San Mateo 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 San Mateo Car Accident Lawyers Offer Practical Legal Help After An Accident
The high volume of vehicles coming in and out of San Mateo leads to traffic congestion and car accidents. If you or your loved ones were injured in one, don’t hesitate to seek help to pursue your damages. Our San Mateo car accident lawyers can help protect your rights and pursue compensation you may be eligible for. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
San Mateo is a thriving county encompassing most of the San Francisco Peninsula. Getting to this place is made easier with the operation of the San Francisco International Airport, California’s second busiest airport. Tourists frequently explore several bay-side parks featuring diverse wildlife and coastal enclaves, like Half Moon Bay and Pacifica.
Over time, San Mateo has become known for its sandy beaches and surf breaks along Highway 1. It is also famous for tech hotspots like Menlo Park and East Palo Alto, which are home to giant companies such as Meta (Facebook), Electronic Arts, and GoPro. Locals and visitors have to navigate the busy roads of San Mateo to get to these places. With the influx of vehicles coming in and out of the county, car accidents are bound to happen.
If you sustained injuries in a traffic accident in San Mateo, you have the right to pursue accountability from the responsible parties. Under the leadership of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., Arash Law will guide you through this process. Our San Mateo car accident attorneys understand the financial burden of recovery and work to seek a fair settlement that covers your losses based on the severity.
A farm worker, suffered multiple broken bones and other orthopedic injuries resulting from an auto accident where the defendant driver attempted to make a left turn in front of our client in heavy fog.– ARASH KHORSANDI
Why Should You Hire San Mateo Car Accident Lawyers?
Our car accident attorneys in San Mateo are dedicated to helping you pursue compensation you may be eligible for. We are knowledgeable of the local, state, and federal laws that might apply to your case. Our lawyers will advise and prepare you for what to expect throughout the legal process. We can also manage the legal procedures on your behalf, so you won’t have to navigate the complexities of the claims process.
Our team is aware of how opposing parties may work. As such, we aim to develop strategies and construct a case on strong legal grounds. We conduct independent investigations to gather evidence that may establish the liability of potentially negligent parties. To support your claim, we collaborate with partners from different fields. These include inspectors, reconstruction experts, medical experts, financial analysts, and professionals specializing in motor vehicle technology.
Personal injury lawsuits may end up in court, but this isn’t the same in all instances. Many car accident cases handled by our lawyers in San Mateo are resolved through pre-trial negotiations. However, insurance companies and other defendants sometimes dispute claims or refuse to agree to a reasonable settlement. In this case, our attorneys are prepared to pursue litigation.
We will use this step to present evidence and advocate for your interests before a judge and jury. We can also request our expert witnesses to testify and support your claim. When you work with our San Mateo car accident attorneys, you can expect a law firm committed to quality legal representation and support throughout your case.
Why Choose Our Car Accident Attorneys For Your Case?
After a crash, seeking legal guidance from car accident lawyers in San Mateo can help you navigate the challenges that follow. Our attorneys provide dedicated representation and assist you in pursuing compensation for the damages you have suffered.
Our personal injury law firm operates on a contingency basis, providing clients with access to legal services without incurring immediate financial costs. We charge attorney’s fees only if we obtain compensation on your behalf. Please note that you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs regardless of the outcome. We offer a free initial consultation, during which we review your situation and explain your legal options so that you can make informed decisions.
Our personal injury lawyers are also prepared to pursue compensation based on the extent of the loss or injuries that you endured. Whether you’re dealing with an intoxicated or distracted driving incident, a multi-vehicle pileup, a rollover crash, or any type of car accident, we can help you navigate the claims process from start to finish.
Arash Law isn’t just for car accident victims. We also have Uber accident lawyers and truck accident attorneys who are ready to serve you. Our lawyers are committed to guiding you throughout the claims process and providing legal support to aid in your recovery. We work to build a strong case and advocate for your interests.
Where Do Car Accidents Usually Happen In San Mateo?
Car accidents typically happen on freeways and highways. These wide roads become the hotspots of traffic incidents as various kinds of vehicles travel in different directions. When driving across San Mateo, you should be extra careful when passing through the connecting state routes (SR) and other main roadways. These are:
- The State Route 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) — Its potential hazards include sharp turns and fog.
- State Route 35 (Skyline Boulevard) — Its winding, mountainous roads can be prone to accidents, especially in poor weather.
- State Route 82 (El Camino Real) — This is a usually busy road that’s also a common site for urban traffic accidents.
- State Route 84 — The traffic congestion here, particularly near bridge approaches, often leads to collisions.
- State Route 92 — Accidents on this road frequently occur near on- and off-ramps and bridge exits.
- Highway 101 — It’s a primary artery for commuters through the county that’s notorious for high-speed travel, leading to rear-end and multi-car accidents.
- Interstate 280 — The high driving speeds on this road can result in severe accidents.
If you get into a car accident on one of these highways, call our attorneys in San Mateo at (888) 488-1391. We can assess the accident and see the road conditions that might have contributed. Our team can use the findings of this investigation to establish the liability of negligent parties.
Hurt In
A Car Accident?
Common Causes Of Car Accidents
Most traffic accidents occur due to driver error. Our lawyers in San Mateo help resolve car accident claims arising due to the following factors:
- Speeding — Driving over the speed limit reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes on the road. Even if they can swerve and avoid obstructions in time, they may still crash into nearby vehicles.
- DUI — Alcohol and drugs may impair essential brain functions, like reaction time, coordination, and judgment. These may also compromise safe driving skills.
- Distracted Driving — Using gadgets such as smartphones while driving can distract drivers. Their focus also gets diverted when they eat, listen to music, and converse with passengers.
- Tailgating — Driving too closely behind other vehicles reduces drivers’ ability to respond in case the traffic in front suddenly slows down or stops. This usually leads to rear-end collisions.
- Disregarding Traffic Signals — Drivers who ignore red lights and fail to yield the right-of-way can result in head-on or side-impact collisions with other vehicles.
- Auto Defects — Faulty vehicle parts, such as deflating tires, malfunctioning brakes, and defective steering components, may cause drivers to lose control. If these result in accidents, victims may file claims against manufacturers under the product liability rule.
- Driving on Dangerous Roads — Neglected roads, such as those with potholes, unmarked construction zones, and missing guardrails, can make driving challenging and cause drivers to veer off the road.
- Driving During Bad Weather — San Mateo has ideal year-round weather, but it can also experience rain and thunderstorms. These inclement conditions may reduce drivers’ visibility and make the pavements slippery.
Our attorneys in San Mateo can help gather evidence to determine the cause of your accident and assist in establishing the negligence of the responsible parties.
Typical Injuries In Car Accidents
Car accidents are deemed catastrophic as they cause a range of physical damage, impacting the lives of victims. Our car accident attorneys in San Mateo have represented clients who sustained these injuries:
- Head and Neck Injuries — Rear-end collisions often cause whiplash as the head and neck are jerked forcefully forward and backward. This injury is associated with pain and stiffness in the neck that needs enough time to heal.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — These can occur when your head hits the dashboard, window, or steering wheel during the accident. Severe TBIs can alter brain functions and may require lifelong recovery.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Car accidents may lead to back sprains, ruptured discs, and injuries to the lumbar and thoracic spines. If not treated immediately, the damage to the spinal cord may lead to paralysis.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — Victims can suffer soft tissue injuries after a collision when they are pushed against the hard interior of the car or onto the road. These typically heal within a week or two, but severe cases may require medical treatment.
- Amputations — A vehicle occupant’s limb may get trapped or crushed during a collision. Severely affected body parts undergo amputations, which force victims into a lifetime adjustment, especially in their mobility.
- Fractures — The severity of broken bones or fractures varies depending on the force, mass, and speed of the vehicle involved in the accident. Most of these injuries, though, limit the mobility of victims.
- Wrongful Deaths — Catastrophic car accidents often cause the death of those involved. In these cases, victims’ remaining heirs pursue a wrongful death claim to acquire compensation for their loss.
If you suffer any of these injuries following a car accident, our San Mateo car accident lawyers can connect you with medical professionals and assist you in seeking compensation for your medical expenses.
What Damages Can You Secure After A Car Accident?
Victims of traffic incidents may have the right to seek compensation for the challenges they’re dealing with. Our car accident attorneys in San Mateo can assist in pursuing damages such as:
- Medical expenses.
- Lost income.
- Property damage.
- Pain and suffering.
- Mental distress.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Loss of consortium.
In rare cases, the court also awards punitive damages. This applies to cases involving defendants who have committed the highest degree of negligence and willfully caused harm to others. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages aren’t regular compensation paid to the victim. These damages are intended to punish the offenders and discourage individuals from making the same mistake in the future.
Knowing the damages you may pursue is not straightforward. Determining their exact worth might also be challenging due to the various factors influencing them. These include the parties involved, the severity of your injuries, and the extent of your losses.
Our San Mateo car accident lawyers can help identify the types of damages available for your case and estimate the potential value of your claim.
Determining And Proving Liability In A Car Accident
In most personal injury cases, victims may determine liability by demonstrating negligence. This legal notion defines the failure of individuals to apply the utmost care that a reasonable person would in similar circumstances. In the context of a car accident, negligence occurs when a driver drives recklessly, causing harm or injury to other motorists.
To prove negligence in a car accident, our lawyers in San Mateo work to establish the following elements:
- Duty of Care — Drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly. This duty of care directs them to prevent traffic accidents for the safety of their fellow road users.
- Breach of Duty — When drivers are reckless while behind the wheel, they breach their duty of care. They become negligent after speeding, running a red light, or committing other behaviors that deviate from what a reasonable driver would do.
- Causation — Victims need to demonstrate that the involved drivers’ breach of duty directly caused the car wreck. This means there must be a direct link between the responsible parties’ actions and the resulting accidents.
- Damages — Plaintiffs also need to show that the car accidents resulted in damages and losses. These may include physical injuries, property damage, out-of-pocket expenses, and emotional distress. The damages and losses incurred by victims can serve as the basis for seeking compensation from liable parties.
Proving negligence and liability can be tricky. Car accident attorneys can assist by gathering evidence, consulting with experts, and applying legal standards to demonstrate each required element of negligence. Our car accident lawyers in San Mateo can handle these steps on your behalf, helping to build a well-supported claim.
Who Might Be Responsible For A Car Accident?
Road crashes may occur due to the negligence of several parties. Our San Mateo car accident attorneys can handle cases involving a wide range of circumstances. These are some of the most common liable parties in these incidents:
Drivers
During car accident investigations, the drivers are typically the first to be examined for liability. If authorities find out that the drivers’ reckless behaviors have caused the crash, they can be held responsible for their negligence. They will primarily take the blame for not exercising the expected level of caution that a reasonable person would while driving.
Our San Mateo lawyers can help demonstrate how an at-fault driver’s recklessness may have contributed to a car accident. We can conduct thorough investigations and collect evidence to establish the responsible party’s liability.
Car Owners
If the liable drivers in collisions aren’t the owners of the vehicle, accident victims may sue the owners. Under the negligent entrustment rule, owners can be held liable for entrusting their vehicles to unfit drivers who cause harm to other motorists.
This legal concept refers to vehicle owners’ failure to exercise reasonable care in allowing someone to use their property, knowing that the person is incompetent to drive it. Such a situation is often similar in cases involving teenage drivers who cause accidents while driving their parents’ cars.
However, establishing car owners’ responsibility is often challenging, as they may deny liability. If you think you are dealing with this kind of car accident claim, our lawyers in San Mateo can provide legal assistance.
Employers
According to the vicarious liability rule, employers may share responsibility for accidents caused by their at-fault drivers while on duty. They may also be held accountable for any resulting catastrophes if they are found to have been negligent in the following ways:
- Neglecting a strict screening process before hiring drivers.
- Employing drivers with a bad driving history.
- Failure to conduct proper training.
- Implemented policies encouraging drivers to overspeed or drive recklessly.
- Failure to maintain and inspect service vehicles regularly.
Dealing with employers, especially large companies, can be a difficult legal battle. In some cases, individuals may feel pressure or uncertainty when dealing with more powerful or well-resourced parties. Our San Mateo car accident attorneys can handle these types of negotiations and are prepared to represent clients in situations where the opposing party may be a large corporation, such as Walmart.
Car Manufacturers
Driver errors are the common cause of road crashes, but mechanical failures due to defective auto parts can also be a factor. For example, tire blowouts and brake system failures may happen during trips, causing drivers to lose control. In these instances, victims can file product liability claims against the manufacturers and distributors of the faulty products.
These cases are typically based on strict liability rather than negligence, meaning victims may not need to show that reasonable care was not taken. They only have to demonstrate how the flawed car component caused the accident.
If you get injured in a car accident caused by a defective product, seek assistance from our San Mateo lawyers. We also handle product liability cases. We can handle car accident cases that may involve vehicle or parts manufacturers.
Government Offices And Contractors
Suppose an accident occurred when you ran over a dilapidated street. In that case, you can file a claim against the government agency responsible for road maintenance. If the street had recently been repaired, you might also hold the construction company liable for not fixing the road correctly.
In a 2022 report released by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), San Mateo was noted for its good record in the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) among Bay Area jurisdictions. However, this doesn’t mean that poor road conditions don’t already exist. Pavements may deteriorate over time, and San Mateo’s sunny weather can also cause the asphalt to fade, weaken, and break, which the government cannot always address promptly.
While driving across the city, here are some road conditions that may pose safety risks:
- Potholes
- Cracked asphalt
- Uneven surfaces
- Missing guardrails
- Inadequate signage
- Broken traffic lights
- Faded road markings
Unlike typical personal injury claims, cases against the government are subject to strict procedural requirements and shorter deadlines. To learn more about this matter, consider speaking to our car accident attorneys in San Mateo. They can help you understand the specifics of your case and assist you in navigating its complexities.
Private Property Owners
Although rare, some car accidents happen due to a private owner’s negligence in keeping their premises free from potential dangers. For instance, a bush or tree planted on private land grows past the perimeter and obstructs motorists’ visibility. In another instance, the shrub covers road signs.
If you think you have this kind of case, you may pursue a premises liability claim to hold the property owner or caretaker accountable. Our San Mateo lawyers can help assess whether the property owner or caretaker failed to address a condition they knew or reasonably should have known posed a risk to others. They can review the circumstances and determine whether the property’s condition may have contributed to the car accident.
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
Comparative Negligence In Car Accidents
California follows a pure comparative negligence system, which applies when several parties are involved in a car accident and share some degree of fault. This rule allows victims to claim compensation for their damages, even though they’re found to be up to 99% liable. However, the payment they may be eligible for will be reduced in proportion to their actual percentage of responsibility.
For example, if you incurred $115,000 in damages following a traffic collision but are deemed 38% at fault, you may still be able to seek 62% or $71,300 in compensation.
While the pure comparative negligence rule can lead to a fairer outcome, it can also complicate the legal process. Determining each party’s degree of liability can be subjective, and parties may disagree on the percentages assigned to them. As such, a car accident attorney in San Mateo can help gather evidence, work with experts if needed, and present a clear case on your behalf to help establish a fair allocation of fault under the law.
Factors Affecting Car Accident Cases
Various factors can impact the settlement duration of car accident cases, whether out of court or in trial. Primarily, the facts of the incidents and the laws involved will directly influence the legal process. In some instances, legal procedures may take time because insurance companies delay the settlement and offer a low payment. Meanwhile, victims may still need to undergo prolonged recovery, which hinders them from making their decisions.
Other factors affecting the case also include:
- Existing evidence
- The at-fault parties involved
- The severity of the injuries sustained
- The extent of losses incurred
- Insurance coverage
Determining how long a personal injury case can be settled is a challenging task. Our lawyers in San Mateo manage the legalities of your car accident case for you. We will carefully examine the influencing factors and find out if you have legal grounds to seek compensation. By doing this, we can also estimate the potential timeframe for your case.
Our personal injury lawyers are ready to address any difficulties that may arise in the process. We are committed to pursuing just compensation for your damages.
What To Do After A Car Accident?
Although collisions are prevalent in San Mateo and throughout California, many drivers still don’t know what to do to protect their well-being. As a victim, you must remain calm so you can think clearly and accurately.
Here’s what you can do following a car accident in Santa Mateo:
- Prioritize Your Safety — If possible, move to a safe location away from the road. Then, call 911 for immediate medical help. Getting early treatment can prevent your injuries from worsening. It may also help document your injuries to support your claim.
- Call the Police — Law enforcement authorities will gather evidence and create an incident report, which you can use to support your claim.
- Collect Evidence — Take pictures and videos of the accident scene and the vehicles involved in the crash. You must also note other parties’ information, such as their names, license plate numbers, phone numbers, and insurance details. If there are any witnesses nearby, ask for their contact information and written statements if possible.
- Notify Your Insurance Company — A claims adjuster will guide you through the process of filing a claim, wherein you must provide them with all the necessary information. However, don’t get too confident about disclosing more details. You must be aware of your statements and not admit fault, as opposing parties can use them against you.
- Schedule a Free Initial Consultation With Arash Law — Our San Mateo lawyers can assess the potential value of your car accident case. We can also handle all the legwork for you, including the investigation and negotiations.
Statute Of Limitations For Car Accident Cases
In California, the legal process for car accident cases is subject to the statute of limitations. This rule serves as a temporal restriction on when you can take legal action. Typically, victims have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. However, different deadlines may apply, depending on the nature and details of the incident. A unique time limit may be effective for late discovery of injuries or if the defendants are minors, out of state, in jail, or mentally incapacitated.
To specify which statute of limitations applies to your car accident case, our attorneys in San Mateo can review the specific details of your situation. We know civil procedure and can identify the relevant provisions of the law that may be applicable to your lawsuit. This helps prevent delays that could impact your ability to proceed with a claim.
Statistics About Car Accidents
Like other bustling counties, San Mateo is no exception to the prevalent cases of car accidents. In 2022, the California Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) reported that 2,503 crashes occurred at this place. These tragedies resulted in 25 fatalities and 3,249 injured victims.
The same issue also affects the entire state. According to the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), traffic fatalities rose by roughly 7.6%, from 3,980 in 2020 to 4,285 in 2021. Authorities found that alcohol-impaired driving was among the major contributory factors. In fact, fatalities of these catastrophes climbed by 16% from 1,180 in 2020 to 1,370 in 2021. Moreover, 52.9% of the killed drivers tested positive for drugs.
Meanwhile, the United States also faces a similar problem. The National Highway Traffic and Safety Authority (NHTSA) revealed that in 2022, road crashes in the country resulted in 12,691 fatalities and 969,791 injured passengers. Although these figures decreased by 6.8% and 13%, respectively, the number of harmed individuals is still high enough to remain a pressing concern. With the persisting discussion of car accidents, our lawyers in San Mateo maintain their commitment to helping victims and advocating for their rights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) About Car Accidents
When Is The Right Time To Call A Car Accident Lawyer?
After a collision, you might wonder, “When do I need a personal injury lawyer?” Seeking help from San Mateo car accident attorneys helps protect your legal rights. If you sustained severe injuries, a lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your medical bills and related losses.
The sooner you contact a lawyer, the faster they can start investigating what caused the collision and gathering evidence to support your claim. If you wait too long, you might lose crucial evidence and witnesses. Our legal team can assess your case and explain your legal options.
Do I Need To File A Police Report After A Car Accident?
In California, all vehicle drivers are required to report traffic collisions resulting in injuries. As per the California Vehicle Code, you must notify the California Highway Patrol or the local police department within 24 hours. This mandate also applies even if you only sustained minor injuries like bumps and bruises.
Conversely, if law enforcement responds to the accident scene, they may be able to create their own incident report. In this instance, you don’t need to file a separate report yourself.
Regardless of whether you initiated the filing of a police report, you should still obtain a copy for your records. This report can serve as evidence supporting your claim. If you’re having trouble obtaining a copy, our car accident attorneys in San Mateo can help.
What If I Hit My Head In A Car Accident?
Car accidents often involve violent forces that can cause victims to hit their heads on hard surfaces, such as dashboards and windows. If this happens to you, it’s crucial to see a doctor immediately, even if you feel fine. You could be at risk of developing traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can take several forms.
- Concussions
- Contusions
- Hematomas
- Skull fractures
- Brain hemorrhage
Unfortunately, some cases of TBIs don’t show symptoms immediately. Symptoms like drowsiness, discomfort, mood swings, and headaches may take time to appear. By then, it could be more difficult to diagnose and treat the injury.
Furthermore, TBIs have long-term effects on patients. These may impact cognitive functions, interfering with usual physical activities. In other instances, patients suffer permanent memory loss.
Considering these risks, it’s important that you seek immediate medical attention after a collision. Our San Mateo lawyers for car accidents can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses and other losses. We can also assist you in finding medical professionals for proper medical care.
How Do Insurance Companies Work?
After a car accident, you may need to work with the insurance company of the at-fault party. Understanding how insurance companies operate can help you navigate the process and avoid accepting a settlement that does not fully address your losses.
Insurance companies aim to manage their financial exposure and may carefully review your claim to assess liability and damages. They will examine details closely and may question inconsistencies or seek additional information. They may dispute liability for various reasons.
During negotiations, insurance adjusters may present settlement offers that may be lower than expected. They might also explain the challenges and costs of pursuing a legal case. Additionally, you may be asked to sign a release agreement, which would finalize the settlement and prevent further claims related to the incident.
Because of these complexities, it can be helpful to consult with a car accident attorney in San Mateo. A lawyer can manage communications with insurance companies, review settlement offers, and work to protect your rights throughout the process. Legal guidance can help you pursue compensation that accurately reflects the full extent of your damages and losses.
How Much Compensation Can I Get For My Car Accident Injury?
The amount of compensation can vary widely depending on the specifics of your case. Factors such as the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering all play a role in determining the value of your claim.
Calculating compensation can be complex because every case is different, especially since a variety of variables are involved. Consulting with a car accident attorney in San Mateo can help you better understand the potential value of your claim based on your individual situation.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers In San Mateo
Are you in pursuit of justice following a car accident? Our skilled San Mateo car accident lawyers provide legal representation and support. We can explain your rights and options for seeking compensation under the law.
From the beginning of your case through to its conclusion, our car accident lawyers in San Mateo work to advocate on your behalf. We focus on thoroughly investigating your claim and gathering all relevant evidence. Our aim is to support your case and assist you in moving forward after your accident.
Call (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation. You may also fill out our form or chat with one of our intake specialists to reach us online.
Our law firm also serves car accident victims in Burlingame, Foster City, Hillsborough, Belmont, Millbrae, San Carlos, San Bruno, Redwood City, South San Francisco, Half Moon Bay, Pacifica, Menlo Park, Daly City, East Palo Alto, and Stanford. We also serve clients in Ray Park, Lincoln, Redwood Shores, Baywood Park, Highlands, and Lake View.
