Unfortunately, most drivers will experience car crashes at some point. Careless motorists cause vehicle collisions daily, and when you sustain damages because of some else’s negligence, you have the right to hold them accountable with help from a seasoned personal injury attorney.
State laws require the at-fault driver’s insurance provider to pay for these damages. However, the process can often feel overwhelming and frustrating. A Hayward car accident lawyer can help you through the process and advocate for a fair settlement.
Typical Car Wreck Causes
Some typical causes of car wrecks include the following:
- Fatigued drivers
- Distracted drivers
- Intoxicated motorists
- Weather, such as fog, rain, sleet, and snow
- Speeding, reckless, and aggressive driving
- Failure to yield to other vehicles in intersections
- Neglecting to follow the traffic rules and regulations
- Dangerous and defective roadway design or damage
The number of severe automobile collisions caused by distracted drivers continues to increase. Smartphones and other electronic communication devices to text, email, and take photographs are the most significant motorist distractions leading to catastrophic and fatal collisions statewide.
Insurance Company Communications and Negotiations
Negotiating with the insurance company representative is essential to obtain a fair settlement after a negligent driver causes a car crash. An adjuster usually reaches out within a few days to discuss the claim and request a recorded statement.
Unfortunately, the adjuster may use anything the injured party says during that recorded conversation against them to minimize liability and reduce or even deny a settlement altogether. A Hayward car crash attorney understands the process, can manage all communication and negotiations, and will fight for their client to receive the maximum fair payout. If the attorney cannot reach an acceptable settlement with the insurance company, they can file a lawsuit in court.
Crash Reporting Laws
Anyone involved in car crashes resulting in bodily harm or property damage of $1,000 or more must report the traffic accident within ten days. The driver, their attorney, or their insurance company must complete and submit a Report of Traffic Accident, called the SR-1.
Drivers who do not comply with the agency’s rules will have their driver’s license suspended. When drivers report the accident to the local authorities, law enforcement will investigate, complete an accident report, and report the collision to the DMV. To complete the form, motorists must have their driver’s license, address, and insurance information. They must also collect the following from others involved in the collision:
- Name and address
- Driver’s license number
- Date of birth
- State where the car is registered and the license plate number
- Insurance provider, policy number, and expiration date
- Injuries and property damage from the accident
A car wreck lawyer in Hayward can guide injured drivers through these steps and help collect a fair settlement for damages.
Meet with a Qualified Car Accident Attorney in Hayward
When another person causes a collision, state laws allow you to pursue legal action and collect payment for your losses from the liable party. To do this, you must follow the guidelines and successfully prove liability, which can be complicated.
An experienced Hayward car accident lawyer can offer sound legal advice and guidance and help you fight for a favorable outcome in your case. Call soon to learn more and schedule a consultation if you need assistance recovering compensation after a vehicle collision.