Thousand Oaks Car Accident Attorney

Fighting For Car Accident Victims in California

It is estimated that more than 3 million people are injured in car accidents across the U.S. every year. Accidents occur at any time, in any condition, and for all sorts of reasons. Even when you and your passengers are obeying all the rules of the road, a car accident can still take place. 

Times like that are exactly what we are here for here at Law Offices of Delitala. If you are looking for a car accident attorney in Thousand Oaks that you can rely on, then you have come to the right place. With nearly a decade of legal experience, we know exactly what to do to assure your success.

Injured in a car accident? Our Thousand Oaks car accident lawyers are here to help. Contact us today by calling (888) 676-0125 to schedule a free consultation!

California Car Accident FAQs

What Should I Do if I'm Injured in a Car Accident in california?

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident, you should:

• Take photos of the accident scene.
• Take photos of your property damages.
• Take photos of the vehicle(s) that struck you.
• Take photos of your injuries.
• Call the police and file a police report.
• Obtain the other driver’s insurance information.
• Seek medical treatment right away.
• Call Law Offices of Delitala to discuss whether or not you have a case.

How much time do I have to report my car accident? 

California Vehicle Code 20008 requires motorists who have been involved in an accident to report any accidents resulting in injury or death to the California Highway Patrol within 24 hours of the accident occurring. If a patrol officer does not appear on the scene to take a written report, it is your responsibility to make the report yourself.

What should I not say to my insurance company after my accident

While it is important to notify your insurance company shortly after your accident, it is also important that you refrain from the following:

• Admitting fault in the accident
• Stating that you are not injured (until you have been evaluated by a medical professional)
• Making guesses or estimates regarding what happened or the amount of damage done
• Accepting any initial offers or settlements
• Letting the insurance company know if you do not have a lawyer representing you (some insurance companies will take this as a sign that they do not need to take your case seriously)

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Common causes may include:

• Distracted Driving: This includes any activity that distracts attention from driving, like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. Even a momentary lapse in attention can result in a serious collision.
• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit is another common cause of accidents. Speeding reduces a driver's ability to respond to sudden changes in traffic conditions, making it more challenging to avoid collisions.
• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs seriously impairs judgment and reaction times. Despite strict laws, drunk driving remains a prevalent issue, leading to numerous accidents and fatalities each year.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, changing lanes without signaling, and running red lights fall under reckless driving. Such actions increase the likelihood of accidents and often result in severe consequences.
• Weather Conditions: Unfavorable weather conditions like rain, fog, and snow can create hazardous driving environments. Wet or icy roads reduce tire traction, making it harder to control the vehicle and increasing the risk of accidents.
• Running Red Lights: Ignoring traffic signals and running red lights is a dangerous practice that often leads to high-impact collisions. This reckless behavior endangers not only the driver but also other road users.
• Mechanical Failures: Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and other mechanical failures can lead to accidents. Regular vehicle maintenance is critical to prevent such issues, but sometimes defects go unnoticed, resulting in accidents.

Common Injuries in Car Accidents

Common injuries may include:

• Whiplash
• Broken Bones
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Internal Injuries
• Soft Tissue Injuries
• Psychological Injuries
• Cuts and Lacerations

Do I really need to hire a car accident lawyer? 

If you have been injured in your accident it is important to consider the amount of time and work that will need to go into your case. Rather than take time away from your recovery, oftentimes it can be helpful to have a skilled car accident attorney in Thousand Oaks to represent you. 

A trained car accident lawyer will also be prepared to find the best possible outcome from your case to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

What is the car accident statute of limitations for California?

According to California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1, if you wish to file a car accident lawsuit against the responsible party, you need to file your claim within 2 years of the date of your accident. If you don't, the defendant can request to have the case dismissed. 

Pay careful attention to these deadlines when deciding whether or not to pursue legal action. You don't want to decide too late that the insurance company hasn't offered you a fair settlement.

Should You Accept a Settlement Offer from the Insurance Company After a Car Accident?

When you've been involved in a car accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Amidst the physical and emotional toll, dealing with insurance companies adds another layer of complexity. Often, insurance companies will swiftly offer a settlement in an attempt to close the case expediently. However, accepting such an offer without thorough consideration can have long-term consequences.

Understanding the Initial Offer

Insurance companies aim to settle claims for the least amount possible to protect their bottom line. Consequently, their initial settlement offer may not fully cover your expenses, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Accepting this offer prematurely could leave you financially strained and unable to recover fully from the accident's repercussions.

Assessing the True Costs

Before accepting any settlement offer, it's crucial to assess the true extent of your damages. This may involve gathering medical records, consulting with healthcare professionals to understand the full scope of your injuries, and evaluating the long-term impact on your quality of life. Additionally, consider the costs of ongoing medical treatment or therapy that may be necessary for your recovery.

Consulting with Legal Experts

Seeking guidance from a Thousand Oaks car accident lawyer can provide invaluable insight into your legal rights and options. Experienced attorneys can evaluate the fairness of the insurance company's offer in relation to your damages and negotiate on your behalf for a more equitable settlement. They have the expertise to navigate complex legal proceedings and advocate for your best interests, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Accepting a settlement offer may provide immediate relief, but it's essential to weigh the short-term benefits against the potential long-term repercussions. By accepting a lowball offer, you could be forfeiting your right to pursue further compensation for future expenses or unforeseen complications arising from the accident. Taking the time to carefully consider all factors with the guidance of legal professionals can empower you to make informed decisions that prioritize your well-being and future financial security.

What are California's auto insurance requirements?

All California drivers are required to carry a minimum liability insurance in the event that you cause an accident (California Insurance Code §11580.1b). The minimum coverage required is $15,000 for the injury or death of a single individual, $30,000 for the injury or death of more than one individual, and $5,000 for property damage.

File a Claim with Help from our Thousand Oaks car accident lawyers

At the Law Offices of Delitala, our Conejo Valley car accident lawyer D. Sunny Delitala is dedicated to helping our clients obtain the compensation they need to get them back on their feet after a car accident.

Our firm is dedicated to helping you get a monetary award for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Attorney Delitala is not afraid to stand up to large insurance companies and negligent parties in or out of court.

For a free initial consultation with a dedicated Thousand Oaks car accident attorney, please call (888) 676-0125. We serve clients in Thousand Oaks, Conejo Park, and Palm Springs.