Glendora Car Accident Lawyer

Known for its extensive parks and trails, the “Pride of the Foothills,” Glendora California, takes pride in being a tranquil retreat from the hustle of city life in bustling Los Angeles. Nevertheless, being nestled between two major freeways (the 210 and 57) can sometimes lead to accidents. And when that happens, it’s good to know you have local access to legal representation should you be hurt. 

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our Glendora personal injury attorneys are committed to client justice in personal injury cases, offering their expertise and dedication to achieving favorable outcomes without upfront costs. With over 20 years of experience fighting for our client’s rights, our team of car accident attorneys have established a proven track of securing fair compensation for our clients and we will continue to do our duty to watch out for our client’s best interest. 

We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not pay anything until you win! Call us for a FREE case review at (213) 927-3700 or reach out via this quick online contact form. 

Car Accidents in Glendora, California

Glendora sees numerous motor vehicle accidents each year, making legal representation essential. Some of the more common motor vehicle accidents include car, truck, and motorcycle crashes, all requiring legal intervention due to the types of injuries that can be sustained. By definition, auto accidents include rear-end collisions, side-impact crashes, and rollovers, all of which can lead to serious injuries. Glendora personal injury lawyers provide personalized care and legal solutions for accident victims, ensuring they receive the support needed to navigate these challenges.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Glendora

Car accidents happen for various reasons, including distracted driving, reckless behavior, speeding, drunk driving, and poor road conditions. Other factors, such as bad weather, mechanical failures, and failure to obey traffic laws, also contribute to accidents.  Identifying the cause of the accident is crucial in determining liability and seeking compensation in a personal injury case. A skilled personal injury attorney is essential in helping clients navigate insurance claims and achieve better financial outcomes. Let’s take a closer look at some of the more common causes of car accidents.

• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit can reduce reaction time and increase the severity of collisions.
• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence is illegal and significantly raises the risk of serious accidents.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, improper lane changes, and ignoring traffic signals cause crashes.
• Poor Road Conditions: Uneven roads, potholes, and debris can lead to loss of vehicle control.
• Vehicle Defects: Malfunctioning brakes, steering failures, and tire blowouts contribute to accidents.

Glendora Car Accident Laws

Considering how distracted driving is a leading cause of most car accidents in the country, the city of Glendora strictly enforce vehicle laws that specifically address texting and the use of cell phones. For example, California Vehicle Code 23123.5 prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while holding and operating a handheld wireless telephone or wireless electronic communications device, unless both of the following conditions are satisfied:

• The device is mounted on a vehicle’s windshield in the same manner as a portable GPS unit or mounted/affixed to the dashboard or center console in a manner that does not hinder the driver’s view of the road.
• The driver uses his/her hand to activate or deactivate a feature or function of the device with the motion of a single swipe or tap of the driver’s finger.

If any driver is caught violating the distracted driving laws, whether they are 18 years old or older, they can be punished by a base fine of $20 for a first offense and $50 for each subsequent offense as per California Vehicle Code 23123 and 23124.

Understanding Accident Injuries and Their Long-Term Effects

Over 2 million people are injured in car accidents in the United States each year. Injuries range from minor bruises to severe, life-changing conditions and personal injuries, such as whiplash, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage, can occur under different circumstances and have lasting effects on a victim’s health and well-being. Depending on the severity of the accident, severe injuries require extensive medical care and legal support may be necessary to cover those expenses. In the event that an accident results in a fatality, a wrongful death claim may be warranted.

Whiplash

A common neck injury in car accidents, especially rear-end collisions, caused by the rapid back-and-forth motion of the head. It can lead to neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and reduced mobility.

Broken Bones

Car crashes often result in broken bones due to the force of impact. Common fractures include arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones, sometimes requiring surgery or long-term immobilization.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Sudden impact or violent shaking during a collision can cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, leading to concussions or more severe brain injuries with long-lasting cognitive or emotional effects.

Spinal Cord Damage

High-impact crashes can compress, fracture, or sever the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, or loss of bodily control below the site of the injury.

The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention

Seeking medical attention after a car accident is crucial, even if the injuries seem minor. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes and prevent further health issues from occurring. In fact, many car accident injuries, such as whiplash or a concussion, may not manifest immediate symptoms and delaying medical attention can lead to long-term complications and diminished quality of life. In addition, if you wish to file a personal injury claim against the responsible party, medical records serve as crucial evidence when filing a personal injury claim, helping to substantiate the extent of your injuries. A personal injury lawyer can help clients navigate the medical process and ensure they receive the necessary treatment. In fact the following reasons, the following reasons 

What to Do After a Car Accident

After a car accident, it is essential to seek medical attention, document the scene, exchange information with other drivers, and contact the police. 

Seek Medical Attention

Prompt treatment can prevent minor injuries from becoming serious. This is important, because some injuries (like internal bleeding or concussions) may not show symptoms right away. Medical records also serve as important evidence if you file an insurance or legal claim and a professional evaluation ensures your safety and peace of mind.

Document the Scene

Gather witness statements. This documentation can support your version of events during insurance or legal disputes. Photos and notes provide a clear, unbiased record of damage, road conditions, and injuries. It helps preserve details that may be forgotten or disputed later.

Exchange Information with Other Drivers

Essential for filing insurance claims or pursuing compensation and ensures accountability and protects you from uninsured or hit-and-run scenarios.

Contact the Police and Notify Your Insurance Company

Required by law in many jurisdictions, especially if there are injuries or significant damage, a police report creates an official record of the accident. Officers can help establish fault and gather witness statements. Consult a car accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Determining Liability in a Car Accident

Determining liability involves identifying who was at fault in the accident. This may include analyzing police reports, eyewitness accounts, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction reports. In some cases, multiple parties may share fault, making legal representation crucial for proving negligence and securing compensation.

The Role of an Insurance Company in Car Accident Cases

 

The insurance company plays a significant role in determining how much compensation a victim receives. However, insurers often attempt to reduce settlements, making legal representation crucial. While Insurance coverage varies by policy such as liability coverage, personal injury protection, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, but by understanding what your policy covers is essential to ensuring you receive the appropriate compensation. If your claim is denied or undervalued, a car accident lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. Here is a brief breakdown of each coverage type.

• Liability Coverage – This covers the costs if you are found legally responsible for causing an accident. It typically includes:
• Bodily Injury Liability (BIL): Pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and legal fees if you injure someone else.
• Property Damage Liability (PDL): Covers damages you cause to another person’s property, such as their vehicle or a building.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – Also known as “no-fault insurance,” this coverage pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and other related costs (such as funeral expenses) regardless of who was at fault in an accident.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM) – Protects you if you are involved in an accident caused by a driver who has no insurance (uninsured) or insufficient insurance (underinsured). It helps cover medical bills, lost wages, and sometimes vehicle damage if the at-fault driver can’t pay for the damages.

By filing an insurance claim, you must sure it is handled carefully as they help victims obtain compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

The Car Accident Claim Process

The car accident claim process can be complex and overwhelming, especially for those who are not familiar with the process. A Glendora personal injury lawyer can guide clients through the process.

What to Expect from the Claim Process

• Filing a Claim with the Insurance Company: The first step involves notifying your insurance company about the accident and filing a claim. This initiates the process of seeking compensation for damages.
• Gathering Evidence and Documentation: Collecting evidence such as medical records, police reports, and witness statements is crucial to support your claim. Your lawyer will help compile and organize this information.
• Negotiating with the Insurance Company: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. A personal injury lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
• Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit if Necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may advise filing a personal injury lawsuit. This involves legal proceedings to seek compensation through the court system.
• Receiving a Settlement or Verdict: The final step is either reaching a settlement agreement or receiving a verdict from the court. Your lawyer will work to secure the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and losses.

Legal Help in Glendora, CA: What to Look for in a Car Accident Law Firm

Though insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, an attorney can help you pursue financial losses to recover damages and lost income, ensuring you are financially secure. Experienced personal injury attorneys provide the resources needed to build a strong case, from gathering medical records to working with expert witnesses.

Look for a personal injury law firm that offers a free consultation to evaluate your case, determine liability, and develop a strategy for pursuing maximum financial compensation. This way, you pay nothing out of pocket.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation with West Coast Trial Lawyers Today

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys are readily available to assist you with motor vehicle accidents in Glendora. We will evaluate the information presented, identify the at fault party, and pursue legal action to get you a fair settlement.

To schedule your FREE consultation, call us at (213) 927-3700 or complete this easy online contact form. We are available 24/7 to answer your phone calls and form submissions. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Glendora Car Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident?

Seek medical attention, call the police, document the accident scene, and exchange information with all involved parties.

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

The statute of limitations varies by state, but it is typically between one and three years from the date of the accident. In California, there is a two-year statute of limitations to file a claim to recover damages due to negligence of the other party.

What if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?

You may be able to file a claim with your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

How Much Compensation Can I Receive for My Injuries?

Compensation depends on the severity of injuries, medical bills, lost income, and other damages.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident Injury?

Even in minor accidents, a lawyer can help ensure you receive fair compensation and prevent insurance companies from undervaluing your claim. California is a comparative negligence state, allowing a claim even if partially at fault for the accident.