Someone Ran a Red Light and Totaled My Car: What Can I Do?
If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “Someone ran a red light and totaled my car,” you know how overwhelming the situation can feel. Beyond the damage to your vehicle, you may face medical bills, lost wages, and a long road to recovery. Understanding your legal rights and next steps is crucial in navigating this stressful time. My Lawyer Mark is here to guide you through the process and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
What Can I Do If Someone Ran a Red Light and Totaled My Car?
Can I Sue the Other Driver?
A quick answer would be yes; you can sue the driver who ran a red light and totaled your car. California law holds drivers accountable for negligence, and running a red light constitutes a clear traffic violation. Keep in mind that California follows a fault-based system for car accidents. If the other driver ran a red light and caused the accident, they are likely at fault. Still, you will need evidence, such as the police report, witness statements, or traffic camera footage, to prove the other driver’s negligence.
Depending on the specific details of your accident, you can pursue:
- Property Damage Claim: To recover the cost of your totaled car and any other damaged property.
- Personal Injury Claim: If you sustained injuries, you could claim medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Take the following steps to ensure you have a case and are entitled to compensation:
Seek Medical Attention and Document the Scene
The moments following an accident are critical. If you’ve been injured, your first priority should be your health. Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Adrenaline can mask symptoms, and some injuries may not become apparent until hours or days later. While at the scene, try to document everything. Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the intersection, and any visible injuries. Eyewitness accounts and police reports are invaluable when building a case.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in California
Navigating the aftermath of a red-light collision can be legally complex. This is where a car accident lawyer in California can make all the difference. California’s laws around liability and negligence require careful analysis to ensure you receive fair compensation. An experienced attorney, like the team at My Lawyer Mark, will investigate the crash, gather evidence, and deal with insurance companies on your behalf.
Don’t delay reaching out for legal assistance. California has a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, meaning you have a limited window of time to act. Consulting with a qualified attorney as soon as possible can significantly strengthen your case.
Establishing Fault in a Red-Light Accident
Determining liability in a red-light accident is a key part of pursuing compensation. Running a red light is a clear violation of traffic laws, but proving that the other driver is at fault may require evidence such as:
- Traffic camera footage
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Skid marks or vehicle positions at the scene
A skilled car accident lawyer in California will help you compile this evidence to build a strong case. They can also work with accident reconstruction experts to demonstrate how the crash occurred and who is responsible.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
One of the most challenging aspects of any car accident case is dealing with insurance companies. Insurers often aim to minimize payouts, even when their policyholder is clearly at fault. After someone ran a red light and totaled your car, you might receive a settlement offer that doesn’t fully cover your damages.
Before accepting any settlement, consult with your attorney. My Lawyer Mark has extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for medical bills, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses. If the insurer refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, your lawyer can represent you in court.
Why Choose My Lawyer Mark?
At My Lawyer Mark, we understand how overwhelming it can be to handle the aftermath of a car accident. Our compassionate and skilled team is dedicated to helping victims like you secure the compensation they deserve. When you choose us, you gain access to a team with deep expertise in personal injury law and a commitment to personalized service.
You don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. Call us today at (866) 721-5808 for a free consultation. Let us fight for your rights while you focus on your recovery.
Preparing for a Legal Claim
To maximize your chances of success in a legal claim, it’s important to take the following steps:
- Gather all relevant documents: This includes medical records, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurance companies.
- Follow your doctor’s recommendations: Not adhering to your treatment plan could harm your claim.
- Keep a journal: Document your pain levels, emotional struggles, and how the accident has impacted your daily life.
Your attorney will guide you through these steps and ensure that your claim is well-prepared.
Common Challenges in Red-Light Accident Cases
Red-light accident cases can present unique challenges, including disputes over fault or insufficient evidence. The at-fault driver may even deny running the red light. In such situations, having a car accident lawyer in California by your side can make a significant difference. They will handle disputes, represent your interests in court if necessary, and work tirelessly to ensure justice is served.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
If someone ran a red light and totaled your car, you may be eligible for several types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: Covers emergency care, hospital bills, physical therapy, and ongoing treatments.
- Lost wages: Reimburses you for time missed from work due to injuries or recovery.
- Property damage: Includes the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
- Pain and suffering: Accounts for the physical and emotional toll of the accident.
Mark and his team will carefully calculate the full extent of your damages to ensure you are not left covering costs out of pocket.
Hire a Winner Lawyer to Protect Your Rights
When someone ran a red light and totaled your car, you have the right to seek justice. Don’t let insurance companies or negligent drivers pressure you into accepting less than you deserve. Contact My Lawyer Mark today and let our team of experienced attorneys advocate for you. Call (866) 721-5808 for a free case evaluation and take the first step toward rebuilding your life.