Car Accidents Attorneys in Granite Bay, California

Experienced & Dedicated Lawyers

At Herrig, Vogt & Hensley, LLP, we receive many questions from individuals who were injured in a car accident and are confused about their rights. Our Granite Bay personal injury attorneys are here to guide you through that process. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive. Read the answers to find helpful information on car accident claims and injury cases.

What Should I Do if I Have Been in an Accident?

The first thing you should do after an accident is to check that you and all of your passengers are safe. Next, check on the other driver if you are physically able to do so. Try to move your vehicle to the side of the road and out of harm’s way, then call 911.

Take as many photos of the accident scene as possible, especially important details such as:

• Damage to both vehicles

• Any debris on the roadway

• Relevant traffic signals and signs

• Weather conditions

• Your injuries

Exchange vehicle, insurance, and contact information with the other driver, and wait for the police to arrive. If you were injured or suspect that you may have been injured, promptly seek medical attention (if you weren’t already taken for emergency care). Make sure to document all injuries and tell your doctor if any new pain or other symptoms of injury occur recently after your car accident. Once you have this information, contact a personal injury lawyer for further assistance.

How Long Do I Have to Pursue a Car Accident Injury Claim?

In the state of California, the statute of limitations states that you have two years to file an injury claim against the other driver before your right to any claim is forfeited. This window of time starts on the day of the accident, so it is best to begin your claim as early as possible. This will also allow your personal injury lawyer enough time to thoroughly investigate your claim and negotiate for the best settlement well before the deadline.  

Can I Pursue a Claim If I Was a Passenger in A Car?

If you were a passenger in a car rather than a driver, you can still pursue an injury claim. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident and the insurance coverage that each driver has, you may be able to claim from each driver, so long as their insurance companies are willing to settle. If not, you may need to take both parties to court in order to secure compensation.

What Kind of Damages Can I Recover for A Car Accident?

Every case is different and depends on the circumstances involved. However, many car accident claims include the following types of damages:

• Property damage

• Medical bills

• Therapy costs

• Medication expenses

• Lost wages

• Lost earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Loss of enjoyment of life

In some circumstances, you may even be able to pursue punitive damages from the at-fault driver, in addition to damages directly related to your injury and suffering. These types of damages are awarded when a driver engages in blatantly dangerous and reckless behavior that leads to a serious accident, such as drunk driving or drag racing.

How Much Is My Car Accident Case Worth?

The value of a claim is determined on a case-by-case basis. It depends on a number of factors, such as the damages you sustained, the severity of your injuries, the insurance policies at play, and others.

Additionally, the value of your case is affected by the reputation of the personal injury law firm that represents you. If the personal injury lawyer you select never goes to court, the insurance company will have little incentive to offer a higher settlement. However, if your personal injury lawyer has a reputation for pursuing maximum compensation inside and outside of court, the insurance company will have to consider whether it wants to take the risk of losing in court and being required to pay a large verdict. The aggressive personal injury attorneys at Herrig, Vogt & Hensley, LLP will work diligently to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available under your claim.

I Think I May Be Partially At-Fault. Can I Still Pursue a Claim?

Even if you were partially at fault, you may still be able to pursue a claim. However, the degree to which you were at fault may be deducted from your total award. For example, if you sustained $50,000 of damages and you were 10% at fault for the accident, $5,000 would be deducted from any award that you receive.

Do I Really Need an Attorney for My Car Accident Claim?

Pursuing an injury claim can be much more complicated than most people realize. There are many factors that go into a case, such as proving fault and negligence, assessment of injuries, medical evidence, and much more. On top of that, you may have to negotiate with tough insurance companies for a fair settlement. With the right legal advocate on your side, you can get the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries. At Herrig, Vogt & Hensley, LLP, our personal injury lawyers have experience in handling claims and advancing legal arguments to the benefit of our clients.

What Do I Do If I Have More Questions?

If you have any further questions after reading the answers above, do not hesitate to call us. We are ready to take your call and provide a free case evaluation.