While medical attention is the first priority, you should also collect documentation of the crash. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, speaking with a personal injury attorney in Citrus Heights can help you understand your legal options and pursue fair compensation.. These cases seek compensation for funeral costs, emotional loss, and lost household income. A Citrus Heights car accident lawyer can advise you on exactly what to do next and help you avoid mistakes that could hurt your claim. All attorneys in our network work on a no win, no fee basis.
When the At-Fault Driver Leaves the Scene
No, you should not speak with the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting your own lawyer. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to say something that reduces your payout or denies your claim.
Most Citrus Heights car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything upfront. The lawyer only gets paid if you win your case or receive a settlement. The typical fee is around 33% of the settlement but can vary depending on the case complexity and whether it goes to court.
You can recover compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, future medical care and loss of earning capacity may also be included, especially in serious injury cases.
It’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after a car accident, especially before speaking to insurance adjusters. Early legal guidance helps preserve evidence, avoid mistakes, and ensure that you meet all legal deadlines in California, including the statute of limitations.
In California, the statute of limitations for most car accident claims is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to seek compensation. Claims against a government agency must be filed within six months.
Yes. California uses a comparative fault rule, so even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.