Car Crash Lawyer Tarzana CA
While cars have come a long way to better protect drivers and other drivers, accidents still happen, often requiring assistance from a Tarzana CA car crash lawyer.
At Barry P. Goldberg, our attorneys work hard to help victims, and their families obtain the necessary compensation they deserve following a car crash. While nothing can turn back time and stop an accident from happening in the first place, our law firm can provide compassion and legal assistance.
A Car Crash Often Happens Due to Another Person’s Negligence
Car crashes can happen due to various factors, including the weather and poor road conditions. Sometimes, accidents happen and there are virtually no other actions either driver could have taken to prevent the crash. Problems like heavy rainfall or heavy debris on an unmarked, unlit road are just some examples. However, many accidents happen due to another party’s negligence. Disobeying the rules of the road, distracted driving, driving while under the influence, and failing to properly maintain their vehicle are all examples.
Why Calling an Attorney Should Be a Top Priority
You may have strong reason to believe that your or your family member’s car crash was due to another person’s negligence. However, even in the situation where after calling the authorities the other person is cited or even arrested, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll receive the necessary compensation for your injuries. Several burdens can sprout up, requiring a Tarzana car crash lawyer’s legal assistance. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the law and overcome obstacles that stand in the way of you or your family obtaining justice.
Actions an Attorney Can Assist With
When we hear the word attorney, we often picture a person dressed in a suit and tie with a briefcase entering the courtroom and delivering a passionate legal argument. Definitely, an attorney may take your case to court, but there are far many more legal actions an attorney assists with. For example, in a car crash case, your attorney may provide assistance in the following areas:
- Helping you or your family understand the law, including breaking down complex legal concepts or jargon into easy-to-understand concepts.
- Helping you or your family file your case, ensuring no errors in paperwork.
- Gathering evidence, ranging from eyewitness testimony, medical records, police records, testimonies from experts, and even CCTV footage.
- Negotiating with the insurance companies, ensuring you obtain a fair and just settlement.
Understanding The Process Of Negotiating With Insurance After A Collision
As our Tarzana, CA car crash lawyer can tell you, dealing with the aftermath of a rear-end collision can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to negotiating with insurance companies. At Barry P. Goldberg, we have extensive experience assisting clients in these situations, and we understand the complexities involved in securing fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Attorney Barry Goldberg has successfully handled hundreds of arbitrations and mediations and is ready to help you with your claim.
Initial Steps After The Accident
Immediately after a rear-end collision, it’s essential to prioritize your safety and well-being. Seek medical attention for any injuries, no matter how minor they may seem at the time. Even seemingly minor symptoms, such as neck or back pain, could indicate more serious underlying injuries like whiplash or spinal cord damage.
Reporting The Accident To Your Insurance Company
Our car crash lawyer in Tarzana recommends that once you’ve received medical attention and ensured your safety, report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all relevant details, including the date, time, and location of the collision, as well as the contact information of the other driver involved. Be truthful and concise in your account of the events leading up to the accident.
Dealing With The Other Driver’s Insurance Company
In addition to contacting your insurance company, you may also need to communicate with the other driver’s insurance company. Keep in mind that their primary goal is to minimize their liability and pay out as little as possible in compensation. Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters and avoid admitting fault or providing recorded statements without consulting with an attorney first. It is best to speak with your lawyer before doing this.
Documenting Your Injuries And Damages
To strengthen your case during negotiations, it’s crucial to document your injuries and damages thoroughly. Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and receipts related to your treatment and recovery. Additionally, take photographs of any visible injuries, vehicle damage, and the accident scene, if possible. These pieces of evidence can help substantiate your claims and support your demand for compensation.
Seeking Legal Representation
Navigating the negotiation process with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when you’re dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of a rear-end collision. That’s where we come in. Our skilled attorneys have a track record of success in advocating for the rights of accident victims. We’ll work tirelessly to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, striving to secure the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our Commitment To You
When you choose our firm to represent you in negotiations with insurance companies after a rear-end collision, you can trust that you’re in capable hands. We’ll handle all aspects of your case with professionalism, integrity, and compassion, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way. Our goal is to alleviate the stress and burden of dealing with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on your recovery and moving forward with your life.
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision and are facing challenges in negotiating with insurance, don’t wait any longer to seek legal guidance. Contact us at Barry P. Goldberg to schedule a consultation and explore your options for pursuing the compensation you deserve. Attorney Barry Goldberg is a recognized authority on the topics of Underinsured Motorist Law and Uninsured Motorist Arbitrations in California. Let us be your advocates in the fight for justice and fair compensation after a rear-end collision. Speak with our CA car crash lawyer now.
Don’t Wait To Obtain Justice
In a perfect world, after a car crash due to another person’s negligence, all you would need to do is call your or their insurance company and obtain a settlement that covers all of your medical expenses, lost wages, as well as covering factors like pain and suffering and emotional distress. Unfortunately, we don’t live in a perfect world, and for every crash where an insurance company doles out a fair settlement without any pushback, there are many more companies that try to lowball victims or deny liability altogether. At Barry P. Goldberg, you can work with a Tarzana CA car crash lawyer and obtain a proper settlement when you call us today!
When Insurance Wrongly Blames You For A Car Accident
Our trusted Tarzana, CA car crash lawyer knows that facing a car accident is stressful enough without having to deal with insurance companies wrongly blaming you for the incident. Unfortunately, this situation can arise, leaving you responsible for damages you did not cause. Attorney Barry Goldberg often councils other lawyers on his area of expertise in Uninsured Motorist Arbitrations and Underinsured Motorist Arbitrations. At Barry P. Goldberg, we understand the frustration and complexity of dealing with such situations.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene. If you’re involved in a car accident, the first step is to gather as much evidence as possible at the scene. This includes taking photographs of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses who can provide unbiased accounts of the incident. Detailed evidence can be crucial in disputing incorrect claims made by insurance companies later.
- Obtain a Police Report. Always contact the police after an accident, no matter how minor it seems. The police report is an official document that provides an objective overview of the accident. It includes statements from both parties, witness accounts, and the officer’s assessment of fault. Make sure to obtain a copy of this report, as it can be a vital piece of evidence in proving your innocence.
- Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company. Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the evidence you have gathered and be honest about the details of the incident. Early and clear communication can help build your case and show that you are proactive and cooperative.
- Review and Dispute the Insurance Company’s Findings. If the insurance company wrongly blames you for the accident, request a detailed explanation of their findings. Carefully review their assessment and compare it with the evidence you have collected. If there are discrepancies, gather additional evidence if necessary and formally dispute their decision. This can include providing witness statements, additional photographs, or expert analysis of the accident.
- Consult with a Legal Professional. When an insurance company wrongfully blames you for a car accident, consulting with a Tarzana car crash lawyer can be invaluable. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the insurance claim process, represent your interests, and provide guidance on the best course of action.
- Consider a Second Opinion. If you believe the initial investigation was flawed, you might consider seeking a second opinion from an independent accident reconstruction expert. These professionals can provide an unbiased analysis of the accident, which can be used to challenge the insurance company’s findings.
- Stay Persistent and Document Everything. Throughout the process, remain persistent and document all communications with the insurance company. Keep records of phone calls, emails, and letters. Having a detailed record can support your case and demonstrate your commitment to proving your innocence.
Find Help For Your Claim
At Barry P. Goldberg, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the challenges of dealing with insurance companies after a car accident. With 35 years of consistent practice and dedication, attorney Barry Goldberg is here for you. If you’ve been wrongly blamed for an accident, don’t face it alone. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team is here to provide the guidance and support you need to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the justice you deserve. Speak with our car crash lawyer in Tarzana now.
What To Expect In A Police Report After Your Car Accident
When you’re involved in a car accident, our Tarzana, CA car crash lawyer knows that one of the most important documents you’ll receive is the police report. This official record serves as a key piece of evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. Understanding what to expect in a police report can help you navigate the legal process more effectively. Attorney Goldberg practiced personal injury law with his brother for 17 years before founding his law firm. At Barry P. Goldberg, we believe that being informed is essential, so we’ve outlined the most common elements of a police report below.
- Basic Accident Information. The first thing you’ll find in the police report is the basic details of the accident. This includes the date, time, and location of the crash. The report will also identify the vehicles involved, including make, model, and license plate numbers. Having these details in one place helps ensure that everyone involved is accurately accounted for, and it provides a clear starting point for any legal proceedings.
- Driver and Witness Information. The police report will include information about the drivers involved in the accident, such as their names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details. If there were any passengers or witnesses, their information may be included as well. Witness statements are particularly important as they can provide a neutral perspective on what happened, helping to clarify the facts of the case.
- Narrative of the Accident. Our Tarzana car crash lawyer knows that the report will often contain a narrative section where the responding officer describes the accident based on the information gathered at the scene. This summary typically includes statements from the drivers, witnesses, and any physical evidence observed by the officer, such as skid marks or vehicle damage. The narrative can offer valuable insight into how the accident occurred and may help establish fault.
- Diagram of the Scene. Many police reports include a diagram or sketch of the accident scene. This visual representation shows the position of the vehicles at the time of the crash, road conditions, and any other relevant details like traffic signals or signage. A well-drawn diagram can be a useful tool in understanding how the accident unfolded, especially if there are conflicting accounts from those involved.
- Officer’s Opinion on Fault. Although not present in every police report, some officers will include their opinion on who was at fault for the accident. This assessment is based on the evidence available at the scene and any statements made by those involved. While the officer’s opinion is not legally binding, it can carry weight with insurance companies and may influence the outcome of a personal injury case.
Get Trusted Help After Your Accident
At Barry P. Goldberg, we understand how important it is to have a clear and accurate police report after a car accident. We’re here to help you understand the contents of the report and use it to support your claim for compensation. After 35 years, Mr. Goldberg has won many awards in the legal field because of his deep care for his clients and dedication to the law. If you’ve been in a car accident and need legal guidance, reach out to us today. We’ll work together to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Speak with our Tarzana car crash lawyer now.
Tarzana Car Crash Infographic
Tarzana Car Crash FAQs
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, your Tarzana, CA car crash lawyer can answer your questions and keep you in the loop. The team at Barry P. Goldberg offers support for car accidents of all shapes and sizes, including hit and runs and crashes with uninsured drivers. Read on to get some much-needed answers about your case, and contact us to get started.
How Does The Legal Process Work For Settling Car Accident Disputes?
The process typically begins with the gathering of evidence, including photographs, witness statements, and police reports. This is followed by filing an insurance claim. If the claim cannot be settled through insurance alone, it may escalate to a lawsuit, where legal representation will be crucial. The case might then go through pre-trial negotiations, and if an agreement isn’t reached, it will proceed to trial. Throughout this process, both sides present evidence and arguments, and a judge or jury makes a final decision on the compensation.
What Are The Common Challenges In Car Accident Claims?
One of the biggest challenges is dealing with insurance companies. Often, insurers are quick to offer a settlement that is far less than what the claim is truly worth. Proving fault can also be complex, requiring thorough documentation and sometimes expert testimony. Additionally, calculating non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, adds another layer of difficulty when fighting for a fair settlement.
What Evidence Do I Need To Support My Car Accident Claim?
Strong evidence is key to a successful car accident claim. This includes photos of the scene, damage to the vehicles, and injuries sustained. A copy of the police report and statements from eyewitnesses will also support your account of the events. Medical records that document your injuries and their impact on your life are crucial as well. Finally, receipts for expenses incurred as a result of the accident, like medical bills and car repairs, are essential for calculating the financial impact.
How Can An Attorney Help If The Other Driver Was Uninsured?
If the other driver involved in the accident is uninsured, securing compensation for damages can be challenging but not impossible. Your Tarzana car crash lawyer can help you explore other avenues, such as your own insurance policy if it includes uninsured motorist coverage. They can also assist in suing the driver directly, although this can be complex and may not always result in financial recovery if the driver lacks sufficient assets.
How Much To Expect From A Car Accident Settlement In California?
Settlement amounts in California can vary widely based on the specifics of the case.. Factors influencing the settlement include the severity of the injuries, the clarity of fault, the impact on the victim’s lifestyle, and the policy limits of the involved insurance. Economic damages like medical bills and lost wages are often easier to quantify, while non-economic damages for pain and suffering are more subjective and can differ significantly from case to case.
Car Crash Glossary
We know how challenging it can be to handle the aftermath of an accident, especially if you’re unfamiliar with legal processes. If you’re looking for a Tarzana, CA car crash lawyer, you may encounter some specific terms used in personal injury law. This glossary aims to explain these terms clearly, helping you make informed decisions if you’re seeking legal support for a car accident case.
Negligence
Negligence occurs when a person fails to act with reasonable care, resulting in harm to another individual. In car accident cases, negligence is often at the core of determining liability. Actions like speeding, distracted driving, and ignoring traffic signals can all constitute negligence. For instance, if a driver texts while driving and causes an accident, they may be considered negligent because they did not exercise the reasonable caution expected on the road. In these situations, proving negligence is key to holding the at-fault driver accountable for damages.
Compensation
Compensation refers to the financial support awarded to a victim of an accident to help cover losses associated with their injuries. This includes both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible losses, such as medical bills and lost income. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, address the intangible impacts of an accident, like physical pain and emotional suffering. Through compensation, we seek to help victims rebuild and return to the lives they had before the accident, to the fullest extent possible.
Underinsured Motorist And Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) and Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage protect drivers in situations where the at-fault party lacks sufficient insurance. In California, it’s not uncommon to encounter drivers with minimal or no insurance coverage, which can make obtaining compensation challenging. UIM and UM coverage allow you to file a claim with your own insurance provider if the other driver’s coverage is inadequate or absent. This type of insurance serves as a safety net, covering costs that the at-fault driver’s insurance may not be able to pay.
Arbitration And Mediation
Arbitration and mediation are forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that can be used to handle car accident claims outside of court. In personal injury cases, these methods can expedite the resolution process and save on legal fees. During arbitration, a neutral third party makes a binding decision based on the presented evidence, while mediation involves negotiation between the parties, with a mediator guiding the discussion toward a settlement. These ADR methods are valuable tools for achieving fair outcomes without the need for a lengthy trial.
Incident Report
An incident report documents the details of a car accident, providing an official record that can be used to support a claim. This report typically includes essential information, such as the time, location, and description of the accident, along with the names of those involved and any witnesses. An incident report is especially important for verifying facts, establishing fault, and supporting the injured party’s claims. In car accident cases, an accurate incident report can be instrumental in ensuring that all parties have a clear understanding of what occurred.
In Tarzana, CA, car accident claims can involve many complex terms, but understanding these definitions can give you confidence as you work through your case. If you have additional questions or need further clarification, we’re here to help at Barry P. Goldberg.
If you’ve been in a car accident, reach out to discuss how we can assist in your recovery and get the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us Today
Understanding your rights and the legal avenues available can make a significant difference in the aftermath of a car accident. We at Barry P. Goldberg are here to provide the guidance and support you need during these challenging times. Contact us today, and see how a Tarzana car crash lawyer from our office can make a difference.