Uninsured/Under-insured Motorist Arbitration

Uninsured/Under-insured Motorist Arbitration

Edward A Smith Law Offices: Your Trusted Advocate for Personal Injury in Sacramento, Also Serving Modesto, Elk Grove, and Stockton. We understand the challenges of accident recovery. Let us be your guide through the process. With our team available 24/7, you'll always have the support you need, exactly when you need it.

Specializing in personal injury and auto accident claims, our team adeptly handles investigations, negotiations, and litigation against insurance companies to ensure the compensation you deserve, for your losses.

We know that insurance companies have lawyers who fight for them, so seeking compensation from them alone, will not get you the compensation that you may deserve. Our attorneys will review your case and give you the information you need to move forward.

How Are We Paid?

Our offices accept California personal injury cases on a contingent fee basis.

What this means is that we are only paid a fee for attorney services when we actually collect money on a client's behalf, and that the fee we receive is a specific percentage of the money recovered. Also, because of efficiencies of operation, we are able to offer a discounted rate for all cases we take in through this Web site if the client is willing to communicate with us throughout the case via e-mail.

Unlike some Personal Injury law firms, if we take a case, we do not normally charge a fee on any of the property damage monies recovered.

And unlike many Personal Injury law firms, our attorney fees are calculated on the gross settlement after payment of costs, which results in more money in our clients' pockets than they would receive from attorneys who calculate their fees on the full settlement amount.

How to Reach Us
The Law Offices of Edward A. Smith is located in the Point West Plaza at 1610 Arden Way #280, Sacramento, CA 95815.

916-921-6400 (Sacramento, CA office)
916-921-5276 (Fax to Sacramento, CA office)

Edward A Smith Law Offices

1610 Arden Wy #280,

Sacramento, CA 95815, United States

916-921-6400

Tractor Accidents

DUI Accidents: Legal Remedies for Victims in Sacramento

DUI Accidents: Legal Remedies for Victims in Sacramento

The havoc wrought by driving under the influence (DUI) is a grim reality that plagues roads across the United States, and Sacramento is no exception. DUI accidents not only cause significant property damage but, more distressingly, they often result in serious injuries or even fatalities. For victims of such accidents, navigating the aftermath can be an overwhelming experience steeped in physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial burden. However, it's important to recognize that victims have rights under the law and there are legal remedies available to help them seek justice and compensation.

When someone chooses to drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs in Sacramento, they are violating California state law. This negligent behavior puts others at risk and when an accident occurs as a result of this negligence, the driver is held liable for damages. The legal system provides a framework through which victims can hold these drivers accountable.

The first step for many victims is often dealing with insurance companies. California operates under a fault-based system for car accidents which means that those who are responsible for causing accidents are also responsible for covering the damages. In theory, this should mean that a victim can simply file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other costs. However, insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether.

This is where legal recourse becomes paramount. Victims of DUI accidents can pursue further action by filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. By doing so, they may recover compensatory damages - both economic (such as medical expenses and lost income) and noneconomic (such as pain and suffering). In certain egregious cases where the conduct of the drunk driver was particularly reckless or intentional, punitive damages might also be awarded as a means of punishing the wrongdoer and deterring similar behavior in others.

In Sacramento County courts take DUI offenses seriously; hence victims have substantial grounds on which to build their cases with appropriate evidence documenting negligence and harm caused by it. An essential component of building this case includes proving four key elements:

1) Duty: Demonstrating that the driver had an obligation to act responsibly on the road.
2) Breach: Showing how drinking and driving constitutes a breach of this duty.
3) Causation: Linking the breach directly to the accident in question.
4) Damages: Detailing all losses resulting from said accident.

Victims may choose representation from experienced personal injury attorneys who specialize in DUI cases – professionals well-versed in local laws pertaining to these specific types of incidents will navigate court systems effectively on behalf of their clients' best interests.

It's crucial not to overlook timelines when seeking legal redress; California imposes strict statutes of limitations regarding how long after an incident one can file suit – generally two years from date injury occurred (or was discovered). Missing these deadlines could jeopardize your ability seek recompense whatsoever.

Moreover community resources exist within Sacramento offering support beyond courtroom walls — various advocacy groups provide counseling services educational programs aimed helping survivors cope with repercussions associated with traumatic experiences like DUI crashes while raising awareness about dangers drunk driving poses overall society thereby encouraging prevention efforts moving forward.

In conclusion being involved in DUI-related collision presents unfortunate set circumstances but knowing there avenues available seeking compensation ought bring some solace affected parties understanding one's rights alongside competent legal assistance ensures path towards recovery justice made accessible ensuring violators held accountable actions safeguarding public future occurrences alike thus fostering safer communities everyone call home.



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Uber and Lyft Accidents: What You Need to Know in Sacramento

Uber and Lyft Accidents: What You Need to Know in Sacramento

The advent of rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft has revolutionized transportation in cities across the globe. Sacramento, the capital city of California, is no exception. With a bustling population eager to embrace technology for convenience, more and more people are turning to these services for their daily commutes, nights out, and transportation needs. However, with this surge in usage comes an increased likelihood of accidents involving rideshare vehicles. If you find yourself involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Sacramento, there are essential things you should know.

Firstly, it's important to understand that the legal landscape surrounding rideshare accidents can be complex. Unlike traditional taxi services that employ drivers directly, Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors. This distinction affects liability issues when accidents occur.

In the event of an accident while you're a passenger in an Uber or Lyft car—or if your vehicle is hit by one—several insurance policies may come into play. Both Uber and Lyft carry third-party liability insurance coverage which can cover up to $1 million per accident when a driver is en route to pick up passengers or during trips with passengers on board.

However, if the rideshare app was off at the time of the incident or if the driver had not yet accepted a ride request, then that driver’s personal insurance policy is typically considered primary coverage. It's crucial for all parties involved in any such collision to gather as much information as possible at the scene; this includes taking photos of damages, collecting witness statements when available, and exchanging contact information with all individuals involved.

Moreover, seeking medical attention immediately after an accident is vital—even if injuries seem minor initially—as some symptoms may take hours or even days to manifest themselves fully. Moreover, obtaining prompt medical care creates a documented link between the accident and any injuries sustained which can be critical should you need to file a claim later on.

It's also advisable to get in touch with local law enforcement so they can file an official report regarding the incident—a key document which could support your case if there are disputes over what happened or who was at fault.

For those navigating post-accident procedures without prior experience or knowledge of legal intricacies related specifically to ridesharing incidents within Sacramento’s jurisdictional context might find it challenging; hence consulting with attorneys experienced in handling such cases becomes paramount.

Lawyers who specialize in auto accidents involving rideshare companies will have insight into how best proceed given specific circumstances surrounding each unique situation—from dealing directly insurers through negotiations settlement offers all way up through litigation necessary protect clients' rights interests fullest extent possible under law.

Furthermore understanding your rights responsibilities as consumer using these platforms equally important because maintaining safety standards adhering company policies ensures better protection everyone utilizing these modern modes urban transport whether they behind wheel just along ride.

Finally remember that timeliness often key successfully resolving claims so do not delay seeking appropriate help advice soon after occurrence ensure smoothest possible recovery process both physically financially aftermath unfortunate events like those involving vehicles operated by providers such Uber Lyft here vibrant dynamic city Sacramento where innovation tradition meet streets everyday life unfolds unpredictable yet always moving forward fashion toward brighter future Californian capital its esteemed residents visitors alike.

In conclusion being informed prepared remains best defense against untoward outcomes arising from participation ever-evolving ecosystem shared mobility solutions provided giants industry today tomorrow beyond whatever roads may lead us down next journey around corner across town across state lines international borders world waiting explored safely securely responsibly thanks part contributions made pioneering spirit embodied companies citizens embracing change progress every step way together hand hand side side day night whenever need arises someone there answer call drive us towards destination desire destiny awaits patiently arrival end line trip called life itself.


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Frequently Asked Questions

A Wrongful Death Lawyer in Sacramento provides legal representation to the surviving family members of a person who has died due to the negligence or intentional actions of another party. They help families pursue compensation for their losses, including funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.

A Personal Injury Lawyer in Sacramento offers legal representation to individuals who have been injured due to the negligence or wrongdoing of others. They handle cases such as car accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice, and more.

If you've been injured due to a road defect in Sacramento, you may be able to file a claim against the government entity responsible for maintaining the road. A Personal Injury Lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and seek compensation for your injuries.

If you've been injured in a bus accident in Sacramento, you should contact a Personal Injury Lawyer who has experience handling bus accident cases. They can help you understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation.

If you're injured in a boating accident in Sacramento, you should seek medical attention immediately and then contact a Personal Injury Lawyer who can help you pursue compensation for your injuries.

If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident in Sacramento, you should contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney who can help you understand your legal options and protect your rights.