California Car Accident Settlement Timeline and Process 2024

Car accidents happen every single day across the state of California for various reasons. They can result in some of the most devastating injuries and property damage, and individuals who suffer these accidents due to the negligence of another party have the opportunity to seek compensation to recover their losses. Many individuals, however, have questions about the California car accident settlement timeline and process.

If you have suffered bodily harm in a car accident that was not your fault, you are likely facing the accumulation of medical expenses while being unable to return to work because of your injuries. This can be a terrifying situation to find yourself in.

At the Law Offices of Carl D. Barnes, our trusted team of car accident attorneys have over four decades of experience and can work to hold the liable parties accountable for their actions so you might receive the compensation you deserve.

What To Do Immediately Following a California Car Accident

If you sustain injuries in a car accident, how you respond immediately following that accident can have a profound impact on your settlement timeline and the overall process. When facing the aftermath of a California car accident, it is important that you take the following steps:

• Move yourself to a place of safety and call the authorities. This can ensure that there will be a police report involved, and your case will appear more valid to insurance companies when they know you received medical attention.
• If you are physically capable, document the scene of the accident, the positioning of the vehicles, and the extent of the property damage and injuries you have suffered. This can help your attorney quickly build a case.
• Exchange contact information and insurance information with the other involved parties; do not discuss or admit fault. Gathering this information can help ensure the settlement process moves quicker.
• Gather information from any eyewitnesses who may be able to provide a statement later in the process.
• Consult with an attorney. Having legal assistance in your car accident claim can allow for a more efficient claims process.

Factors Determining the Duration of a Car Accident Settlement in California

There are two main factors that can determine the duration of your car accident settlement case in California. These factors include:

• The Willingness of all Parties to Compromise: If you are willing to compromise when it comes to your settlement amount, this may quicken the overall process; however, it may also mean that you will not receive the amount of compensation you deserve in your case. Particularly in cases when seeking damages for pain and suffering. Many car accident victims worry about two things:
  • The medical bills piling up following the accident
  • The lost wages that could have paid for those bills

  This can create a difficult financial situation for you and your family, as well as pressure to reach a settlement quickly. You should be aware that many insurance companies try to take advantage of this financial struggle and offer a low settlement amount in hopes that the victim will take it out of desperation.

• Whether Any Disputes Arise: If all parties involved can agree on liability and the extent and severity of your injuries, your case could be settled quickly. Oftentimes, at-fault parties, their legal teams, and their insurance companies will try to dispute these facts, leading to lengthier negotiations and the need for court litigation in some cases.

The Car Accident Settlement Process in California

There are several crucial steps in the car accident settlement process in California, each one having the ability to extend the duration of the process:

• The initial settlement offer is made by the insurance adjuster of the at-fault party. You may end the case here, but remember that this offer will likely be lower than you deserve.
• Send the demand letter to the at-fault party and their insurance company stating what happened, the extent of your injuries, and your intent to file a personal injury claim if compensation is not paid by a certain deadline.
• File a complaint against the at-fault party.
• Collect evidence in the discovery process, such as medical records, the police report, eyewitness statements, and details regarding injuries and property damage.
• Settlement negotiations or a trial will then take place. Trials tend to take much longer.

FAQs

What Injuries Can You Suffer in a Car Accident in California?

There are injuries you can suffer in a car accident in California, depending on the exact nature of the accident. These can include road rash, chemical or thermal burns, amputations, broken bones or fractures, concussions, paralysis, soft tissue damage, internal bleeding, nerve damage, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even death.

What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents in California?

Common causes of car accidents in California include distracted driving, such as texting and driving, eating and driving, or changing the radio station; reckless driving, such as speeding, drag racing, making illegal turns or lane changes; driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol; driver fatigue or overwork; poor weather or road conditions; and defective car components.

How Much Can I Receive From a Car Accident Settlement in California?

How much you can receive from a car accident in California depends on the severity and nature of your injuries and property damage, as well as who is being held responsible. The damages you may be able to recover will ultimately affect the overall value of your settlement. These damages can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even wrongful death damages.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in California?

In the state of California, there is a strict two-year time limit for filing a personal injury claim for compensation for a car accident. This means you have exactly two years to file a car accident claim from the time of the accident or from when you discover the related injuries. For a property damage claim following an accident, the statute of limitations is typically three years.

Speak With a Trusted Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love has suffered damages as a result of a California car accident, it is time to hold the at-fault party responsible for their negligence. Contact the Law Offices of Carl D. Barnes today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can be of service to you.