Legal Question in Personal Injury in California
what are my rights and entitlements after an accident?
I was recently hit from behind by a city of Los Angeles vehicle, totalling the car and injuring myself and the passenger. The injuries were not serious (ambulance not required) but we are undergoing chiropractice since the accident (3 weeks until now).
I had just decided to buy the car and did not actually own the car and although the car was insured for any driver, I was not specifically on the insurance as an additional driver.
The representative from the city of LA is now claiming that they will not pay for the car rental, car storage or towing as now, they claim that they did not need to look at the car, while at the time of the accident and three days after the accident, said they would take care of it.
They are making life tougher than it is and I would like to know, given the complication of this situation, what am I entitled to as the accident was not even remotely my fault? Do I need a lawyer to take care of everything or should I do it myself?
Several lawyers have turned down the case, given that the recovery is supposedly small. Who can I turn for help?
5 Answers from Attorneys
Re: what are my rights and entitlements after an accident?
If there was collision coverage on the policy for the car you were driving, that could handle the total loss, tow and storage subject to any deductible. If there was rental coverage, you could use that, too. Medical Payments coverage would help with the bills. If there was a police report, get it along with photos of your car. I can't quite tell what the problem is with the city. If your bills and car come to $5000 or less, you could use Small Claims court. There are attorneys in the LA area who will handle a soft tissue case. If your DC treatment goes past 6-8 weeks, get a consult with an MD. Good Luck.
Re: what are my rights and entitlements after an accident?
The value of the recovery depends on the injuries and medical costs. If your medical bills exceed $1000 or more, then its worth an attorneys time to handle. Contact me if interested.
Re: what are my rights and entitlements after an accident?
You should seek the services of an attorney, particularly because the accident involves a vehicle belonging to the City of Los Angeles. If you cannot find an attorney on your own, you may call the Lawyer Referral Service of the local bar association in the county in which you live. They can refer you to attorneys who handle this type of matter.
Re: what are my rights and entitlements after an accident?
It seems to me that particularly if you and your passenger go to the same lawyer the case is substantial enough to take on a contingency basis. You certainly will be better served by being represented by a qualified and knowledgeable lawyer. You may contact us if you like. Be advised that you must timely file a notice of claim against the goverment body that receives notices of claim for the bus system involved. Do not delay, the time period is short.
Re: what are my rights and entitlements after an accident?
Do not waste any more time dealing with the city. They are self insured and like any insurance company, they will not pay willingly. You need to consult an attorney ASAP.
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