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Hiring an accident lawyer in Del Mar CA can make a tremendous difference when fighting for your total compensation. Our lawyers at My Lawyer Mark have the experience and the knowledge to fight for the last penny owed to you. They know how to face insurance companies and their lawyers and can build a winning strategy for your case. 

Among the many personal injury law firms in California, My Lawyer Mark stands out because we genuinely care about our clients and treat them like family. We combine experience, knowledge, and strategy with human, empathetic care for our defendants. Call us today at (866) 721-5808 to make a free consultation and receive high-quality representation immediately. 

The Benefits of Hiring an Accident Lawyer in Del Mar, CA

Dealing with car accidents in California can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not at fault. As a ‘fault state,’ California holds the at-fault driver financially responsible for injuries and car damage. Hiring an attorney can help prove your innocence, potentially leading to financial compensation through a settlement or court case. At My Lawyer Mark, we’re here to guide you through this process and fight for your rights.

While our San Diego car accident lawyers have aided many people in similar situations, we recognize every case is unique and give each one personalized attention. Don’t face the aftermath of a car accident by yourself. Our lawyers can provide guidance and support to help you get the maximum possible compensation.

Types of Accidents We Work With

  • Car Accidents
  • Motorcycle Accidents
  • Truck Accidents
  • Uber/Lyft Accidents
  • Wrongful Death
  • Dog bite injuries
  • Pedestrian accidents
  • Premises liability
  • Slip and fall

What Should I Do After an Accident?

If you’re in an accident and get hurt, the whole experience can be scary and confusing. Here’s what to do to protect yourself:

  • Make sure you’re safe. If you can, move your car out of traffic to avoid getting hit again.
  • Call 911 for help. Tell them about the accident and ask for an ambulance if you or someone else is injured.
  • Get details about the crash. Write down the other driver’s name, contact information, and insurance company. Before leaving, politely ask a police officer or paramedic for a copy of the report. If possible, take photos and videos of the scene.
  • Talk to an accident lawyer in Del Mar CA about your claim. 

Frequent Causes of Accidents

  • Excessive speed: Traveling faster than the limit.
  • Rash driving: Taking unnecessary risks or acting without care.
  • Inattentive driving: Focusing on something other than the road.
  • Driving under the influence: Operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
  • Following too closely: Failing to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead.
  • Disobeying traffic regulations: Ignoring signs, signals, or lane markings.
  • Poor road conditions: Issues with the pavement or infrastructure.
  • Drowsy driving: Operating a vehicle while tired.

What Compensation Can I Receive for an Accident?

The amount of compensation you can receive for an accident in Del Mar, California, depends on various factors but generally falls into two categories: economic and non-economic damages.

Economic damages are those with a clear monetary value, such as:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Property damage
  • Rehabilitation costs

Non-economic damages are those that are more subjective and harder to quantify, such as:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium (inability to maintain a normal marital relationship)

Here are some additional factors that can affect the amount of compensation you receive:

  • The severity of your injuries
  • The permanence of your injuries
  • The extent to which the other party was at fault
  • Whether you share any fault for the accident
  • The availability of insurance coverage

Because the value of your claim depends on the specifics of your case, it’s essential to consult with an accident lawyer in Del Mar. They can review your case and give you a more accurate compensation estimate.

Every Step of a Personal Injury Claim

While the specifics might differ, the overall process for filing a personal injury claim usually follows these steps:

Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer

Consult a lawyer after getting medical care and deciding to pursue a claim. Even for seemingly simple cases, a free initial consultation can be helpful. Share all the details you have and ask any questions you may have. If the lawyer agrees to take your case, they’ll guide you through the rest.

Notification and Rights Reservation Letters

Your lawyer will send an official letter to the insurance company, letting them know you intend to file a claim. They’ll respond with a reservation of rights letter, acknowledging your notice and stating they’ll investigate the claim without admitting fault.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Next, your lawyer will start collecting information and proof related to the accident. This involves reviewing your medical records and treatment history. They’ll also try to speak to witnesses and examine any accident footage available. This stage helps them understand the event, who’s responsible, and the extent of their injuries.

Demand Letter

Usually, your lawyer will wait until you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) before moving forward. MMI means you’ve either finished treatment or reached the peak of your physical recovery. A demand letter outlines the facts of the case and details your expenses and damages.

Negotiations

The insurance company is unlikely to accept your initial demands fully. They’ll likely offer a lower amount. Your lawyer will typically handle these negotiations, potentially going back and forth with the insurance adjuster multiple times.

Settlement

After negotiations, your lawyer will discuss any settlement offer before accepting it.

How Long Does It Take to Receive My Compensation?

In general, most settlements are received within two weeks to five months. However, depending on the circumstances, some cases may take less time or even years.

The timeframe for receiving compensation after a personal injury claim settlement can vary significantly depending on the specifics of your case. Here’s a breakdown of the influencing factors:

  • Case Complexity: Straightforward cases with minimal injuries and clear liability tend to resolve faster. Complex cases with extensive injuries disputed faults, or involving multiple parties take longer.
  • Settlement vs. Lawsuit: Settling with the insurance company is generally quicker than going to court. Lawsuits can drag on for months or even years.
  • Insurance Company Processing: Once a settlement is agreed upon, the insurance company needs time to process the paperwork and issue the payment. This can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Is there a Time Limit to Do My Claim?

Yes, there is a time limit to file a personal injury claim. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations. It’s essential to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet this deadline.

The specific time limit varies depending on your location. In many states, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. You generally have two years to file a lawsuit after your injury.

There can be exceptions to this two-year rule. For instance, some states have shorter or longer deadlines depending on the case specifics or if the injured party was a minor at the time of the incident.

Here are some recommendations:

  • Contact an accident lawyer in Del Mar CA. They can advise you on your state’s exact statute of limitations and guide you through the claims process.
  • Be sure to file your claim before the last minute. Even if you think you might settle with the insurance company outside of court, filing within the timeframe is crucial for protecting your rights.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire an Accident Lawyer in Del Mar?

In California, personal injury lawyers often work on a contingency fee basis, meaning their fees are contingent upon winning the case or securing a settlement. This arrangement allows clients to access legal services without paying any upfront fees. Instead, the lawyer’s fee is a percentage of the amount recovered in the case, whether through a settlement or court judgment. The lawyer does not receive a fee if the client does not win the case or receive a settlement. 

The terms of the contingency fee arrangement are outlined in a written agreement between the lawyer and the client. This agreement details the percentage fee, additional costs that might be deducted from the recovery, such as court filing and expert witness fees, and the client’s responsibilities. Depending on the agreement, these costs and expenses might be deducted before or after the lawyer’s fee is calculated. 

Free Consultation With an Accident Lawyer in Del Mar, CA

An experienced accident lawyer in Del Mar, CA, can make the difference in receiving all the compensation you deserve by law. Get a new car, pay your medical bills, recover lost wages, and obtain multiple benefits for you and your family. Call My Lawyer Mark at (866) 721-5808 and get quality legal representation immediately.