Oakland Personal Injury Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Oakland Personal Injury Lawyers Provide
Compassionate Legal Support For Injury Victims
Sustaining serious bodily injuries due to someone else’s negligent conduct can be overwhelming. In extreme circumstances, accident victims may have to deal with the consequences of their injuries for the rest of their lives. If you find yourself in a similar situation, the Oakland personal injury lawyers at Arash Law can help you explore your legal options.
We have supported clients with various personal injury cases across California for decades. With our experience, we are committed to helping you manage your case so you can focus on your well-being. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Facts About Oakland
Located in Alameda County, Oakland is one of the most recognizable cities in California. Oakland is a diverse urban center located in the East Bay section of the San Francisco Bay Area. It’s also the third biggest city in the Bay Area. Home to approximately 430,000 people, the city is a commercial powerhouse in Northern California. The Port of Oakland is one of the country’s busiest ports, offering numerous jobs and economic opportunities for people in its vicinity.
Incorporated in 1854, Oakland has a rich history preserved as part of its identity. The city is home to many restaurants, nightclubs, and dance studios. The Oakland Zoo and Jack London Square are among the most popular attractions in the city. Numerous festivals also make Oakland one of California’s most culturally diverse cities.
Amidst the many opportunities for activities, there is the risk of getting into an accident that causes bodily injuries. This is where our personal injury lawyers in Oakland come in. We can offer you dedicated legal representation and help you pursue fair compensation for your losses.
We take cases involving minors very seriously, and they are near and dear to our hearts. As a society we must place the highest value on our children and their safety!– ARASH KHORSANDI
Personal Injury Cases In Oakland, California
Handling a personal injury case requires time, preparation, and legal knowledge. Skilled attorneys develop their understanding of personal injury law over years of practice, enabling them to build cases that reflect the extent of their clients’ losses.
If you’ve been injured in an accident, one way to move forward with your personal injury case is by gathering as much evidence as possible before filing a civil lawsuit. Our attorneys can help you search for and collect pieces of evidence, including medical records, traffic collision reports, and photos of the accident scene. We can also request witness statements on your behalf. By gathering and organizing evidence early, we can support your claim and help demonstrate the extent of your losses and injuries.
Oakland, California, is a unique city, and many automobile accidents happen within its borders every month. These automobile accidents may cause victims to suffer serious bodily injury or death.
Personal injury cases in Oakland can vary in complexity, which can affect how long they take to resolve. In fact, some cases may not be resolved out of court. As such, alternative dispute resolution may be your next recourse. Some forms of alternative dispute resolution include mediation and arbitration. Understanding these different legal options and the applicable timelines that come with each can help you make informed decisions about your personal injury case.
How Can Our Oakland Personal Injury Lawyers Help You With Your Case?
Depending on your case, you may be entitled to seek damages from an accident caused by negligence. You may also have the right to accept or reject a settlement offer. It may be prudent to listen to the advice of your personal injury attorney in Oakland. Your attorney can help you negotiate with the involved parties and provide you with legal guidance in filing your claim.
Rather than relying solely on a police report or the advice of an insurance company, your attorney can conduct an independent investigation. To help you build your case, our Oakland personal injury lawyers can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and walk you through your legal options. Here are some of the ways we can help with your case:
Medical Treatment
At Arash Law, we recognize the importance of seeking immediate medical treatment for your injuries as soon as circumstances allow. Before negotiating with the insurance company, our attorneys can help you connect with primary care providers. Our Oakland personal injury attorneys can initiate the claims process and negotiation talks while you are still receiving treatment.
Determining The Value Of Your Claim
Our attorneys can help you examine and calculate your financial damages, taking into account the cost of treatment for your physical injuries, mental distress, and other factors. If your injuries prevent you from returning to the job you had before the accident, you may include lost income and earning capacity in your claim. You may have lost opportunities due to your injuries, such as a promotion, because you are now unable to perform the required tasks. All these damages need to be calculated so you can ask for these amounts during the negotiation process.
Insurance Claims
The claims process may involve answering letters and emails from insurance companies for weeks and months following your accident. Our Oakland personal injury attorneys can handle all the paperwork on your behalf while observing the two-year statute of limitations or deadline for filing claims.
Settlement Negotiations
Your legal counsel can help you assess whether a settlement is fair. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators dedicated to helping you seek fair compensation. We have decades of cumulative experience in handling claims for injured victims in California, which we draw upon when negotiating on your behalf.
Litigation
If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we may advise you to file a civil lawsuit. While most civil cases are settled outside of court, we prepare your case as if it is going to trial. Our attorneys are experienced in litigation and can bring in expert witnesses and take depositions to support your case. These are activities your legal counsel will perform.
Even the discovery phase can be overwhelming, as it involves exchanging information relevant to the case. Our Oakland personal injury lawyers can handle the discovery requests sent by the opposing counsel.
We have the resources to assist you throughout your personal injury claim. Our attorneys can guide and support you throughout the legal process. Insurance companies and opposing counsel may raise defenses to challenge your claim. Our personal injury lawyers in Oakland can provide legal representation and help you protect your rights during the claims process.
What Can A Personal Injury Lawyer Do For You?
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be helpful when it comes to handling your case after being involved in an accident. Besides helping investigate your accident, building a case, and negotiating your settlement in or out of court, your injury lawyer can further help you in the following ways:
- Navigating the Legal Process Confidently — It’s perfectly normal not to know a thing about injury law and the processes involved. It could overwhelm the average Joe to understand all the terms and procedures, meet with various professionals, deal with insurance companies, and navigate such an unfamiliar system. Fortunately, your injury lawyer can share their knowledge with you. This way, you can make informed decisions about your case.
- Evaluating Your Potential Compensation — Helping victims seek the compensation they may be entitled to is an important aspect of being a legal advocate for injured clients. When you work with a personal injury attorney, they work diligently to help you explore possible paths to fair compensation. They can also assess the total amount of compensation you may be entitled to.
- Maintaining an Objective Viewpoint — Accidents often involve heightened emotions. From feeling confused and angry to sad and worried, emotions tend to run high. Understandably, many victims who sustained debilitating injuries and disabilities may suffer from mental health issues afterward. This whirlwind of emotions can affect how you think. When making decisions with ripple effects on your future, keeping a clear head and remaining rational can be beneficial. A personal injury lawyer can share their objective point of view, helping you make decisions based on legal merits alone.
Common Types Of Cases Our Personal Injury Attorneys Handle
Arash Law is committed to offering comprehensive legal assistance to victims of personal injuries in California. We can assist you in investigating your case, gathering evidence, filing your claim, and seeking help from expert witnesses to further assess your situation.
Here are some of the cases the attorneys at our Oakland personal injury law firm can handle:
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can negatively impact your ability to work, perform daily tasks, and enjoy life. When seeking compensation after a TBI, you’re facing more than just medical bills; you could be dealing with lifelong challenges.
In cases like these, some insurance companies may examine your circumstances closely and raise defenses to challenge the extent of their responsibility. They have legal teams dedicated to protecting their interests. Dealing with the complexities of the insurance claims process, especially while recovering from a TBI, can be overwhelming. A traumatic brain injury lawyer can help you by handling the legal aspects of your case.
Burn Injuries
Every year, about half a million people in the United States suffer from burn injuries, according to the American Burn Association. While some people recover, burns can be incredibly painful and require extensive medical care.
There are three main types of burns, each with its own level of severity and treatment. First-degree burns affect only the skin’s surface and usually heal within a week or two. Sunburn is a common example. Second-degree burns damage the deeper layers of skin, causing blisters. Healing takes longer, often lasting several weeks. Third-degree burns are the most severe and can cause extensive damage, extending through all skin layers.
Car accidents, workplace incidents, or defective products usually cause burn injuries. Consulting a personal injury lawyer in Oakland can be beneficial if you or a loved one has suffered a serious burn due to someone else’s negligence.
Dog Bites
In California, pet owners are strictly liable for any damage caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior. This means that even if a dog has never bitten anyone before, the owner is still responsible for injuries or damages resulting from a bite or attack. For instance, if a dog’s owner fails to maintain proper control or supervision, and the dog causes injury, the owner may be held accountable under negligence laws.
Our personal injury lawyers can help establish the potential liability of the dog owner and assist you in pursuing compensation you may be eligible for. If you’ve been injured by a dog, whether through a bite or other form of aggression, contact us for a free initial consultation.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are devastating and can cause permanent disability. These injuries often result in partial or complete paralysis, making everyday activities challenging. The extent of the damage determines the specific impact on a person’s body, including loss of sensation, movement, or both.
A lawyer experienced in spinal cord injury cases can provide legal support to those who are injured due to the negligence of others. They help injured individuals navigate the legal complexities to pursue compensation for immediate and long-term needs, including medical expenses, rehabilitation, and financial support. By allowing an attorney to handle legal matters on their behalf, injured people can concentrate on recovery while taking steps to protect their rights.
Whiplash And Neck Injuries
Sudden jolts in car accidents often cause whiplash and other neck problems. These injuries can range from mild to severe and may lead to ongoing pain, stiffness, and limited neck movement. Symptoms might not appear right away but can worsen over time, causing long-term discomfort.
Since these injuries can be hard to spot, seeing a doctor quickly after an accident is important. An Oakland personal injury lawyer can help you get the necessary medical care, like tests, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment. Depending on your case’s circumstances, they may be able to assist you in pursuing fair compensation for your pain, lost income, and reduced quality of life.
Birth Injuries
A birth injury occurs when a baby is harmed during the birthing process. This can happen due to the natural pressures of childbirth or medical errors made by healthcare providers. While many birth injuries are minor and heal on their own, some can have severe and lasting consequences for the child’s health.
If you suspect that your baby’s injuries were caused by medical negligence, a birth injury lawyer can provide legal assistance. These legal professionals are skilled at gathering evidence, consulting physicians, and negotiating settlements on behalf of their clients. In cases where a settlement cannot be reached, they may litigate the matter in court.
Wrongful Death
Losing a loved one due to someone else’s carelessness is heartbreaking. Wrongful death claims offer a path for surviving family members to seek compensation for their losses. These can include financial burdens like funeral costs and lost income, as well as the emotional pain of losing a loved one. A compassionate wrongful death attorney can provide guidance during this difficult time, helping you pursue justice.
Types Of Accidents That Typically Lead To Personal Injury
Many different types of accidents lead to personal injury cases. You may have suffered injuries under many types of conditions. The more you research this area of the law, the more you will learn that most activities people engage in can cause minor to severe bodily injury. As an accident victim, keep in mind that every step you take to prepare for your personal injury case may help you down the line. The following are personal injury cases our Oakland accident lawyers can handle:
Car Accidents
Traffic is a significant aspect of life in Oakland, due to the large number of commuters who travel to and from the city daily. Unfortunately, automobile accidents are quite common, and many accident victims report never seeing the approaching car or object that causes the accident. Minor car accidents may lead to whiplash and bruises, while the more severe ones can cause fractured bones, head trauma, and spinal cord injuries. Some accident victims may suffer temporary or permanent disability due to the injuries they sustain. Unfortunately, fatal traffic accidents in Oakland are consistently high as well.
Our Oakland personal injury lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and explore your options for pursuing compensation. Some of the most common automobile accident types include frontal, rear, and sideswipe collisions.
Demographic Data Of Car Accidents In Oakland
Drivers and passengers face many dangers while driving in Oakland due to the city’s accident rate. The Department of Transportation in Oakland works tirelessly to reduce the number of accidents, decrease the total death rate, and make it easier for residents to travel on Oakland’s streets and highways.
Some regions in Oakland experience a higher incidence of car accidents than other areas. Demographic data can help citizens learn more about the rate of accidents in specific parts of the city.
- Young Individuals in Oakland — Car accidents are the second leading cause of fatalities among young people in Oakland, next only to murder.
- Older People in Oakland — Older people within the city have a two times greater chance of dying in a car accident relative to other residents of Oakland. Many of these deaths happen while they are walking around the city. Senior citizens are frailer than others, and their bodies are less likely to withstand the force of impact from a car crash.
- People of Asian Descent in Oakland — Roughly thirty percent of the streets in Asian neighborhoods in Oakland are on the City of Oakland Pedestrian High Injury Network. This percentage is higher than that of any other ethnic group. Chinatown is a neighborhood where many pedestrian accidents occur. Many fatal accidents also take place in the city’s Asian neighborhoods.
- African-American People in Oakland — People from this demographic in Oakland are more likely to suffer serious bodily injury or death due to pedestrian accidents. Racial inequities and other problems have created these issues in the city. Some studies suggest drivers may be less likely to yield to black residents. Studying these trends can help researchers develop tools that will make all of Oakland a safer place to live.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists are often perceived as reckless and irresponsible, but this is a misconception. Most motorcycle accidents are caused by distracted drivers who are not paying attention to their surroundings. Motorcyclists often suffer serious bodily injuries during motorcycle accidents. Wearing protective headgear can be a lifesaver, but a traumatic brain injury remains a possibility. Our Oakland personal injury lawyers experienced in motorcycle accidents can help protect your rights to seek compensation for your losses.
Trucking Accidents
Due to the sheer weight and size of vehicles involved, trucking accidents can result in catastrophic injuries and extensive property damage. The occupants of the smaller vehicle may suffer a spinal cord or traumatic brain injury during a trucking accident. Since trucks require more time and space to come to a complete stop, these accidents sometimes occur when a truck driver cannot stop their truck in time. Poor weather conditions can also increase the likelihood of truck accidents.
Neglect And Abuse Injury Cases
These types of personal injury cases typically involve nursing home injuries and foster home abuse. Some lawyers focus on these cases because they can be concerned with many different legal areas.
Maritime Accidents
The following types of cases are often categorized as maritime accidents: Jones Act injuries, commercial fishermen injuries, tug and barge accidents, and boating accidents. Many of these cases involve federal law, and it may be helpful to speak to an attorney who is knowledgeable about the different types of maritime accident cases for legal assistance.
Products Liability Cases
Product liability cases typically involve manufacturing and design defects. These defects can cause serious bodily injury or death. Many products may be dangerous and must include adequate warnings in their packaging so consumers can understand how to safely use them. Product liability cases can involve many technical fields, such as engineering, medicine, and construction. A knowledgeable product liability attorney can guide you through the technical aspects of these cases.
Construction And Workplace Accidents
Many employees suffer serious bodily injuries while they are working. All work environments can be potentially dangerous, so it is important to take steps to make your workplace safer. While at work, some employees may slip and fall, while others may sustain injuries from machines or falling objects. If you’ve been injured in a similar incident, multiple parties may be liable for your losses. Our experienced Oakland personal injury lawyers can advise you regarding how workers’ compensation and employment laws can influence your case.
Rideshare Accidents
Ridesharing companies in Oakland, like Uber and Lyft, transport people from point A to point B. Despite safety measures and regulations, automobile accidents involving rideshare services can still happen. Speaking to a knowledgeable Oakland personal injury attorney can help you understand the complex insurance policies associated with these cases.
Slip-And-Fall Accidents
Slip-and-fall accidents are considered preventable since they are usually brought on by negligent maintenance and avoidable risks, such as spills, uneven flooring, and insufficient handrails. Accident victims need to file accident reports and seek medical treatment. It may be helpful to seek the advice of a personal injury attorney in Oakland if victims decide to pursue a legal claim.
Slip and fall accidents may cause spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and bone fractures. Some of the places where slip and fall accidents commonly occur include grocery stores, schools, commercial warehouses, and gymnasiums.
Other Types Of Accidents
The following are other common accidents that happen in Oakland, California:
- Dog Bite Accidents
- Pedestrian Accidents
- Premises Liability Cases
- Boat Accidents
- Bicycle Accidents
Types Of Compensation Victims May Pursue After An Accident
Our Oakland personal injury lawyers can help victims seek compensation for various types of losses depending on their case’s circumstances. Sympathizing with what victims have to endure as a result of accidents, our attorneys strive to help them pursue economic (tangible, financial losses) and non-economic (subjective, non-monetary losses) damages that they may be entitled to.
These compensatory damages can include the following:
- Coverage for medical bills, including future expenses.
- Any lost income due to missed work caused by the injury.
- Loss or reduced future earnings if the victim is unable to return to work.
- Expenses for repairs or replacement of damaged properties.
- Other out-of-pocket expenses related to the aftermath of the accident.
- Damages for pain and suffering.
- Damages for loss or reduced enjoyment of life.
In rare cases, courts may award punitive damages to victims of gross negligence and malicious acts. These damages are intended to punish the defendant and serve as a warning for others not to engage in similar conduct.
You might have to deal with stress, anxiety, and financial insecurity after an accident. Aside from that, the injuries you suffer could mean spending long periods of time with physical therapists and other medical professionals. Medical bills, lost earnings, and psychological distress can further impact your mental well-being.
According to California law, victims can file a claim for damages caused by someone who was negligent. You may be eligible for compensation for monetary damages related to pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and other damages. It’s okay not to understand every aspect of a personal injury case. Speaking to Oakland personal injury lawyers will help you understand your options, support your legal claims, and build a case strategy that is also prepared for trial.
Who Are The Liable Parties I Can Sue For My Injuries?
Determining who is responsible for compensating your losses is a crucial factor in every personal injury case. Many personal injury claims involve multiple parties who are responsible for a victim’s injuries. Our skilled Oakland personal injury lawyers have the resources to thoroughly investigate your accident and discover all the potential parties who may be responsible for your damages.
If you or someone you know has been injured, a personal injury attorney may be able to assist you in pursuing compensation from any of the following potentially liable parties:
- Negligent drivers of private or commercial vehicles.
- Vehicle owners.
- Premises owners.
- Product designers or manufacturers.
- Repair services.
- Employers.
- Public entities.
Even if you were partially at fault for your injuries, the law may still allow you to file a claim for compensation. California is a pure comparative negligence state, meaning victims of accidents may still seek a percentage of damages they may be entitled to, even if they’re partially liable. This means that if you were 40% at fault, you could still be owed 60% of the damages.
Let’s say you suffered $100,000 in damages and are 20% liable for causing the accident. The rule states your compensation will be reduced by 20%, so your potential damages may amount to $80,000. Let our Oakland lawyers for personal injury protect your rights against the involved parties and help establish liability.
How To Establish Negligence And Prove My Case
The outcome of personal injury cases can be impacted by your ability to identify who is at fault and establish their negligence. Negligence is the most frequent type of liability that a personal injury attorney would bring up in court. In tort law, a “negligent” person is someone who does not adhere to the standard of care expected of any reasonably careful person.
For instance, private property owners and tenants must uphold certain standards of care in keeping their premises safe for others. This standard depends on whether the other person is an invitee, a licensee, or a trespasser.
To establish that the at-fault party (defendant) was liable, your Oakland personal injury lawyer must demonstrate the following elements of negligence:
- The at-fault party owed you a legal duty of care to avoid causing harm to others.
- The at-fault party breached that duty of care.
- There is a causal link between your injuries and their breach of duty.
- You suffered harm as a direct result of the at-fault party’s breach of duty.
Strict liability is applied in certain instances, usually in cases involving a dog bite or a dangerous or defective product. In these cases, the defendant may be held liable regardless of their fault or intention. Let our personal injury lawyers in Oakland legally represent you in establishing the at-fault parties’ negligence.
Our client suffered serious injuries after he was run over by a speeding vehicle. Aside from achieving a monumental financial recovery, our firm was able to secure the best medical care and treatment to ensure that he recovered from his injuries with the best medical team in the nation. We are happy to deliver closure and peace to a nice family.– BRIAN BEECHER
What To Do After A Personal Injury?
Experiencing a personal injury can be distressing and overwhelming. Whether caused by a car accident, a slip and fall, dog bites, or another unforeseen event, taking immediate action can help with your claim.
- Prioritize Safety — If you are in immediate danger, evacuate the area promptly. Once you’ve relocated to a safer location, focus on remaining calm to assess the situation clearly.
- Seek Medical Attention — Regardless of the apparent severity of injuries, it is crucial to undergo a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not show immediate symptoms, making a timely examination essential. For severe injuries, dial emergency services immediately.
- Report the Accident — Contact the authorities to document the crash. This includes filing a police report for car accidents or informing your supervisor in case of workplace injuries. Retain a copy of the official report for your records.
- Collect Information — Request contact details and statements from all involved parties, including witnesses. Visual documentation, such as photographs or videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to property, can also be helpful. Take note of the date, time, and prevailing conditions, such as weather and lighting conditions.
- Maintain Comprehensive Records — Preserve all medical records, prescriptions, and bills related to the injury. Create copies of incident reports, witness statements, and correspondence with insurance companies. Document financial losses, including medical expenses and lost wages.
- Notify Your Insurance Provider — Promptly inform your insurance company about the incident, providing accurate and detailed information. Cooperate with the insurance adjuster by providing any requested documentation.
- Protect Your Legal Rights — Exercise caution when discussing the incident to avoid admitting fault or liability. Refrain from sharing details about the accident or your injuries on social media, as this information can be used against you.
- Seek Legal Counsel — Consulting with experienced Oakland personal injury lawyers after an accident may be advisable.
The Statute Of Limitations For Personal Injury Cases In Oakland
The statute of limitations is a time bar that obliges injured victims to file their legal claims within a specific period of time. In California, personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the date of injury. You need to file your civil lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires. Otherwise, you may forfeit your right to seek compensation, although exceptions may apply in certain circumstances. If you have questions regarding the statute of limitations for personal injury actions in California, consider speaking with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney.
In wrongful death cases, the legal claims must be filed within two years of the date of the decedent’s death. Understanding how these time limitations can impact your case, you may want to collect evidence early on to support your personal injury case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Are My Rights As A Victim Of An Accident Caused By Someone Else?
You may be able to seek financial compensation for your injuries. Throughout the process, you will likely interact with insurance companies and other parties involved in your claim. It may be wise to seek clarity on what your rights are when going through the claims process. Doing so may help you protect your rights while communicating with insurers and during the evaluation of your case.
By retaining a personal injury lawyer, you can gain access to legal guidance and resources that may help you protect your legal rights. Aside from that, your attorney can walk you through the claims process, assess settlement offers, and help you search for evidence that may support your case.
Why Do I Need A Personal Injury Lawyer?
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Oakland, hiring a personal injury attorney can help you focus on your recovery while trying to seek the compensation you may be entitled to. Research indicates that people with legal representation often receive higher settlements. Our experienced attorneys are skilled negotiators who can handle insurance companies and protect your rights in court. With decades of personal injury case experience in California, we can help you manage your case and seek just compensation on your behalf.
What Does A Personal Injury Lawyer Do?
When a personal injury lawyer works on your case, they assume many responsibilities. Among the first things they do is to build a strong case for you. By collecting the evidence to back up your claim, your attorney can help establish the negligence of the opposite party in causing the accident.
Your lawyer will then evaluate your injuries’ financial impact by preserving medical records and other related documents. They can also send a demand packet with the computed value to the at-fault party’s counsel. The injury’s impact can include lost income, as it prevents you from working for days or results in a disability that makes you lose your job altogether. These lost wages and earning capacity will be included in your potential compensation.
They can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, keeping the discussions centered on fair compensation. Should they fail to reach a settlement, they have the option to pursue your case in court. Whether the case is settled outside of court or in trial, your experienced personal injury lawyer will represent you throughout and protect your rights to seek fair compensation.
What Should I Consider In A Personal Injury Lawyer?
When you are choosing a personal injury lawyer, you need to focus on finding someone with experience, knowledge, and resources. Some personal injury cases require substantial financial investment. Expert witnesses and depositions can be costly. Therefore, it may be wise to focus on finding a personal injury lawyer who understands how to manage a case from beginning to end. All phases of a personal injury case can be impactful. As such, you should consider whether your personal injury lawyer can take care of the legal aspects of your case.
When seeking legal representation, consider the following:
- You should assess the injury lawyer’s track record in handling similar cases successfully. This may provide insight into their competence.
- It may also be beneficial for you to observe their communication skills. Clear, consistent updates on the case status can help you make informed decisions on how to move forward.
- Hiring a lawyer who demonstrates empathy and delivers a strategic approach may impact your case’s outcome. Regular consultations should also be a priority.
- Lastly, verifying credentials and checking past client testimonials may also prove insightful.
We are committed to providing clients with a personalized approach. Our lawyers prioritize your needs and goals while helping you manage the case, so you can concentrate on recovering from your injuries.
How Do I Know If I Have A Personal Injury Claim?
If someone else’s negligence or intentional act caused your injury, you may have a personal injury claim in California. Key factors to consider include your ability to prove the other party’s fault, demonstrating that the injury directly resulted from their actions, and showing that you suffered damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Consult our experienced Oakland personal injury lawyers to discuss your options and evaluate the strength of your claim. Our team can help identify the liable party for your injuries and help you through the legal process to pursue the appropriate compensation you may be eligible for.
Will My Personal Injury Case Go To Trial?
Most personal injury claims are resolved through a settlement between the injured person and the insurance company. This involves negotiating a fair amount to compensate the victim for their injuries.
However, some cases do end up in court. This might happen if the insurance company denies the claim or blames the injured person for the accident. If this occurs, filing a lawsuit may be necessary to seek compensation.
It’s important to know that personal injury lawsuits are common. Sometimes, the threat of legal action encourages the insurance company to settle the case.
What Should I Bring To My Initial Consultation?
Every personal injury case is unique, making it essential to prepare for your initial consultation to help your attorney build a strong case. While specific details may vary, bringing certain items can significantly aid in evaluating your claim. Key items to consider bringing include:
- Medical Records — This includes all medical documents related to your injuries, such as treatment plans, diagnoses, and surgical reports. Documentation of prior medical conditions is also important.
- Financial Records — Bills, receipts, and proof of lost wages can help estimate your damages.
- Insurance Policies — Your own auto insurance and that of the other party involved in the accident can be crucial.
- Evidence From the Accident Scene — Photographs, videos, and witness contact information are valuable pieces of evidence.
- A Detailed Description of the Event — A written account of the accident, including your recollection of events, can be helpful.
Gathering this information will help your attorney evaluate your case and work toward a positive outcome. Remember, your cooperation can be helpful in preparing a claim.
What Should I Do While the Case Is Pending?
While the case is pending, stay proactive. First, keep detailed records of all communications and actions related to your case. This includes keeping notes from discussions with your Oakland personal injury lawyers, as well as any correspondence you receive. Documenting everything thoroughly ensures that you have a comprehensive overview for reference.
- Maintain regular updates.
- Keep in touch with your legal team.
It may be prudent to follow your attorney’s advice closely. They have the experience needed to navigate complex legal processes. Your cooperation can impact the progress and outcome of your case.
Lastly, take care of your well-being and avoid discussing the case on social media platforms. Maintaining your health and practicing discretion can help in presenting your case during any legal proceedings.
How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?
Every personal injury case is unique. The value of your claim depends on the specifics of your accident. Our personal injury attorneys in Oakland will carefully examine the evidence to estimate a fair settlement value. We consider factors such as:
- How the accident happened.
- The nature and extent of your injuries.
- Potential future medical issues.
- Current and projected medical expenses.
- Lost wages and future earning potential.
At Arash Law, we have experience in assessing the value of victims’ claims and negotiating with insurers. Let our lawyers help you with your claim. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
What Do Insurance Companies Often Withhold From Plaintiffs' Claims?
Insurance companies play an important role in your personal injury claim. However, their primary goal is to manage costs by evaluating claims based on policy terms and available evidence. As a result, the settlement process may sometimes get complicated or be delayed. Our Oakland personal injury lawyers can walk you through the insurance claims process, giving you a primer on what to expect when pursuing compensation.
The following are some of the common practices by insurers that you may encounter in your personal injury claim:
- Requesting your signature on medical authorizations to obtain relevant records, which they may use to evaluate your injuries.
- Reviewing your insurance history and prior claims to determine coverage and liability.
- Asking for a recorded statement regarding the accident. Keep in mind that you are not required to provide one immediately, so you can consult an attorney first for guidance.
- Deferring settlement discussions while reviewing your medical documents and liability details.
- Assessing the severity of your injuries based on available evidence and medical reports.
- Using internal evaluation tools or software to calculate estimated settlement values.
- Limiting compensation offers to what is supported by documented evidence of losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Training claims adjusters to scrutinize your claim and raise defenses that may challenge the extent of their responsibility.
A personal injury lawyer can help you manage your claim. They can help you collect and organize pieces of evidence and present your case to support your right to seek fair compensation.
How Can A Personal Injury Lawyer Help Handle Insurance Companies?
Handling insurance claims can be complicated and time-consuming. A personal injury lawyer can handle communications with insurance companies on your behalf. They can also help you manage and organize legal paperwork to support your claim.
Your attorney can review policy details and negotiate with insurance representatives. They can help you manage, organize, and submit required evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and documentation for other expenses.
Additionally, experienced Oakland personal injury lawyers can assess settlement offers to verify whether they reflect the scope of your losses, whether financial or non-economic. They handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on your well-being.
How Long Does A Settlement Take?
The time it takes to reach a settlement varies. Generally, more complex cases take longer. While some people prefer a quick settlement to avoid the risk of trial, accepting a settlement too soon might mean missing out on compensation for ongoing and anticipated expenses as well as non-monetary damages. Remember, this will mainly depend on your eligibility for compensation.
Building a case takes time, but the potential payoff may be worth the effort. If you decide to pursue fair compensation, you should consider hiring a personal injury lawyer to help you avoid mistakes that could delay your case.
How Do I Pay Arash Law For Handling My Personal Injury Claim?
Our Oakland personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means we only get paid if we recover compensation on your behalf. You won’t owe us any upfront attorneys’ fees, retainers, or hourly rates. While attorneys’ fees may be waived, clients may still be responsible for certain case-related costs regardless of the outcome. Our attorneys will discuss with you the fee agreement to help you understand all potential costs.
The exact percentage of your settlement we’ll receive is clearly outlined in the agreement you’ll sign. This percentage will remain the same no matter how much compensation is awarded to you. Backed by our decades of experience handling personal injury cases, we can help you seek the compensation you may be entitled to.
Can Undocumented Immigrants Sue For Injuries In California?
Yes, if you live in California, you can file a personal injury claim regardless of your immigration status. This means that if you’ve been injured in an accident, you may have the right to seek compensation from those responsible.
Additionally, if you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you can pursue a wrongful death lawsuit even if you or the deceased were undocumented.
Immigration status does not affect your right to legal action, so if you’re facing a similar situation, Arash Law offers free initial consultations. Call us at (888) 488-1391.
Should I Tell My Attorney That I'm Undocumented?
Yes, it’s essential to inform your Oakland personal injury attorney about your immigration status. You have nothing to fear from deportation or other negative consequences, as strict confidentiality rules bind your personal injury lawyer and prevent them from sharing your immigration status with anyone, including government agencies.
To build your case, your attorney needs to be aware of all aspects of your situation. Please don’t hesitate to be completely open with them.
Consult Our Personal Injury Lawyers In Oakland
Arash Law helps injured victims seek financial compensation for their injuries. We have decades of combined experience representing clients in personal injury cases. Our attorneys employ a client-focused approach when handling your case and are prepared to take it to court, if necessary.
Our team is committed to addressing your questions or concerns, keeping you updated, and helping you make informed decisions about your case. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Our Oakland personal injury lawyers also serve clients in the surrounding areas, including Alameda, Piedmont, Berkeley, Albany, Orinda, Moraga, San Leandro, San Francisco, Richmond, Lafayette, Tiburon, Ashland, San Pablo, and El Sobrante.
