La Jolla 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.
Compassionate Representation From Our La Jolla Car Accident Lawyers
Car accidents often have a devastating impact on your life. Even a seemingly minor fender-bender can result in serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain. Arash Law understands the challenges you’re facing. Our La Jolla car accident lawyers will advocate on your behalf. Schedule a complimentary initial consultation by calling (888) 488-1391.
La Jolla is a coastal neighborhood in the northern county of San Diego. It offers luxurious accommodations, diverse cuisines, and art collections that visitors can enjoy. Nicknamed San Diego’s “Jewel by the Sea,” adventurers are invited to experience thrilling water activities at the sparkling beaches of La Jolla Shores, Cove, and Windansea. Guests can also visit cultural sites like the Birch Aquarium and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
As La Jolla’s thriving tourism industry brings economic benefits and more people to San Diego, it also puts more vehicles on the roads, increasing the risk of car accidents. If you or a loved one got injured in one, our La Jolla car accident lawyers can help. We understand the stress of dealing with the aftermath and are committed to helping you pursue compensation for your injuries.
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 Should You Hire Our La Jolla Car Accident Lawyers?
Our injury lawyers in La Jolla can handle your car accident case and guide you in navigating the daunting process of the legal system. Our in-depth understanding of personal injury law helps us guide you through your case by providing personalized legal options that fit your situation.
We will guide you in making informed decisions at every stage of your case by explaining your options, the entire legal process, and addressing any questions you may have. We understand this is a difficult and stressful time for you, so we will do the legwork to alleviate some of your worries about legal matters.
Our La Jolla law firm offers assistance 24/7. We also operate on a contingency fee basis, which means clients don’t need to pay lawyer fees in advance. While clients may still need to bear certain case-related costs, our payment is deducted from the final recovery amount.
How Our Car Accident Attorneys Can Help With Your Case?
After getting into a traffic incident, you’re probably wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” While others might dismiss the importance of legal representation, you must know that hiring car accident attorneys in La Jolla can help you understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation for your losses.
Here’s how we assist our clients:
- Tailor Strategies to Your Case — Every car accident is unique. That’s why our car accident lawyers take a personalized approach. We listen to your story and create a plan that suits your needs.
- Examine the Details of the Accident — Our law firm will conduct a thorough, independent investigation to gather evidence that establishes the at-fault party’s negligence. We can also consult professionals from various fields, such as accident reconstructionists and doctors, to support your claim.
- Negotiate With Insurance Companies — Insurance companies offer settlements based on their assessment of the claim and related factors. Our car accident lawyers will handle the communication and negotiate on your behalf to protect your interests.
- Represent You in Court — Our experienced personal injury attorneys are prepared to represent you in court if negotiations fail. We’ll firmly assert your rights and welfare before the jury.
- Accessible Services — You can consult with our lawyers without incurring upfront fees for a case review, either by phone or in person. If you can’t come to us, we can arrange to meet you at a location of your preference. Complimentary transportation may be available depending on circumstances.
Common Types Of Car Accidents In La Jolla
Traffic accidents can occur in many ways, making the roads dangerous and even unsafe for everyone. Below are some of the common car accidents our La Jolla car accident lawyers handle:
Head-On Collisions
Devastating accidents often occur when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide head-on. Such collisions are caused by a variety of factors, including distracted driving, driving under the influence (DUI), and reckless driving.
Head-on collisions are known to be among the most dangerous types of car accidents, especially for drivers and passengers in the front seats. The force of impact can crumple the vehicles and shatter car components, creating sharp debris that can pierce or cut the skin. The force of impact can also eject passengers from their seats and throw them out of the vehicle. Victims tend to suffer serious injuries, while the worst cases lead to wrongful deaths.
Whether you sustain severe injuries or experience the loss of a loved one, you and your family will face losses that can disrupt your normal life. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t hesitate to seek help from our car accident lawyers in La Jolla. We can assist you in filing a claim for your damages.
Rear-End Collisions
Tailgating, speeding, and driving in bad weather can all increase the risk of rear-end accidents. Drivers who engage in these behaviors cannot react quickly enough when the vehicle in front of them suddenly stops. They may end up crashing into the back of the stopped vehicle.
In rear-end collisions, the vehicle at the back typically absorbs most of the impact. Regardless, passengers in either vehicle may sustain injuries. The severity of bodily harm depends on various factors, such as the speed of the vehicles involved, their size and weight, and where the occupants were sitting at the time of the impact.
T-Bone Accidents
Also known as a broadside or side-impact collision, a T-bone accident occurs when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another, forming a T-shape.
According to a report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), T-bone accidents accounted for 22% of vehicle occupant deaths in 2021. These accidents occur at intersections when a driver fails to yield the right-of-way to another motorist. For example, a driver may attempt a risky left turn, assuming the other driver will stop at a yellow light. Alternatively, they may disregard a stop sign and collide with another vehicle.
Determining who is responsible for a car accident can be straightforward when obvious traffic law violations exist. However, victims still need evidence to prove the negligence of the at-fault party. This is where our La Jolla car accident lawyers can assist you. We can evaluate your case, gather evidence, and present it to establish liability.
Rollover Accidents
One of the most dangerous types of accidents is when a vehicle flips onto its side or roof. These incidents are often caused by:
- Driving at high speeds.
- Taking sharp turns.
- Making abrupt maneuvers.
- Traveling through dilapidated roads.
- Experiencing mechanical failures, like faulty braking systems and tire blowouts.
Other factors that contribute to rollovers include uneven weight distribution, loss of tire traction, and poor driver skills. Larger and taller vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, and vans, are particularly prone to these accidents due to their high center of gravity.
Rollover accidents have a high risk of resulting in fatalities, especially when occupants are ejected from the vehicle. According to the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA), the number of deaths in rollover crashes increased by 9% in 2020 compared to the previous year.
If you are a victim of this type of crash, approach our car accident attorneys in La Jolla to get legal assistance. Our team can offer information about medical resources while handling the legal aspects of your claim.
Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe collisions occur when two vehicles traveling in the same direction crash into each other’s sides. These incidents often occur when a driver attempts to change lanes without checking their blind spots or using turn signals. When they suddenly merge or drift into the adjacent lane, they may strike the side of another vehicle.
Sideswipe collisions can result in minor to more severe property damage, depending on the speed and angle of impact. Car occupants can also suffer from various injuries, like whiplash, which can lead to mounting bills and medical expenses.
Multiple Vehicle Pileups
Road accidents can often result in chaotic scenes, particularly when multiple vehicles collide in quick succession. Such incidents are commonly known as multiple-vehicle pileups, and they tend to occur on highways where drivers exceed the posted speed limit. As a result, people visiting La Jolla should be cautious when passing through these routes:
- Highway 101
- California State Route 52
- Interstate 5
- Torrey Pines Road
- La Jolla Village Drive
- Prospect Street
- Coast Boulevard
Multi-vehicle accidents are also common during adverse weather conditions, especially during rainstorms. In these circumstances, drivers generally have low visibility, so they might tailgate other drivers and find it hard to adjust to the slippery road.
The involvement of multiple crashes can lead to confusion about liability. Our La Jolla car accident lawyers can help you gather evidence and witnesses to determine who should compensate you.
Hit-And-Run Accidents
Traffic crashes often cause confusion and panic. In times like this, some drivers flee the scene without exchanging information or assisting those injured. This behavior creates serious consequences for the victims they leave behind, including delayed medical treatment.
The California Vehicle Code mandates drivers involved in road collisions that result in bodily harm or property damage to stop and stay at the scene until authorities arrive. They must provide their names, addresses, contact details, and insurance policies. Drivers who fail to follow these rules may face misdemeanor or felony charges, no matter who is at fault.
The biggest challenge in hit-and-run cases is locating the driver responsible for the crash. Seeking compensation for damages can be challenging without knowing the identity of the responsible party. If you’re dealing with this incident, reach out to our car accident attorneys in La Jolla. We’ll investigate to identify hit-and-run drivers and explore other avenues for compensation.
Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents
Car accidents are a common concern that can happen unexpectedly for a variety of reasons. Our La Jolla car accident lawyers are experienced with managing claims involving:
Distracted Driving
One of the most frequent causes of car accidents is the use of mobile devices while driving. However, other things can also divert the driver’s attention from driving safely. For instance, scenic areas in La Jolla may lure the driver’s attention away from the road, putting other road users at risk.
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Driving while intoxicated is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Alcohol and drugs negatively affect drivers’ judgment and coordination skills. When they’re under the influence of these substances, they struggle to make sound decisions and respond quickly to changing road conditions. As such, drugged or drunk drivers might swerve, speed, or fail to stop in time to avoid crashes.
Aside from alcohol and drugs, taking sleeping pills and other medications before driving may also contribute to traffic accidents. Some medicines have the side effect of causing drowsiness and dizziness. These substances can increase the likelihood of drivers engaging in reckless driving behaviors, such as weaving in and out of traffic, disregarding traffic signs, and running red lights.
If you’re injured due to an impaired driver, you may be able to claim compensation. Reach out to our car accident lawyers who handle DUI and DWI cases in La Jolla.
Speeding
Driving too fast affects the driver’s ability to react swiftly to unexpected situations on the road. Speeding reduces the time needed to brake safely and avoid a collision. Moreover, high speeds create a more forceful impact in collisions, often resulting in severe injuries and damages.
Reckless Driving
Negligent drivers have a willful disregard for the safety of others. They violate traffic laws, take sharp or illegal turns, tailgate, fail to yield the right-of-way, and don’t use signals or check their side mirrors. These individuals increase the risk of car accidents, even if you’re driving carefully and following all the rules.
Inexperienced Driving
Some drivers hit the road even when they’re unfamiliar with the routes and have an insufficient understanding of the driving laws. These motorists are prone to committing errors, such as driving the wrong way, stopping suddenly, or merging without care. They may also be unable to adjust to challenging circumstances immediately, like slippery roads and unexpected hazards.
Elderly Driving
As people age, their driving skills decline due to deteriorating eyesight, delayed coordination and reaction time, and impaired judgment. This is a common issue our car accident lawyers observe in La Jolla, as it’s a popular location for retirees.
Elderly driving is also a persistent concern across the state, contributing to the growing number of traffic incidents. The NHTSA revealed that in 2020, 5,217 senior drivers were involved in fatal crashes in California. Statistics showed that 4,493 of them were below 65 years old, while 481 were older.
Driving In Poor Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads can create dangerous driving conditions and pose serious risks to drivers and other road users. Potholes, for example, can cause sudden jolts in moving vehicles, which can lead to drivers losing control. Similarly, cracked roads with raised segments can disrupt stability. Inadequate signage or faded markings can also confuse drivers, leading to wrong turns or unexpected lane changes.
Driving In Adverse Weather
Driving in inclement weather can be challenging for any driver. Although La Jolla is known for its year-round sunny weather, it is still not immune to adverse conditions that can endanger drivers on the road. This area can experience sudden rain showers and thick fog from the ocean. Such circumstances can significantly reduce road visibility and traction. If drivers can’t adapt to these conditions, they will likely lose control and crash into oncoming traffic or external obstacles, like trees and street posts.
Injuries Usually Sustained In Car Accidents
Road accidents can cause various bodily injuries, including cuts, bruises, burns, and internal bleeding. Our La Jolla car accident lawyers can help clients seek compensation for the following types of injuries:
- Neck Injuries — Victims may sustain whiplash, sprains and strains, and muscle spasms when a strong impact suddenly jerks their necks in one direction. Minor neck injuries may heal with minimal intervention, but severe cases may need extensive treatments like surgery to prevent complications.
- Head & Brain Injuries — Some injuries occur due to blunt force trauma; vehicle occupants may hit their heads on hard surfaces during a crash. The most common consequences are concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), contusions, and skull fractures. These injuries often have lasting effects on the physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being of victims and require comprehensive medical attention and rehabilitation.
- Back & Spinal Cord Injuries — A sudden impact can stretch, compress, or twist the back in unnatural positions, damaging the muscles, tissues, and bones in the area. Victims may suffer from herniated disks, fractured vertebrae, or pinched nerves, which can lead to paralysis if left untreated.
- Broken Bones — The forceful impact of a car collision can crush various body parts, like the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Fractures sustained from such injuries may require a range of treatments, including casting, surgery, or physical therapy.
- Wrongful Deaths — The most tragic road accidents claim lives. In fatal accidents, the victim’s legal heirs may have the legal grounds to file wrongful death claims.
Good car accident lawyers in La Jolla can refer you to the medical professionals for proper care. We can also assist you in pursuing compensation for medical bills.
Who Is Liable In A Car Accident?
Traffic accidents can result from the recklessness of multiple parties. Depending on the facts of your case, our La Jolla car accident attorneys may hold the following individuals liable:
- Drivers — Motorists have a legal duty to operate their vehicles carefully and avoid causing accidents or harming others. Unfortunately, some drivers breach this duty by driving recklessly. These actions can hold them liable for any damages caused by their negligence.
- Car Owners — In certain cases, liability may fall on the owners of the vehicles involved. For example, they could be found negligent if they knowingly allow careless and unfit drivers to use their cars.
- Employers — If a driver causes an accident while on the job, their employer may also bear responsibility for any resulting damages. Under the vicarious liability rule, companies are responsible for their employees’ actions while performing their work responsibilities.
- Car Manufacturers — In cases where traffic incidents happen due to vehicle defects, the manufacturers of the faulty components may be held liable for damages.
- Government Entities — Sometimes, collisions occur due to factors beyond the driver’s control, like poor road conditions. In such cases, victims can file a complaint with the government offices responsible for maintaining the road.
Determining fault in a car accident is a complex process. A thorough investigation is required to establish each party’s liability. Our La Jolla car accident lawyers are committed to gathering evidence to demonstrate how each party contributed to the crash.
What Damages Can You Recover In A Car Accident Claim?
Car accidents usually yield drastic consequences, which affect victims physically, emotionally, and financially. In these situations, victims can file a claim to hold the negligent parties accountable for their losses. You can call Arash Law to get help. Our attorneys in La Jolla for car accident cases can guide you through the process of seeking damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Hospitalization
- Follow-up treatments
- Rehabilitation and surgery
- Therapy sessions
- Medications
- Laboratory costs
- Missed wages
- Reduced earning potential
- Service repairs for damaged properties
- Pain and suffering
- PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Permanent or temporary disabilities
- Disfigurements and scarring
- Affected marital relationships
- Loss of enjoyment of life
The value of these damages varies depending on their severity and the extent of their impact on your life. Our La Jolla car accident attorneys will evaluate these details and estimate the cost of all your losses.
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
What To Do After A Car Accident In La Jolla
Following a traffic incident, victims often feel anxious about what may happen next. Our car accident lawyers recommend staying calm to protect your safety. You can also protect your rights by following these steps if you’re still able:
- Prioritize Your Health — One of the most important steps after a collision is to check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone has injuries, call 911 to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, consult a medical professional, as some injuries may not be apparent right away.
- Move to a Safe Location — If you can, park your vehicle on the side of the road to avoid further accidents or traffic disruptions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the situation. Do not leave the scene, or you might be held liable for hit-and-run.
- Collect Strong Evidence — Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, injuries sustained, and relevant road conditions. You may also request witnesses to provide testimony to the police at the scene.
- Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company — Provide the facts, like the time, date, and location. However, avoid admitting fault or providing more information than necessary. Details you disclose could be used against you later.
- Consult a Lawyer — Consulting a lawyer after a car accident in La Jolla can help you understand your rights and responsibilities under California law. An attorney can also guide you through the claims process, answer your questions, and provide support as you explore your options for moving forward.
Our car accident lawyers in La Jolla can guide you through the next steps of filing a personal injury claim. Let’s discuss your case in a free initial consultation by calling us at (888) 488-1391.
Statistics About Car Accidents
Thousands of lives are lost in car accidents on California’s roads every year. The Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reported that in 2020, the state logged 3,847 traffic fatalities, which increased by 3.4% from 3,179 in the previous year.
Out of this figure, 1,159 cases were related to drunk driving, which also rose by 20% compared to 966 in 2019. The fatality rate from alcohol-impaired driving also climbed by 4%, accounting for 30% of California’s overall fatality count. Meanwhile, the percentage of fatalities who tested positive for legal or illicit drugs spiked from 51% in 2019 to 55% in 2020, indicating a 7.8% increase.
Our lawyers in La Jolla continuously assist victims of car accidents in achieving the justice and compensation they deserve. Our law firm is also an active participant in government programs that aim to mitigate the risk of traffic incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Car Accidents
How Do I Choose A Car Accident Attorney Near Me?
Consider the following factors when choosing a car accident lawyer for your case:
- Location — Look for a lawyer in your area. This ensures they’re familiar with local courts and laws.
- Experience — Choose a lawyer who has experience handling car accident cases. They’ll have the specific knowledge and experience needed for your situation.
- Track Record — Research the lawyer’s past successes in handling car accident cases similar to yours. Look for positive outcomes and settlements.
- Client Satisfaction — Read reviews and testimonials from past clients to gauge the lawyer’s communication style and overall approach.
- Transparency — Ensure the lawyer clearly explains their fees, communication methods, and the overall process.
How Much Is My Car Accident Claim Worth?
No lawyer can explicitly say the exact worth of anyone’s personal injury claim at a glance. We will have to consider the nature of the car accident and the various consequences you suffered. These include the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and suffering.
Calculating the amount of your compensation is challenging, so you’ll need the guidance of our La Jolla car accident lawyers. We can evaluate your case and the potential cost of your compensation and then negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Can I File A Claim Even If I’m Partially At Fault For A Car Accident?
Yes, you might still be eligible to pursue a compensation claim even if you’re partly responsible for a collision.
California follows a pure comparative negligence system. It means you can still seek damages, even if you’re up to 99% at fault. The court will determine the degree of liability for each party involved based on their contribution to the accident. As a result, the court will reduce your final award based on your percentage of fault.
For example, if your damages amount to $110,000 and the court finds you 30% at fault, you can still receive compensation for up to 70% or $77,000.
Our La Jolla car accident lawyers can provide compelling evidence to support your claim of the other party’s negligence and pursue compensation you may be entitled to under the law.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations In A Car Accident Case?
California has a two-year statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit. This is a strict deadline, but there are some exceptions. For example, the statute of limitations may be tolled or paused for minors until they reach the age of 18.
Navigating this legal doctrine can be challenging, so you must seek the advice of our car accident attorneys in La Jolla. We will work to protect your rights and explain the deadlines that apply to your case.
Connect With Our Car Accident Lawyers La Jolla
Are you dealing with the devastating consequences of a car collision? You don’t have to face them alone. You can lean on our La Jolla car accident lawyers for guidance and support. Our law firm offers dedicated legal services for your losses and damages.
We are committed to working toward appropriate compensation for your claim. This allows you and your loved ones to focus on your healing while we handle complex legal matters, including traffic collisions, slip-and-fall accidents, and work-related injuries. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form for a free initial consultation with our car accident attorneys.
Our law firm also represents car accident victims in neighboring cities and areas, such as San Diego, Vista, Camp Pendleton South, Escondido, Carlsbad, Oceanside, Ramona, San Marcos, San Clemente, Valley Center, Winter Gardens, Coronado, Solana Beach, Coronado, Encinitas, National City, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, Poway, Spring Valley, Chula Vista, Santee, El Cajon, La Presa, Bonita, and Bostonia.
