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SACRAMENTO CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER
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SACRAMENTO CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER
Car accidents often occur when we least expect it. They can be even more distressing if the crash resulted from another driver’s negligence and you sustained injuries. You likely have expenses piling up, and you might be out of work, only adding more stress to an already overwhelming situation. That is why you should turn to the Sacramento car accident attorneys at the Oakwood Legal Group. We are here to fight for you and protect your legal rights throughout a car accident claim in California.
Too many accident victims make the unfortunate mistake of not hiring an experienced car accident attorney. California’s personal injury laws are confusing, especially to those not familiar with the law. One missed detail or deadline may result in a judge dismissing your case. Furthermore, you only have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim in California. Many accident victims make the mistake of waiting until they recover from their injuries to file a claim. Injuries may worsen over time, and there might be unexpected hurdles when filing a claim.
Additionally, accident victims tend to put their faith in the insurance company, which is never a good idea. Dealing with insurance companies without representation may lead to a considerable reduction in your settlement figures. Insurance companies will try to have you make recorded statements, which may ruin your chances of receiving fair compensation. If you speak to a representative immediately after an accident, they may convince you to sign a settlement agreement for much less than you deserve. Once you sign a settlement, you cannot seek additional compensation if your injuries worsen over time.
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WHAT CAUSES CAR ACCIDENTS IN SACRAMENTO?
It seems that Sacramento roads, highways, and interstates are always congested. Unfortunately, congested roads are where car accidents are most likely to happen. Understanding what might cause an accident is vital to keeping yourself safe.
- Speeding along Sacramento roadways is an unnecessary risk. When drivers speed, they have less time to react to traffic, weather, and road conditions. Additionally, drivers have less control over speeding vehicles, which may cause a high-speed collision.
- Despite the known dangers and illegality of drunk driving, too many Sacramento drivers get behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Alcohol and drugs impair a person’s judgment, depth perception, and ability to focus. Additionally, impaired driving may decrease a driver’s reaction time to other vehicles and dangerous road conditions.
- Distracted driving is anything that takes a driver’s hands off the wheel, eyes off the road, or mind off driving. Many people assume texting is the only distraction, but other examples include eating, adjusting the radio, and engaging with passengers.
- Failing to follow traffic laws also contributes to many car crashes in Sacramento each year. Running red lights, ignoring stop signs, and failing to yield to other vehicles is risky.
- When driving in Sacramento, be on the lookout for vehicles that are speeding, swerving, or braking erratically. If you notice any of these signs, avoid the vehicle. Do not attempt to cut them off, as that may only put you in danger. Instead, pull over when it is safe and contact the police.
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TYPES OF CAR ACCIDENT CASES WE HANDLE IN SACRAMENTO
While understanding what may cause a car accident in Sacramento, you must also know the different types of collisions. That way, you can better understand the risks of the road. Knowing what type of accident you were in will make explaining the crash to police officers, doctors, insurance agencies, and your attorney easier.
Rear-End Accidents
A rear-end accident occurs when one vehicle collides with the back of another. The most common cause of these accidents is tailgating. However, engaging in distractions may also cause a rear-end crash. Determining who is liable for this type of accident is often straightforward since California drivers must keep a safe following distance.
Head-On Crashes
A head-on crash is the most dangerous type of car accident. These crashes occur when two drivers going in opposite directions collide. They often happen at high speeds, increasing the chances of severe injuries. Additionally, these crashes typically occur on a two-way road that does not have a divider separating lanes. Drunk and distracted drivers are usually the perpetrators.
Sideswipe Collisions
A sideswipe collision occurs when the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another. These crashes typically occur on multi-lane roads with drivers traveling in the same direction. Drivers who are not paying attention or engaged in distractions might drift into the other lane. Conversely, drivers who do not yield when merging may also cause this accident.
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WHAT SHOULD I DO FOLLOWING A CAR CRASH IN SACRAMENTO?
When you are in a car accident in Sacramento, you must take steps at the accident scene and in the following days to protect your injury claim. Such steps include calling 911, documenting the crash scene, seeking medical care, and hiring an injury attorney.
Call 911
You must report a car accident to California police if the crash resulted in injuries or death. However, we recommend contacting law enforcement even if there are no injuries. That is because officers write a report documenting the accident scene and identifying involved parties. Officers might also issue citations that may help your injury claim later.
Document the Accident Scene
While you wait for officers to arrive, take this time to document the accident scene. Take photos from multiple angles, ensuring both vehicles are in the picture. Additionally, it may help to take up-close photographs showing vehicle damage.
In addition to taking pictures, speak to the other driver. However, do not admit fault for the accident, even if you believe you caused it. The only way to determine liability is through a thorough investigation. Instead, only ask for their name, phone number, and insurance policy information.
Seek Medical Care
Even if you feel fine or show no external injuries, you should still see a doctor. Not all injuries show symptoms right away, but a doctor may diagnose and treat such injuries before they worsen. You will also need a doctor to diagnose any internal injuries. Not only will seeking medical care be beneficial to your health, but it may also aid your injury claim. Insurance companies may believe that you did not sustain injuries if you didn’t see a doctor. Additionally, waiting for injuries to appear may allow the insurance company to argue that the injuries resulted from a different accident. Protect your claim and see a doctor right away.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
After you see a doctor, hire a car accident lawyer in Sacramento. Insurance companies often employ tactics to reduce or deny your claim. Even saying “I’m fine” to an insurer may cost you your entire settlement. That is why you must first speak to an auto accident attorney. Furthermore, they can represent you in all negotiations with the insurance company and protect your best interests throughout your case.
Harvard Attorney Representing YOU – Setting Records in the State of California for People JUST LIKE YOU!
Navigating the legal complexities of a car accident claim in Sacramento can be challenging. At the Oakwood Legal Group, our skilled and knowledgeable car accident attorneys can guide you through the claims process and fight for you to receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. We take time with our clients and each case and do our best to get you all you deserve. Call (888) 804-7858 or complete our contact form today to schedule a free consultation.
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