Berkeley Car Accident Lawyers
with over $750 Million Recovered in Compensation for Injury Clients.
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Berkeley Car Accident Lawyers Offer Clear Legal Guidance In Tough Times
Do you need help pursuing compensation after getting injured in an auto collision? The Berkeley car accident lawyers at Arash Law are here to support you. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review during our first meeting.
Unfortunately, car accidents can happen at any time, whether due to recklessness, distracted driving, or other factors. Victims may suffer injuries as a result. Our car accident lawyers in Berkeley, California, advocate for the injured and their right to pursue compensation.
A farm worker, suffered multiple broken bones and other orthopedic injuries resulting from an auto accident where the defendant driver attempted to make a left turn in front of our client in heavy fog.– ARASH KHORSANDI
Why Consult Attorneys After A Car Accident?
The Berkeley car accident lawyers at Arash Law can help you explore the possibility of seeking compensation for your losses. Traffic accidents can have far-reaching consequences, which may leave you facing financial challenges from the medical expenses your injuries require. From emergency treatment to ongoing rehabilitation, healthcare costs can add up quickly.
Depending on your injuries, you may be unable to work for a long time or permanently. Income loss can further aggravate financial difficulties. To ease the burden of handling a personal injury claim, you can seek the guidance of our car accident lawyers in Berkeley. Here are some of the ways we can help:
- We’ll guide you through the claims process and explain the applicable laws.
- If you have a valid claim, we’ll work to give you the space you need to recover by assisting with various case-related matters. These may include connecting you with medical professionals, gathering evidence to support your case, and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.
- If your case goes to litigation, our attorneys will represent you and advocate for your rights.
Our car accident attorneys also handle wrongful death claims in Berkeley, CA. For fatal car accidents, family members may be able to seek compensation on behalf of the deceased victim.
How Our Berkeley Car Accident Lawyers Can Help With Your Claim
Our lawyers are committed to helping you pursue compensation commensurate with the extent of your losses after an accident. If you decide to have us represent you, here’s what our car accident attorneys in Berkeley may do to work toward that goal.
Investigate Your Accident
Our Berkeley personal injury lawyers for car accidents will analyze the details surrounding your case. We may examine photographs and videos of the incident, visit the accident site, and look at factors that may have played a role in the crash. Some examples are:
- The Weather
- Road Conditions
- Signage
- Possible Vehicle Flaws
Our legal team will also consider the actions of all parties involved. We’ll work to identify all potentially negligent individuals or companies and study how they may be held accountable. Additionally, we’ll review police reports and witness statements to further support your case.
Build A Case Backed By Evidence
Our lawyers in Berkeley, CA, understand personal injury laws and apply that knowledge to your auto accident. We can build a case based on your specific circumstances and attempt to hold every liable party accountable for damages using evidence, such as:
- Hospital Records
- Photos And Videos Of The Accident
- Accident Reconstruction Reports
- Expert Opinions
Our car accident lawyers in Berkeley can estimate what may be considered a fair settlement value for your case. For instance, we might take into account any future costs related to your injury, with the aim of pursuing a claim that might protect you from further financial difficulties stemming from the accident.
Negotiate A Fair Settlement Amount
Arash Law can guide you through how to deal with insurance companies. Our team will handle all communications and negotiations on your behalf. We’ll help you understand what compensation may be available and pursue a fair outcome based on evidence and the law.
Represent You In Court, If Necessary
If we can’t reach a fair settlement with the insurance company, our trial attorneys will advocate for you. Our Berkeley car accident attorneys can use their experience in litigation to represent your case in court.
Common Causes Of Car Accidents In Berkeley, CA
Most car accidents in Berkeley are preventable, but can still occur due to the following factors:
Distracted Driving
Diverting attention away from the road can have disastrous consequences for the driver, their passengers, and other road users. It can lead to scenarios such as:
- Head-On Collisions — The car might drift off its lane and onto oncoming traffic, hitting another vehicle head-on.
- Rear-End Accidents — When an individual doesn’t notice the traffic slowing down or stopping ahead, they may crash into the car in front.
- Intersection Crashes — An inattentive driver might not look at the traffic signals and stop signs before crossing an intersection.
- Run-Off-the-Road Events — Distracted drivers unknowingly leave the roadway when they don’t notice curves or bends.
Some examples of distracted driving that lead to the accidents above are eating and using a phone or GPS. Anything that can take your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel is a distraction.
Speeding
A passenger car traveling at 55 mph can stop within 300 feet. The faster it goes, the farther it needs to come to a halt. If a speeding vehicle encounters an obstacle, like a crossing pedestrian, it might not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision. Slamming on the brakes also often causes the driver to lose control of the vehicle, potentially causing property damage and injuries.
In 2022, speeding-related accidents contributed to 3,156 fatalities and injuries all over Alameda County, including Berkeley. This figure represents around 35% of all 9,029 traffic collisions recorded by the California Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS).
Reckless Driving
Drivers could engage in certain behaviors that put themselves and others at risk on the road. Examples are:
- Unsafe Lane Changes
- Failure To Yield The Right Of Way
- Illegal Turns
- Tailgating
- Wrong-Way Driving
- Running Red Lights
Driving Under The Influence
Some substances heavily impair a person’s judgment, coordination, and reaction times. Intoxicated drivers are more likely to engage in reckless behaviors and less likely to respond appropriately to traffic events. As such, they’re at a higher risk of causing a fatal car accident. In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 13,384 deaths due to alcohol-impaired driving.
Bad Weather
Berkeley enjoys a Mediterranean-like climate year-round, much like its neighbors, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. The weather is mostly pleasant, but these areas also experience wet winters that could create hazardous situations for drivers. Reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces increase the risk of accidents.
Poor Road Conditions
Some streets in Berkeley are particularly challenging to navigate due to hazards like:
- Poor Maintenance
- Uneven Surfaces
- Potholes
- Lack Of Adequate Signage
These dangerous road conditions can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, leading to accidents.
Mechanical Failures
While driver error is often to blame for the majority of auto accidents, defective parts may also play a role in causing them.
Some safety issues include:
- Faulty Brakes
- Engine Failure
- Steering Issues
- Defective Tires
Injuries Sustained In A Car Accident
Our car accident attorneys in Berkeley often see victims sustain various types of injuries from motor vehicle collisions, such as:
- Whiplash — When the head is forcefully jerked forward and backward, it strains the neck muscles and ligaments. The sudden movement leads to whiplash, which is a common consequence of rear-end collisions.
- Cuts and Lacerations — Broken glass, sharp edges, and flying debris could cut the skin in a car accident. Depending on the severity, the wound may require stitches or surgery to prevent infection.
- Back Issues — Traffic incidents can lead to herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or spinal cord injuries. These conditions can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and long-term disability.
- Loss of Limbs — In accidents involving high speeds or rollovers, victims may suffer traumatic amputations or severe limb injuries requiring surgical amputation.
- Burns — When a wreck involves fire or escalates to an explosion, victims might also suffer from thermal burns. Such injuries may cause excruciating pain, scarring, and even long-term complications.
- Head and Neck Injuries — High-impact collisions commonly lead to concussions, traumatic brain injuries, and cervical fractures. These conditions are also typical of accidents involving pedestrians.
- Wrongful Death — The most tragic cases result in the loss of a loved one. The deceased victim’s surviving family members can get the help of a wrongful death attorney in Berkeley to seek justice and compensation.
All injuries, no matter how small, require proper medical attention. If you can’t afford treatment, you may be entitled to pursue compensation for your hospital bills, medication costs, and other related expenses. Speak to our Berkeley car accident lawyers to learn the next steps you can take after an accident.
Types Of Damages You Can Seek After A Car Accident
Your injuries and case circumstances, among other factors, determine the compensation you can seek. In general, our Berkeley car accident lawyers may be able to help you pursue economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
As a victim, you can pursue reimbursement for actual financial losses. Some examples are:
- Hospital bills, doctors’ fees, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and medical equipment.
- Lost wages due to missed workdays.
- Reduced earning capacity if the injuries result in long-term disability.
- Property repair or replacement at fair market value.
Other out-of-pocket expenses needed after an accident, such as transportation costs and home modifications, may also be pursued.
Non-Economic Damages
Some losses are subjective and challenging to prove. They may include:
- Physical pain and suffering due to the injuries.
- Psychological impacts like fear, anxiety, and depression.
- Loss of ability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.
- Reduced quality of life due to a long-term or physical impairment.
It’s challenging to attach a monetary value to these intangible elements. Even so, our car accident lawyers in Berkeley can help you estimate their value.
December 2016: $22M+ verdict in a mild traumatic brain injury case. The entire details of the case can be found in the public record filings by the defendant entity that sued its defense.– BRIAN BEECHER
Dos And Don’ts After A Car Accident In Berkeley, California
Vehicle collisions are traumatic and panic-inducing. Still, it’s best to know the next steps to protect your rights and potentially pave the way for a smooth claims process. Here are some sample dos and don’ts after a car accident:
Dos
- Stay Calm and Assess the Situation — Immediately check yourself and your companions for any injuries.
- Move to Safety — If possible, move your car to the side of the road to avoid further accidents.
- Dial 911 to Get Law Enforcement at the Scene — The police can get your accident report immediately and help direct traffic. You can also call the Berkeley Police Department at (510) 981-5900.
- Seek Emergency Medical Treatment — Anyone involved in the crash should be checked for injuries, regardless of whether they say they feel fine. Get assessed by paramedics at the scene and in the ER as soon as possible.
- Document the Scene — Take extensive photos of the accident, including injuries, property damage, road condition, and signage.
- Exchange Information with the Involved Parties — This should include names, phone numbers, email, insurance policy numbers, and vehicle registration details. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well.
- Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company — Give accurate information to your provider, but avoid making statements that could be used against you later.
- Consult with Our Car Accident Attorneys in Berkeley — We can help you understand your legal rights and options.
Don’ts
- Leave the Scene — You might not be able to collect the evidence and information you need for a claim.
- Admit Fault — Apologizing for anything might be misinterpreted as accepting liability. Anything you say to anyone or say in passing may be used against you.
- Discard Damaged Property — Ripped or bloodied clothing, a smashed helmet, or anything broken can be used as evidence.
- Discuss the Accident with Anyone Except the Police — When reporting, stick to the facts and avoid stating your opinion.
- Talk While on Hold — When your insurance company puts you on hold, remember that they can still hear you. This tactic is often used to catch any information they might be able to use to deny your claim.
- Provide a Recorded Statement to Insurance Companies — They might pressure you to do so, but you’re not required to. To be safe, direct all communications to your legal team.
- Discuss Settlement Offers — Consider having our car accident attorneys in Berkeley handle case-related negotiations and settlements, instead.
- Sign Documents without Reviewing Them — Consult with us first if you’re presented with any documents from insurance companies or third parties. We’ll review them for you to guide you on whether they should be signed or countered.
How Dangerous Are Traffic Accidents In Berkeley, CA?
According to the Berkeley Police Department, the number of total collisions in 2021 increased by a whopping 33.8%. That year, the authorities recorded 788 cases, a massive jump from 589 in 2020.
Around 433 collisions caused injuries, while seven led to fatalities. These accidents are particularly dangerous for two groups: pedestrians and bicyclists.
- There were 62 pedestrian injuries recorded.
- Five of the seven deaths were pedestrians.
- Bicycle accidents accounted for 93 collisions.
The BPD report also identified the intersections with the highest risks of car crashes, including:
- Ashby Ave. & San Pablo Ave.
- Ashby Ave. & Shattuck Ave.
- Ashby Ave. & MLK Jr. Way
- University Ave. & Sacramento St.
That said, traffic collisions can occur anywhere in the city and to anyone. Our car accident lawyers have handled numerous cases involving trucks, motorcycles, hit-and-runs, pedestrians, and bicycles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents In Berkeley, CA
Can I File A Personal Injury Claim Even If I Am Partially At Fault?
California operates on a pure comparative fault system, which means you may be entitled to pursue compensation for your injuries even if you were found to be partly liable for your accident. The court will assign fault to all responsible parties who contributed to the incident, which might include two or more individuals or companies.
However, the amount of fault that you are responsible for will lower your compensation. Let’s say you have a $100,000 claim for an accident for which you are 35% liable. Your award will be reduced by 35% or $35,000 in this case.
The state’s fault systems can be complicated, so consider reaching out to our team. We can answer all your questions and concerns regarding your case.
How Long Does A Car Accident Settlement Take In California?
The timeline for a settlement in California can vary based on the following factors:
- Complexity Of The Case
- The Severity Of Your Injuries
- The Willingness Of All Parties To Cooperate
Our car accident attorneys in Berkeley can help give you a rough estimate of how long it may take to resolve your particular car accident case.
When Should I Hire Berkeley Car Accident Lawyers?
Contact our lawyers in Berkeley as soon as you have reason to believe someone else’s negligence caused your car accident. Taking prompt action gives us time to study your claim and file a case. If you choose to work with us on a valid case, we can also gather and preserve evidence while it’s still fresh. These steps may help us better support your claim and pursue compensation for your losses.
How Much Do Accident Attorneys Charge In California?
There’s no set answer for how much attorney fees may cost in California. The amount they charge will depend on various factors, including the complexity of your case and whether it may need to be taken to court. At Arash Law, however, our lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means that our fees depend on the outcome of a case. While case-related costs may still apply regardless of the results, we’ll only receive payment if our client is awarded compensation. This agreement aims to help victims seek representation without being charged upfront costs.
Can Undocumented Immigrants Sue For Personal Injury In California?
Undocumented immigrants have the right to pursue personal injury claims in California. The legal system doesn’t discriminate based on your immigration status. Speak to our lawyers in Berkeley if you’re injured in any car accident, which could involve trucks, rideshare services, or motorcycles.
Consult The Car Accident Lawyers Berkeley Can Turn To For Legal Clarity
Auto collisions can have a lifelong impact, causing physical injuries and emotional distress for those involved. If you have been hurt in one, seek the help of our car accident attorneys in Berkeley, California. We can help you explore ways to safeguard your rights and pursue compensation for your losses.
Feel free to contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our online form.
Our car accident attorneys also extend our services to victims throughout the state, including these neighboring cities within Alameda County: Albany, Emeryville, and Oakland. We also serve the nearby San Francisco and Contra Costa counties, including the cities of Orinda, El Cerrito, Moraga, and Lafayette.
