South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe Car Accident Lawyers Provide Focused Legal Representation
If you’re injured or a loved one is killed in a car crash, reach out to our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers. At Arash Law, we will discuss your legal options to pursue compensation, guide you through the next steps, and advocate for your rights. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
People see South Lake Tahoe as a vacation destination. They often start their day with a thrilling ski session before going for a drink by the lakeside in the afternoon and enjoying the vibrant nightlife at the casinos. The blue-green waters of Lake Tahoe provide a serene backdrop for a day of relaxation.
The last thing anyone wants is a car accident that jeopardizes a family vacation. Unfortunately, like any other city, South Lake Tahoe sees its share of traffic collisions. If you are injured in a road accident in South Lake Tahoe, reach out to us to determine if you have a valid case. Let our car accident attorneys guide you through the claims process.
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
How Can South Lake Tahoe Car Accident Lawyers Help You?
Getting involved in car accidents can be challenging, especially when you factor in the resulting vehicle damage and injuries. Our car accident lawyers can provide legal guidance and representation to help clients seek compensation for the resulting injuries and losses after a crash.
- Investigate and Gather Important Evidence — We will investigate your case and gather evidence that may help support your claim, such as a copy of the police incident report and CCTV footage, which can be challenging to access. Establishments and private individuals typically do not provide a copy to anyone.
- Manage Communications with Insurers — Car crash victims may also have to respond to calls from insurance companies seeking to settle quickly. Adjusters may ask questions about the incident, and any statements made during these conversations may be used during the claims process.
- Comprehensive Legal Support — Our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers can handle the legal work on your behalf. We’ll guide you through the process, prepare paperwork, and negotiate with the insurance companies.
- Personalized Representation — We take a client-focused approach, representing our clients’ interests and goals and developing a tailored strategy for their cases. Our lawyers have years of experience assisting clients in pursuing legal claims against at-fault parties in a wide range of personal injury cases.
Why Hire Our Car Accident Attorneys In South Lake Tahoe
It can be beneficial for car accident victims to seek legal representation to help them address the challenges often associated with personal injury claims, such as delays, denials, and disputes over liability. Our car accident attorneys will assess the value of your claim and negotiate a fair compensation that covers your losses.
- Case Evaluation — Our car accident lawyers will thoroughly review and examine all evidence. We will also analyze the severity of your injuries and the extent of their effects on your life, including your ability to earn income and support your family.
- Connections with Industry Professionals — Additionally, our car accident attorneys will consult with health and economic professionals in South Lake Tahoe and California to help assess your physical, mental, and financial situation, which enables us to determine the potential value of your claim, taking into account both your current and future losses.
Our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers work to help you pursue damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related losses.
Types Of Car Accidents In South Lake Tahoe
While minor fender benders account for a large percentage of car accidents, there are many types of crashes. Among the cases that our South Lake Tahoe car accident attorneys handle are the following:
Head-On Collisions
Needless to say, head-on crashes can be dangerous, even fatal, for the occupants of both cars. These collisions frequently result in catastrophic injuries. On two-way roads with narrow lanes or where lane changes are frequent, head-on incidents are common.
High-speed collisions on freeways tend to have more serious effects, including the possibility of fatalities among the occupants. The impact of a head-on collision can seriously injure internal organs, the brain, and the spinal column, even with the assistance of the driver and passenger side airbags. Many of these incidents are the result of intoxicated, worn-out, or distracted drivers.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are among the types of car crashes that our auto accident lawyers in South Lake Tahoe frequently handle. Speed is a major factor in these collisions since drivers often underestimate their speed when approaching a stopped car. These incidents usually happen at intersections, traffic signals, or when traffic is slowed down.
Distracted driving, which involves using phones, texting, and other onboard technology to divert a driver’s attention from the road, is another factor in rear-end collisions. Even though such actions while driving are prohibited by state law, distracted driving remains a major factor in traffic accidents in the Golden State.
Multi-car crashes are a common result of rear-end collisions. In some crashes, the first car collides with another, pushing the first vehicle into the second driver and triggering a chain reaction involving several cars. These multi-car crashes can result in severe injuries, especially if the striking vehicle is speeding.
T-Bone Accidents
A T-bone or side-impact collision usually occurs when two or more cars collide while traveling at moderate to high speeds. A driver running a stop sign or traffic signal can crash into the side of another car. As a result, both drivers and passengers typically suffer severe injuries.
The majority of T-bone accidents at intersections are caused by:
- Not yielding the right of way.
- Turning left improperly across traffic.
- Turning right improperly into traffic.
If a motorist crosses a junction without waiting for their turn, they can be held responsible for any accidents and injuries they cause.
Tire Blowouts
Tire blowouts continue to be a major contributing factor in car accidents, even if tire performance and safety have improved due to technical advancements. These accidents happen when a tire sustains significant damage and loses air pressure all of a sudden, throwing the driver off course. They can be caused by defective, worn-out, or improperly inflated tires. Potholes and other flaws or debris on the road can also result in tire blowouts, as can overloading or tiny punctures that let the tire lose air until the pressure collapses.
It is the responsibility of drivers to maintain their cars’ safety. This implies that frequent monitoring of the tires’ air pressure and oil change is necessary. Inspecting tires for signs of wear and tear or damage is crucial, especially prior to lengthy travels. Lastly, tire blowouts are a common reason for truck accidents, many of which have serious outcomes.
Hurt in a Car Accident?
Common Causes Of Car Accidents
Our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers can handle cases involving collisions resulting from various factors, with driver error being a major cause.
Distracted Driving
Many people traveling through the county take the U.S. Highway 50 route for a scenic drive. The majestic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains captivate drivers and passengers alike. Unfortunately, accidents frequently occur when drivers become distracted by their surroundings.
For instance, the widespread use of smartphones has been a constant factor in fatal car accidents. Of the 3,308 traffic deaths in 2022 attributed to distracted driving, around 12.1% (or 368 cases) involved cell phone use.
Our car accident lawyers in South Lake Tahoe have also handled distracted driving cases involving the following behaviors:
- Using navigation tools.
- Looking at outdoor advertisements.
- Playing loud music.
- Eating and drinking.
- Chatting with passengers.
Driving Under The Influence
South Lake Tahoe residents and tourists can try their luck in a casino, unwind in a bar, or party at a nightclub. However, as these activities often involve alcohol and, sometimes, drugs, impaired driving has become a serious concern in the city.
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) recorded 120 DUI arrests in the city in 2021. Meanwhile, alcohol contributed to 14 traffic injuries and fatalities out of 56 cases.
A legal and social issue, DUI is a matter of public safety. Local law enforcement agencies have ramped up roving patrols and checkpoints in an effort to curb drunk and drugged driving. There are also campaigns to educate the public on the risks associated with driving under the influence, including the potential for serious accidents, hefty fines, and criminal charges.
If local authorities suspect a driver is drunk or drugged, they’ll check the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level or require the driver to get lab tests. In a car accident claim, our South Lake Tahoe personal injury lawyers can use the police report and medical results to help demonstrate that the driver is liable for your losses.
Drowsy Driving
The consequences of fatigue when it comes to driving can be significant. It affects a person’s reaction time and decision-making abilities, which are essential for driving safely. Without proper sleep and rest, drivers may be unable to react quickly to unexpected traffic events or road conditions, potentially causing a collision.
Ridesharing drivers are especially susceptible to drowsy driving. They usually come from their respective day jobs before going on duty and transporting passengers, resulting in long work hours without enough rest. Such practice greatly contributes to Lyft and Uber accidents.
Our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers can assist in gathering evidence to demonstrate whether drowsy driving contributed to the accident. We’ll track down and interview any witnesses who saw the events leading up to the accident. We can also bring in witnesses, like accident reconstructionists, sleep deprivation consultants, and medical professionals, to provide testimony that may help support your case.
Injuries Usually Sustained In South Lake Tahoe Car Accidents
A car accident can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to serious, including:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Head Trauma
- Whiplash
- Neck Injuries
- Broken Bones
- Cuts And Bruises
- Back Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Nerve Damage
- Sprains And Strains
- Amputations
- Torn Ligaments
Many victims also suffer from mental health problems due to the accident and resulting injury. They could develop PTSD, panic disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Even seemingly minor cuts and scratches can have a significant impact. These injuries still cause physical pain, emotional distress, and financial burden. Medical bills can also add up quickly, especially for wounds that require check-ups and proper care to prevent infection and potential complications.
Our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers help our clients explore their legal options. If you’re injured due to others’ negligence, you may be able to seek compensation for your hospital bills, treatment costs, and pain & suffering, depending on the specifics of your case.
What Damages Can You Pursue In A Car Accident Claim?
If you are injured in a car crash in South Lake Tahoe, you might be able to pursue economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damage is any tangible expense related to your injury, such as:
- Medical Bills
- Laboratory Fees
- Medications
- Medical Equipment (crutches, walking boots, wheelchairs, hospital beds, etc.).
- Therapy Bills
- Car Repairs Or Replacement
- Transportation Fees Going To Hospitals
On the other hand, non-economic damages are non-tangible, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, mental illnesses like anxiety and depression, loss of companionship, bodily disfigurement, dismemberment, loss of enjoyment of activities, and more. Our South Lake Tahoe injury attorneys for car accident cases can consult with doctors and financial analysts to help assess their value.
In rare instances, California courts may also award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the at-fault party and deter similar reckless behavior in the future.
Who Can Be Held Liable In A Car Accident?
California is an at-fault state. The person or entity that caused or contributed to the car accident can be held liable for the damage they caused. Below are some of the potentially liable parties in a crash:
- Drivers — Our attorneys will investigate the person(s) operating the vehicle(s) involved in the accident. We will investigate any negligence that may have contributed to the collision, including speeding, distracted driving, or running a red light.
- Owners — If the driver does not own the car, the owner could also be held liable in certain circumstances. For example, they can be found negligent if they willingly lent their car to someone they knew to be an unsafe driver, who then caused a collision.
- Parents or Guardians — If the driver is a minor, their parents or guardians can be held liable for negligently allowing their child to drive the vehicle.
- Employers — If the driver acted within the scope of their job at the time of the incident, their employer may be held liable.
- Manufacturers — If an auto defect contributed to the accident, the car or parts manufacturer could be held accountable for the resulting damages.
- Other Third Parties — Depending on the circumstances of the collision, other parties may also bear liability. Some examples are the car mechanic who installed a part incorrectly, a passenger who distracted the driver, or even the city of South Lake Tahoe if it failed to maintain the roads properly.
Determining liability in a car accident requires a thorough investigation and a well-documented case. Our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers work to identify all the potentially liable parties and help you pursue accountability for their negligent behavior.
What Is Comparative Negligence, And How Does It Affect My Car Accident Claim?
The concept of comparative negligence determines the degree of fault of each party involved in an accident, including the plaintiff. Under this principle, the victim’s compensation may be reduced based on their percentage of fault.
For example, if a person was injured in a car accident but was not wearing a seatbelt, they could share liability. Their failure to wear a seatbelt could be seen as a contributing factor to their injuries. They would then be assigned a percentage of fault, which would affect their final payout.
Let’s say the court assigns the victim 10% liability. If their claim is $10,000, they would only be able to pursue $9,000 after deducting $1,000 (10% of $10,000), which is their percentage of fault.
Injured individuals often face challenges, such as disputes over liability and low settlement offers.
Our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers will carefully review all the available evidence to help you address these challenges.
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 Long Do I Have To File A Car Accident Claim?
The statute of limitations in California states that accident victims have two years to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit. There are a few exceptions, including cases where the victim is a minor or the defendant is out of state.
All parties involved must strictly follow the time frame. Going beyond the statute of limitations could mean losing your ability to pursue compensation. Talk to our lawyers to learn more about your deadlines.
One of the main reasons behind the two-year deadline for filing a personal injury claim is that evidence does not last forever and deteriorates over time. Take CCTV footage as an example. The people or companies responsible for these records may delete or lose them after some time.
Another example is witness statements. Our car accident lawyers can speak with witnesses while they are still in South Lake Tahoe and available to testify, as they might forget the details or become difficult to locate over time.
Why Hire A Car Accident Lawyer?
Many people wonder, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer for a car accident?” The short answer is that it depends on your situation. Hiring experienced South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers can help you navigate the legal process. We will work to help you seek compensation from the at-fault parties for the resulting injuries and losses after a collision.
Our attorneys can also help you understand the processes insurance companies may use when evaluating claims, such as:
- Investigating your activities following the accident.
- Reviewing your social media for information related to your case.
- Offering a settlement that may not fully reflect your losses.
- Questioning the extent or cause of your injuries.
- Requesting recorded statements that could affect your claim.
- Asking questions to determine fault.
Insurance providers evaluate claims based on their own policies. Our attorneys will advocate for your rights and guide you through the process.
What To Do After A Car Accident In South Lake Tahoe
If you are injured in a car accident, there are certain steps you can take to help keep you safe and support your potential claim, such as:
- Check yourself and your companions for any injuries.
- Call 911 and request police and medical assistance.
- If you’re in a car, get out slowly. Stay away from passing vehicles to avoid further harm.
- Take photos and videos of everyone’s condition, focusing on injuries and damage to the vehicle(s) involved. Record the scene as well, including the traffic and weather conditions.
- Calmly ask the other party for their name, phone number, address, and insurance information. If possible, photograph their IDs.
- Look for potential eyewitnesses and record their contact information. Also, ask them politely to give their testimony to the police.
- After getting first aid, see a doctor promptly after the accident. They can thoroughly assess your injury and identify any underlying conditions that may have been caused by the collision.
- Do not provide a statement to the other party, particularly their insurance company.
- Consult our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers. Our attorneys will evaluate your case and determine whether you have a valid claim. We will also help you explore your legal options and guide you on the next steps to take. Call us at (888) 488-1391.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Really Need An Attorney After A Car Accident In South Lake Tahoe?
Although hiring a lawyer is not mandatory, an attorney can help advocate for your legal rights and represent your interests. We will assist you in navigating the complexities of the legal system, dealing with insurance companies, and handling the paperwork properly, allowing you to focus on getting better.
How Quickly Should I Notify My Insurance Company After An Accident?
Notify your insurance company promptly after a car accident in South Lake Tahoe. Reporting early allows your insurance company to begin gathering evidence and assessing damage, which can be crucial for establishing the facts of the accident and determining liability. Timely notification can also help avoid unnecessary delays in the process and support your claim.
What Is The Process Of Paying Out Personal Injury Settlements In South Lake Tahoe?
After a personal injury settlement is agreed upon, typically, the at-fault party’s insurance company handles the payout. Should their coverage be insufficient or absent, the responsible party may bear the financial responsibility directly. The process begins once all parties agree on a settlement figure. Next, the injured party signs a release form, forfeiting future claims related to the incident. Afterward, the insurance company processes the payment, typically within a few weeks to a month, and issues the settlement check either directly to the injured person or through their attorney, depending on the arrangement. This is a general overview of the process; individual claims are unique, and yours may have some differences from what is mentioned here.
When Will My South Lake Tahoe Car Accident Claim Be Settled?
The settlement timeline for a South Lake Tahoe car accident varies depending on the specifics of each case. In scenarios where accidents are more severe or the case requires a trial, the process may take a considerable amount of time. Factors that influence the duration include the complexity of the accident, the severity of injuries, the clarity of fault, and the negotiation process with insurance companies.
How Long Can A Car Accident Claim Stay Open In South Lake Tahoe?
How Much Compensation Can You Pursue For Pain And Suffering In A South Lake Tahoe Car Accident Case?
In South Lake Tahoe, there is no fixed cap on the amount one can claim for pain and suffering after a car accident. The total compensation depends on the severity of the injuries and their impact on mental and emotional health.
Arash Law is dedicated to pursuing fair compensation for each client by considering the full impact of the accident on your life. With experience handling car accident claims, our team is prepared to navigate complex cases and represent your interests before the at-fault parties, insurers, and, if necessary, the jury.
Who Can Be Held Responsible For Covering Costs After A Car Accident In South Lake Tahoe?
In South Lake Tahoe and throughout the state of California, the rule for car accidents is that the person who caused the crash, along with their insurance company, has to pay for the consequences. This includes paying for any property damage, medical bills for injuries, any wages lost if someone couldn’t go to work because of the accident, and compensation for pain and suffering experienced.
Essentially, if you’re found responsible for causing an accident, you and your insurer are legally obligated to cover all the costs associated with repairing the damage and helping the affected people, both physically and financially. However, it’s worth noting that California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, which means that if you’re injured and partly to blame for the accident, the amount of compensation you may be able to pursue will be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident.
If I'm Undocumented, Am I Still Able To Submit A Personal Injury Claim Following A Car Accident?
Is Compensation For Pain And Suffering Available In A Car Crash?
You may be able to pursue compensation for pain and suffering resulting from a car accident, depending on the situation. This non-economic damage is meant to compensate the victims for the intangible effects of the accident or injury.
Attaching a value to non-economic damages is complicated. Our South Lake Tahoe lawyers, who handle car accident claims, work to assess and quantify your pain and suffering, as well as other subjective losses.
How Much Do Car Accident Lawyers Cost?
Personal injury lawyers for car collisions and other car accidents typically work on a contingency fee basis. Our firm also adopts a similar agreement. In other words, clients won’t be charged for the services of our attorney unless compensation is obtained through a settlement or verdict. If there’s no compensation, you don’t pay us attorneys’ fees. Other case-related costs may still apply, regardless of the outcome. This fee structure will be discussed during your consultation and clearly outlined in a written agreement.
I Got Injured In An Accident Using A Rental Car. Can I Still Pursue A Claim For Compensation?
The at-fault principle still applies if you get into a rental car accident in California. You may be able to seek compensation from the parties responsible for the incident. You may also be able to file a claim against the auto rental company if it provided you with a faulty vehicle that contributed to the accident. It may also apply if your car insurance policy extends coverage to leased vehicles.
Note, however, that the rental car company may seek reimbursement for its losses from you if damages are not covered by insurance. In such cases, you might need to pay out of pocket initially and then pursue compensation through an insurance or personal injury claim, depending on liability and coverage.
Can I Sue If My Loved One Dies In A Car Accident?
If you are the legal heir of the deceased victim, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim for a fatal traffic accident. While compensation won’t replace the life of your loved one, it can help address the financial losses following the accident, including:
- Funeral And Burial Expenses
- Medical Bills
- Loss of Financial Support
- Loss of Companionship
- Psychological And Emotional Distress
If you’ve lost someone in a fatal car accident in California recently, call Arash Law. Our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers, who also handle wrongful death cases, can help you with the process. We can investigate the incident, gather relevant evidence, and assist you in pursuing compensation for your losses.
Reach Out To Our South Lake Tahoe Car Accident Lawyers
Our South Lake Tahoe car accident lawyers are ready to assist you. If you’re unable to discuss your case in person, we can arrange to meet at a time and location that suits you. Call our car accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Our car accident law firm also assists victims near South Lake Tahoe and El Dorado County, such as Homewood, Tahoma, Palisades Tahoe, Bear Valley, Placerville, Truckee, Meyers, Fallen Leaf, Echo Lake, Nebelhorn, Phillips, Kirkwood, Sacramento, Diamond Springs, Granite Bay, Rosemont, French Camp, Manteca, Modesto, Olivehurst, Mountain House, Fairfield, Orangevale, Lockeford, and Turlock.
