Navigating California's At-Fault Liability Laws
In the event of a car accident, California follows an “at-fault” rule to determine liability. An at-fault rule means that the driver who is responsible for causing an accident is also responsible for paying the resulting damages through their insurance carrier.
This law is straightforward enough for accidents where only one driver is at fault; however, it’s true that most accidents can find both parties at fault in some way, no matter how small.
Examples of "fault" that are easily overlooked include driving slightly above the speed limit or failing to put on a turn signal. In these circumstances, an injured driver can still recover compensation through California’s "pure comparative negligence" law. This law states that any injured party can file a claim against a negligent party, but the percentage of responsibility they are found to bear will also be reduced from the overall compensation awarded to them.
For example, if you are found to be 10% at fault for the accident, your total compensation will be reduced by the same amount, 10%. Our experienced attorneys will be happy to answer questions you may have about this complicated area of the law during a free consultation.
Because crashes in and around Redding often involve multiple vehicles on highways like I-5 or State Route 44, determining fault can require careful investigation of police reports, witness statements, and available traffic footage. Some incidents may also involve impaired drivers, which is why our firm also represents people injured in drunk driving accidents throughout the region.
Can I File A Car Accident Claim After Insurance Pays In California?
Most insurance companies ensure they include in their settlement offers that no additional compensation beyond the settlement amount can be collected after an agreement is signed.
If you sign a settlement offer, you will most likely be unable to recover anything else, even if your injuries become more serious in the following weeks and months after your accident, a common occurrence with injuries sustained in a car accident.
If you have been offered a settlement, or if you have already signed one, call Haslerud Law Office, A Professional Corporation, today to talk about your claim.
Settlements, while providing immediate relief, may not always cover future complications or treatments related to your injuries. Before agreeing to any settlement, a thorough medical and legal assessment is recommended to ensure that the compensation aligns with future needs. At Haslerud Law Office, we perform comprehensive evaluations of our clients' injuries, anticipating long-term impacts and fighting for compensation that is just and sustainable.
We regularly see clients who were treated at local facilities such as Mercy Medical Center Redding or other regional clinics and later discover that they need additional care not considered in the original settlement offer. By consulting with a Redding car accident lawyer before you sign, you can better understand how ongoing medical care, lost income, and future limitations should be factored into any agreement with the insurance company.
Understanding Car Accident Damages And Compensation
After a serious crash, many people are unsure what types of losses they can include in a claim and how those losses will be documented. In addition to obvious items like emergency room bills and damage to your vehicle, California law allows injured drivers and passengers to seek compensation for a range of financial and personal harms caused by the collision. Taking time early on to identify these categories of damages helps you make informed decisions about settlement offers and whether additional investigation or documentation is needed.
Economic damages typically cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and any future treatment your doctors reasonably anticipate you will need. They can also include lost wages if you miss work, diminished earning capacity if you cannot return to your prior job, and out-of-pocket costs such as travel to appointments or modifications to your home or vehicle. When you work with an auto accident attorney who understands how judges and juries in Shasta County evaluate these claims, you can better organize records and testimony that clearly show the financial impact of the crash.
Non-economic damages focus on the human side of an injury, such as ongoing pain, limitations in daily activities, anxiety about driving, or the loss of hobbies and relationships that were important to you before the accident. While these harms are less tangible than a hospital invoice, they are very real and can significantly affect your quality of life for years to come. We carefully listen to how your injuries have changed your routine at home, at work, and in the Redding community so that your story is fully presented when we pursue compensation on your behalf.
Schedule Your No-Cost Legal Consultation in Redding, CA
From the most complex accidents to simple fender benders, we represent each client to medical parties and insurance companies in order to resolve medical bills, insurance claims, and more.
Haslerud Law Office helps clients in Shasta and the surrounding counties, and our Redding car accident attorneys are ready to fight for you. Through open communication, persistence, and personalized attention to each client and his or her claim, we are dedicated to pursuing the resolution you desire, and winning the damages you deserve.
You can learn more about our firm and our experience representing injury victims throughout Northern California. You can also read client reviews to see how we have helped others facing similar situations.
If you were injured in a crash in Redding, speak with our legal team today. Call (530) 968-4300 or visit our Contact us page to schedule your free car accident case evaluation.
Commonly Asked Questions
What Should I Do Immediately After A Car Accident in Redding?
After a car accident in Redding, it's crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being. First, check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Move to a safe location if possible, and exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact details, and insurance information. Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. It's also advisable to gather contact information from any witnesses. Once you have ensured safety and documented the incident, reach out to a qualified car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.
Why Should I Choose Haslerud Law Office for My Car Accident Case?
Choosing Haslerud Law Office for your car accident case means you are selecting a team with over 20 years of experience in advocating for accident victims in Redding and Northern California. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing personalized attention and open communication throughout the legal process. We understand the complexities of car accident claims and are committed to fighting for maximum compensation on your behalf. Our focus on client care sets us apart, making us a reliable choice for those seeking justice after an accident.
Additionally, our firm offers a comprehensive understanding of the local landscape—legal procedures, insurance nuances, and judicial tendencies in Redding and Northern California. This insight into local operations and jurisdictions allows us to serve our clients with an advantage in their claims. We are here to ensure that every aspect of your incident is meticulously examined and that your rights are upheld and advocated for throughout the legal proceedings.
How Can I Handle Car Repairs and Rental Cars After an Accident?
Handling car repairs and arranging rental vehicles promptly is crucial after an accident. Start by documenting all damages thoroughly with photos. Contact your insurance company to file a claim and inquire about coverage for repairs and rental car services. It’s beneficial to understand the details of your policy beforehand, particularly any clauses regarding rental car reimbursement. At Haslerud Law Office, we assist clients in managing these aspects by liaising with insurance firms to ensure fair and timely processing of repairs. Our emphasis is always on minimizing disruption to your daily life while securing necessary transportation.
Often, insurance companies will have preferred repair shops, but you retain the right to choose where your repairs are done. Evaluating different quotes ensures that you receive quality service. Additionally, while your vehicle is being repaired, rental services should be coordinated immediately. Our team works to ensure these logistics are handled efficiently, allowing you to focus on recovery.
What are Common Injuries Resulting from Car Accidents?
Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor bruises to life-altering conditions. Common injuries include whiplash, caused by a sudden jerk of the head, often resulting in neck pain and stiffness. Fractures, sprains, and strains are also prevalent, particularly in collisions involving sudden stops or impacts. More severe accidents may result in traumatic brain injuries, which require comprehensive medical attention and rehabilitation.
Additionally, spinal cord injuries and internal organ damage are potential outcomes, often necessitating long-term medical care. Emotional distress and psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, are also considerable concerns following an accident. At Haslerud Law Office, we understand the multifaceted nature of these injuries and work diligently to ensure that such impacts are thoroughly evaluated and addressed within the legal framework to aid in acquiring necessary support and compensation for rehabilitation and recovery.
How Can Legal Guidance Help with Insurance Negotiations?
Navigating insurance negotiations after a car accident can be intricate, with insurance companies often attempting to minimize payouts. Having legal guidance level with their strategies can make a significant difference. At Haslerud Law Office, our team manages communication, addresses the insurance adjuster’s tactics, and ensures that all necessary documentation, including medical records and repair estimates, are organized and presented effectively. This proactive approach is crucial to ensure you receive a fair evaluation and settlement offer that accurately reflects the extent of your damages.
Our dedicated legal team also protects clients from common pitfalls, such as prematurely accepting low settlements or making recorded statements that could jeopardize their claim. By providing adept negotiation and clear representation of your case, we work to maximize the benefits of your policy and the compensation you’re entitled to, allowing you to focus on recovery with peace of mind.
