If you’re at fault in a car accident in Los Angeles, you could be held financially responsible for damages, including property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and other losses incurred by the other party.
California operates as an at-fault state, meaning the driver responsible for causing the accident is typically liable for covering these costs through their auto insurance policy. However, it isn’t always straightforward.
You’ll need to work with your insurance company and potentially deal with disputes over liability or compensation. Consulting a Los Angeles car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your interests.
Steps to Take After You Believe You Caused A Car Accident In Los Angeles
Being at fault in an auto accident can feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help minimize complications:
1. Ensure Everyone’s Safety
Check for injuries and call 911 if medical attention is needed. Move vehicles out of traffic if it’s safe to do so.
2. Report the Accident
Next, call the police. In California, you’re legally required to report any accident involving injuries or property damage over $1,000. This can also help you to ensure you get a police report later. Once you’ve alerted the authorities, notify your insurance company of the accident as well. It’s important to report the crash promptly, even if you believe the damage is minor.
3. Exchange Information
Provide your name, contact details, insurance information, and driver’s license number to the other party. Avoid admitting fault at the scene, as the full details of the accident may not be clear yet.
4. Document the Scene
Take photos of the vehicles, damages, license plates, and any relevant road conditions. This documentation can be important for resolving disputes later.
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How to Protect Yourself Moving Forward
If you think you might be found at fault in a car accident, it’s essential to understand your rights and obligations. Here are some steps to protect yourself:
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Let the investigators and insurance companies determine liability.
- Cooperate With Your Insurance Provider: Provide any requested information promptly to avoid delays.
- Consider Legal Representation: An attorney can help you handle disputes, negotiate with the other party, and ensure your rights are protected.
What if Both Drivers Share Fault for a Car Accident in Los Angeles?
California follows the pure comparative negligence rule, meaning that fault can be divided between drivers. If you’re partially at fault, your liability will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the other driver. For example, if you’re 70% at fault and the total damages are $10,000, you would be responsible for $7,000.
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Will You Receive a Traffic Citation?
In some cases, being at fault in an accident may result in a traffic citation in L.A. Common violations include:
- Running a red light
- Speeding
- Failing to yield
These citations can add points to your driving record, potentially leading to license suspension if you accumulate too many points.
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What Happens to Your Insurance Premiums?
If you’re found at fault for a car accident, your insurance premiums will likely increase. The exact amount depends on factors like:
- The severity of the accident
- Your driving history
- Your insurance provider’s policies
Some insurers offer accident forgiveness, which can prevent your rates from rising after your first at-fault accident. Check with your provider to see if this applies to your policy.
Your Insurance May Handle Your Case if You’re at Fault in a Car Accident
In accidents involving minor property damage, your insurance adjuster may take over the resolution of your case. Insurance agents can contact the other driver and handle the disbursement of compensation.
Note that your insurance representatives may take steps to show that you were not totally responsible for the accident. This reduces the amount they must pay to others involved in the crash and likely limits the increase to your monthly premium.
What if the Damages Exceed Your Insurance Limits?
If the damages and medical expenses from the auto accident exceed your insurance coverage, the injured party may pursue a claim against your personal assets. This could include your savings, property, or wages. To protect yourself, consider purchasing umbrella insurance or increasing your liability coverage limits.
Can You Face Criminal Charges for a Car Accident?
If you are determined to be at fault for an accident, there is the potential that the consequences could go beyond the financial. Depending on the actions you took that made you responsible for the collision, you could be facing jail time.
If the police discover that you were driving under the influence or charge you with another crime like reckless driving, you could be looking at serious incarceration time. The charges you face could increase greatly if someone is seriously injured or killed as a result of your actions.
How Long After an Accident Can the Other Party File a Lawsuit?
If some time has passed since your accident and the injured party has still not filed a claim against your insurance or a lawsuit against your person, you may be wondering how long they have to do so.
Under California law, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. Until the two-year mark has been reached, there is still the potential that the other party could file a lawsuit and attempt to recover compensation from you.
Once those two years have passed without any legal action being taken, however, you are no longer liable to cover the damages of the other party.
Get Legal Help if You’re at Fault in a Car Accident in Los Angeles, CA
You have legal options if you believe you’re at fault in a car accident in Los Angeles. The other driver may have a portion of responsibility for the accident. You can get help from a personal injury lawyer at Simmrin Law Group.
We have helped thousands of clients through similar situations, and we’re ready to begin discussing your case right now with a free initial case evaluation. We will answer any questions you may have and advise you on how to proceed. There is no obligation to hire us after your consultation, so feel free to get in touch today.
Call or text (626) 709-2523 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form