Did you know that each year, over 3,700 people die on California roadways? California leads the nation in pedestrian fatalities, with over 1,100 deaths per year, and nearly 75% of these occur at night.
Car accidents are stressful, but knowing you caused them might make them even worse. Under California accident fault laws, if you cause an accident, you may be held responsible for the damage and injuries that result.
You would be held liable for damage to property that arose from the accident. These damages might consist of repairs to the other driver's car, damaged personal property, or even public property, such as a guardrail.
Most damage claims will be covered by your car insurance, but once any damages exceed your coverage, you may be held liable for the remaining claim.
Let’s discuss the consequences of being held liable for a car accident lawsuit in California.
Most of the time, being at fault increases your insurance rates. The insurer will examine the details of the accident, identify which party is at fault, and compensate the other party for damages.
If reckless or fraudulent behavior is proven in your case, there is a chance that you could face legal action. You could also be cited for speeding or reckless driving, which would result in points on your record. If enough points are accumulated, your license can get suspended.
According to car accident lawyer Christina Rivenbark, if you don’t have insurance or enough coverage to fully compensate the damages, you will be held accountable through a personal injury claim.
Regarding this issue, you can consult an attorney to guide you through the entire process.
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Lawsuits and Criminal Consequences
If the other party feels your insurance won't be able to compensate adequately for their damages, they can initiate an injury suit against you. This may include long-term injuries or the losses arising from the inability to earn income.
In severe accidents, especially those caused by DUI, hit-and-run drivers, or the person's grossly negligent conduct, criminal charges may go with civil liability. The civil liability and criminal penalties sometimes may be applied simultaneously.
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Steps to Take if You’re at Fault
If you find yourself at fault, you need to remain calm and take the appropriate responsible actions. If necessary, call the police for official records.
After an accident, you must contact your insurance company at once. Don't be dishonest about anything or omit any details from the insurance company regarding the accident.
Write everything down. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and injuries. Gather information from witnesses and document any repairs and medical treatments.
Get legal advice in case you have any injuries, or if there is a dispute regarding who is at fault, or if it is not clear whether all damages are covered under your policy. The sooner issues like these are resolved, the less stressful they are and the less likely they are to escalate.
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How to Find the Right Lawyer for a Car Accident You Caused
Investing in the right attorney is important. Your auto accident defense attorney must have a great deal of experience protecting clients in comparable circumstances.
Inquire into the degree of experience with managing cases in which the client is at fault, negotiating settlements with insurance companies, and suing. They should help explain your options, stay in touch with you, and impart confidence in the decision you make for your injury case.
A seasoned lawyer will not only negotiate settlements but will also represent you in a court of law whenever necessary. Your attorney would assist you in making claims against insurance companies. Time, frustration, and possibly a significant amount of money can be saved by seeking legal assistance at the appropriate moment.
Conclusion
Being at fault in a California car accident lawsuit can lead to significant financial liability, increased insurance premiums, and potential legal consequences that extend far beyond the initial collision.
Understanding your responsibilities under California's fault laws and taking immediate, appropriate action can help protect you from escalating damages and complications.
If you're facing serious injuries, disputed fault, or inadequate insurance coverage, a car accident lawsuit may be inevitable.
However, with proper documentation, honest communication with your insurance company, and experienced legal representation, you can navigate these challenges more effectively.
The key to minimizing long-term consequences is acting quickly and seeking professional guidance when needed.
Remember that early intervention by a qualified attorney can save you time, money, and stress while ensuring your rights are fully protected throughout the legal process.
Disclaimer:
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