Riverside 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 Riverside Accident Lawyers Are Dedicated Advocates Of The Injured
Caught in medical bills, insurance claims, and paperwork post-accident? You don’t need to handle everything alone. Our Riverside accident lawyers can offer guidance and advocate for your rights. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 and schedule a free initial consultation to discuss the specifics of your case.
Riverside is known for its rich history, vibrant community, and spectacular scenery. Many people come and go to enjoy the sights it offers. However, accidents can strike anywhere, whether on busy freeways like SR-91 or quiet neighborhood streets. From fatal car accidents to slip-and-fall accidents, these unfortunate events can happen anytime.
Our accident lawyers are here to help. We combine a personalized approach with years of experience practicing personal injury law to help injured clients pursue compensation. Talk to our team to learn if you have a valid claim.
Gomez v. PG Transportation (settled on 8/11/2023) – settlement involving a man who was struck by a car resulting in a mild traumatic brain injury as well as other orthopedic injuries.– TINA ESHGHIEH
How Can Arash Law’s Riverside Accident Lawyers Help Your Claim?
Experiencing an accident can be distressing. The shock, coupled with the physical injuries and financial loss, may be understandably overwhelming. When simultaneously facing complex legal and financial consequences, having the assistance of an accident attorney can be helpful. Here’s how:
- Evaluate & Investigate Your Case — Our Riverside accident lawyers maintain objectivity and assess the merits of a claim without the emotional bias an accident victim might have, which may help you make more informed decisions about how to pursue compensation. We can also gather evidence, interview witnesses, and even do accident reconstruction to build a well-supported case on your behalf.
- Deal with Insurance Companies — We’ll handle negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf. We’ll aim to pursue a fair settlement that reflects the extent of your damages.
- Advocate for Your Compensation — From medical bills and lost wages to pain and suffering, we will work to seek the compensation that may be available to you under applicable law.
- Representation in Court — If negotiations fail, our Riverside accident attorneys can represent your interests in a courtroom. We’ll use our experience and skills in litigation to present your case to a judge or jury.
Why Consult Our Attorneys For Your Accident?
If you have been in an accident in Riverside, our team of skilled accident lawyers can offer experience and dedication when reviewing your case. Here’s why you can bring your case to us:
- Experienced Legal Advocates. Our Riverside law firm has knowledge and understanding of California’s legal landscape. With years of experience practicing personal injury law, we can explain your rights and options so you can decide what to do next.
- Personalized Service. We believe in a client-centered approach, which means our attorneys are committed to understanding every aspect of your case. We’ll answer your questions clearly and keep you informed throughout the process.
- Resourcefulness. We have the resources to investigate your claim by gathering evidence, documenting injuries, and calculating damages. If necessary, we have a network of outside experts we can call on to help further support your case.
- Contingency Fee Agreements. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis. In other words, nothing is charged up front. Clients are not required to pay attorney’s fees unless they’re awarded compensation. Still, certain case-related expenses may still apply.
Do Practice Areas Matter For Riverside Accident Lawyers?
While you can hire any personal injury lawyer to take your case, getting help from those who have direct experience handling your type of accident can be beneficial.
If you’ve been injured in an accident, we have:
- Riverside Lyft and Uber accident lawyers who can negotiate with rideshare companies for pursuing fair compensation for your injuries
- Auto accident lawyers in Riverside who’ve advocated for traffic accident victims
- Riverside DUI accident lawyers who can address your legal concerns
- Construction accident lawyers in Riverside who can help hold developers and other negligent parties accountable
We also have other attorneys who handle bus accidents, train accidents, product liability, premises liability, big rig collisions, and more. You can schedule a free initial consultation to see if and how we can help.
Common Accident Cases We Handle In Riverside
Our Riverside accident lawyers have experience advocating for the rights of injured individuals and families dealing with various forms of accidents. As a result, we have years of experience handling personal injury claims across a wide range of practice areas.
Here are some of the common types of accident cases our law firm handles:
Car Accidents
Car accidents range from minor fender-benders to catastrophic multi-vehicle collisions. These accidents can potentially leave a lasting impact on victims and their families. It’s one of the common types of accidents our accident lawyers in Riverside handle.
Here are some car accident statistics concerning the Golden State:
- According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), drunk driving fatalities increased by 16% in 2021, claiming 1,370 lives compared to 1,180 the year before. The percentage of drivers killed in crashes who tested positive for legal or illegal drugs dropped by 5.5% in 2021 compared to 2020.
- The Safe Transportation and Research Education Center (SafeTREC) reported that 35% (1,509 victims) of all traffic accident fatalities in 2021 were speeding-related. These fatalities represent a 16.5% increase from 2020 (1,209 victims).
- About 141 people were killed in 2021 due to distracted driving, representing a 27.3% increase from the previous year (110 victims).
- According to the Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS), in 2022, Riverside witnessed a concerning increase in traffic-related fatalities, with 55 deaths. This is a significant rise from the previous year’s count of 37. This positions Riverside as the 8th deadliest city in California for traffic incidents.
Given these figures, it’s clear accidents remain a possibility even for the most cautious of drivers. Whether it’s a head-on collision, rear-end crash, or a hit-and-run case, our firm has the experience of helping car accident victims pursue compensation for their losses. Our Riverside car accident lawyers can help you deal with insurance claims, establish liability, negotiate a settlement, and, if necessary, present your case in the courtroom.
Truck Accidents
The size and weight of commercial trucks often make accidents involving them particularly severe. These truck accidents can potentially result in serious injuries, with some permanently affecting a victim’s physical abilities or quality of life.
Truck drivers also have stricter rules on hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement. Violations of these regulations may play a crucial role in your claim. Truck accident lawyers in Riverside can assist clients throughout the claims process, gathering evidence, analyzing driver logs, and uncovering any contributing factors.
Here’s a snapshot of California truck accident statistics in 2021:
- According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), California has the second-highest number of truck-occupant fatalities (48) in the country, trailing behind Texas (170). It also has the second-highest number of non-occupant fatalities (60).
- There were 416 large trucks in fatal traffic collisions, representing 6.8% of the total number of vehicles involved.
- Researchers from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that driving for more than eight hours can make truck drivers twice as likely to crash. Any type of vehicle or equipment defect was also found to increase the crash risk by as much as 200%.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in more severe injuries than other vehicular accidents. Unlike in cars or trucks, a motorcycle rider’s body is directly exposed, with no surrounding frame, airbags, or seatbelts to provide protection. Consequently, when an accident occurs, the rider is more likely to bear the full brunt of the collision.
Here are some key statistics that shed light on the prevalence of motorcycle accidents:
- According to the OTS, motorcycle fatalities climbed 3% in 2021, with 565 deaths recorded compared to 549 in 2020.
- Figures from SafeTREC showed that 565 motorcyclists were killed in 2021, which translates to a 7.7% increase from 2020’s 549 fatalities.
- According to the 2021 data from NHTSA, 40% of motorcyclists killed in traffic accidents across the country were not wearing helmets. In California, there was a 9% rise in helmetless motorcyclist fatalities (37 in 2021 vs. 34 in 2020).
While statistics can’t predict individual outcomes, having legal representation by your side after a motorcycle accident may assist you in your pursuit of compensation.
Pedestrian Accidents
Every year, thousands of pedestrians get into accidents, suffering injuries that range from minor to life-altering. These accidents often occur when pedestrians are crossing streets, walking along roadways, or while on sidewalks. The impact can be serious, leaving victims and their families facing medical bills, emotional trauma, and other significant losses.
If you find yourself in such unfortunate circumstances, our Riverside pedestrian accident lawyers can be advocates for your rights and may be able to help you seek the compensation you need to move forward.
Here’s a quick overview of California pedestrian accident statistics from 2021:
- According to the NHTSA, the top three states (California, Florida, and Texas) with the highest number of pedestrian deaths account for 37% of all pedestrian fatalities across the country.
- Around 26% (1108 victims) of all traffic-related fatalities in the state were pedestrians, representing a 9.4% increase from the previous year.
- SafeTREC estimates that every day, 20 pedestrians die from motor vehicle accidents.
Slip & Fall Accidents
Often occurring in places like busy supermarkets, slick office floors, or even unassuming sidewalks, slip-and-fall accidents can catch anyone off guard. Minor slips might resolve with some rest and pain meds. However, what if your fall resulted in unexpected medical expenses, time away from work, and other damages?
Riverside lawyers with experience in slip and fall accidents can review your accident and, if you have a valid claim, help gather evidence like witness statements and accident scene photos to build a substantiated case. We can also help you establish liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and account for all your losses when pursuing compensation.
Slip and fall accidents may be caused by the following:
- Uneven surfaces — Including any irregularity in flooring, such as potholes in parking lots, uneven sidewalks, or loose floorboards
- Wet and slippery floors — May be caused by cleaning, spills, or weather-related moisture that gets tracked indoors
- Cluttered walkways — Spaces congested with cords, tools, merchandise, or even personal items, such as bags and coats
- Poor lighting — Dimly lit hallways, staircases without proper illumination, and outdoor areas shrouded in darkness, which make people miss uneven surfaces or obstacles
- Inadequate maintenance — Including failing to repair broken steps or railings, not addressing leaking roofs that create slippery surfaces, or neglecting to clean up spills promptly
- Failure to warn of hazards — If a property owner knows about a dangerous condition, like a wet floor or icy pathway, and doesn’t warn visitors
Workplace Accidents
Whether it’s an unexpected tumble because of a slippery floor or machinery going haywire, workplace accidents can throw a wrench in your plans. Workers’ compensation claims may help victims after such incidents, but they can be denied in some instances. Having a Riverside work accident lawyer might allow you to explore other avenues of pursuing compensation for your case, such as filing third-party liability claims.
Workplace accidents may be caused by the following:
- Improper equipment maintenance — Machines require regular checks and servicing to function safely. When maintenance schedules fall through, the risk of malfunction increases, endangering anyone operating or staying near the equipment.
- Dangerous working conditions — Slippery floors, unsecured scaffolding, exposed electrical wiring, and inadequate personal protective equipment may cause accidents if left unaddressed.
- Fatigue and distraction — Whether it’s exhaustion from long hours or mental disengagement due to personal devices, being tired or unfocused can potentially cloud judgment and increase accident risk.
- Lack of safety training — Beyond general human error, the lack of safety training might lead to accidents. Employers must check if their workers are equipped with the knowledge to handle potential risks. Our Riverside work accident lawyers may look into a company’s training methods and processes to see if this was the cause of your accident.
- Exposure to hazardous materials — From chemical spills to asbestos dust, hazardous materials can potentially cause respiratory issues, burns, and long-term health problems.
What To Do Following An Accident In Riverside, CA
The moments following an accident can be confusing and stressful. However, taking a deep breath and knowing what to do next can potentially impact any subsequent legal actions you may be able to take. Here’s a sample guide to illustrate:
Prioritize Your Safety
If possible, move to a safe location to prevent further accidents. Check yourself and the other people involved for injuries. If anyone needs medical attention, call 911. Don’t move injured individuals unless absolutely necessary to avoid further harm.
Report The Incident To The Police
It’s essential to have a legal record of the incident, so contact the police to report the accident. An official police report can serve as evidence for insurance claims and any subsequent legal proceedings.
Document Everything
Take pictures and videos of the damage to the vehicles, the scene, and any road markings or signs that might be relevant. Capture weather conditions if possible. Statements from witnesses can be invaluable, so get their contact details if they’re willing to help. While it’s important to be courteous, it’s recommended to avoid discussing the accident’s specifics or who might be at fault.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, see a doctor after the incident. Some injuries can manifest later. Getting a medical evaluation also creates a record for future compensation claims.
Contact Your Insurance
Inform your insurance provider about the accident promptly. Be truthful about the details, but avoid offering unnecessary information.
Call An Accident Lawyer
Our Riverside accident lawyers can review your specific case, explain complicated legal terms, and guide you through the claims process. If you decide to work with them on a valid case, they’ll help deal with every form and deadline to keep your claim on track.
What Are The Common Causes Of Traffic Collisions In Riverside?
A safe driver is not only responsible for their behavior on the road but also must anticipate potential risks from other drivers. Here are some of the common causes of traffic collisions in Riverside, California:
- Distracted Driving — Drivers sending texts, checking emails, or even sneaking a selfie on the road may cause severe accidents.
- Speeding — Exceeding the speed limit drastically reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around a curve or an unexpected obstacle.
- Driving While Under the Influence — The use of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs your ability to drive a vehicle and react to various situations on the road.
- Reckless Driving — Lack of patience on the road can potentially lead to reckless driving. This catch-all term includes behaviors like changing lanes without signaling, tailgating, or not respecting traffic signs and signals.
- Poor Weather Conditions — Lastly, road and weather conditions can sometimes contribute to collisions. Fog, rain, or unpredictable weather conditions can reduce visibility on roads and make surfaces slippery, potentially resulting in accidents.
Our Riverside accident lawyers are here to help you review what may have caused your crash, which may assist with identifying liable parties and negotiating a settlement for your losses.
Common Injuries From Accidents In Riverside, CA
Car crashes, slip-and-falls, or workplace accidents often result in injuries, some of which may have life-altering effects.
- Broken Bones — These often impose lengthy treatments and may require operations or physical therapy. A severe case could potentially hinder the victim from returning to their daily routines or even performing normal body movements.
- Neck Injuries — These range from minor neck strains or whiplash to severe cervical dislocation. Such injuries can be debilitating, affecting mobility and causing intense pain.
- Facial Injuries — Cuts, scrapes, and bruises are common, but more serious concerns like fractures of the jaw, nose, or cheekbones can also occur. Facial injuries might not only impact one’s appearance but also affect breathing, vision, and speech.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Damage to the spinal cord is likely to lead to partial or complete paralysis. Besides physical pain, victims may face emotional trauma and a significant change in their quality of life.
- Brain & Head Trauma — Accidents can potentially result in brain injuries and head trauma, which are among the most dangerous types. Concussions, hemorrhages, or skull fractures can cause cognitive issues and neurological impairments. These injuries may not manifest immediately, but can have lasting effects.
- Burns — Accidents involving fire, chemicals, or electricity may cause severe burns. Besides causing pain, burns may lead to long-term physical scars, emotional stress, and psychological trauma.
- Psychological Trauma — Ranging from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to anxiety and depression, emotional trauma has the potential to be just as debilitating as physical injuries, with long-lasting effects on a person’s mental health and well-being.
You may wish to learn about your rights and options after suffering these injuries. Experienced accident lawyers in Riverside can assess the extent of your injuries to explain if and how much compensation you may be able to pursue through the claims process.
Estimating The Value Of Your Personal Injury Claim
Estimating how much a personal injury claim is worth can be a tricky process. It involves combining the concrete with the abstract and balancing hard numbers against the intangible. A clear, meticulously documented accounting of all your damages is crucial.
Here are some of the different types of damages you may be able to seek after an accident:
Economic Damages
Often referred to as “special damages,” economic damages aim to repay you for your actual, out-of-pocket costs resulting from the injury. These monetary losses are typically easy to quantify and can include:
- Medical Bills — These include doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, prescription medications, and any other healthcare-related expenses.
- Lost Income — If the injury caused you to miss work or reduced your ability to earn, you may be able to file a claim for lost wages.
- Property Damage — If your personal property (like a car) was damaged in the accident, repair or replacement costs can potentially be included here.
Non-Economic Damages
Also known as “general damages,” non-economic damages seek to cover non-monetary harm, which is typically intangible and somewhat subjective. Non-economic damages can include:
- Pain & Suffering — This compensates for the physical pain and discomfort you’ve suffered due to your injuries.
- Emotional Distress — Emotional or psychological trauma, such as stress, insomnia, depression, or anxiety, can be included here.
- Loss of Enjoyment — If your injury prevents you from enjoying hobbies and recreational activities, you may be able to seek compensation for this loss.
- Loss of Consortium — This pertains to the impact of the injuries on close family relationships, typically a spouse.
Punitive Damages
Unlike economic and non-economic damages, which are compensatory, punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. They are relatively rare and only assessed in cases where the defendant’s conduct was particularly harmful or extreme.
Reach out to our experienced Riverside accident lawyers to understand your options and get guidance. They can help you estimate the potential value of your claim and advocate for a settlement that closely aligns with the extent of 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
Dealing With Insurance Companies After A Riverside Accident
The insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to investigate your claim. The adjuster will assess the accident’s details to determine how much the insurance company should pay. Cooperate with the adjuster to the extent of your ability to help speed up the process.
At the same time, stick to the facts, avoid admitting fault, and keep conversations concise. Consider recording calls with their permission for clarity.
When the adjuster has completed the investigation, the insurance company will present a settlement offer. Critically review this before accepting. If the offer doesn’t seem fair, don’t hesitate to get legal assistance. Our accident lawyers in Riverside can help review the offers you receive and may assist you in negotiating with the insurance company if necessary.
How Is Evidence Collected To Prove Your Case?
Evidence helps paint a clear picture of what happened, establishes fault, and ultimately supports your claim for compensation. Here’s a quick guide on gathering evidence after an accident:
- Documentation — From the moment an incident occurs, documentation starts. If it’s a personal injury case, documentation includes medical records, photos of injuries, and an account of the event. Capture every detail, no matter how insignificant it might seem at the time.
- Physical Evidence — Damaged vehicles, clothing, debris, or surveillance footage can provide valuable insights. If available, preserve these items carefully and avoid contamination.
- Witness Testimony — Statements from impartial witnesses can corroborate your version of events. Encourage them to write down their observations while the details are fresh.
- Professional Opinions — Accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, or other experts can provide valuable insights and strengthen your claim. Their testimonies often help to clarify issues regarding fault and impact.
Ultimately, collecting evidence is about painting a clear and factual picture for the judge and jury. It requires diligence, attention to detail, and strategic thinking. With the right approach and the guidance of our experienced Riverside accident lawyers, you may be able to place yourself in a better position to back your case.
Comparative Negligence In Riverside, California
In Riverside and the rest of California, one critical perspective of personal injury law that often comes into play is the concept of comparative negligence. Comparative negligence relates to how fault is divided among individuals involved in an accident.
In some states, if you bear even 1% fault for the accident, you’re barred from recovering any damages. However, California follows the pure comparative negligence rule.
In a pure comparative negligence system, the injured party can pursue a settlement even if they’re found to be up to 99% at fault. For instance, if you have incurred $100,000 in damages from an accident where you are found to be 20% at fault, you are still entitled to seek 80% of the damages, i.e., $80,000.
However, each case is unique, and the intricacies of comparative negligence can get complicated. Don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance from our Riverside accident lawyers, who can assess your specific situation and explain the courses of action you may be able to take.
Statute Of Limitations For Filing Accident Claims In Riverside, CA
You generally have two years to file a lawsuit for injuries or wrongful death caused by an accident. However, some exceptions may extend or shorten the deadline in your case, which you can learn more about when getting in touch with our Riverside accident lawyers.
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by another’s negligence, our attorneys can review your situation to understand whether you have a case. If you do, we can discuss how the statute of limitations may apply in your circumstances and help you file a valid claim on time.
Memories dim, witnesses move on, and crucial details vanish with time. As such, the law states that you may no longer be able to pursue even valid claims if you file outside the statute of limitations. The sooner you act, the more helpful it may be for your case.
Get Legal Help From Our Riverside Accident Lawyers!
Life after an accident may see you dealing with injuries, medical bills, and the stress of the unknown. Arash Law understands the challenges you might be facing. Our Riverside accident attorneys will work to bring our knowledge and resources to the table when reviewing your case. Contact us and schedule a free, no-obligation first consultation.
We offer our services in Riverside and neighboring areas, including Claremont, Upland, Ontario, Chino, Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, Rialto, San Bernardino, Highland, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Cherry Valley, Beaumont, San Jacinto, Nuevo, Mead Valley, Moreno Valley, El Cerrito, Corona, and Eastvale. However, you can also consult us about accidents that take place elsewhere in California.
Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391!
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