THE POLICE REPORT SAYS I CONTRIBUTED TO THE CAR ACCIDENT? CAN I STILL RECOVER COMPENSATION FOR MY CLAIM?

Posted on Wednesday, April 11th, 2018 at 5:09 pm    

When you are in a traffic accident in Sacramento, call 911 to report the accident. The operator dispatches a law enforcement officer from the appropriate agency to the accident scene. Remember, never apologize for the collision or say you are sorry because your comments could be construed as admitting fault. It may be difficult, but try to remain calm as you explain what happened to the officer exactly as you remember.

Unfortunately, the other driver may tell the officer a different version of how the crash occurred. Without any eyewitnesses or strong physical evidence, the officer may need to make a judgment call as to how the crash occurred and who contributed to the cause of the crash. Therefore, you could be charged with a traffic offense, or the police report could state you contributed to the cause of the crash even though you did nothing wrong.

If this happens to you, contact our Sacramento accident attorneys immediately. The police report is an important piece of evidence in a car accident case, but it is not the final determination of fault. Our accident attorneys investigate car crash cases to determine the cause of the crash and identify liable parties. In some cases, the police officer was wrong.

Filing an Injury Claim When You Are Partially at Fault

Even if you believe you are partially at fault for the collision, you may still be able to recover some compensation for your injuries. Under California’s comparative negligence laws, an accident victim does not have to be blameless to file a claim and receive compensation. However, any compensation awarded is reduced by the amount of fault assigned to the victim for causing the crash.

For example, if you were speeding at the time of the crash, the other driver’s attorney may argue you are partially to blame because you were traveling too fast to stop. If the jury accepts this argument, you might be assigned a percentage of fault for causing the crash. Any compensation you are awarded is then reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. Let’s assume your damages total $300,000 for your injuries, but the jury finds you are 10 percent at fault. The maximum compensation you can receive is $270,000 ($300,000 less 10 percent).

Fighting a Comparative Negligence Claim

An experienced car accident attorney can help you fight a comparative negligence claim. Our attorneys investigate your accident to determine the cause of the crash. We search for evidence that proves the other driver was 100 percent at fault for causing the crash. It is our goal to recover full compensation for all your damages. If the insurance adjuster tries to obtain a written or recorded statement, do not provide one until you talk to our attorneys. The adjuster could be searching for evidence to support a comparative fault claim.

Sacramento Car Accident Attorneys Fighting for Your Right to Receive Full Compensation for Damages

Contact The Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 or visit our website for a free consultation with a Sacramento injury lawyer. You may be entitled to receive money from the other driver’s insurance company to pay for medical bills and other expenses. You may also receive money for your lost wages, pain, and suffering.

Client Testimonials

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
Quote

I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.

Dawniel Ewing Testimonial
Quote

I have nothing but great things to say about this firm. They have been extremely helpful and professional when dealing with my case. Anytime I needed anything or wanted to be updated they responded immediately. They made me feel like they cared. Highly recommend them!

Michael T. Testimonial
Quote

I sat down and met with Jelena Tiemann about my vehicle accident.I presented all of my documentation to her in which she gave me her assessment.Although the Tiemann Law Firm wont be representing me because my settlement offer was pretty good she was very clear,forward and professional about what she felt could and couldn't be done.I recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a helping hand at fighting a case where you don't have to worry about the outcome not going in your favor. Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees.

Herb T. Testimonial
Quote

The Tiemanns were referred to me by a friend and I am exceptionally happy with the service I received. I had never been in an accident before. I had no idea what to do. Jelena verbally explained how everything would work to me, and she and Peter handled everything. I didn't have to lift a finger once. They went above and beyond for me and I am extremely grateful. I pray I won't ever need this type of assistance again, but I will definitely be referring them to friends and family.

Jennifer T. Testimonial
Quote

I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
Quote

From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

S.B. Testimonial
Quote

Here's the thing... Nobody really thinks much about lawyers until they need one.  Well, we needed one!  The Tieman Law Firm came through for us in a big way. They were professional, courteous, thorough, and had excellent staff as well.  Highly recommended...

Star Fire Testimonial
Quote

It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Jereme S. Testimonial
Quote

No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Maye Ly Testimonial
Quote

I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

Matt H. Testimonial
Quote

I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
Quote

Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Lendzey Garcia
Quote

I was in a very bad/ major car accident I originally had an attorney who wasn’t trying to help me out much or take any of my calls so I called Tiemann and told them my situation. They made it an AWESOME and Smooth transition over to them and took on both cases I had. I just settled on my big case and am beyond great full. For them and their team! I highly recommend them. To add on to this a little On how much they will work with you, I moved to Montana in the middle of all Of this and it was not an issue!