Arcata 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 Experienced Arcata Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You Advocate For Your Rights
Despite being a small college town, Arcata sees occasional traffic concerns. These are usually during peak commuting hours or when there are special events and festivals. During these moments, the risks of car accidents are higher. Call our Arcata car accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 if you suffer injuries in a car collision. We can help you seek compensation for your losses.
Arcata is a beautiful coastal town in Humboldt County. Its breathtaking natural views and the opportunities for outdoor activities make it popular among tourists. With a flock of guests coming in and out of town, cars also populate the roads. Furthermore, major roadways also go through the small town, namely Samoa Boulevard and Highway 101. With all these, car accidents in Arcata often occur.
Our Arcata car accident lawyers offer legal representation to injured victims of collisions. Arash Law is here to help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under California law.
Use our contact form to get in touch with our skilled attorneys. We offer free initial consultations. We also work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid legal fees when we win your case. It is important to remember, however, that the case may incur additional costs, which will be explained by our lawyers.
SM v. Doe Defendant (settled on 10/14/2020) – settlement in a case involving a client who sustained a spinal cord injury and mild traumatic brain injury when he fell off a roof. The team at Arash Law secured an additional $610,000 as part of the third party settlement.– TINA ESHGHIEH
How Can Our Arcata Car Accident Lawyers Help With Your Case?
Getting in a car accident can be a traumatic experience that is both mentally and emotionally overwhelming. Add to that the physical injuries that you sustain. Amidst all the confusion, chaos, and pain, it can be difficult to deal with the legal side of things.
Some people in Arcata may be unaware of the legal procedures surrounding personal injury claims. Many do not know that they can seek compensation or that their cases may be worth more. That is why hiring Arcata car accident lawyers can be beneficial. Our car accident lawyers aim to help injured victims obtain compensation based on the circumstances of their case.
Most car accidents are due to negligence. To prove fault, we have to establish that the at-fault driver breached their duty of care. We do this through an extensive investigation. Our lawyers go through each case and handle it meticulously. They review available police reports, medical records, photo and video evidence, eyewitness accounts, and expert opinions. Our knowledgeable attorneys do this to draw a complete and factual picture of what happened before, during, and after the accident.
Furthermore, we can assist you in proving that you suffered injuries because of the accident. We can use hospital records and the professional opinion of your medical team. Establishing the nature and severity of the injuries is essential, as it affects your settlement amount heavily.
Our lawyers can deal with the legal matters while you focus on your health and well-being. If you have questions or concerns, we are ready to answer them.
Benefits Of Hiring Our Determined Car Accident Attorneys In Arcata
Arash Law’s car accident attorneys in Arcata are well-versed in negotiation. We aim to get fair compensation based on the specifics of your case. Our lawyers can deal with the at-fault party and their insurance company. Furthermore, we are prepared to pursue the case in litigation if we are unable to reach a settlement.
Insurance companies often contact the injured victim to make an initial settlement offer. Some initial offers may be lower than the potential value of the claim, and you might be tempted to accept if you do not know what your case is truly worth. If you accept the offer, you might not be able to seek additional compensation.
Our experienced attorneys can handle negotiations on your behalf. We will present each offer to you, share our thoughts, and let you decide.
At Arash Law, we study and quantify your losses. We want the final amount to cover the losses you incurred due to the accident.
What Should I Do After A Car Accident In Arcata?
Accident victims are typically dazed, confused, and in a lot of pain after a car collision. However, you need to remain as calm as you possibly can. If an unfortunate event occurs, it is crucial to gather your composure and prioritize your safety.
Here’s what you should do after a car accident to prioritize your safety and help protect your legal rights:
- Call the authorities as soon as possible. Wait for them to arrive and always stay at the scene.
- Get medical attention. Prioritize calling 911 or an ambulance. Let the first responders assess your situation, even if you do not feel any pain. After the chaos, make sure you also get checked by your doctor.
- Gather as much evidence as you can. Take photos and videos of the scene, your surroundings, the traffic, and the damage sustained.
- Exchange information with the other parties involved. Take their names and contact numbers, insurance details, and a photo of their driver’s license. Never confront or blame them.
- Talk to witnesses if possible. Take their names and contact details as well. Do not discuss what might have happened to cause the accident. Just ask them about what they saw.
- As soon as the police arrive, cooperate with them. Answer their questions honestly and do not add any unnecessary information. Never admit fault to the police or bystanders.
- Contact a car accident attorney in Arcata. Consulting a lawyer after an accident can help you understand your legal rights.
Types Of Injuries From Car Accidents
Traffic crashes and collisions can be fatal. Even survivors can get severe injuries that can alter the course of their lives. Our Arcata car accident attorneys take these injuries into account when assessing your case and identifying the damages that may be recoverable under the law.
Car accident injuries may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Whiplash — A whiplash is a neck injury that happens when the neck is bent forcibly forward and backward, and vice versa. It is common among rear-end collision victims. It is one of the more minor injuries associated with a car accident. However, it may persist for months and cause pain and discomfort.
- Broken Bones — The force of impact from a car collision can cause fractures, especially around the arms and legs. Skull fractures are also common if the head hits the dashboard or the wheel. These injuries may need surgery and several months of treatment.
- Head Injuries — Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are one of the most common head injuries associated with traffic accidents. These occur when there is a sudden and significant external impact on the head. They range from mild concussions to severe ones that lead to coma or death. They are also one of the most common causes of death or disability among adults.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are common among car rollovers, according to a study published in the Asian Journal of Neurosurgery. SCIs are often catastrophic. They can cause permanent changes in the body, such as paralysis. More often, they impact victims’ lives permanently.
- Internal Injuries — Internal injuries vary from a ruptured spleen to a collapsed lung. These can be caused by penetrative wounds or being crushed by a heavy object. They can also be due to a broken rib penetrating the organ or an extensive external impact. All these can result from a severe car crash, and they can be fatal if left untreated. Internal injuries require immediate medical attention.
Common Causes Of Car Accidents In Arcata
Negligence is the leading cause of car accidents in California. It takes the form of:
- Distracted Driving — Distracted driving includes anything that takes the driver’s attention away from the duty of driving with care. It includes using phones or talking to passengers.
- Speeding — Going above the speed limit or excessive speed under circumstances such as rain or snow.
- Driving Under the Influence — Motorists who are driving under the influence might be drunk, high on illegal substances, experiencing side effects of prescription drugs, or a combination of these.
- Aggressive & Risky Driving — Sudden changes of lanes and not yielding are common reckless driving behaviors.
- Drowsy Driving — Inadequate sleep or rest can lead to drowsiness. In turn, it significantly reduces the amount of time that the driver can react to hazardous situations.
- Tailgating — Drivers following the vehicle in front of them too closely often result in rear-end collisions.
- Poorly Maintained Roads — Issues like potholes, malfunctioning traffic signals, confusing signs, inadequate signage, and cracked asphalt can cause minor to severe car accidents in Arcata.
What Types Of Compensation Can I Pursue?
Injury claims enable victims to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic losses resulting from an accident.
- Economic Damages — These tangible losses include medical bills that the injured victim has paid for or will pay for. Also included are losses of income and earning potential. Compensation may also be available for any money spent on fixing or replacing damaged property. The proof usually comes in the form of bills, invoices, and receipts.
- Non-Economic Damages — These damages refer to intangible losses. You can seek compensation for the pain and suffering caused by the accident. It also includes loss of consortium, isolation, diminished quality of life, and mental distress.
- Punitive Damages — Approximately 5% of jury verdicts award punitive damages. This is rarely granted, and only when the at-fault party’s actions are particularly egregious.
You can check with our Arcata car accident lawyers if you have a chance of being awarded punitive damages. We can help you pursue compensation that covers your losses under the law.
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
Filing A Timely Claim For Compensation
Arcata car accident lawyers are well-equipped to file a timely claim within the requisite time period. This is typically two years after the injury occurred. However, if the injured victim is suing a government entity, the time limit is only six months. This is why contacting a lawyer following an accident can be critical.
Moreover, if the victims are minors, the statute of limitations will not start running until they reach the legal age. From the day they turn 18, they have only two years to file a claim.
Our lawyers understand these deadlines and can help you identify which ones apply to your case. We also handle all the paperwork so you can concentrate on your recovery.
Dangerous Highways In Arcata
Serious traffic accidents occur in Arcata, just as they do in other towns and cities across the state. Route 101, a major road that traverses Arcata, is deemed one of the deadliest roads in the United States. Like most major highways, it has sections where drivers can encounter challenges, which can result in serious accidents. There were 493 deaths on this road, with an average of 112.8 fatalities per 100 crashes.
FAQs About Arcata Car Accidents
What Should I Do Immediately After A Car Accident In Arcata, CA?
The first thing you should do after a car accident is to ensure your safety. If you can remove yourself from harm’s way, do it. Remove your vehicle from the road if you can. However, if you are unable to move or if moving will make your injuries worse, stay in place. Call the authorities as soon as possible and wait for rescue.
What If The Insurance Company Offers Me A Settlement?
If an insurance company presents a settlement offer, review it carefully. However, remember that you are not required to accept it right away. You can politely decline and tell them to contact your attorney instead. You may say some things that can be used to devalue your claim; that’s why some prefer to seek the help of our car accident lawyers in Arcata.
I’m An Undocumented Immigrant. Can You Still Take My Case?
Yes, our attorneys handling car accidents in Arcata can still take your case. In fact, it is unlawful in California to use someone’s immigration status against them. This information is inadmissible evidence at trial. Moreover, the at-fault party cannot ask about it during the pretrial proceedings. Being undocumented doesn’t affect your right to pursue compensation.
Can I Seek Compensation If I Was Found Partly Responsible For A Car Accident?
California is a pure comparative fault state, which means that, yes, you can seek compensation even if you are found partly at fault. Instead, there will be a percentage deduction from your final settlement. Suppose the court found you 20% at fault for the accident, and your compensation is worth $100,000. There will be a 20% deduction, which will leave a final settlement amount of $80,000.
What If I Was Working Or On The Clock At The Time Of My Accident?
You may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim and file a civil court lawsuit against a non-employer. However, this all depends on the specifics of your case. Our Arcata car accident lawyers can help assess your situation. We are also knowledgeable in workers’ compensation, should you need assistance in this area.
What Is The Average Settlement For A Car Accident In California?
Car accident settlements vary from case to case. Since each case is different, it is hard to say what the average settlement is. Certain factors will determine the final amount, including your medical bills, lost income, and property damage. Arcata car accident lawyers can assess the value of your claim based on the losses you have sustained.
Speak To Our Knowledgeable Arcata Car Accident Lawyers!
An injury caused by another’s negligence can have consequences for both the injured victim and their family. Whenever such circumstances arise, our Arcata car accident attorneys are ready to assist you. We use comprehensive investigative strategies to help our clients build their case.
Arash Law is here to assess your case and help you understand your legal options. If you are suffering because of someone’s negligence, do not hesitate to consult with us. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form. Our legal team will contact you regarding your case.
We also extend our services to injured victims in neighboring cities and towns, including Calville, Tyee City, Alliance, Sunny Brae, Bayside, Eureka, Samoa, Indianola, Blue Lake, Korbel, Riverside, Manila, Rosewood, Hoopa, Willow Creek, Salyer, Hawkins Bar, Burnt Ranch, Kneeland, Etna, and Fernwood.
