After being struck by a commercial vehicle near LA's Arts District, I'm facing rising medical costs and insurance challenges. What should be my next move?
I was riding my motorcycle in the vicinity of LA's Arts District when a commercial vehicle made an illegal U-turn, causing a collision. My injuries required medical attention, leading to mounting medical bills. The company’s insurance has been less than cooperative, challenging many of my claims.
I need to understand the legal aspects better. What kind of lawyer should I be looking for? How do I gauge if they're good or not, and what might their services cost? Additionally, are there any specific laws or guidelines for such situations in California that I should be aware of?
Commonly posed questions include...
Legal Solution
The response provided below is specific to Automobile accident attorneys in the jurisdiction of Los Angeles. If the response is inadequate, please submit a detailed inquiry.
Legal Framework Analysis
Given the details of your incident, it seems you're dealing with a case of personal injury stemming from an auto accident. California has specific laws governing such incidents, particularly when they involve commercial vehicles. Understanding these laws will be crucial as you proceed.
- California Vehicle Code – This code outlines the rules and regulations for vehicles operating within the state.
- California Personal Injury Laws – These laws will provide insight into the rights of accident victims.
- For a comprehensive understanding, you may want to visit the official website of the State of California at www.ca.gov.
Potential Solutions
- Seeking Medical Attention: Ensure you've documented all your medical visits, treatments, and costs. These will be crucial for your claim.
- Hiring an Attorney: Engage with a personal injury lawyer experienced with auto accident cases in California. They will guide you through the process, handle the insurance company, and ensure your rights are protected.
- Document the Incident: Gather any possible evidence, including pictures of the scene, your injuries, and any witnesses' contact information.
- Reporting: File a report with the local police and ensure you get a copy for your records.
- Consultation: You can ask a free legal question on relevant platforms to get an initial understanding of your situation.
Legal Fees in California
Average Legal Costs for Personal Injury Cases in California:
| Service | Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | 100 - 500 |
| Case Review and Research | 1,500 - 3,000 |
| Representation (no trial) | 5,000 - 15,000 |
| Representation (with trial) | 15,000 - 40,000 |
Please note that these are general estimates. Costs can vary based on the complexity of your case and the lawyer's experience. Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they take a percentage of the settlement rather than an upfront fee.
Further Information Needed
To assist you more comprehensively, please provide further details:
- Medical Treatment: How severe were your injuries and what treatments have you undergone?
- Witness Accounts: Were there any witnesses? Do you have their contact details?
- Communication: What has been your communication with the insurance company?
Q1: What if the driver of the commercial vehicle denies the illegal U-turn?
Typically, this is where evidence like photographs, video footage, or witness statements become crucial. Your attorney can help you gather and present this evidence to counter such claims.
Q2: Will my motorcycle insurance cover any of the medical bills?
It depends on your insurance policy. Some motorcycle insurance policies might cover medical bills regardless of who's at fault. You should contact your insurance provider for specific details.
Q3: Can I claim compensation for missed workdays due to the accident?
Yes, in personal injury claims, you can seek compensation for lost wages due to missed workdays resulting from the accident.
Q4: What if the insurance company offers a settlement? Should I take it?
Before accepting any settlement offers, it's essential to consult with your attorney. They will help ensure the offer covers all your expenses and is in your best interest.
Q5: Can the company owning the commercial vehicle be held liable?
In many cases, the company owning the commercial vehicle can be held liable, especially if the driver was on duty at the time. Your attorney will guide you on this aspect.
To get a clearer picture of your legal journey ahead, compare lawyers in your area and find the right expert for your needs.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It's always recommended to consult with a local attorney about your specific situation.Written, answered, changed
Legal question "Hit by a Commercial Vehicle in LA - Need Legal Help!" has been changed 5 days 2 hours ago. Demonstrate your legal skills and willingness to help and answer right now! Issue is related to the location of Los Angeles & area of law: Automobile accident attorneys.When should you seek a personal injury lawyer? Car accident attorney will be needed in the event of traffic accidents that lead to serious injuries or long-term medical treatment of those involved. Choosing an experienced attorney will help increase the chances that you get the compensation that you deserve. By hiring a personal injury lawyer to represent you immediately after a car accident, you will have a professional working for you – one who is very knowledgeable about the specific field of law and procedural rules that may significantly affect your case.
An indicator of the skills of a particular injury lawyer is the fact how many lawsuits he/she has won as well as careful pre-court preparation and possibly also the process of negotiation with the counterparty. In the case of car accidents where there are problems related to limits for car insurance, lawyers may threaten to file a suit. However, in most cases, an out-of-court settlement can be reached between the parties. Why should you hire a car accident attorney? Underestimating such a decision may result in considerable financial loss, especially in the event that you or the other party (the participant of the accident) have inadequate insurance coverage and the insurance company thus does not pay the claim.
