Sacramento Car Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Sacramento Car Accident Lawyers Offer Transparent Representation For Every Client
Our Sacramento car accident lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of our clients who suffered losses in a crash. We handle all the legal legwork of pursuing compensation so they can focus on healing and getting back on their feet. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Sacramento is the capital of California and was the fastest-growing city in the state in 2017, as reported by the Sacramento Bee. It is the county seat and the largest city in Sacramento County. The US Census Bureau’s estimates for 2022 placed the city’s population at 528,001.
The Sacramento population was 50.6% female, with 22% being under 18 years of age, 13.8% being 65 years of age or older, and 6% under five years old. The Census also reported that 39.3% of Sacramento’s population was white alone, 29.4% was Hispanic or Latino, 19.5% was Asian alone, 12.6% was Black or African American alone, and 13.1% were two or more races.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), Sacramento had 3,205 fatal and injury crashes in 2020. These accidents included 318 alcohol-involved cases, resulting in 645 driving under the influence (DUI) arrests, including 11 drivers under 21 years of age and 95 drivers between 21 and 34 years of age. A dramatic increase in these figures was seen in 2021 when 4,296 people were killed or injured in traffic collisions around the city. Of these collisions, 700 were speeding-related, and 433 were hit-and-run accidents. Additionally, there were 508 crashes involving alcohol and 916 DUI arrests.
When any person is involved in a traffic accident in Sacramento, it is recommended for them to seek legal representation for assistance in filing an injury claim to pursue damages for their losses. Arash Law’s team of Sacramento car accident lawyers has represented clients injured in motor vehicle collisions.
Our Sacramento law firm will conduct an independent investigation into your crash to determine who was at fault and preserve key evidence relating to your case. We have been handling a wide range of personal injury claims in California for many years. Our car accident lawyers possess the skills necessary to advocate for your rights through negotiations and litigation.
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
How Can Our Sacramento Car Accident Lawyers Help With Your Case?
A car accident can result in damage, feelings of loss, and uncertainty. On top of the shock and worry, you may have to deal with treatments, insurance claims, and legal procedures. Our Sacramento accident injury lawyers offer support and assistance, such as:
- Investigating the Accident — We’ll gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to determine the cause of the accident and help identify the liable party.
- Calculating Your Damages — Our car accident lawyers will work with medical professionals to assess your injuries and calculate the value of your damages, such as your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Handling Insurance Claims — Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. Our Sacramento car accident law firm will handle all communications on your behalf. We work to build a well-supported case and aim to negotiate a fair settlement that reflects your actual damage.
- Representing You in Court — If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our Sacramento car accident attorneys are prepared to represent you in court and advocate for your rights.
How Do I Find The Right Car Accident Attorney?
Look for lawyers focusing on personal injury law, specifically for car accidents in Sacramento, CA. Car accident lawyers should have the experience and knowledge to handle your case efficiently. Check out their website, read through reviews from their clients, and see what kind of results they’ve achieved in similar cases.
Once you’ve narrowed the list of candidates, schedule a consultation with them. Our law firm offers a free, no-obligation initial consultation. During this meeting, you can tell our personal injury attorneys about the details of the accident and ask any questions you might have, including:
- What are your fees, and how do you get paid?
- What’s your approach to handling cases like mine?
- Can you walk me through the typical steps involved in a car accident lawsuit?
- What resources do you have available to investigate my case?
- Are there any expert witnesses you might need to consult, such as medical professionals or accident reconstructionists?
- How do you handle client updates?
- How involved will I be in the decision-making process?
- What is your estimated timeline for resolving my case?
- Are there any specific actions I should avoid taking that could potentially weaken my case?
- Is there anything else you feel I should be aware of before making a decision about legal representation?
These questions can help you gather essential information about a car accident lawyer’s approach, communication style, and qualifications. Armed with this knowledge, you can make an informed decision about whether they’re the right fit for your case. Remember, legal representation is a partnership, and compatibility matters.
Common Causes Of Car Accidents In Sacramento
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that human factors caused or contributed to 93% of the crashes it investigated. NHTSA also reported that 12 to 34% of crashes involved environmental factors, while 4 to 13% involved vehicle factors.
Some of the most common human causes of motor vehicle accidents in California include:
- Distracted driving
- DUI or drunk or drugged driving.
- Speeding
- Running red lights or stop signs.
- Reckless driving
- Aggressive driving
- Driver fatigue
- Tailgating
Out of these, the three major human factors most frequently reported were improper lookout, excessive speed, and inattention.
Without an attorney to guide you, it can be difficult to navigate the claims process. If you hire a car accident attorney, the process can become more manageable.
Our Sacramento car accident lawyers can help explore your legal options. Call (888) 488-1391 for a free and confidential initial consultation.
Dealing With Insurance Companies And Injuries
Every vehicle operating or parked on California roads is required to have insurance. Car owners can fulfill the state’s requirements by presenting a motor vehicle liability insurance policy, a cash deposit of $35,000 with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), a DMV-issued self-insurance certificate, or a surety bond for $35,000 from a company licensed to do business in California.
The minimum liability insurance requirements under California Insurance Code § 11580.1b are $15,000 for injury or death to one person, $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage.
In many cases, insurance companies will send out their own appraisers to evaluate car accidents and determine possible damages. Exercise caution when dealing with the insurer for another driver in these cases. It’s advisable not to agree to provide a recorded statement to an insurance company before consulting with an attorney.
Arash Law can help deal with the insurance company for you. Our Sacramento car accident lawyers have experience handling communications with insurers and assisting clients in seeking a fair settlement for their injuries and losses. We are committed to advocating for your rights against the at-fault party and will present your case before a jury if needed.
Typical Kinds Of Sacramento Car Accident Injuries
Even minor collisions in Sacramento can still cause severe injuries. People need to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a car crash because many injuries have delayed symptoms. You shouldn’t wait several days or weeks to see a doctor because any delay will only invite greater scrutiny from an insurance company.
The possible injuries stemming from a Sacramento car accident can range from minor to fatal. People can suffer a wide range of injuries that include, but are not limited to:
Head And Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are incredibly disabling injuries that can affect people for the remainder of their lives. TBIs are very common in all kinds of car accidents. Other common kinds of head and brain injuries are concussions, closed head injuries, and fractured skulls.
TBIs can have long-term and even permanent physical, cognitive, and emotional effects. If we take on your case, our Sacramento car accident attorneys will work with medical professionals to understand the extent of your injury, the prognosis, and the future medical care you’ll likely need. We’ll then use this information to calculate an appropriate compensation.
Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs)
An injury to the spinal cord involves damage to the cells and nerves that send and receive signals from the brain to and from the rest of the body. Such injuries may result from direct trauma to the spinal cord or damage to the surrounding tissues and bones (vertebrae). These conditions may result in temporary or permanent changes in sensation, movement, strength, and body functions below the site of an injury.
With incomplete spinal cord injuries, the spinal cord can still transmit messages to and from the brain to the rest of the body. In contrast, complete spinal cord injuries involve no nerve communication or motor function (voluntary movement) below the site where the trauma occurred.
Internal Organ Injuries
An internal organ injury can be one of the most dangerous types of accident injuries because failure to treat it in a timely fashion can lead to serious complications and possibly even death. Some common kinds include brain bleeds, broken ribs, pneumothorax involving a rib puncturing a lung, abdominal aorta aneurysms, ruptured spleens, and internal bleeding.
Internal organ injuries can require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and potentially lifelong care. Long-term monitoring, limitations on physical activity, or medications could also be necessary. Our car accident lawyers in Sacramento can connect you with medical specialists in your area to help you receive proper treatment and care.
Broken Bones And Muscle Strains
Some fractures do not require much time to heal, but other kinds may require surgery or lead to long-term disabilities. Severely broken bones can require reconstructive surgery and the insertion of pins, plates, and screws that require longer hospital stays, rehabilitation, and possibly additional surgeries.
Bone fractures generally include simple fractures and compound fractures. Simple or closed fractures are broken bones remaining within the body that do not penetrate the skin. Compound or open fractures, on the other hand, are broken bones that stick through the skin, exposing the deep tissues to the exterior environment.
Meanwhile, a muscle strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. Minor cases may only involve the overstretching of a muscle or tendon, but more severe injuries can cause partial or complete tears.
Burn Injuries
Minor burns can often be treated at home and may heal within a matter of weeks. More serious cases need appropriate first aid and wound assessment. Their treatment involves medications, wound dressings, therapy, and surgery. Certain people with severe burns may also require treatment at specialized burn centers and skin grafts to cover large wounds.
Proper medical care for wounds may include the following:
- Medications or products like water-based treatments to clean and stimulate wound tissue.
- Intravenous (IV) fluids that prevent dehydration.
- Pain and anxiety medications like morphine.
- Burn creams and ointments, such as bacitracin and silver sulfadiazine (Silvadene), for wound healing.
- Specialty wound dressings are used to prepare a wound to heal.
- Drugs intended to fight infection.
- Tetanus shots.
Wrongful Deaths
Fatal traffic accidents lead to the wrongful deaths of loved ones. In these cases, their surviving eligible family members may be able to seek compensation. Seek the help of our Sacramento car accident lawyers to understand if you have grounds to pursue a claim against the negligent parties.
Usual Kinds Of Car Accidents In Sacramento
No two car accidents are ever the same, and each crash will involve a unique set of factors and circumstances. The type of accident a person is involved in can, in itself, go a long way in determining fault for a crash.
Some of the most common kinds of crashes our Sacramento car accident lawyers have handled include:
- Single-Vehicle Accidents — These accidents do not involve other motor vehicles. Instead, one driver strikes a fixed object or loses control of the vehicle, possibly due to mechanical issues or adverse weather conditions.
- Multiple-Vehicle Accidents — Also known as pile-ups or multi-car crashes, these involve collisions between three or more vehicles. When a crash involves multiple vehicles, liability can be far more complex because multiple parties can have different versions of events.
- Rear-End Collisions — A rear-end collision is usually clear-cut regarding fault because the car that strikes the rear end of the vehicle in front of it is often responsible. However, there can be exceptions depending on specific circumstances, such as instances of sudden or negligent behavior by the vehicle in front that may require further investigation.
- Head-on Collisions — A head-on crash occurs when the front ends of two vehicles collide. These are often fatal car accidents when they occur at higher speeds.
- Side-Impact Accidents — Also known as T-bone collisions, these crashes occur when one car hits the side of another vehicle with its front end.
- Rollover Accidents — A rollover accident involves a motor vehicle either flipping onto its side or rolling over completely. Certain types of motor vehicles are more predisposed to rollover crashes.
- Self-Driving Car Accidents — Liability is a complex subject in collisions involving vehicles with autonomous driving technology. In a Tesla car accident, for example, the auto manufacturer, human driver, or another party could be held liable.
What Is The Accident Claims Process?
After you file a claim with the insurance company, they’ll assign an adjuster to handle your case. Cooperate with their investigation and provide all requested information accurately and honestly.
Once the investigation is complete, the insurance company will offer a settlement amount. Carefully review the offer and compare it to your documented damages (medical bills, repair estimates, lost wages). Research typical settlements for similar car accidents in California to get a sense of what might be considered fair.
If the offer seems insufficient, the details are unclear, or you have questions about your rights, consider consulting with car accident lawyers. An experienced Sacramento auto accident attorney can review the offer, assess its fairness, and advise you on whether to accept, negotiate, or reject it.
What Kind Of Compensation Can I Pursue In A Car Accident Claim?
Here are the different types of damages our Sacramento car accident lawyers can help you seek in an injury claim:
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover the tangible financial losses you’ve incurred due to the accident. These include medical expenses such as hospital bills, doctor visits, prescription medications, physical therapy, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation.
Car accidents often result in time away from work due to injuries. If you’ve missed work due to the incident, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for lost wages. Additionally, if your injuries impair your ability to earn the same income in the future, our car accident lawyers can help you seek damages, including the amount of money you could have earned.
You may also be able to get reimbursed for other out-of-pocket expenses, such as repair or replacement costs for vehicles and personal belongings (like a laptop or phone).
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages aim to compensate for the victim’s subjective or intangible losses. These include pain and suffering, which refer to the physical pain and distress caused by the accident.
It also includes reduced quality of life and loss of enjoyment, such that you can no longer participate in activities you once enjoyed because of your injuries. Another type of damage is loss of consortium, which refers to the accident’s impact on your relationships with family members. You or an eligible family member may be able to file for loss of consortium if your injuries have affected your ability to maintain close relationships.
These damages are much harder to quantify. Even so, our car accident attorneys have certain methods to come up with an amount that reflects your intangible losses.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are rare and are not tied to your losses. Instead, they’re intended to punish the at-fault party for particularly reckless or negligent behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future.
Our Sacramento car accident attorneys can explain which types of damages you may be eligible to pursue, given your specific situation. We aim to help you seek compensation that covers the extent of your injuries and losses. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations On Car Accident Claims?
In California, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. You must file a personal injury claim within this timeframe. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your ability to file a claim or lawsuit, even if you have an otherwise valid claim. This could leave you responsible for your medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses.
Consult with experienced car accident lawyers in Sacramento to help you determine if you have a case, explain your deadlines in detail, and guide you through the legal process.
Car Accidents Statistics In Sacramento
Sacramento is a Vision Zero City. Vision Zero is a traffic safety philosophy based on the idea that traffic-related deaths and injuries are preventable incidents that could be systematically addressed. The program identified the five corridors in Sacramento with the highest numbers of fatal and serious crashes involving pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists:
- Marysville Boulevard from North Avenue to Arcade Boulevard.
- El Camino Avenue from Del Paso Boulevard to the paved levee trail adjacent to Steelhead Creek.
- Broadway or Stockton Boulevard from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to 13th Avenue.
- South Stockton Boulevard from McMahon Drive to Patterson Way.
- Florin Road from 24th Street to Munson Way.
The City of Sacramento reported that 32% of accidents on Marysville Boulevard were related to signals and signage, while 20% were speed-related. On El Camino Avenue, 22% were attributed to visibility, while another 22% were signals or signage issues.
For Broadway or Stockton Boulevard, 18% of accidents were speed-related, and 17% involved crossings. On South Stockton Boulevard, 24% were related to enforcement, and 17% involved bike safety. Florin Road had 36% of accidents relating to enforcement, while 32% involved crossings.
In 2023, the city released an update about the progress of Vision Zero. Some notable policy changes are the reduction of school speed limits, the construction of quick-build safety improvements on some corridors, and enhanced markings and signage at crossings.
Intersections In Sacramento With A High Rate Of Accidents
Safer America reported that Sacramento had 26,000 car collisions between 2013 and 2017, with approximately 20% occurring at intersections. Here are the 25 most dangerous intersections in the city:
- Arena Boulevard and Truxel Road
- Los Robles Boulevard and Marysville Boulevard
- 12th Street and I Street
- Franklin Boulevard and Mack Road
- 56th Street and J Street
- 9th Street and X Street
- Gateway Park Boulevard and Truxel Road
- 19th Street and X Street
- Florin Road and Freeport Boulevard
- Fruitridge Road and Power Inn Road
- Elder Creek Road and Power Inn Road
- Bruceville Road and Cosumnes River Boulevard
- San Juan Road and Truxel Road
- Auburn Boulevard and Route 244
- Broadway and Riverside Boulevard
- El Camino Avenue and Rio Linda Boulevard
- Fair Oaks Boulevard and Howe Avenue
- Brookfield Drive and Franklin Boulevard
- 24th Street and X Street
- Garden Highway and Northgate Boulevard
- 43rd Avenue and Route 5
- 29th Street and L Street
- Truxel Road and West El Camino Avenue
- Marysville Boulevard and North Avenue
- Auburn Boulevard and Watt Avenue
What initially seemed like a routine rear-end collision, commonly known as a “fender bender,” turned into a significant settlement with high maximum limits for a client who suffered lower back disc injuries. The case was resolved just two weeks before the scheduled trial commencement.– BRIAN BEECHER
What To Do After A Car Accident In Sacramento
Whether it’s a minor fender-bender at El Camino Avenue or a more serious collision at Marysville Boulevard, knowing how to handle the situation can make an impact on your potential claim.
Here are some steps you can take following a car accident:
Contact Law Enforcement — Promptly reporting the accident helps officers assess the situation, document details, and create an official report. This document can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
To get a copy of the police incident report, you can request it online or by mail and provide the following information:
- The report number, if you have it.
- Details of the accident, including the date, location, names, and addresses of those involved.
- The vehicle’s license plate numbers.
- Authorizing documents, such as a power of attorney or death certificate, if the request is from an interested party other than the victim.
Remember, reports are typically only available five to ten days after the accident. If it’s unavailable after ten days, contact the Sacramento Police Department Records Division at (916) 808-0620. Our car accident lawyers can also help you get a copy of the incident report.
- Exchange Information — While waiting for law enforcement, exchange information with the other driver(s). Take note of their name, contact details, insurance company, policy number, and vehicle information. Don’t forget the license plate number and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Be courteous, but avoid apologizing.
- Document the Scene — Use your smartphone to take photos of the accident scene. Capture the damage to all vehicles involved, as well as the road conditions, traffic signs, and any relevant landmarks. Your car accident attorneys can use these visual records as evidence in your claim. Also, jot down details like street names, nearby intersections, and witnesses’ contact information.
- Seek Medical Attention — Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may not manifest immediately. See a healthcare provider for a thorough examination. Common injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Document your medical evaluation and any treatment you receive.
- Notify Your Insurance Company — Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Provide them with accurate details of the incident, but avoid admitting fault. Even a common phrase like “I should’ve reacted faster” can be used against you later. Stick to the facts of the accident without assigning blame. Let the police investigation and evidence determine what happened.
- Consult a Car Accident Lawyer — Sacramento car accident attorneys can provide guidance on your rights, responsibilities, and potential course of action. We’ll help you build a well-supported case and pursue fair compensation that reflects the full extent of your losses on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge In California?
Most California personal injury lawyers charge on a contingency fee basis. Under this arrangement, you don’t pay lawyer’s fees up front. Instead, our fee is a percentage of the compensation you receive, whether through a settlement or court verdict. This means our success is tied to yours. If we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us for our legal services.
Our lawyers will discuss the specific fee percentage, as well as other case-related costs, before signing any agreement. These costs will be charged separately, regardless of the outcome of your case. Maintaining open communication about fees creates a mutual alignment of expectations.
How Much Is The Average Car Accident Settlement In CA?
The actual amount varies significantly depending on the severity of your injuries, property damage, and other factors like lost wages and long-term impact. Consult our car accident lawyers in Sacramento to determine the potential value of your claim.
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Car Accident Claim In California?
Each case is unique, and car accident claims can take months or years based on specific circumstances.
Here are some factors that can affect the timeline of your case:
- Willingness to Compromise — If you’re open to adjusting your expectations, your claim can get resolved quickly. As soon as you accept an offer, the case is done. However, compromising too quickly may mean receiving less than your actual losses.
- Liability Dispute — If there are contested facts or disagreements about liability, the process may take longer. Gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies can extend the timeline.
- Insurance Coverage — If the at-fault party’s insurance coverage is insufficient to cover your damages, you might need to wait longer due to further negotiations or even litigation.
- Negotiation Process — Reaching a fair settlement often involves back-and-forth discussions with the insurance company. This negotiation phase can take time, especially if there are disagreements about the value of your claim.
If you are unsure about the claims process, consult our experienced Sacramento car accident lawyers. We can assess your case, advise on the potential timeline, and represent your interests during negotiations or litigation.
How Important Is A Lawyer After A Car Accident In Sac-Town?
Many insurance companies may tell people they do not need to worry about hiring attorneys and that they will handle the claim. However, their primary responsibility is to manage claims according to their policies, which may not often align with the interests of the claimant.
When you hire Sacramento car accident lawyers, you will have somebody on your side who will represent your interests and advocate for your rights. Our team of attorneys at Arash Law has represented individuals involved in car accidents all over California.
Our firm will take several steps to help you develop your case. We will begin by conducting an investigation into your accident, obtaining the police report, gathering evidence, and identifying potentially liable parties.
Our lawyers will collaborate with industry professionals, accident reconstructionists, and doctors to assist with evaluating the long-term costs of your treatment.
Reach Out To Our Car Accident Lawyers In Sacramento
Our Sacramento car accident attorneys can deal with insurance companies on your behalf and help you avoid saying anything that might jeopardize your case. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or contact us to schedule a free initial consultation. Our Sacramento car accident law firm is passionate about helping individuals injured in a wide range of traffic crashes, from truck collisions to accidents involving Uber and Lyft.
Our Sacramento car accident attorneys will handle the legal side of things so you can focus on your recovery. We’ll take care of all the details, from gathering evidence and negotiating with adjusters to filing paperwork.
We serve the city of Sacramento and other neighboring areas, including Yolo, Zamora, El Dorado Hills, Rancho Cordova, Elk Grove, Walnut Grove, Fairfield, Sutter Creek, Amador City, Placerville, Lincoln, Woodland, Cottonwood, Fair Oaks, Napa, and Arcade.
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