California Car Accident Attorney

When you’re injured in a car accident, life can turn upside down in an instant. Medical bills start to pile up, your ability to work and earn a living may be impacted, and the pain and trauma of the experience can weigh heavily on you and your loved ones. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we understand what you’re going through, and our compassionate, experienced California car accident attorneys are here to help you every step of the way.

With over 20 years of experience handling car accident cases across California, we know how to build strong claims and negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Led by Harvard-educated attorney Neama Rahmani, our team brings top-tier legal expertise and a relentless commitment to advocating for car accident victims. Our law firm has recovered over $1.7 billion for our clients, and we’re ready to fight for you.

When you work with our auto accident lawyers, you don’t pay a dime unless we win your case. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you can focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront costs. Let us take on the legal burdens so you can begin rebuilding your life.

Get the support you need to move forward. Speak to a California car accident lawyer today by calling (213) 927-3700 or use our online contact form for a free consultation!

How Our California Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You Win Your Case

Many people wonder, “Do I really need a California car accident attorney?” While it’s not legally required, having a California car crash attorney by your side is highly recommended. Handling a car accident or personal injury case on your own can be overwhelming, especially while managing medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of recovery. Without a personal injury attorney, you risk missing crucial deadlines, underestimating the value of your claim, or accepting a low settlement from the insurance company.

Our seasoned experienced car accident attorneys know the ins and outs of car accident cases. We’ll handle every detail—from helping car accident victims with gathering evidence, communicating with insurance companies, and calculating your true losses to negotiating the highest possible compensation. Let us protect your rights and ensure you get the outcome you deserve, so you can focus on healing and rebuilding

California Car Accident Statistics

According to a 2021 Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash report by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were an estimated 6,102,936 police-reported traffic crashes, and out of that 42,939 people were killed and an estimated 2,497,657 people were injured. Meanwhile, a car accident data report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) states that California had a total of 4,428 fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2022, with single vehicle crashes accounting for about 56% of all car accident claims.

With such a staggering number of serious injuries and fatalities from car accidents, it is more important than ever before to properly follow road rules and procedures to ensure that you do not accidentally become involved in a car wreck. However, should accidents happen for whatever reason, it is important to file a personal injury claim with an attorney to ensure that you would be able to financially recover from such a common accident.

Types of Car Accidents in California We Can Help With

We are here to represent motorists across all of California. Our clients have won substantial settlements from us because our team digs deeper for information regarding what is going on in their case. While every car accident case is different, it is important that accident victims try to understand their situation as much as possible, so they can provide their attorneys all of the necessary information. 

Single Car Accidents

A single-vehicle car accident is when there is only damage inflicted to one vehicle and these types of accidents occur when the driver either loses control of their vehicle or swerves out of control in an attempt to avoid crashing into another vehicle or person.

According to a 2021 Fatality Facts report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, about 55% of fatal car accidents are derived from single-vehicle accidents in California. Due to the nature of this type of car accident, the liability will tend to fall onto the driver, in motor vehicle collisions, however, if there is substantial evidence that proves that the accident scene was caused by another negligent party such as recklessly creating a road hazard then they can be potentially held liable for all damages.

Multi-Car Accidents

A multi-vehicle accident is when two or more vehicles are involved in a car crash either due to the negligence or ill intent of one driver. Multi-car traffic accidents can happen anywhere, but they typically occur in highly congested locations where multiple drivers are in close proximity from one and another. Other factors that may cause this accident include speeding, tailgating, drunk driving, distracted driving, drowsy driving, and even road rage.

Some of the most accident-prone freeways in California include:

• Interstate 5: Running the length of California from north to south, I-5 is heavily trafficked and a hotspot for multi-car accidents, particularly near major cities like Los Angeles, Sacramento, and San Diego.
• Interstate 10: Known for congestion and high speeds, especially near Los Angeles, I-10 often sees accidents with multiple vehicles involved.
• Interstate 405: Running through Los Angeles County, the 405 is infamous for its congestion, and multi-car accidents are common due to frequent stop-and-go traffic.
• Interstate 80: Stretching across Northern California, I-80 has heavy commuter traffic in areas like Sacramento and the Bay Area, leading to a high rate of multi-vehicle accidents.
• U.S. Route 101: This major freeway serves the California coast, with accident-prone sections near Los Angeles and San Francisco, where traffic congestion often leads to chain-reaction accidents.
• California State Route 91: Known for heavy congestion and connecting Riverside and Orange Counties, SR-91 frequently experiences multi-car pileups due to high commuter traffic.
• Interstate 580: Serving the Bay Area, I-580 is a major commuter route prone to multi-vehicle accidents, especially during rush hours.

Due to the nature of this type of accident, multi-vehicle accidents are often the most contested between those involved because the party that claims responsibility will be liable for all damages and their car insurance premiums will drastically go up as a result. In addition, a 2021 Fatality Facts report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has discovered that roughly 45% of traffic fatalities are from multi-car accidents and pileups. So should a loved one have perished in a car accident, it would change the nature of the case from a motor vehicle accident to a wrongful death lawsuit.

Head-On Collisions

A head-on collision is a type of car accident where the front ends of two vehicles traveling in opposite directions strike one another at a significant speed. This type of auto accident is highly likely to cause serious and possibly fatal injuries due to the amount of force inflicted onto both drivers and their passengers.

According to a 2021 Crash Type Infographic by the National Safety Council, roughly 27% of all head-on collisions are fatal. While the liability in these motor vehicle collision cases are usually on the negligent driver who caused the car wreck, there are instances where faulty mechanical parts were the leading cause of the accident and the car manufacturer or the mechanic who last worked on the vehicle can be held liable for their negligence. Should that be the case, a thorough investigation needs to be conducted in order to determine who is liable for the damages that have occurred.

Rear-End Accidents

Rear-end accidents are a frequent occurrence on California roads, with car crashes happening when one vehicle collides with the back of another. These types of car accidents can vary in severity, from minor fender benders to serious collisions, depending on the speed and circumstances involved. Common causes of rear-end accidents include distracted driving, speeding, and tailgating. If you find yourself involved in a rear-end accident, it is crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced auto accident lawyer. They can help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for any injuries or damages sustained.

T-Bone Accidents

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, occur when the side of one vehicle is struck by the front or rear of another vehicle. These broadside collisions often result in severe injuries due to the limited protection on the sides of vehicles. In California, T-bone accidents frequently happen at intersections and are commonly caused by drivers failing to yield, running red lights, or speeding. If you have been involved in a T-bone accident, it is essential to consult an experienced car accident lawyer.

The Importance of Finding a Local Car Accident Lawyer in California

When you’ve been involved in a car accident, hiring a local attorney can make all the difference in navigating your case effectively. Local lawyers understand the specific laws, regulations, and court systems in your area, giving you an edge when it comes to building a strong case. Beyond legal knowledge, local attorneys often have connections with local experts, investigators, and resources that can be crucial to your claim.

Here are just a few of the benefits of working with a local car accident lawyer:

• In-depth knowledge of local laws: Each city in California has its own nuances when it comes to handling car accidents, from traffic patterns to court procedures.
• Familiarity with local courts and judges: A local attorney knows the preferences and tendencies of judges and other legal professionals in the area.
• Accessibility and personalized service: Meeting your attorney in person can provide peace of mind and foster clear communication throughout the process.

If you’re looking for an experienced local car accident lawyer, we proudly serve clients in cities across California. Explore the links below to find help in your area:

• Los Angeles 
• San Francisco
• San Diego 
• San Jose 
• Sacramento 
• Fresno 
• Long Beach 
• Santa Ana 
• Riverside
• Irvine 
• Bakersfield
• Beverly Hills
• Pasadena
• San Bernardino 
• Woodland Hills
• Solana Beach 
• Newport Beach
• Glendora
• Valencia
• Fullerton
• Visalia
• Palm Springs
• West Covina

By choosing a lawyer who knows your city, you’ll receive the tailored support and legal guidance you need to achieve the best possible outcome for your claim. Don’t settle for generic legal representation—work with someone who understands the unique challenges and opportunities in your local area.

Common Types of Car Accident Injuries

Approximately 3.2 million Americans die in car accidents yearly and to some people’s surprise, there are many car accident injuries that are left undiagnosed or untreated due to people’s aversion to expensive medical bills. This not only leaves their car accident victims suffering long-term effects of serious injuries, but they are forced to live their lives without the proper care or compensation they need to make a full recovery. 

Knowing the most common injuries in the event of a car accident can help you understand the importance of seeking immediate medical attention and legal guidance if you’re involved in a collision.

Head Injuries

One of the most common injuries in car accidents, head and brain injuries are described as a brain dysfunction that is caused by a forceful bump, blow, or jolt to the head. They are typically derived from the force and acceleration in a car accident, and even with protective measures such as airbags and seatbelts in place, drivers and passengers can still suffer head injuries.

While the extent of the injury will be largely dependent on the nature of the accident, the brain can be injured in a number of ways, from light bruising to torn brain tissue. In the event of a severe car accident, brain injuries can become fatal especially if it is not properly treated. This even applies to minor injuries, because if left untreated, victims may face physical symptoms, cognitive impairment, or even long-term neurological issues. Which is why it is still important to seek medical attention to ensure that there are no underlying conditions that may develop over time.

Spinal Cord Injuries

A spinal cord injury is referred to as damage either to the spinal cord or to the bundle of nerves around the spine. Due to the spine’s limited ability to absorb heavy impacts and force, they are a common injury found in motor vehicle collisions and can cause quite a bit of discomfort to the spine and the lower back. However, in some severe instances, it can even affect one’s motor functions and can cause lifelong nerve damage such as paralysis, which can accrue extremely high medical expenses for surgery, physical therapy, and even quality of life adjustments.

As a result, anyone involved in serious auto accidents may have suffered a spinal cord and it is highly recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible in order to get it treated. Even a minor collision can still cause quite a bit of discomfort and can drastically affect your mobility, how you carry yourself at work, and your quality of life.

Internal Injuries

One of the most unsuspecting and common car accident injuries, internal injuries are defined as internal bleeding and damage to organs. This type of injury is typically caused by a sudden impact force from another moving vehicle. While the severity of these injuries will vary on the impact force, it can potentially cause injuries such as broken ribs, ruptured organs, and even bone fractures. 

Even if an accident victim emerges from a car accident appearing fine, they may still have suffered internal injuries. It is important for them to seek a medical professional to make sure that there isn’t any damage that is lying dormant. If a person has suffered an internal injury and does not get it checked out, it can potentially develop into something serious and possibly life threatening.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

Beyond physical injuries, car accidents can have a profound emotional impact. It’s not uncommon to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or other emotional distress following an accident. While the psychological impact will vary on a case-by-case basis, there is no shame to admit that the accident has had a profound impact on you and if the aftermath of a car accident is making it difficult for you to live your day-to-day life, it is highly recommended to seek aid from professional so they can help get through this traumatic experience. 

What Should I Do Following a Car Crash?

Auto crashes can become a scary and overwhelming experience. However, never forget that your goal is to make sure everyone on the site is safe. It’s completely normal to feel shaken or unsure about what to do next. Taking the right steps afterward can help protect your health, your rights, and any potential claims you might have.

Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate this difficult time:

1. Check on Everyone’s Safety
   First, make sure you’re okay. Then, check on your passengers and anyone else involved in the accident. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance on the way.
2. Move to a Safe Location
   If it’s safe and your vehicle is drivable, move it out of traffic to prevent any additional accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If you can’t move your car, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
3. Call the Police
   Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to have an official report. The police will document the scene, which can be crucial for insurance claims and any legal action later on.
4. Exchange Information
   Share contact and insurance details with the other driver(s) involved. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy information. Be polite and cooperative, but avoid discussing fault.
5. Document the Scene
   Use your phone to take photos and videos of the accident scene from different angles. Capture vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be invaluable later.
6. Talk to Witnesses
   If there are any witnesses, politely ask for their names and contact information. Their accounts might support your version of events if there’s a dispute.
7. Avoid Admitting Fault
   Be mindful of what you say at the scene. Don’t apologize or admit blame, even if you think you might be at fault. Statements like these can be used against you later. Stick to factual descriptions when speaking with the police.
8. Seek Medical Attention
   Even if you feel fine, it’s a good idea to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. A medical professional can assess you for any hidden issues.
9. Notify Your Insurance Company
   Report the accident to your insurance provider promptly. Provide them with the necessary details but avoid giving a recorded statement until you’ve consulted with an attorney.
10. Keep Detailed Records
    Save all documents related to the accident. This includes medical bills, repair estimates, receipts for any expenses, and correspondence with insurance companies. Keeping organized records will help support your claim.
11. Consult a Car Accident Lawyer
    Navigating the aftermath of a car crash can be complicated. A seasoned California automobile accident attorney can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Determining Liability In a Car Accident Claim

Determining liability after a car wreck can be difficult, especially if more than one party is involved. You will need to gather information and evidence to have solid proof to determine who committed acts of negligence. Negligence is referred to as a form of reckless or careless behavior that has led to the accident in question. It is against the law to perform negligent actions as it can pose a safety risk to others nearby. To successfully prove negligence, you will have to present the following three elements:

• The defendant owed you a duty of care
• The defendant breached his or her duty of care through negligence
• The defendant’s negligence was the primary cause of the injuries you sustained

What Is a Duty of Care?

A duty of care is defined as a legal obligation that is required for a person to follow in order to prevent foreseeable harm from happening to others. For example, in the case of a car accident, every driver on the road has a duty of care to ensure that they are paying on the road and are obeying traffic laws accordingly. If a driver was speeding or driving while under the influence and ultimately caused a car accident, then that driver will be held accountable for any and all damages.

With that in mind, if you have been involved in a car accident, it is important to take account of every detail leading up to the accident and should you require additional assistance, car accident lawyers are able to help determine liability and who has broken their duty of care.

Available Damages In a California Car Accident

When it comes to recoverable damages in a car accident claim, the severity and scale of the accident in question will help determine what kind of damages accident victims can recover. From what is typically seen in California car accidents, injured victims can either recover economic, non-economic, and possibly even punitive damages for a car accident. While the awarded compensation will greatly depend on the circumstances involved in your case such as how well the negotiations goes through between you and the insurance company, it is important to familiarize yourself with how these damages differ from each other to serve as a point of reference for your car accident injury claim.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are referred to as calculable expenses that have arisen due to the accident in question. For example, costs such as medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, future medical bills, and quality of life adjustments are all calculable expenses that a victim can be compensated for being a victim to an unfortunate car accident. They are calculated by determining the amount of out-of-pocket losses a victim has or will expect to incur as a result of their injuries and are designed to make car accident victims financially whole.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are referred to as incalculable expenses that have occurred as a result of the car accident in question. These damages are thought of as subjective in nature thus the value will vary on a case-by-case basis. For example, loss of consortium, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and pain and suffering are all subjective and will affect a car accident victim differently. As such, a car accident attorney will need to prove that the car accident has had a profound effect on their client and their lifestyle in order to recover non-economic damages for them.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are separate from compensatory damages (economic and non-economic) and are intended to punish a wrongdoer for their negligent or deliberately harmful behavior. While punitive damages are rarely issued, it is meant to serve three purposes, to deter similar accidents from occurring in the future, set legal precedence, and to give the victim and their family justice and closure. For example, driving without a license, reckless driving, hit and runs, and intentional acts of violence are all punishable in California.

How Long Do I Have To File a Car Accident Claim?

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in California, it’s important to know that there’s a time limit for taking legal action, known as the statute of limitations. In most personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. While that might seem like plenty of time, it’s important to act promptly to protect your rights.

Why It’s Important to Act Quickly

• Preserve Evidence: Over time, important evidence can disappear. Skid marks fade, vehicles get repaired or scrapped, and witnesses’ memories can become less clear.
• Avoid Missing Deadlines: If you miss the statute of limitations, you may lose your right to seek compensation altogether.
• Timely Medical Documentation: Getting medical attention right away not only safeguards your health but also creates a record linking your injuries to the accident.

Exceptions to the Two-Year Rule

There are some situations where the time frame to file a claim might be different:

• Claims Against Government Entities: If your accident involved a government vehicle or hazardous road conditions caused by a government agency, you may have as little as six months to file a claim.
• Minors: If the injured person is under 18, the statute of limitations typically begins when they turn 18.
• Delayed Discovery: In rare cases, if you didn’t discover your injury right away, the clock starts ticking from the date you became aware of it.

What If I Get Accused Of Partly Causing My Car Accident?

If you’re accused of being partially responsible for your car accident, it can feel frustrating and even intimidating. In California, though, the law follows a “pure comparative negligence” system. This means that even if you are partly at fault, you may still recover compensation—though your total award will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

For instance, if you’re found to be 30% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by that 30%. So, if you’re awarded $50,000 in damages, you would receive $35,000 after the reduction.

Steps to Protect Yourself if Accused of Partial Fault

1. Document Everything: If possible, gather photos, witness statements, and any other evidence to support your side of the story. Detailed documentation can help build a stronger case for you.
2. Avoid Discussing Fault: When speaking with insurance companies or other parties, avoid admitting fault or speculating about how the accident happened. Stick to the facts and let the investigation determine liability.

Pursuing a car accident lawsuit is often necessary to fight with the car insurance company or companies and obtain the correct compensation required. An experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate accusations of partial fault, gather evidence to reduce your percentage of liability, and negotiate a fair settlement.

West Coast Trial Lawyers Is Here To Help

If you have sustained injuries in a car accident as a result of someone else’s negligence or ill intent, you may be able to hold the at fault driver responsible for their actions and recover financial compensation for your damages. As a car crash can produce devastating injuries for everyone involved, it is vital that you hire an experienced auto accident lawyer who will serve as your personal legal representative and fight for you and your rights.

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our team of car accident attorneys are ready to take on your case and serve as your personal legal representative. We are a law firm that specializes in personal injury lawsuits and with over 20 years of legal experience, our compassionate team of attorneys handle every car accident case with the utmost care and respect that it deserves. As a result of their dedication, they are confident that they can get you the maximum compensation you deserve for your losses.

We have recovered over $1.7 billion in financial compensation for our clients and we are prepared to fight for you. Whether you have been involved in a serious car wreck or a minor one, our talented team of car accident attorneys have seen them all and they are available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding your case.

We run on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you pay no fees until you win. To schedule a FREE case evaluation, you can get in touch with us by calling us at (213) 927-3700 or by filling out our quick online contact form.

Frequently Asked Questions About California Car Accidents

Can You Sue for a Car Accident in California?

In the event of an auto accident, if you are not the one who has caused the accident in question, then you are able to sue the responsible party for any and all damages you have sustained. However, it is recommended to hire experienced car accident attorneys to handle your case, because accident attorneys understand the legal process of a car accident case and will do everything in their power to ensure that their clients are properly compensated for their injuries.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?

Car accident victims have up to two years to file a claim in order to recover damages as per section 335.1 of the state’s legislation. If they do not file a claim with a car accident lawyer within that time frame then the victim will automatically waive their right to pursue compensation and justice against the responsible party. Any car accident claim filed after the two year mark will have their case be immediately dismissed.

What Happens if a Driver Doesn’t Have Car Insurance?

If an uninsured driver has been involved in a car accident, they will not only be forced to pay any damages out-of-pocket, but they will be subjected to additional fines and penalties, because California requires every driver to have car insurance due to the amount of damages car accidents can produce.

Depending on the severity of the accident, uninsured drivers may even have their vehicles impounded and their driver’s license suspended for up to four years. Should you become involved with an uninsured driver, it is important to seek legal representation to ensure that the car accident in question is settled properly and accordingly.

What Are the Most Common Mistakes When Filing an Accident Claim?

There are many common mistakes that can be made when filing an accident claim and while it is understandable to make some missteps along the way, it is imperative that accident victims do not constantly make a series of mistakes. With that in mind, here are some of the most mistakes that are made:

• Not Seeking Medical Attention Right Away- Even if you feel fine after the accident, some injuries might not show symptoms immediately and getting a medical evaluation provides documentation that links your injuries to the accident, which is crucial for your claim.
• Failing to Call the Police- Always call the police to the scene of the accident, no matter how minor it may seem. A police report serves as an official record of the incident and can be valuable evidence when filing your claim.
• Admitting Fault or Apologizing- Admitting fault can hurt your claim later. Stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver, and the police. Let the investigators determine who was at fault.
• Not Gathering Enough Evidence- Evidence is the foundation of proving your damages in an accident, not gathering enough of it can hurt it.
• Delaying the Claim Process- Any delays can lead to complications or even denial of your claim.
• Accepting the First Settlement Offer- Insurance companies tend to offer a settlement that’s lower than what you deserve. Before accepting any offers, consult with a car accident attorney who can advise you on whether the settlement is fair.
• Not Consulting with an Attorney- Not having an attorney by your side can result in a number of disadvantages such as not getting compensation and getting blamed for the accident.
• Posting on Social Media- If you make any posts about the accident on social media, insurance companies may use your posts against you to minimize your claim.
• Failing to Keep Records- Organized records make it easier to build a strong case and by not having everything organized you may not get the compensation you deserve.