Recovering Compensation in a Los Angeles Car Accident Case
Car crash victims often face enormous debt as a result of high medical costs and lost wages. They have to deal with substantial medical costs and other expenses as a result of their injuries. Other losses, such as pain and suffering, are harder to put a number on, but are just as real.
Injured people in a Los Angeles car accident understandably want to know how to recover compensation following a car accident. Victims contact us with a variety of questions, including how to recover compensation in an LA car accident? The experts at Ghozland Law Firm explain how this works in this article.
Do I have a right to seek compensation after a California car accident?
You have the right to claim compensation in California for your pain, suffering, and financial damages as a result of your car accident. Since there is always a significant amount of money at stake, pointing fingers may not suffice, and you will often need to present ample proof of fault with the assistance of a car accident attorney. To seek compensation, injured victims must establish the liability of another party.
In California, the liable driver is legally required to pay for the damages caused by a crash. If the responsible driver is found to be at fault for the accident, he or she must compensate the victim for the damages sustained.
Who generally pays for accident costs?
When a driver is found to be at fault for a car accident due to negligence, their insurance provider is responsible for covering the costs of the accident. If the other driver is found to be at fault, the other insurance provider or an attorney may contact the person's insurance company to pay for damage claims.
It is not always quick or straightforward to collect for damages. Insurance companies can balk and delay payments. Insurance firms make every effort to pay as little as possible on auto damage claims. They want accident scene claims that shift the blame to someone else. When they have pursued payment, they try their best to offer small settlements and pay the least amount possible. And if you have good insurance, you will be required to pay for damages that are not protected.
Insurance companies can also delay payment. In such a situation, to establish your right to fair compensation, your attorney can file a Personal Injury case on your behalf.
How to Get Car Accident Injury Bills Paid
In general, you have the following legal options for getting your medical bills paid following a car accident:
• File a claim with your own insurance company. Many Californians have their car insurance or health insurance policy to cover their crash injuries. If you have this coverage, you can use it instead of going elsewhere to pay your hospital expenses because it is normally easier.
• File a claim with the at-fault party's insurance company. Drivers in California are legally required to carry a minimum of $15,000 in liability insurance. This is meant to compensate for the injury of others if a driver causes an accident. If you want to claim this liability coverage, the at-fault driver's insurance limits will restrict the amount you may collect.
• File a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. In certain cases, filing a personal injury lawsuit could be preferable to filing an insurance claim. Consider this choice if, for example, you have serious injuries and your costs are expected to surpass your insurance coverage limits. Filing a lawsuit could also be a strategic move if the at-fault driver's insurance provider continues to postpone or refuse the settlement.
Your damages will include:
- Healthcare/Medical expenses,
- Lost income,
- Loss of earning capacity,
- Pain and suffering
Always consult a Car Accident Attorney
If you are in a car accident in California, you will have a tough time obtaining compensation. It is important to consult with an experienced car accident attorney immediately. You can speak with one of our Ghozland Law Firm California car accident attorneys about handling your case.
