The Pacific Coast state of California is famous for Hollywood, the Golden Gate Bridge, surfing, and its breezy Mediterranean weather. Both Canadian and US Snowbirds enjoy some of these finer things in life in winter.
This is the time of year where individuals flock south to enjoy a sought-after warmer climate in The Golden State. Unfortunately, while travelling, California car accidents can turn a dream vacation into a nightmare.
How Long Do I Have to File a California Car Accident Claim?
If a Canadian or US Snowbird is involved in a California car accident, they have 10 days to report the accident to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This is if anyone is injured, or the vehicle damage exceeds $750.00.
Under the California Statute of Limitations, you have two years to file a lawsuit for personal injury. If you file outside this period, your claim will be barred. As such, you lose your right to sue and recover damages.
What Should You Do If You’re Involved in An Accident Outside Your Home Province?
- Your top priority is always the health and safety of you and your family. Be sure to seek out medical attention immediately.
- Make sure the police are contacted.
- If possible, take a picture of the other driver’s licence and insurance, and a picture of the licence plate.
- Call your insurance company and report the accident.
- Contact the Snowbird Helpline as soon as possible for advice.
California is a Fault State
Importantly, California has a “fault” auto insurance system. In other words, California car accident victims have the right to bring a claim against another driver that caused their injuries.
You Should Be Aware of Pure California Comparative Negligence
California is also a pure comparative negligence state. This means that injured California car accident victims can still recover damages regardless of whether they were partially to blame. For example, if an individual was 99% at fault for a car accident, they can still recover some damages.
Please note, any contractual (insurance) rights and remedies a Snowbird has such as PIP or accident benefits must be dealt with in their respective state or province. Furthermore, passengers are generally not at fault for an accident. Therefore, they can recover 100% of their damages.
Why You Need Snowbird Car Accident Help For A Personal Injury Claim In Idaho For Cross-Border Accidents?
For 35 years, Snowbird Accidents has been assisting Canadian Snowbirds and US Snowbirds involved in car accidents and other personal injury accidents across North America. Very few lawyers and attorneys understand the complexity of cross-border accidents. After a serious California car accident, you will probably need a lawyer in the state where the accident occurred, and in your home province. To properly protect your rights and remedies, it’s crucial that lawyers work collaboratively.
Snowbird Accidents has been helping seriously injured Canadian Snowbirds and US Snowbirds get the treatment and care they need. This way, they can recover from their injuries and access fair compensation for their losses. We understand it is not only the injured party that may require assistance. Loved ones can face significant challenges also.
Snowbird Accidents arrange for you to speak to some of the best personal injury lawyers in California who are experienced with cross-border accidents. They work collaboratively with other lawyers and attorneys in various states and provinces to protect you and your family’s legal rights and remedies.
