Car Accident Lawyer
Your Oakland, CA car accident lawyer knows that when you were injured in a car accident, one of the worst things can be when a crowd forms or other people start arriving at the scene. Even if you were the one who decided to call local authorities, it can still add a level of stress to the car accident that wasn’t there before. However, working with police officers following your car accident can provide a critical piece of evidence for your claim. If you would like to learn more about how police officers can help with your claim after a car accident, reach out to the trusted lawyers at Siegal & Richardson, LLP. We believe in looking at multiple types of evidence and we will do our due diligence for our clients’ claims.
Working With Local Law Enforcement
It is critical that when police arrive at the scene of your car accident, you understand what to say and how to act when speaking with the police officers.
- Stay calm and remain polite. It’s true, this may be the most difficult thing you can do following your accident. Your adrenaline might be running high and you may be upset, mad, or even angry at the other party for causing the accident. However, it is crucial that you remain composed and collect your thoughts before speaking with the police.
- Ensure you are safe. Before you talk with anyone, take a few minutes to assess how you’re doing. Do you have obvious injuries? Did you remain awake for the whole accident or do you think you passed out? Do you have symptoms of internal injuries (like large bruising or pooling blood)? It is crucial that you prioritize your safety so that you can call an ambulance or speak with the police about getting EMTs to the scene.
- Be honest with the police. If you are ready to speak with the police, be honest (but don’t overshare). You don’t have to talk about every detail of your day and you don’t have to offer your speculations (like if you think they were driving drunk or think they were texting). Stick to the very basics when you share your side of the story.
- Don’t admit fault. You never want to admit fault when it comes to an accident. Your Oakland car accident lawyer will help you with your case when you are ready and can help if the other driver is accusing you of being partially responsible.
- Get a copy of the police report. You should speak with your lawyer about what kinds of evidence will be critical to your claim and one of the first things they will likely say is that a police report will help. Ask your lawyer about how you can get a police report to support your injury claim.
See How Our Team Can Help You
When you are ready to move forward with your claim and would like to see what our team can do for you, reach out to Siegal & Richardson, LLP. We believe in fighting for our clients’ rights. Call our Oakland car accident lawyer for help now.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
As an Oakland, CA car accident lawyer can attest, car accidents are an unfortunate reality on our roads, and they come in various forms. Understanding the most common types of car accidents can help drivers stay vigilant and take precautions to prevent them. When accidents do happen, it’s essential to know that legal support is available. Siegal & Richardson, LLP is here to guide you through the aftermath of any car accident.
Rear-End Collisions: The Everyday Accident
Rear-end collisions are perhaps the most common type of car accident. They often occur when one vehicle follows too closely behind another and fails to stop in time to avoid a collision. These accidents can range from minor fender benders to more severe crashes, resulting in whiplash, back injuries, or even fatalities.
Intersection Accidents: A Complex Scenario
Intersections are high-risk areas where cars traveling in different directions cross paths. Accidents at intersections can occur when drivers run red lights, fail to yield the right of way, or make improper left-hand turns. These accidents can result in T-bone collisions, which are known for their severe impact and potential for serious injuries.
Side-Swipe Collisions: Lane Changes Gone Wrong
Side-swipe collisions occur when two vehicles traveling parallel to each other make contact. These accidents often happen during lane changes or when a driver drifts out of their lane. While side-swipe collisions may seem less severe, they can still lead to significant property damage and injuries.
Single-Vehicle Accidents: A Solo Mishap
Single-vehicle accidents involve only one vehicle and typically result from factors such as driver error, road conditions, or mechanical failures. Common examples include running off the road, hitting a stationary object, or rolling over. In these cases, the driver may still have legal options, especially if a defective vehicle component contributed to the accident.
Seeking Legal Support for Car Accidents
When you’re involved in any type of car accident, it’s crucial to consider speaking with an Oakland car accident lawyer, especially if the accident resulted from another party’s negligence. Our attorneys will review the details of your accident, gather evidence, and determine liability. To build a strong case, we must establish that another party’s negligence or misconduct led to the accident and your injuries. There are a number of ways to do this, including working with accident reconstruction specialists and medical experts to strengthen your case.
Our legal team will assess the physical, emotional, and financial losses you have suffered due to the accident, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Once we determine the amount of damages you have suffered, we will work to negotiate a fair settlement with the responsible party’s insurance company. If negotiations do not yield a satisfactory result, we are prepared to take your case to court to seek the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Our Firm?
At Siegal & Richardson, LLP, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that car accidents can take on victims and their families. We are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the support you need to recover and move forward.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, call our office to schedule a free consultation with a skilled Oakland car accident lawyer and find out what legal options you may have.