What Is the Time Limit for an Insurance Claim Settlement in California?
Key Takeaways California insurers must acknowledge a new claim within 15 days of receiving it. Insurers have 40 days to accept or deny a claim after receiving proof of loss. Once the parties agree on a settlement, the insurer must pay within 30 days. Insurers must send a written status update every 30 days when […]
read moreIs California a No-Fault State for Car Accidents?
Key Takeaways California is an at-fault, not a no-fault, state for car accident claims. Drivers responsible for causing a crash bear legal and financial responsibility for damages. Pure comparative negligence lets partially at-fault drivers still recover reduced compensation. Uninsured drivers lose the right to non-economic damages under Proposition 213. A DUI conviction against the at-fault […]
read moreIs Coercion Illegal? Recognizing Coercive Control in California Nursing Homes
Key Takeaways California law makes coercion illegal when it forces an elder against personal will. Isolating a resident from family or monitoring calls can signal coercive control. WIC 15610.30 makes financial coercion illegal when caregivers exert undue influence over an elder’s assets. Warning signs include sudden isolation, unexplained financial changes, and visible fear around a […]
read moreHow Much Does Insurance Increase After a Car Accident in California?
Key Takeaways At-fault California drivers typically see rates rise 40 to 70 percent, adding $800 to $1,200 annually. Drivers found 50 percent or less at fault cannot be surcharged under Proposition 103. An at-fault finding immediately disqualifies a driver from the 20 percent good driver discount. Insurers must specify the fault percentage, its basis, and […]
read moreHow Does Turo Insurance Work After a California Car Accident?
Key Takeaways Turo insurance combines third-party liability coverage with a protection plan chosen by the host. Personal auto insurance typically pays first, with Turo coverage acting as secondary or excess coverage. California’s pure comparative fault rule can divide liability among the renter, owner, or other drivers. State law prevents insurers from calling a shared vehicle […]
read moreIs it Worth Hiring an Attorney for a Car Accident?
Key Takeaways Accident victims with legal representation typically recover higher settlements than those negotiating alone. Insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts, not protect an injured driver’s financial recovery. Attorneys build stronger claims using medical records, wage statements, and accident documentation. Contingency fee agreements mean payment only occurs after a settlement or verdict. California law requires […]
read moreWhen Does an E-Bike Accident Become a Lawsuit?
Key Takeaways E-bikes reach higher speeds than standard bicycles, producing more severe crash injuries and fractures. A claim exists when a driver or dangerous roadway condition, not rider error, caused the crash. Insurers often blame riders for excess speed even when a driver or hazard caused the collision. Left turns and dooring are common causes […]
read moreIs 30% Tint Legal in California? Understanding VLT Laws
Key Takeaways California law requires front side windows to allow at least 70 percent light transmission. Rear side windows and the rear windshield have no tint darkness restriction in California. Vehicle Code section 26708 bars material that blocks a driver’s clear view through vehicle windows. A first tint violation usually brings a $25 fine and […]
read moreCan I Drive By Myself With a Permit in California?
Key Takeaways Permit holders in California cannot drive alone under any circumstances, regardless of experience. Adult permit holders need a licensed driver at least 18 years old in the car. Minor permit holders generally need a supervising driver who is 25 or older. Driving alone on a permit can lead to a citation and DMV […]
read moreWhat Is the New Law on Suspended Licenses in California?
Key Takeaways AB 2746 ends DMV suspensions for failing to appear in court by January 1, 2027. AB 3 allows courts to suspend a license for 90 days to six months for sideshow convictions. AB 366 lets some DUI offenders drive on a restricted license using an interlock device. Vehicle Code 14601 makes driving on […]
read moreDo You Have to Pay Taxes on a Lawsuit Settlement in California?
Key Takeaways Most personal injury settlements in California are not subject to federal or state income tax. Compensation for physical injuries and physical sickness qualifies as non-taxable under federal law. Punitive damages and interest earned on a lawsuit settlement are always taxable, regardless of the case type. Lost wages recovered in a settlement may be […]
read moreIs Car Insurance Required in California? Understanding the Law
Key Takeaways California law requires drivers to carry liability insurance on all public roads. Minimum coverage now includes liability limits of $30,000, $60,000, and $15,000. Driving uninsured can lead to fines, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment. Uninsured drivers cannot recover pain and suffering under Proposition 213. Uninsured or underinsured coverage helps when the at-fault driver […]
read moreEveryone at the Cartwright Firm is very likeable. The attorneys and staff are kind, thoughtful, and sincere. They helped walk me through the entire process and were patient when explaining the legal jargon I didn't understand. It is clear they not only really care about your claim, but care about making sure you understand whats going on. Can't recommend them enough!
Justin G.
Personal Injury
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