What Happens to Your Accident Claim If the At-Fault Driver Did Not Get a Ticket?
There are many different causes of car accidents in California. Often, when a car accident involves driver negligence, a police officer may give the at-fault driver a ticket. However, that is not always the case. Many people believe that if the at-fault driver was not given a ticket for the accident, then they will not have a case against them.
Car accident injury firm Eric Ratinoff Law Corp. has over 25 years of experience helping injured people recover financial compensation due to another person’s negligent or careless behavior. Whether or not the other driver was given a ticket at the scene of an accident, you can still pursue and recover the damages you are owed.
Can You Still File an Injury Claim for an Accident That Was Not Ticketed?
Many people assume that a police officer must write the at-fault driver a ticket after an accident in order for there to be a valid claim against them. But that is not the case. Even if the other driver was not ticketed for the accident, they are still liable for the injuries and losses you have sustained as a result of their negligence.
While it does not matter whether or not the other driver was ticketed for the accident, it is important to understand what they did to cause the crash. This can help determine the amount they are liable for the accident. Some common causes of car accidents relating to driver negligence include:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving while drowsy
- Inexperienced driving
A skilled car accident lawyer will collect the evidence needed to build a strong claim.
What Type of Evidence Do You Need for a Car Accident Claim?
Once you have made sure that you and any passengers are not in immediate danger and that first responders have been called, there are crucial pieces of evidence you can collect after a car accident that will help strengthen your claim.
- Police Report: Even if the police do not ticket the other driver, they will file an official police report. The police report is an important piece of evidence to a car accident claim. Make sure you get a copy after the report has been filed.
- Photos and Videos: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, any visible injuries, and property damage. You may also want to capture proof of the accident, like skid marks or damaged objects on the side of the road.
- Witness Statements: If any witnesses approach you after the accident, ask them if they would feel comfortable providing you with their contact information and brief statement of what they saw occur.
- Driver Information: Be sure to get the name, contact information, and insurance provider of the driver who hit you.
If you need assistance collecting evidence after a car accident, a knowledgeable attorney can help.
Get Help with Your Car Accident Claim from a Skilled Attorney
If you or a family member has been injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, you deserve to be compensated. Suffering after a car accident can leave you with costly expenses like medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
Personal injury attorney Eric Ratinoff is dedicated to fighting for people who were injured through no fault of their own. He always pursues the maximum amount in compensation to ensure his clients can recover to the fullest extent possible. With over 25 years of experience, Eric Ratinoff Law Corp. provides personal injury victims in California with the dedicated representation they need. To schedule a free consultation, contact us here or call (916) 970-9100.
