California Head-On Collision Car Accident Attorneys
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Head-On Collision Car Accident Attorneys Who Advocate For Injury Victims In California
Head-on collision accidents can result in permanent injuries. Permanent injuries can lead to a lifetime of pain and suffering. The financial cost of these injuries is staggering: a lifetime of medical bills and lost wages for decades of work can quickly add up to millions of dollars.
This can happen even before considering the intangible losses an accident victim suffers, such as physical pain and the emotional suffering that comes with living with an injury or disability. Injured victims can protect their right to compensation by hiring an attorney focusing on head-on collisions.
Our team of experienced head-on car accident attorneys at Arash Law is dedicated to helping victims and their families deal with the aftermath of collisions in California by providing compassionate and professional legal representation. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial, no-obligation case review.
Legal Support From Our California Head-On Car Accident Lawyers
Head-on collisions can lead to painful, traumatic, and costly consequences. The knowledge and experience of seasoned personal injury lawyers who can build and present a compelling case may be necessary to obtain a favorable outcome.
Our attorneys are dedicated advocates focused on their clients’ needs. Find out how we can help you with your head-on accident case:
- Proven Experience — Our attorneys are skilled in managing complex personal injury cases, including various car and truck accidents.
- Personalized Approach — We offer tailored legal strategies to meet your unique needs.
- Dedicated Advocacy — We will be your voice during the legal process, safeguarding your best interests.
- Comprehensive Resources — We thoroughly investigate cases, consult experts, and build strong claims.
Handling a head-on collision claim on your own can be daunting. We take care of all the complexities, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
If you are asking yourself, “How do I find California car accident lawyers near me?” look for attorneys who:
- Handle personal injury and car accident cases.
- Have years of experience in personal injury law.
- Listen carefully and pay attention to your case details.
- Understand the type of injuries you have sustained.
- Care about your well-being and take your case seriously.
Choosing an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer can be instrumental in your claim.
What Our Head-On Collision Car Accident Attorneys Do For You
When you choose our law firm, you gain a dedicated team with years of experience handling personal injury cases. Our attorneys provide support across key areas of your case, including:
- Skilled Negotiation — We handle all communications and settlement discussions with insurance companies and adjusters, applying our knowledge of the law.
- Thorough Damage Assessment — Our attorneys meticulously calculate the damages you suffer from the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Comprehensive Legal Support — We take care of all the necessary paperwork and guide you through the legal process. We also give timely updates on your case so you can make informed decisions later on.
- Evidence Collection — Our team gathers extensive evidence to establish the liability of the at-fault party.
- Court Representation — If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for your rights.
The first step in the process is understanding your options and rights. You may speak with California head-on accident attorneys to discuss the facts of your case. Lawyers can review your situation and explain potential avenues for pursuing compensation under the law.
Why Head-On Collisions Are So Deadly
In a head-on collision, the combined speed and mass of both vehicles colliding directly create a tremendous amount of energy at the point of impact, making this type of accident particularly deadly. The immense force generated leads to severe consequences, as the energy is concentrated in the front ends of the vehicles, often overwhelming safety features like crumple zones and airbags.
This results in catastrophic injuries to the occupants, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal organ injuries. The high likelihood of fatal or critical injuries in head-on collisions underscores the importance of safe driving practices.
The following are some statistics that illustrate the deadly nature of head-on collisions:
- Frontal impacts accounted for 59% of passenger vehicle occupant deaths in 2023 (14,462 out of 24,238).
- Side impacts made up another 22% of passenger vehicle occupant deaths.
- Vehicle-to-vehicle collisions represented less than half of the total motor vehicle-related deaths in 2022 (43%).
- Angle collisions caused about 8,800 deaths in 2022.
- Head-on collisions, though less frequent, were responsible for about 5,800 deaths, making up 29.6% of vehicle-to-vehicle collisions.
At Arash Law, we don’t see these figures as just numbers. Each statistic represents a significant life that matters. Our team guides accident victims and their families through their legal options.
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
Common Causes Of Head-On Collision Car Accidents In California
Determining the exact cause of a head-on collision is crucial as it identifies who is at fault and who is responsible for compensation. Liability can be complex, involving multiple parties and defenses. Working with an experienced California accident lawyer helps navigate these complexities.
Here are some common causes of head-on collisions:
- Distracted Driving — Technology, pets, and food distract drivers, causing accidents. Nearly 3,275 deaths in 2023 from distracted driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- Driving Under the Influence — Drugs and alcohol impair judgment, which may cause drivers to veer into oncoming traffic.
- Drowsy Driving — Tired drivers are slower to respond and may drift out of their lanes.
- Age — Older drivers face risks of serious injury in car accidents due to normal aging-related cognition and physical changes.
- Inexperience — New or young drivers lack experience, increasing accident risk, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Road Conditions — Poor road maintenance, unclear signage, and inadequate lighting contribute to accidents.
- Reckless Driving — Speeding and unsafe passing maneuvers on two-lane roads lead to collisions.
- Vehicle Malfunctions — Tire or brake failures cause drivers to lose control, potentially leading to collisions.
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Liable Party In A Head-on Collision
Traffic accidents may result in the at-fault party being responsible for the other party’s damages. However, determining fault can be difficult, and sometimes both parties are at fault. In order to make a claim in a head-on collision, you must prove that the other driver:
- Owed You a Duty of Care — You must show that they have a responsibility to operate their vehicle safely and follow traffic laws to ensure the safety of others on the road.
- Failed to Uphold Their Duty of Care — They should have breached this responsibility by acting recklessly, disregarding traffic laws, or performing actions that endangered others.
- This Failure Caused the Accident — The breach of duty directly led to the collision, meaning the accident wouldn’t have happened if the other driver had been careful.
- The Accident Directly Caused Your Injuries — As a result of the collision, you suffered injuries that were a direct consequence of the other driver’s negligence.
Liability can extend to various parties in an accident. Here are potentially liable parties who might pay for your damages:
- The Other Driver — If they drove recklessly or violated traffic laws, causing the accident.
- Vehicle Manufacturers — If a defect in your vehicle contributed to the accident.
- Government Agencies — If poor road conditions or malfunctioning traffic signals played a role.
Under California’s “pure comparative negligence” system, accident victims may still file for a claim even if they contributed to the crash. If the court finds them partially responsible, their percentage of fault reduces the compensation they may be able to recover. Insurance companies may use this principle to reduce the amount they owe you. Accurately documenting all aspects of the accident and proving negligence can help you strengthen your claim.
Compensation For Head-On Car Accident Damages
Serious injuries from head-on collisions require extensive and costly medical care, making it vital to seek compensation. Accurate assessment of losses, such as head trauma or spinal cord injuries, is key. These injuries can lead to years of medical expenses and impact your ability to work and earn. Head-on collisions can also impact the victim’s quality of life.
California law allows victims of others’ negligence to seek compensation for:
- Past and future medical bills.
- Lost earnings.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement.
- Pain and suffering.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Funeral and burial costs (in wrongful death cases).
Additionally, punitive damages may be awarded in certain cases where the at-fault party acted with gross negligence or malicious intent.
After a car accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention to diagnose all injuries and treat them promptly. Many injuries may not be immediately visible due to shock and adrenaline, so a thorough evaluation is important. Documenting these injuries is also essential for building your case.
On top of immediate concerns, the financial implications can escalate significantly if a permanent injury occurs. This can lead to substantial financial losses, including the need for compensation for lost wages and reduced earning capacity. As ongoing medical care and necessary modifications for living situations come into play, these costs can further increase, often resulting in higher settlement amounts for claims.
In addition to physical injuries, car accidents can lead to emotional effects such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. These psychological impacts can also qualify for compensation; therefore, it is important to document and address them as soon as possible.
While hiring a lawyer may not always seem necessary, enlisting an experienced car accident attorney can significantly benefit your case. They can help assess your losses accurately, negotiate with insurance companies, and assert your side of the story.
Wrongful Death Claims
Head-on collisions often cause serious injuries, and tragically, not all victims survive. Surviving family members may sue for wrongful death to recover financial losses like funeral expenses and lost wages the victim would have earned until retirement.
California law also allows spouses to sue for loss of consortium, covering emotional pain from losing affection, comfort, love, and companionship due to a spouse’s death. Also, California does not cap non-economic damages in wrongful death cases, unlike in other states. This means there is no limit on the compensation for non-economic losses in a wrongful death case from a head-on collision.
In these trying times, the support of a compassionate and experienced California head-on collision accident attorney is invaluable. They can guide you through the legal process, help you determine the potential value of your claim, and navigate the complex legal system to protect your rights and best interests.
Steps To Take After A Head-On Collision Accident
Proper documentation, medical attention, and legal support are all important in protecting your health and your rights. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you navigate the aftermath of a car accident:
- Document the Scene — Take photos or videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and lights if it is safe to do so.
- Exchange Contact Information — Collect contact information from all parties involved, such as names, addresses, insurance information, and eyewitness contacts. If you’re unable to do so, ask someone to help by calling 911.
- Seek Medical Attention — Visit your primary care doctor immediately, even if you don’t feel injured. Some injuries show symptoms days or weeks later. Documentation of your treatments is crucial for your personal injury claim.
- Stay at the Scene — Passengers should remain at the scene for police or insurance statements. Leaving could cause legal issues.
- Address Legal Needs — Consult an experienced personal injury attorney before making any statements to the insurance company. Once you hire an attorney, the insurance company contacts your lawyer instead.
Time Limit For Filing An Accident Claim
In California, you typically have two years from the accident date to file personal injury claims, including those from head-on collisions. Missing this deadline can result in your case being dismissed.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. If your claim is against a government entity, you might have just six months to file an administrative claim. For cases involving a minor, the statute of limitations may be paused until they turn 18. If a victim dies from accident-related injuries, surviving family members may have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
It’s advisable to consult with an experienced California head-on collision lawyer promptly after the accident. This will help you understand the specific statute of limitations applicable to your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should I See A Doctor After A Car Accident?
It’s important to see a doctor after a car accident, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. Many injuries can be latent, meaning they might not show symptoms immediately. A medical evaluation is crucial to ensure you haven’t sustained any hidden injuries.
Additionally, seeking medical attention promptly has legal implications. The timing of your doctor’s visit can impact your compensation claim. Insurance companies assess your injury data through automated systems, and documentation of a timely medical visit can help strengthen your case.
Will I Have To Go To Court After A Head-On Collision?
If your attorney files a lawsuit, you might need to go to court. Before trial, there are usually status conferences for scheduling and administrative matters, where you typically won’t need to speak. Most personal injury cases settle out of court, so it’s unlikely you’ll have to go, but your attorney will prepare you if needed.
What Is The Process For Filing A Police Report After An Accident?
In most cases, if you call 911 for a traffic accident, the police will respond, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or if the vehicles are obstructing traffic. Police officers will arrive to assess the situation, assist, ensure the safety of everyone involved, and file an official report. It’s important to provide clear and accurate information to the dispatcher to help them understand the severity of the accident and respond appropriately. If the accident is minor and there are no injuries, local regulations might vary, so it’s always best to check with your local authorities for specific guidelines.
If the police don’t come to the scene of the accident, you can still file a police report. Here are the steps you can take:
- Contact Your Local Law Enforcement Agency — Call your local police department or sheriff’s office to report the accident. They can guide you on the next steps and may ask you to come to the station to file a report in person.
- File an Online Report — Some cities, like Los Angeles and Sacramento, offer online reporting for minor accidents. Check if your city has an online reporting system and follow the instructions to submit your report. This option is likely available only for accidents without injuries.
- Visit a Police Station — If online reporting isn’t available, you can visit your nearest police station to file a report in person. Make sure to bring all necessary information, such as your driver’s license, insurance details, and any photos of the accident scene.
- Follow-Up — After filing the report, keep a copy for your records and provide it to your insurance company. If needed, you can also request a copy of the police report from the law enforcement agency.
It’s important to file a report as it can be crucial for insurance claims and legal purposes. If you’re unsure about what to do, consider consulting with a California head-on collision car attorney who can help you navigate the steps involved in the process.
How Do I File An Insurance Claim For My Head-On Collision?
If you hired an attorney immediately after your head-on collision car accident, you do not have to worry about filing a claim yourself. Your attorney will handle the paperwork for you as well as take over any correspondence with the insurance company. If you choose to settle your case without an attorney, you will need to call the insurance company to file your claim.
What Happens If I Can’t Get A Fair Settlement Offer For My Accident?
Insurance companies often offer unfair settlements. An experienced car accident lawyer can help counter low offers and prove your claim’s true value. If negotiations fail, your lawyer might file a lawsuit, often prompting a better offer. If not, both sides will investigate and exchange evidence, which may also lead to a higher settlement offer.
How Much Does Hiring A California Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
Most personal injury lawyers work on contingency, meaning they get paid a percentage of the settlement. Under this agreement, if your lawyer does not win a settlement, you will not owe any attorney’s fees. However, you may still be responsible for case costs.
If a lawsuit is filed, lawyers may take a higher percentage due to increased work. It’s important to clarify who will cover court costs and expenses if the case goes to trial.
You can hire a personal injury lawyer with no upfront fees, which is crucial as some victims avoid representation due to cost concerns. Having legal guidance can assist in navigating interactions with insurance companies and understanding your options.
Should I Hire A Lawyer After My Head-On Crash?
It’s wise to hire a personal injury attorney for car accidents in California, even for minor accidents. What might seem like a small fender bender can become a major headache without legal help.
Speeding alone caused over 11,775 fatalities in the U.S. in 2023, highlighting the severe consequences of reckless driving. Additionally, over 4 million people suffered injuries from motor vehicle accidents in the country in the same year. Navigating the legal complexities that follow such incidents can be daunting, which is where a California head-on collision car accident attorney becomes invaluable.
In at-fault states like California, the responsible party bears most of the liability. This makes negotiating insurance claims particularly challenging if you are unfamiliar with the process. After an accident, you will need to deal with the police, insurance companies, and medical issues, which can quickly become overwhelming.
Consider consulting a personal injury attorney after a head-on collision to discuss the legal options available to you.
When Should I See A Lawyer After A Car Accident?
After addressing your immediate medical needs, speaking with a lawyer can help you understand your legal options following a car accident. Early consultation may clarify how interactions with insurance companies could affect your claim. Once an attorney is involved, communication with the insurance company typically goes through legal counsel, allowing you to focus on recovery. You can contact a California head-on collision attorney when you are medically stable to discuss potential steps under the law.
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Head-On Collision Car Accident In California?
The time to settle a head-on collision car accident varies based on factors like injury severity, liability issues, quality of evidence, compensation demands, and potential court timelines. Serious injuries can lengthen the process, while unclear fault and insufficient evidence may complicate negotiations. Highly contested negotiations can also extend the timeline. An experienced attorney can assist clients in handling their cases, including providing timely updates on the settlement process.
California Lawyers For Head-On Car Accident Cases
If you have been injured in a head-on collision, you have legal rights that may be relevant to your situation. Our experienced auto accident lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., provide guidance to clients in San Francisco, Riverside, San Jose, San Diego, Sacramento, Sherman Oaks, and throughout California.
We aim to protect our clients’ legal rights so they can focus on recovering from their injuries. You can call us at (888) 488-1391 or contact us online to schedule your free initial, confidential consultation.
