Huntington Beach 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 Huntington Beach Car Accident Lawyers Are Here To Discuss Your Concerns After Injury
Numerous people are injured in car crashes in Huntington Beach each year. If you become one of them, you should seek prompt medical attention. From there, consider consulting our Huntington Beach car accident lawyers. We will explain your rights and options and assess whether we can assist you in pursuing damages. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial case review.
Huntington Beach is a seaside city in Orange County. Popularly known as a surfing destination, it boasts a splendid coastal setting, with a ten-mile stretch of pristine beach along the Pacific Coast Highway. Tourists and locals alike indulge in a range of services and amenities offered by the city’s various luxurious oceanfront resorts.
Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City USA, hosted the free 2024 Lexus US Open of Surfing. This annual event featured surfing competitions, X Games, live music, and other activities. The city designated specific parking areas to accommodate the expected large crowd. Unfortunately, traffic control measures like these can only do so much to prevent the occurrence of car collisions.
If you get into a crash while driving around Huntington Beach, consult our car accident attorneys. We offer comprehensive legal services and can help you make informed decisions about what you can do after an injury.
Why Bring Your Case To Our Huntington Beach Car Accident Lawyers?
A car accident may result in a significant toll on victims, from mounting medical bills to long periods of recovery.
Our car accident lawyers in Huntington work to provide consistent support to our clients throughout the claims process. Regardless of how challenging matters may become, we aim to provide comprehensive services focused on their needs. Here’s what you can expect from us:
- Experienced Legal Team — Our Huntington Beach attorneys have years of experience handling personal injury claims, including those involving car accidents. We leverage this experience to build cases tailored to each case.
- Contingency Fee Arrangement — Our Huntington Beach injury law firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients aren’t charged upfront lawyer fees. We only collect payment if they’re awarded compensation. Certain case-related costs may still apply regardless of the outcome. Our attorneys can discuss this arrangement during your consultation.
- Consistent Updates — Our approach is based on openness and communication. We keep clients informed about the status of their cases. We can also respond to your questions and concerns whenever you reach out.
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
How Can Our Car Accident Attorneys Help You Pursue Compensation?
When dealing with insurance companies, it can be tough to handle your claim for injuries and damages. Consider seeking legal assistance from qualified injury lawyers in Huntington Beach after a car accident. At Arash Law, we guide you through the claim process by handling the necessary legwork.
Our car accident attorneys can independently study the specifics of the incident. We will examine the actions of the involved parties and how the crash occurred. That way, we can craft a tailored strategy and help you decide on your next steps.
Furthermore, our team can assist with gathering evidence that may help establish the negligence and liability of the responsible parties. This can involve securing copies of surveillance footage, witness accounts, official reports, and more.
Our process also includes negotiating with insurance companies to seek compensation for your losses. We will aim to reach a settlement that closely reflects the extent of your damages. If our negotiations with insurance providers prove unproductive, our Huntington Beach attorneys can bring your car accident case to court.
What Is A Car Accident?
Car accidents refer to the collision of a vehicle with another vehicle, a stationary object, a pedestrian, or an animal along the street. Unfortunately, auto accidents do happen in Huntington Beach. As one of Orange County’s bustling urban hubs, the city faces constant traffic congestion, elevating the risk of accidents resulting in injuries and fatalities. Similar incidents are also common in parking lots, where vehicles move in confined spaces.
Individuals who suffer damages in traffic incidents might be eligible to file a claim for compensation. If you’d like to learn whether you have a case, talk to our car accident lawyers. We can help you establish the negligence of potentially liable parties and potentially pursue damages.
Types Of Car Accidents
Our injury lawyers in Huntington Beach handle cases arising from various types of car accidents, including the following:
- Head-On Collisions — These occur when the front ends of two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide. These crashes are extremely dangerous, especially at high speeds.
- Side-Impact Collisions — Also known as T-bone collisions, side-impact accidents frequently happen at intersections where a vehicle might ignore a stop sign or run a red light. They are particularly dangerous because the sides of cars are less effective at protecting passengers.
- Rear-End Collisions — These accidents usually happen when a driver follows another car too closely. Sometimes, a motorist approaching from behind fails to pay full attention to the road ahead. When the traffic suddenly slows down or stops, they may be unable to react in time, causing a crash. Such instances are also common during adverse weather conditions.
- Rollovers — Rollover accidents, where vehicles overturn, are more common in taller vehicles like trucks and SUVs due to their higher center of gravity. However, cars can also flip onto their side or roof under certain conditions. Unrestrained passengers are at heightened risk during these dangerous crashes.
- Hit-And-Run Accidents — California law mandates the exchange of information following any traffic accident, especially those involving injuries or property damage. However, some drivers flee the scene to avoid accountability. This constitutes a hit-and-run.
Regardless of the type of car accident, our Huntington Beach attorneys are here to help. We can evaluate your case, conduct an investigation, and explain how the laws may affect your claim.
Hurt In
A Car Accident?
Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents
Car crashes can happen for a variety of reasons. Most of the time, these incidents stem from human errors. However, some cases result from factors beyond any driver’s control. Here are some common reasons car accidents occur in Huntington Beach:
- Speeding — Speeding reduces reaction time and compromises the effectiveness of safety features like airbags and seatbelts.
- Reckless Driving — Motorists who do not consider the safety of others might exhibit reckless driving behaviors. These include tailgating, swerving, making sudden turns, engaging in road rage, and disregarding stop signs or red lights.
- Fatigued Driving — Some people drive despite being exhausted after a hard day’s work or a night of partying. Unfortunately, fatigued driving can impair reflexes and judgment, leading to crashes.
- Distracted Driving — Doing other tasks while driving distracts drivers from the road. Using phones, eating, drinking, adjusting the radio, and chatting with passengers are all common sources of distraction.
- DUI — Driving under the influence is illegal and potentially deadly. Impaired drivers usually experience slower reaction times, poor judgment, and reduced coordination, leading to potentially devastating accidents.
- Auto Defects — Mechanics and manufacturers may be liable for accidents caused by negligent maintenance or defective parts.
- Inclement Weather — Although Huntington Beach is known for its ideal climate, it sometimes encounters adverse weather conditions. Fog, rain, and storms can reduce drivers’ visibility and make roads slippery.
Our injury lawyers in Huntington Beach carefully assess car accidents to determine their causes and establish a legal basis for filing a claim. Contact us to schedule a free case review.
Injuries Usually Sustained By Car Accident Victims
The injuries sustained in a collision depend on the circumstances of the accident. In some cases, victims in Huntington Beach may suffer the following types of injuries:
- Whiplash — This is a common neck injury caused by sudden, forceful head movement. Symptoms like neck pain, headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision may appear hours or days after the accident. While most whiplashes heal over time, some could lead to more serious conditions, like nerve damage.
- Head & Brain Injuries — Car occupants who hit their heads on hard surfaces may incur traumatic brain injuries, such as concussions and linear skull fractures. Some TBI symptoms might go unnoticed at first, only becoming apparent when it’s already too late. This is why prompt medical evaluation after an accident is so important.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Car accidents can also damage the spinal cord, potentially resulting in chronic pain and paralysis. X-rays and other lab procedures are often necessary to assess the severity of these injuries.
- Fractures — Unrestrained passengers in a car crash could be violently thrown forward, striking the steering wheel or windshield. The impact could fracture their bones, including the skull, clavicle, hip, spine, and pelvic bones. Depending on the severity, broken bones may require extensive physical rehabilitation and long-term recovery.
- Sprains & Strains — Collision victims may twist their muscles or stretch their ligaments beyond the normal range, resulting in sprains and strains. Although sometimes considered minor, they can still cause significant pain and inconvenience.
The type and severity of the injuries sustained influence the value of a claim. Our car accident lawyers in Huntington Beach can help document your medical expenses, medications, and ongoing treatment needs for your claim.
Who Is Liable In A Car Accident?
The person responsible for a car accident is typically the party whose recklessness or negligence led to the crash. Their liability can be determined by proving they failed to act with the same caution an ordinary person would in that situation.
While driver error is a common cause of accidents, other factors, such as road conditions, vehicle malfunctions, or the actions of third parties, can contribute to collisions. These factors can determine if there are other responsible parties in your car accident.
Depending on the facts of the case, Huntington Beach car accident attorneys can help you pursue a claim against one or more potentially liable parties, which may include:
Car Owners
In certain situations, car owners can be held liable for accidents even if they were not behind the wheel at the time. The law holds individuals accountable if they allow someone to drive their car, knowing that the person is unfit to drive. For instance, parents who permit their inexperienced children to drive may be responsible for any accidents that occur. However, if the car was stolen and caused an accident, the owner is usually not to blame.
Employers
Victims can also sue companies for accidents caused by their employees while on the job. A company can be held responsible for the actions of its workers, even if the employer wasn’t directly at fault. For instance, a victim can sue the employer if a company driver on duty causes an accident.
Additional grounds for taking legal action against private companies include the following:
- Hiring drivers with criminal records due to poor screening.
- Inadequate supervision and training.
- Implementing policies that encourage reckless driving.
- Failure to inspect or maintain vehicles regularly.
Going against employers, especially major corporations, can be challenging. However, this shouldn’t stop you from seeking accountability. Our car accident lawyers in Huntington Beach can gather evidence to establish fault, so that you can file a claim.
Car Manufacturers
Besides human errors, faulty vehicles or auto components can contribute to car accidents. If a faulty product caused your accident, you might be able to sue the company that made or sold it.
For example, if a tire blowout, brake failure, or airbag malfunction causes an accident, you may sue the part’s manufacturer. Unlike negligence cases, you must prove the product was defective, not that the company was careless.
Government Entities
Dilapidated roads may increase the likelihood of a car accident. In such instances, you may pursue a claim against the government agency in charge of street maintenance. You may also take legal action against the construction company that did not make repairs in line with industry standards.
Unlike typical personal injury claims, cases against the government involve strict procedures and deadlines. Consider consulting with our Huntington Beach car accident lawyers to learn more about how you can initiate a case within the allowed timeframes.
Private Property Owners
Although rare, an accident may occur due to a private owner’s negligence in keeping their property in good condition. The law provides that property owners must keep their premises safe. If they don’t and someone gets hurt, they could be held responsible.
For example, a tree or bush may grow too close to a road, blocking a driver’s view and causing an accident. The property owner may be responsible if they knew or should have known about the problem.
Identifying all liable parties is a crucial step for substantiating your claim. Our car accident attorneys in Huntington Beach can investigate your case, working to uncover every potential source of liability.
Establishing Negligence In A Car Accident
Car accidents often involve negligence or the failure to act responsibly. To establish negligence, you must prove the following elements:
- Duty of Care — The plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant owed them a duty of care. Drivers, for instance, are responsible for operating their cars safely and adhering to traffic laws.
- Breach of Duty — You must also show how the defendant breached that duty. For drivers, this could mean they were speeding or driving drunk.
- Direct Causation — You must prove that the defendant’s negligence directly resulted in the accident and your injuries. For example, you can demonstrate that a rear-end collision occurred because a driver was speeding and did not brake in time to avoid hitting the car in front.
- Damages — Lastly, you must provide evidence of the damages you incurred from the incident. Examples include medical expenses, property damage, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Proving negligence can be difficult in certain cases. Nevertheless, our Huntington Beach car accident lawyers can help collect and present relevant evidence to support your case.
What Damages Can You Pursue In A Car Accident Claim?
Car accidents can have serious physical, emotional, and financial consequences for the victim. Under California law, they may be entitled to pursue fair monetary restitution for these losses. Various factors may influence how much your claim is potentially worth, such as the type of injury you incurred and its impact on your quality of life. Our auto accident lawyers help clients pursue various types of compensation, including the following:
Economic Damages
Car accident victims often face financial losses, known as economic damages. Some examples include:
- Past and future medical bills
- Missed income
- Lost future earnings
- Property damage
Keep all receipts and bills for the relevant services you had after a car accident. You need them to calculate the amount of economic damages to pursue in your claim.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are intangible losses resulting from an accident. These are harder to quantify and may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Disfigurement
- Temporary or permanent disabilities
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Calculating the value of your non-economic damages can be challenging. Our Huntington Beach car accident lawyers can assess your case and give you an estimate of such losses.
Punitive Damages
Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages are not intended to pay for the victim’s losses. Instead, they serve as a punishment for the defendant in rare cases where the defendant causes harm intentionally or through gross negligence. Courts also award punitive damages to deter others from committing the same acts.
Since every case is different, your compensation will vary depending on the circumstances. To find out what damages you might be able to pursue, consult our car accident attorneys in Huntington Beach. We will assess the specifics of your claim, including your injuries and their effects on your life.
What Is The Deadline For Filing A Car Accident Case?
In Huntington Beach and throughout California, victims of auto accidents must initiate legal action within two years of the incident date. If you do not file a case within this timeframe, you might lose your right to seek compensation. Some exceptions can extend or shorten your deadline for filing, depending on your circumstances.
Our Huntington Beach car accident lawyers can manage your injury claim, including keeping track of legal deadlines and representing you in negotiations or at trial when necessary.
What To Do After A Car Accident In Huntington Beach
Victims have a limited time to take legal action after a car accident. As such, taking steps like the following after an accident may help protect your rights:
- Ensure Your Health & Safety — Check if you or anyone around you is injured. For emergencies, call 911 to obtain immediate medical attention. If you can, move to the side of the road to avoid further harm.
- Report the Accident — Contact the Huntington Beach Police Department at their emergency hotline: (714) 536-5333. Relay the details of the incident. They will respond to the accident scene. You must wait for them and follow their instructions.
- Gather Crucial Evidence — Secure time-sensitive proof that may help support your claim. Take photos and videos of the location, your injuries, damaged vehicles, and skid marks. You can also ask witnesses to provide statements to the police.
- Note Vital Information — Exchange information with other parties. Get their names, addresses, contact numbers, and insurance details. If they are uncooperative, seek help from the responding police officer.
- Notify Insurance Companies — Share the details you have about the incident. This way, they can prepare when you decide to pursue a case. However, you must not disclose too much information. Avoid offering your opinions about what happened, as you may accidentally end up admitting fault for the accident.
- Consult Arash Law — After receiving medical attention, consider speaking with our Huntington Beach car accident attorneys. We can help you understand your legal rights and options. Call (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
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
Statistics About Car Accidents In Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach continues to witness its fair share of car accidents. According to UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System, the number of fatal and injury crashes in the city reached 772 in 2023. This figure represents an 11% increase from the previous year (693).
Traffic collisions in the city are also on the rise, with injuries and fatalities increasing to 1,099 in 2023 from 964 in 2022. Authorities attribute most road crashes to drunk driving, which recently hit 143 cases, and drugged driving, with 28 cases. Meanwhile, distracted driving accounted for 45 incidents, while 204 were speeding-related.
Vehicle crashes may have become commonplace, but they remain a serious concern requiring attention. In light of this, our lawyers in Huntington Beach are dedicated to representing car accident victims.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Huntington Beach Car Accidents
Do I Need To Hire A Lawyer For My Car Accident Case?
Victims of car collisions usually wonder, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The truth is, it depends on your case. If the claim involves minimal damages and clear liability, a lawyer may not be necessary. However, if the accident involves severe injuries and significant losses, a Huntington Beach car accident lawyer can offer legal assistance.
Your car accident lawyers can handle the stringent legal tasks on your behalf. They can gather evidence and identify the potentially responsible parties. They can also use their experience to deal with insurance companies and advocate for your rights in negotiations.
What’s more, you have options if out-of-court negotiations don’t work. Your Huntington Beach attorneys can bring your car accident case to court if it is feasible for your case.
How Long Will It Take To Settle A Car Accident Claim?
Car accident claims in California typically take a few months to several years to resolve. However, the settlement schedule can vary due to different factors, such as conflicting evidence and the parties’ eagerness to reach a solution.
Investigations and negotiations alone can take months. Some insurance companies may not provide a sufficient initial offer, resulting in considerable back-and-forth between them and your attorney. If parties can’t agree on a resolution, a lawsuit may be necessary. This can significantly prolong the process.
Can I Still File A Claim Even If I’m Partially At Fault For A Car Accident?
Yes, you may still pursue a claim even if you’re partly to blame for a car accident. California’s legal system operates under the pure comparative negligence rule. This doctrine allows victims to seek damages, even if they are up to 99% to blame.
If a case goes to court, a judge or jury will decide each party’s level of fault and adjust the amount of money a victim can receive based on that. However, the percentage of their own responsibility can be reduced from the compensation awarded to them.
For example, if you are determined to be 28% at fault for a head-on collision and your total damages are $120,000, you won’t be able to recover the entire $120,000. Instead, you may only be awarded 72% of the total, which is $93,600.
Who Can File A Car Accident Case?
Anyone injured in a car accident can potentially seek compensation. Your eligibility to file a claim is not affected by your sexual orientation, immigration status, race, or any other personal characteristic. When pursuing an accident claim, you’ll need to prove that the other driver was at fault. This involves demonstrating that they owed you a duty of care, failed to act responsibly, and, as a result, caused your injuries.
The claim process can be confusing. To understand it better, you can talk to our Huntington Beach lawyers if you’re considering initiating a car accident claim. We’ll guide you through the process and help you understand the legal options that may be available to you.
Consult Our Car Accident Lawyers In Huntington Beach
If you’ve been injured in a crash, consult our Huntington Beach car accident lawyers. With decades of combined experience, our team has represented victims in different types of car accident cases.
Our Huntington Beach attorneys can handle the complexities of your car accident claim. Our team can help you manage legal timelines, giving you the space to recover physically and emotionally. Call (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
In addition to Huntington Beach, Arash Law offers its services to clients injured in accidents across California, including nearby areas. These include Fountain Valley, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Westminster, Seal Beach, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Stanton, Rossmoor, Irvine, Los Alamitos, Cypress, Tustin, Orange, and Hawaiian Gardens.
