer liable.
- Other factors: Inclement weather, road hazards, or other external factors may have contributed to the accident. A thorough investigation can help identify all responsible parties.
To prove liability, you’ll need to gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and documentation of the accident scene. Your Long Beach car accident lawyer can help you through this process and build a strong case.
Contact a Long Beach Car Accident Lawyer Today
You’ve been involved in a car accident in Long Beach, and now you’re facing a legal battle. Remember, you don’t have to go through this process alone. By hiring a local car accident lawyer in Long Beach at J&Y Law, you’ll have guidance to secure the compensation you warrant and rebuild your life after a devastating crash.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
Call or text (877) 735-7035 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form