Sherman Oaks Car Accident Lawyers
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Sherman Oaks Car Accident Lawyers Helping Injury Victims Understand Their Options
Our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation available under California law. Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to explore your legal rights and options.
Traffic congestion is a major concern in Sherman Oaks, a neighborhood in the city of Los Angeles. Thousands of people drive through its streets every day, and everyone expects to reach their destination safely. However, carelessness on the roads puts lives at risk, and some people may not reach their destination safely. Drivers and commuters frequently find themselves trapped in gridlock during peak hours, especially at the 405-101 highway interchange. This issue can lead to impatient and aggressive driving behaviors, which can increase the likelihood of car accidents.
If a car accident injures you or your loved one, our personal injury law firm can help you explore compensation options. We can review liability, evaluate available evidence, and explain your rights. Our car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks can provide you with legal guidance and support during these trying times.
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 Sherman Oaks Car Accident Lawyers Help?
Our car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks will help you file a personal injury claim. We’ll guide you through the legal process and provide personalized support that meets your specific needs. Our goal is to help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Here are specific ways our car accident attorneys can help you with your case:
- Help you process and submit legal forms and documents.
- Investigate your case and gather key pieces of evidence.
- Communicate with all involved parties, including witnesses, to gather essential information.
- Connect you with medical experts in and around Sherman Oaks as needed.
- Assess and estimate your damages based on available evidence.
- Negotiate with the at-fault parties on your behalf.
- Prepare and represent you in court, if necessary.
We want to ease your burden in any way we can. There’s no need to wait until you have the strength to move around and start your claim. Our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers will handle all the legal legwork and mundane tasks of the claims process, allowing you to focus on resting and recovering at home or in the hospital. We will come to you, regardless of where you are in California.
Why Should You Hire Our Car Accident Attorneys?
Our Sherman Oaks attorneys have experience handling car accident cases. We help clients seek compensation for the injuries and losses they sustained.
Here are more reasons why you should choose our car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks:
- Years of Professional Experience — Our lawyers have extensive experience handling personal injury cases. We are well-versed in California laws governing personal injury claims and car accidents, enabling us to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Client-Centric Approach — Our team will keep you informed about your case, enabling you to make informed decisions. Ultimately, the choice is yours at the end of the day: whether to accept the offer or proceed to court. Our car accident attorneys will guide you and offer their professional opinion to help you seek a positive resolution.
- No Win, No Fee Agreement — Our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers offer services on a contingency fee basis. This agreement means you don’t have to pay us attorney fees unless we win your case. Please note that clients are still responsible for certain case costs, regardless of the outcome.
Our lines are always open if you have questions or concerns. Reach out to our personal injury lawyers for a free case review.
Common Types Of Car Accidents Our Attorneys Handle
Our lawyers in Sherman Oaks have handled the following types of car accidents:
- Rear-End Collisions — These accidents are commonly the result of tailgating. When drivers follow too closely, they lack the necessary space to stop safely if the car in front brakes suddenly.
- T-Bone Accidents — Also known as side-impact crashes, these accidents typically occur at intersections when a negligent driver runs a red light and hits another car on its side. They can be severe since the impact comes from the sides, where there are fewer safety features.
- Distracted Driving Accidents — Any activity that diverts a driver’s attention, whether manual (taking hands off the wheel), visual (looking away from the road), or cognitive (daydreaming), poses a serious risk to themselves and others on the road.
- DUI Accidents — Alcohol intake and drug use impair the senses, making it difficult for drivers to gauge where they are heading and at what speed. Additionally, drunk and drugged drivers are more likely to make reckless decisions while driving.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents — Parties involved in an accident, often the negligent driver, sometimes flee the scene for various reasons. It can be difficult to determine the identity of the negligent party in these cases. Still, our car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks will investigate thoroughly and bring justice to victims.
- Multiple Vehicle Crashes — When a car accident suddenly occurs on busy freeways and highways, vehicle pile-ups can occur, and other drivers can’t adjust to the situation. With multiple parties involved, establishing liability can be a challenging task.
Many details make each accident unique. Our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers will consider them all when building your case. We will take a tailored approach to support your claim.
Common Causes Of Car Accidents
Speeding is one of the main causes of car accidents, as it reduces the driver’s reaction time to obstacles and road hazards. Additionally, it results in a stronger force upon impact, increasing the chances of severe injuries and fatalities.
In California, highways and freeways have a speed limit of 65 miles per hour, while school zones and residential areas have a speed limit of 25 mph. Our car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks will refer to these limits to check whether the at-fault driver was overspeeding.
Some other causes of traffic collisions are:
Driver Fatigue
According to a survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one out of every 25 adult drivers admits to having fallen asleep at the wheel. Sleeping while driving is incredibly dangerous, as they risk veering off the road, rear-ending vehicles, and running red lights at intersections.
Additionally, exhaustion can severely impair the senses, which is why it has been compared to being drunk. Fatigued drivers often exhibit poor decision-making skills and dull their senses. Some drivers also experience irritability, which can increase the likelihood of aggressive driving.
Traffic Rules Violations
Running the red light, failing to yield the right-of-way at traffic signals, making illegal U-turns, or ignoring traffic signs contribute to tragic accidents.
Disobeying traffic rules is also punishable by law. Drivers who are at fault may face fines or have their licenses suspended. When they cause an accident, they will face higher penalties. Our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers will also pursue compensation from them for your injuries, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Vehicle Malfunctions
Car owners are responsible for maintaining their vehicles. Failure to maintain a car doesn’t just lead to thousands of dollars lost in repairs and replacements. Vehicle malfunctions can also contribute to road accidents that cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
But there are also instances when these issues are present from the moment a car is purchased. In such cases, manufacturers can be held liable for any damages and losses that victims incur.
Our team of car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks can help you seek justice from these massive companies. We will investigate whether a manufacturing or design defect caused the accident and gather evidence to pursue compensation from these companies for your suffering.
Inclement Weather
Rain can make driving challenging for a few reasons. For one, roads become slippery, resulting in reduced traction, which makes it easier for drivers to lose control of their cars. Additionally, heavy rain can reduce visibility even during the day. Not being able to see the road and the cars around you can make it difficult to gauge distances, which can lead to collisions.
As such, motorists are expected to slow down during inclement weather. In California, speed limits are typically reduced by 5 to 10 mph when it rains. Moreover, drivers have to be extra cautious. If needed, they should pull up at a safe place to wait for the rain to stop.
If they fail to exercise reasonable care in hazardous conditions, victims can hold them liable for an accident, even if the weather is out of their control. Talk to our car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks, and we will help you establish liability and walk you through your legal options.
Poor Road Conditions
Common road issues, such as potholes or broken guardrails, may seem trivial at first glance. Yet, these road conditions are dangerous hazards.
For example, if a car drives over a large pothole, the tires could burst, and the driver could lose control of the vehicle. If they are unable to correct their position on the road, they are highly likely to hit oncoming traffic.
State and local governments are responsible for maintaining our roads. They are also tasked with preserving traffic infrastructure, including traffic lights, road signs, and street lighting. If they fail to perform their duties, they may be held responsible for any resulting accidents.
If you are injured in a crash due to road hazards, consult our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers. We will investigate the incident to help identify who may be responsible for compensating you.
How Does Traffic Congestion Lead To Car Accidents?
Traffic congestion is one of the primary factors contributing to car accidents in Sherman Oaks. Vehicles come from different routes. According to the Sherman Oaks Neighborhood Council, navigational systems often direct non-locals to its streets, specifically along the 405 Freeway Corridor, causing congestion. The problem can lead to negligent driver behaviors, such as suddenly speeding up to change or merge in order to get ahead of traffic. Others would also show signs of reckless and aggressive behavior due to impatience, such as:- Tailgating.
- Disobeying traffic lights and signs.
- Making illegal U-turns.
- Driving on the shoulder of the road or in the emergency lane.
Common Injuries Car Accident Victims Sustain
Car accident victims can suffer from mild to severe injuries, including the following:Head Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have short- to long-term consequences for the victim’s life. They are more likely to lose their ability to hold jobs and fend for themselves, resulting in lower living standards. Financial compensation for these losses may be available through a legal claim. Call our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers to learn more. Other types of head injuries are:- Brain hematoma or blood clotting.
- Edema or swelling of the surrounding brain tissues.
- Concussions.
- Skull fractures.
Neck Injuries
A rear-end car accident victim often gets neck pain and injuries as a result of the rapid jerking movement. Although most consequences are short-term, more severe cases may lead to a temporary or permanent disability. Some types of neck injuries are:- Whiplash.
- Neck sprain (torn ligaments) or strain (torn muscles or tendons).
- Herniated or torn spinal disc.
- Pinched nerves.
- Fractured cervical spine (broken neck).
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spinal cord can lead to temporary or permanent impairments to the victim’s mobility or sensation. SCIs are divided into two types.- Complete SCI — This type of injury causes permanent damage to the affected area of the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis below the level of the injury.
- Incomplete SCI — This refers to partial damage to the spinal cord. The effects on a person’s movement and sensation depend on the location and severity of the injury.
Facial Injuries
In a car crash, the head can hit the dashboard, steering wheel, airbag, or windshield, resulting in facial injuries that can affect the victim’s mental health. These damages change their appearance, causing depression and anxiety that are as debilitating as physical wounds. Their confidence and social standing can also take a hit, both of which may be compensated in a claim. Some examples of these injuries are:- Bruises
- Cuts & Lacerations
- Broken Jaw
- Broken Nose
- Dental Fractures
Who Are The Potentially Liable Parties In A Car Accident?
Liable parties are those whose negligent actions or inaction caused the collision. The usual liable parties in car accident cases are:
- Driver — The driver who crashes into the victim is often mostly responsible for compensating them. They might have displayed negligence, such as overspeeding or using their phones while driving.
- Third-Party Motorist — Another driver may have been responsible for the accident. In most cases, they would share the fault with the driver who injured you.
- Car Manufacturers — If a defective car part contributed to the crash, the car manufacturer, designer, and even retailer can all share accountability. Our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers can help you bring a claim against manufacturers and dedicate ourselves to protecting your rights.
- Local Government — If poor road conditions contributed to the accident, victims may hold government entities liable. However, claims against them should be made within six months to avoid forfeiture.
What Is Comparative Negligence, And How Does It Affect Your Case?
If multiple parties are liable, California’s pure comparative negligence rule applies. This law limits the liability of multiple parties to their level of fault.
For example, two drivers were at fault for a collision. The court found Driver A to be 40% at fault, while Driver B was 60% at fault. If the settlement award is $100,000, Driver A has to shoulder 40% of the award ($40,000). Driver B will then pay the remaining $60,000.
If the victim were partially at fault, their award would be lower. For instance, if they had 10% liability, then the court would subtract 10% from the claim. In the scenario above, they may only be awarded $90,000.
Understanding this principle is crucial. Insurance companies may raise defenses to reduce their responsibility. Some may try to minimize their payouts by shifting blame to other parties, including the victim.
Our car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks can handle all correspondence with insurers on your behalf. We understand how to communicate effectively with insurance companies and can guide you through the claims process. Negotiations are one of our key strengths, allowing us to advocate for the compensation that may be available to you.
How To Establish Liability In A Car Accident
Establishing liability is a crucial part of the process, so our car accident lawyers will conduct a thorough investigation to determine fault. We will gather key pieces of evidence to strengthen your claim and point out who is accountable for the accident. These proofs include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Eyewitness Testimonies
- Police Reports
- Photos and Videos Taken at the Scene
- CCTV Footage
- Dashcam Video
- Cell Phone Records
- Expert Opinions
Once we have a better understanding of how the car accident happened and who is at fault, our Sherman Oaks attorneys will file a claim against them on your behalf. We can advocate for compensation that reflects 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
Damages You Can File A Claim For After A Car Accident
Car accident victims may be entitled to file a claim for economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages include all your tangible losses, including the following:
- Medical expenses, including past, present, and future treatments and medications.
- Lost wages, including the reduced ability to earn.
- Replacement or repair of property damage.
- Burial or funeral costs in wrongful death claims.
Meanwhile, non-economic damages refer to your subjective and intangible losses, which include the following:
- Pain and suffering.
- Loss of consortium.
- Mental distress.
- Disfigurement.
- Isolation.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Reduced quality of life.
Our team of Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers will calculate the potential compensation you may be able to pursue. We will use bills, invoices, receipts, and expert opinions from credible professionals to demonstrate the full impact of the accident on your life.
What To Do When You Get In A Car Accident
After a car accident, it may be helpful to stay calm and evaluate your situation. You can check for visible injuries and take note of any discomfort. You may also consider contacting 911 or the local police department if assistance is needed.
To help safeguard your well-being and preserve important information, you may consider the following general recommendations after a car accident:
- Move to a safe spot on the side of the road, but don’t leave the scene. If you can’t move your car, leave it.
- Seek medical attention as soon as the paramedics arrive. Even if you feel fine, a medical evaluation is advisable to identify any potential injuries.
- Cooperate with the police and answer their questions honestly. Do not add unnecessary comments that could harm your case. Also, avoid apologizing, as this could be misconstrued as an admission of fault.
- If you can move, exchange vital information with all parties involved. Take their names, addresses, insurance policies, plate numbers, and car models.
- Gather visual and audio evidence. Take photos and videos of the accident scene from all angles, your injuries, the IDs of all involved parties, traffic signs, skid marks, and anything else that might be useful later.
- Try to locate some CCTV cameras that might have captured the accident.
- See if there are witnesses and get their details. Remember to be respectful at all times, even to those who may be at fault.
- Get further medical care. Be sure to follow your doctor’s treatment plan.
- Report the accident to your insurance company. Only provide relevant information and only what’s asked of you.
- Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for legal representation. Our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers will guide you through the claim process.
Car Accident Statistics In California
California has seen a high number of car accidents in recent years. In 2021 alone, the state’s Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) recorded 4,285 traffic fatalities. These deaths are a 7.6% increase from 2020, which recorded 3,980 casualties. Alcohol-impaired driving is one of the leading causes of traffic deaths in the state. A total of 1,370 fatalities were attributed to drunk driving.
In Los Angeles, where Sherman Oaks is located, the OTS recorded a total of 59,603 fatalities and injuries. Around 6,866 cases involved alcohol. Meanwhile, here are the top categories involved in fatal and injury crashes:
- Speeding — 12,660
- Nighttime (9 p.m. to 3 a.m.) — 7,500
- Hit-and-Run — 3,097
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do I Have To File A Car Accident Claim In Sherman Oaks?
In California, and by extension, in Sherman Oaks, victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury case. Deadlines are only “tolled” or paused in some instances, such as when the victim is a minor. In this case, the statute of limitations will start once the victim turns 18.
If you fail to file a case within the allotted time, you may lose your right to compensation. To avoid forfeiture, it is advisable to consult an accident attorney as soon as possible. We will start the process immediately and file the necessary documents and forms on time.
Can I Get A Reasonable Settlement From Insurers Without An Attorney?
Pursuing a reasonable settlement can be a challenging task. Insurance companies tend to be highly particular when it comes to processing claims. They carefully investigate your specific circumstances to identify any potential issues that could reduce their responsibility. They may also scrutinize your recorded statement and even social media posts for evidence that may imply that your injuries weren’t that severe.
With our car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks, you can build a case that reflects the extent of your losses and negotiate with insurers. We’ll speak with them on your behalf, and our team can clarify what actions may help your case and what may work against it. Our attorneys can help you pursue fair compensation through the legal process.
How Do Courts Determine Fault In Car Accident Cases?
Courts determine fault in car accident cases by considering several factors, including the police report. Generally, this document contains important information based on what the police gathered, including their observations, witness statements, and a drawn diagram of the scene. However, police reports are not usually admissible in court, so our car accident attorneys will also present other pieces of evidence.
Building a case backed by evidence is essential to pursuing the compensation available under the law. We have to persuade the court and the jury of the other party’s negligence and their responsibility for your injuries. Afterward, our personal injury attorneys who handle car accidents also have to justify the amount we’re asking for.
Hiring Sherman Oaks car accident attorneys as soon as possible can help with your claim, as key evidence could become lost or destroyed. We can begin investigating your case, gather evidence, and construct a comprehensive case that accurately reflects the full extent of your losses.
How Do I Know If I Have A Valid Car Accident Claim?
If you are injured in a car crash because of someone else’s negligence, you may have a legal basis to file a claim against them. To find out if you have a valid case, contact our lawyers handling car accidents in Sherman Oaks. We offer a free case review to help you determine your next steps.
How Do Criminal Consequences Of Pedestrian-Car Accidents Relate To Potential Civil Penalties?
A criminal charge can be a piece of useful evidence in establishing liability in a civil case. Drivers who run over pedestrians and either injure or kill them can face criminal or civil consequences. Both cases can run simultaneously. If they are found guilty of a criminal charge, they may face prison time. Meanwhile, they would be responsible for paying damages to the victims in a civil court.
How Do My Medical Expenses From My Car Accident Injuries Impact The Value Of My Case?
Medical expenses are a component of the economic damages resulting from the accident. So, the higher the medical bill, the higher the potential value of your claim.
In some cases, victims are also on a medical lien, which means they are getting treatment without upfront payment. Instead, medical providers are expecting payment from the settlement. We can help you consider this lien when making a compensation demand.
Our car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks dedicate their time to pursuing the settlement that you may be entitled to. We do this to help you seek compensation for your medical bills and other financial losses related to the accident.
Is The Driver At The Back Always At Fault For A Rear-End Accident?
Rear-end collisions are usually straightforward cases, but there are times when the front car is also liable for the accident. It typically occurs when the driver of the vehicle in front suddenly stops or decelerates without a reasonable cause.
If you are injured in a rear-end collision, you can reach out to our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers. We will investigate the case to determine who is at fault.
Can You Claim Compensation For The Death Of A Family Member In A Car Accident?
Immediate family members and legal heirs can seek compensation for the losses associated with losing a loved one. These damages include medical bills or the cost of treating the decedent’s injuries before death, as well as funeral, burial, or cremation fees. Additionally, they may file a claim for damages to cover the financial support they lost upon their loved one’s death.
Surviving family members may also pursue non-economic damages, such as pain, suffering, grief, and mental and emotional distress. If you want to know what compensation you may be entitled to, our Sherman Oaks car accident lawyers are here to guide you.
Get Legal Assistance From Our Car Accident Lawyers In Sherman Oaks
If you’re thinking, “I need a personal injury lawyer in Sherman Oaks,” you’re in the right place. Our car accident law firm is determined to help our clients seek justice. You may have the right to pursue compensation for an accident over which you had no control, and we can assist you in doing so. Our California personal injury lawyers handle cases involving fatal car accidents, Lyft or Uber accidents, truck collisions, and more.
If you would prefer to discuss your case in a language other than English, our staff can arrange for translation services upon request.
Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation. Our car accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks can answer any questions you may have about your case.
We serve all of California, including Beverly Hills, Thousand Oaks, Santa Clarita, Bakersfield, Signal Hill, Diamond Bar, South Whittier, Goldfield, La Mirada, West Hollywood, Burbank, San Fernando, Santa Monica, Culver City, Glendale, Calabasas, Los Angeles, Inglewood, La Canada Flintridge, Lennox, El Segundo, Westmont, and Hawthorne.
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