If you suffer injuries that require relatively minor medical treatment, you can often recover the costs associated with property damage and injuries by filing an insurance claim.
If another driver was at fault for the accident, you would typically file against the policy of the other driver. However, depending on the details of the auto accident and the injuries you sustain, it often makes sense to seek advice from an experienced Santa Barbara County lawyer before taking any type of legal action.
Every vehicle registered in California must be insured for the following under California Insurance Code (the liability coverages are the minimum limits in California):
Liability coverage of $15,000 for injury or death to one person
Liability coverage of $30,00 for injury or death to more than one person
Liability coverage of $5,000 for damage to property
You also have the option of carrying Personal Injury Protection (Medical Payments coverage) coverage that can help protect you by paying the costs of medical treatment and other related expenses if you suffer injury, regardless of fault. However, it is important to understand that insurance companies focus on protecting their bottom lines when processing claims. Even your own company may try to find reasons to deny or reduce your claim.
When you talk with an experienced lawyer before filing a claim or taking any action to pursue compensation, you get the opportunity to learn all options available for your claim — typically including insurance claims, out-of-court settlements or even a full jury trial.
If an insurance claim makes sense for your specific situation, your attorney can:
Advise you on how to handle your claim
Review a settlement offer before you sign
Remain available if you need formal legal intervention to protect your rights
