LOS ANGELES Car Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Car Accident Lawyers In Los Angeles Advocates Focused On Your Recovery
Los Angeles is a hotbed for possible car accidents. Navigating the 405, the 101, the 10, and the 5 on your commute is often bumper-to-bumper with tons of opportunities for rear-end collisions. Motorcyclists are free to lane split, running the danger of sideswipe incidents or accidents when merging lanes. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation for your damages. Call our Los Angeles car accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Traversing downtown means dealing with numerous pedestrians and cyclists, so drivers must be highly vigilant at all times. Driving in LA carries its risks, as a car accident can occur in just a moment. However, it’s important to note that the vast majority of these accidents can be prevented.
Our Los Angeles-based law firm has extensive experience representing clients in numerous car crash cases, giving us a deep understanding of the typical causes, involved parties, and strategies for securing compensation for injuries sustained in collisions.
What Our Car Accident Attorneys In Los Angeles Do To Help
Los Angeles has some hazardous roads like I-405, I-110, and I-10, which are known for dense traffic and short-distance exits, which frequently contribute to collisions.
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a crash, you might feel overwhelmed or unsure of what to do next. You’re not alone.
Maybe you’re wondering, “Do I really need a personal injury lawyer?” The truth is, while some claims can be resolved without legal help, serious or complicated cases involving medical bills, lost income, or disputed liability can quickly become difficult to manage. A lawyer can protect your rights and handle your claim while you focus on your health and recovery.
When you entrust your case to Arash Law, our team is committed to working to build a strong case. Here’s how our car accident law firm in Los Angeles can assist you:
- We investigate the crash scene, gather witness accounts, and preserve key evidence. When applicable, we also review conditions at high-risk areas in Los Angeles, such as S. Vermont Avenue and W. Florence Avenue, which is one of the city’s most collision-prone intersections.
- We work with experts like medical specialists, economists, and accident reconstructionists who can provide valuable insights into your case.
- Our team takes care of all the necessary paperwork and works to have your case handled and filed within the prescribed deadlines.
- We explore your options to pursue available compensation.
- We carefully review your medical records and injuries, working with medical experts to identify and address all relevant issues.
- We calculate the costs of both your current and future medical needs.
Our team handles every case with dedication and a client-centered mindset. We deliver tailored legal support and assist you at every stage of your case with professionalism and care.
Our client was driving with his wife and son on a two-lane highway when a drunk driver crossed the double yellow lines, causing a head-on collision that claimed the life of a loving wife and mother.– ARASH KHORSANDI
Why Choose Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyers
Dealing with a car accident is not only physically and emotionally challenging, but it also involves navigating the legal system and dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize your claim. Having a knowledgeable car accident attorney on your side can help you protect your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. Here are some key advantages of working with our dedicated legal team:
- Experience in Injury Claims — Our team has decades of experience representing accident victims, demonstrating our commitment to pursuing justice for those harmed by other people’s negligence.
- Knowledge in Insurance Negotiations — Our Los Angeles car accident lawyers are familiar with how insurance companies operate. They use this insight to advocate for clients during claim negotiations.
- Compensation-Focused Legal Support — We assess each case carefully and pursue available compensation for medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress where appropriate.
- Strategic Legal Representation — From collecting evidence to handling court proceedings, your attorney will manage your case and help you understand your legal options at every stage.
- Clear Fee Structure — We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay legal fees unless we recover compensation. We’ll explain the fee arrangement and any potential case-related costs up front.
Before hiring a car accident attorney, it’s important to ask questions that help you assess whether a law firm has the right experience and approach for your case. Consider asking:
- Have you ever handled an injury case like mine?
- If the case doesn’t result in compensation, will I owe any legal fees or case-related costs?
- What are the prices for your injury attorney services?
- What legal staffing and financial resources do you have to fight my case successfully?
- How long have you been handling car accident cases in Los Angeles?
- How long will it take to resolve my personal injury claim?
- What steps do you recommend to help strengthen my claim?
At Arash Law, we have represented clients throughout California and understand the unique challenges that come with car accident cases. We’re here to answer your questions, help you understand your options, and provide legal support if you choose to move forward.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims In LA
Have questions after a car accident in Los Angeles? You’re not alone. Below are answers to some of the most common concerns, covering legal fees, insurance issues, medical care, and what to expect during the claims process. Understanding your rights can help you make confident, informed decisions.
How Much Do Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyers Charge?
Most personal injury lawyers, including those handling car accident cases, work on a contingency fee basis. This means clients do not pay legal fees unless their case results in a recovery. The percentage may vary, and it’s important to understand the specific fee arrangement before hiring an attorney.
In California, Who Is Responsible For Covering Road Accident Claims?
California follows a fault-based system. The driver found at fault is usually responsible for covering medical bills, property damage, and related losses, up to their insurance policy limits. If the damages exceed those limits, the injured party may need to explore other legal or insurance options.
What Happens If the At-Fault Driver Doesn’t Have Enough Insurance In California?
If the driver who caused the accident lacks enough insurance to cover your losses, you may still have options, including:
- Using your underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage.
- Arranging payment plans with healthcare providers.
- Filing a lawsuit to pursue additional damages (depending on the at-fault driver’s ability to pay).
- Exploring financial assistance programs for uncovered expenses.
What Is The Time Limit For Car Insurance Claims In California?
Insurance companies usually require that you report a crash as soon as possible, often within 72 hours. However, every insurance policy is different, and some may have shorter or longer notice requirements. While California law does not mandate a specific deadline for reporting a crash to your insurer, failing to report promptly can result in delays or outright denials of your claim. Additionally, state law does require that certain accidents be reported to the DMV within 10 days if they involve injuries, fatalities, or property damage over $1,000. Timely reporting protects your rights and preserves your ability to recover compensation.
Is A Trial Possible In My Automobile Accident Case?
Yes, a trial is possible, but it is often the last resort. Most car accident claims are resolved through negotiated settlements with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, if the insurer refuses to offer fair compensation or if liability is disputed, your case may go to trial.
In that scenario, your attorney will prepare the evidence, represent your interests in court, and argue your case before a judge or jury. The outcome may include compensation permitted under the law, which can be pursued through litigation if necessary.
Do I Need To See A Doctor After A Car Crash, Even If I Don’t Feel Injured?
Yes, you should always get a medical evaluation after a car accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions, can take hours or days to show symptoms. Delaying care may worsen your condition and weaken your personal injury claim. Medical records from an immediate evaluation also serve as important evidence that links your injuries directly to the crash, helping strengthen your case if you pursue compensation.
What Is The Value Of My Car Accident Claim?
The value of your claim depends on many factors, including:
- Past and future medical expenses.
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs.
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
- Other out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident.
Every case is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. A car accident attorney can assess the full scope of your damages, gather supporting documentation, and help estimate a fair settlement range based on similar cases.
What Happens If My Car Crash Occurred While I Was On The Job?
If you were driving for work when the accident occurred, such as delivering goods or traveling between job sites, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can cover medical treatment and a portion of your lost wages. In addition, if someone outside your company caused the crash (e.g., another driver), you may also have a third-party personal injury claim. A Los Angeles car accident attorney can help determine which benefits or legal actions apply based on your unique situation.
What If The Insurance Company Offers A Quick Settlement?
Be cautious with quick settlement offers. Insurance companies may offer early payouts to limit their financial liability, but these offers often fail to account for future medical care, lost income, or long-term effects of your injuries. Accepting a settlement usually means giving up your right to pursue additional compensation. Before agreeing to anything, consult with a medical professional to understand your recovery needs, and speak with a car accident attorney in LA who can evaluate whether the offer is fair and in your best interest.
Hurt In
A Car Accident?
Common Car Accident Causes
Many car accidents are preventable and often trace back to negligence. Identifying the cause of a crash is critical to establishing fault and holding the responsible party accountable.
Common causes that may impact liability include:
- Distracted Driving — Texting, eating, or other distractions can violate the driver’s duty of care. This frequently contributes to pedestrian accidents, rear-end collisions, and unsafe lane changes.
- Driving Under the Influence — Alcohol or drug impairment often leads to serious or fatal DUI accidents, especially at night or during holidays.
- Speeding — Driving too fast reduces reaction time and increases impact force, making speeding-related accidents particularly dangerous.
- Reckless Driving — Tailgating, running red lights, and sudden lane changes can lead to unpredictable and preventable crashes.
- Poor Weather — Reduced visibility or slippery roads may lead to crashes if drivers fail to adjust. In some cases, dangerous weather contributes to SUV rollovers or chain-reaction collisions.
- Unsafe Road Conditions — Missing signs, poor lighting, and road defects can cause drivers to lose control and may involve shared liability with public agencies.
- Vehicle Defects — Mechanical issues like brake failure or tire blowouts may make manufacturers or maintenance providers responsible.
Our Los Angeles car accident attorneys investigate the cause of the crash to help determine fault and support your injury claim with solid evidence.
Determining Liability In A Car Accident
Establishing liability is essential to pursuing compensation after a car accident. While the at-fault driver is often responsible, other parties may also share liability depending on the circumstances.
Potentially liable parties may include:
- Negligent Drivers — Drivers may be held liable for actions such as speeding, distracted driving, impairment, or violating traffic laws if those actions contributed to the crash.
- Vehicle Owners — A vehicle owner who knowingly allows an unfit, unlicensed, or impaired driver to use their car may share responsibility for the accident.
- Other Parties — In some cases, liability may fall on a government agency for hazardous road conditions (e.g., potholes, missing signage) or on a manufacturer for a vehicle defect that contributed to the crash.
A Los Angeles car accident lawyer can help investigate the cause of the crash, identify potentially liable parties, and build a case based on the facts.
Proving Fault In California Car Accident Cases
To recover compensation in a California car accident claim, the injured party must prove that another party was legally negligent. Most personal injury claims are built around four essential elements:
- Duty of Care — All drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles safely and follow traffic laws.
- Breach of Duty — A driver breaches this duty by acting negligently or recklessly, such as speeding, ignoring signals, or driving under the influence.
- Causation — There must be a direct link between the driver’s breach and the accident. Without this connection, liability cannot be established.
- Damages — The accident must have resulted in measurable harm, such as medical bills, lost income, or property damage.
In some cases, liability may extend beyond the other driver. Road defects, faulty traffic signals, or vehicle malfunctions may allow for claims against public entities or manufacturers. These cases often involve strict filing deadlines and additional procedural requirements.
Liability isn’t always straightforward. When multiple parties are involved, California applies a pure comparative negligence system. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your total recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you were found 30% responsible for a crash, you could still recover 70% of your total damages. If you were entirely at fault, you may not recover compensation from others but might still pursue coverage through your own insurance, depending on your policy.
A car accident attorney can help evaluate the facts of your case, determine how fault may be assigned, and advise you on your legal options under California law.
Important Evidence In Car Accident Cases
Evidence can play a key role in clarifying what happened during a crash and who may be responsible. While your health and safety come first, gathering or preserving certain types of evidence after a collision can help support your legal claim.
If you’re asking, “What evidence will car accident attorneys in my area need for my case?” here are common examples:
- Photos and videos of the scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and nearby signs or signals.
- Contact information for involved parties and any eyewitnesses.
- Vehicle registration and insurance details from the other driver(s).
Additional evidence is often collected in the days after the crash, such as:
- Medical records documenting your injuries, treatment, and associated costs.
- The official police report, including the time, location, and any initial observations or witness accounts.
- Dash cam or surveillance footage that may have captured the incident.
- Statements from witnesses who observed the collision.
- Digital records, such as call logs, texts, or smartwatch data that may help verify the timeline or activity around the crash.
- 911 call recordings or emergency dispatch logs with relevant information.
Preserving this evidence can help establish what occurred, who may be at fault, and the extent of your damages. A car accident lawyer can help identify what evidence is most relevant and see that it’s properly documented.
Damages You Can Claim In A Car Accident
After a car accident, injured individuals may seek compensation for both financial losses and non-economic harm. The types of damages available depend on the facts of the case and the extent of the injuries.
Common categories of damages include:
- Medical Expenses — These may include current and future treatment costs, such as hospital bills, ambulance fees, rehabilitation, specialist consultations, in-home care, and therapy for accident-related mental health conditions.
- Property Damage — Compensation may be available for damage to personal property, including costs to repair or replace a vehicle.
- Pain and Suffering — These damages address physical pain and emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, or trauma resulting from the accident.
- Lost Wages — If injuries prevent you from working, you may seek compensation for income lost during your recovery. Supporting documentation, such as employer verification, is often required.
- Punitive Damages — In limited cases involving egregious or reckless behavior, courts may award punitive damages to penalize the wrongdoer. These are not tied to specific losses but serve as a deterrent.
Questions such as “How much compensation for whiplash and anxiety?” don’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. The amount depends on factors like injury severity, how the condition affects your daily life, and the supporting medical documentation.
The time it takes to resolve a claim also varies. Some cases settle quickly, while others may take several months or longer if litigation is involved. A car accident attorney can help assess your damages, gather evidence, and navigate the legal process.
Filing A Claim For Cosmetic Disfigurement
When a car accident results in disfigurement, the effects can go beyond physical recovery. In addition to medical procedures, individuals may experience emotional distress, changes in self-image, and impacts on daily life.
California personal injury law recognizes these emotional and psychological effects. Compensation in a disfigurement claim may include coverage for surgeries, future treatment, and non-economic damages related to pain, suffering, and emotional hardship.
Each case depends on its specific facts, including the severity of the injury and the long-term impact on your well-being. An attorney can help evaluate the available evidence and determine what forms of compensation may be pursued.
Time Limit For Filing A Car Accident Claim In LA
If you’re wondering, “How long after an accident can you sue in California?” the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident.
This means a lawsuit must be filed within that two-year period, or the right to pursue compensation may be lost. In some situations, such as claims involving government entities, shorter deadlines may apply.
Taking prompt legal action helps preserve evidence and ensures your case is filed within the required timeframe. A legal professional can explain how the statute of limitations applies to your specific situation.
Steps To Take After A Car Accident In Los Angeles
If you’ve already received medical attention and reported the crash, the next steps you take can directly impact your ability to file a successful claim. Here are some steps to consider to move forward:
- Gather and organize any documentation you already have, such as the police report, photos of the scene, medical records, and insurance information.
- Make note of all your injuries, treatments, and any changes in your physical or emotional health since the crash.
- Avoid discussing the details of the accident on social media or with the other party’s insurance company without first getting legal guidance.
- Do not agree to any settlement or provide a recorded statement to the other party’s insurer until you’ve spoken with a legal professional.
- Keep all receipts and records related to the crash, including out-of-pocket expenses, transportation costs, and lost income.
- If you haven’t already seen a doctor, consider scheduling a medical evaluation, even for symptoms that seem minor.
- Write down everything you remember about the accident while it’s still fresh, including road conditions, time of day, and how the crash occurred.
- Contact a car accident attorney to discuss your case and understand your rights under California law.
Talk to our Los Angeles car accident lawyers for a free evaluation of your case. We can guide you through the insurance and injury claims processes.
What initially seemed like a routine rear-end collision, commonly known as a “fender bender,” turned into a significant settlement with high maximum limits for a client who suffered lower back disc injuries. The case was resolved just two weeks before the scheduled trial commencement.– BRIAN BEECHER
Motor Vehicle Accident Statistics
According to the National Safety Council’s Injury Facts for 2022, car crash data showed some notable changes:
- Fatalities dropped for the first time since 2019.
- About 44,762 people died in motor vehicle crashes.
- There were 283 million registered vehicles in the U.S.
- From 2021 to 2022:
- Miles traveled increased by 1.8%
- Vehicle registrations rose by 0.4%
- There were 283 million registered vehicles in the U.S.
- Death rates also went down:
- Mileage death rate dropped by 3.6%.
- Vehicle death rate fell by 2.0%.
- The population death rate decreased by 2.8%.
- There were about 5.2 million medically consulted injuries from crashes.
- The total cost of motor vehicle injuries was an estimated $481.2 billion.
Contact The Car Accident Lawyers In Los Angeles
At Arash Law, our Los Angeles car accident attorneys are equipped with the experience and resources to guide you through the legal process while you focus on healing. Our legal team has represented clients throughout California in serious injury cases.
Our dedicated team of car accident lawyers handles a wide range of personal injury claims, involving bicycle accidents, commercial truck collisions, construction accidents, parking lot accidents, and so many more.
We remain committed to helping injured individuals understand their rights and pursue the compensation allowed under California law. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay any legal fees unless we recover money for you.
Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation with a member of our team. We serve clients in Los Angeles and throughout surrounding areas, including Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Kern, San Luis Obispo, Monterey, and Santa Clara County.
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