Los Angeles Car Accident Attorneys
Hurt in a Crash in Los Angeles? Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
Los Angeles is one of the highest-traffic cities in the world. An article in the LA Times reported that in 2016, 40,200 people died in crashes involving cars. According to the National Safety Council, this statistic is a 6% increase over the previous year. Unfortunately, we have become accustomed to the frequency of car accidents that happen here in Los Angeles. When a car accident occurs, your world can be turned upside down in a matter of moments.
A car accident can cause serious injuries to both passengers and drivers. If you were hurt in a car accident that was caused by another person’s careless driving, our firm can help you file a claim to compensate you for your injuries. Some car crashes can be fatal to the victims, and others leave the driver or passenger with permanent, life-altering injuries that affect their ability to work and engage in the activities of their daily life.
When this happens, it is a great injustice to the innocent victim, who is left paying the price for someone else’s careless behavior. For this reason, we are committed to helping victims of car accidents here in Los Angeles know that a team of experienced attorneys is ready to help. Call Oaks Law Firm to hire an experienced car accident attorney who will hold the negligent driver responsible for the damage they have caused. Your initial consultation is free.
What to Do After a Car Crash in Los Angeles
Though every person understands that the risk exists, a car accident is still something that you never expect to happen. Dealing with the aftermath of a crash in Los Angeles County is daunting. It is normal to be stressed out, confused, and overwhelmed by the gravity of the situation. The right approach can make a big difference in the long run. Here are four steps to take after a collision:
- Stop Your Car and Report the Crash: Safety is the top priority. After the collision, stop your vehicle and get yourself into a safe position. California law requires motorists to exchange information and remain at the scene of the crash. You should call law enforcement—such as the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD)—to report the incident.
- Get Prompt Medical Care for Any Injuries: A severe injury requires emergency care. A non-emergency injury still must be checked out by a licensed physician. Shock and adrenaline can mask pain and discomfort. It is crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident—and getting medical care is about more than just your health: You cannot bring a car accident injury claim in California without supporting medical records.
- Thoroughly Document Your Accident and Injuries: Documentation can make a difference in the car accident claims process. Take photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and road conditions. Collect names and contact information of witnesses and other drivers involved. Keep a detailed record of your medical treatment and any expenses related to the accident.
- Speak to a Lawyer Before an Insurance Adjuster: Insurance adjusters are on the side of the company, not you and your family. Before you talk to any insurance adjuster, it is wise to consult with a Los Angeles auto accident lawyer. Your attorney can guide you on what to say and do, handle negotiations, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
Negligent Driving Causes Motor Vehicle Accidents
Car accidents happen every day in Los Angeles. In many cases, they are minor and no one involved requires medical attention. Sometimes, they truly are accidents. Unfortunately, many of the accidents that occur on the streets of Los Angeles are caused by negligent driving, and some of them result in serious injuries to the accident victims.
Negligent driving occurs when a person is careless in the operation of their motor vehicle. A negligent operation can include any of the following situations:
Distraction:
Distracted driving is a very dangerous situation. When a driver is not paying attention to his or her surroundings, they endanger everyone else on the road. Examples of distractions when driving can include texting, using cell phones or other electronic devices, eating, putting on make-up, or turning to look towards the backseat.
Speed:
Excessive speed can also cause serious injuries when an accident occurs. Although speed alone is often not the only cause of an accident, it can worsen the injuries to the plaintiff and increase the chances that the driver will be unable to control the vehicle. When an out-of-control vehicle enters the roadway, all other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists are at risk of catastrophic injuries.
Failure To Obey Rules of the Road:
Every driver has a responsibility to obey the rules of the road, including stop signs, lights, traffic signs, and the right of way. Failure to do so is negligent and often the cause of accidents.
Driving Under the Influence:
Drivers who operate their vehicles under the influence of drugs, alcohol, and some prescription medications are endangering the lives of others and themselves. Frequently, an individual driving safely has little to no opportunity to avoid reckless driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Driver Inattention or Inexperience:
Sometimes, there is no clear-cut reason for a person’s negligence. They are simply not paying attention or not experienced in the operation of a vehicle. Nevertheless, they are at fault if they caused the accident.
While driver error is cited as the primary cause for most car accidents in Southern California, other factors could contribute to a motor vehicle collision in Los Angeles as well. For example, a product defect caused by a vehicle manufacturer could result in a crash. Alternatively, the unsafe conduct of a highway construction crew may cause an accident. Every motor vehicle collision in Los Angeles should be comprehensively investigated by a top attorney.
What to Know About Auto Accident Liability in California
Understanding auto accident liability is absolutely essential for any person who was involved in a car crash in Los Angeles. Car accident claims fall under state law. California follows an “at-fault” liability system. Here is the foundational point to know: The party who is responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for paying the damages. How do you determine fault? In California, it is largely based on looking at negligence. A party whose failure to exercise proper safety precautions can be deemed negligent and, as such, liable for a crash. For instance, if a driver was speeding, ran a red light, or was distracted, they could be found at fault. Of course, it is not always straightforward. Every collision in Los Angeles needs to be carefully investigated.
There are plenty of situations in which more than one party is legally responsible for the same accident. California employs a “comparative negligence” rule in cases where multiple parties may be at fault. The system allows a damaged party to recover compensation even if they are partially responsible for the accident. However, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. Here is a basic example: Imagine that you were 30 percent responsible for an accident in Los Angeles. Your total damages are measured at $10,000. Under the pure comparative fault system in California, you could still recover $7,000. However, you would be responsible for 30 percent ($3,000) of your own damages based on your proportional blame.
A Two-Year Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Injury Claims
California has a strict two-year statute of limitations for auto accident injury claims. There are only very limited exceptions that apply to the rule. If you are hurt in any type of car crash—from a distracted driving collision to a pedestrian crash—a claim must be filed before the statute of limitations runs out. Although that may initially seem to be plenty of time, you do not want to wait to get started with your case. Do not fall behind the insurance company: Consult with an experienced Los Angeles auto accident attorney right away after a bad crash.
We Help Car Accident Victims in Los Angeles Secure the Maximum Compensation
Hurt in a motor vehicle collision in Los Angeles? It is imperative that you are able to recover the absolute maximum value. California law allows car accident victims to pursue compensatory damages for both economic losses and non-economic damages. That being said, navigating the insurance process can be difficult. Insurance companies want to pay out as little as they can to car accident victims. At Oaks Law Firm, our Los Angeles car accident lawyers go the extra mile to help injured victims obtain every penny of compensation that they deserve. Recovery may include:
- Vehicle repairs
- Ambulance costs
- Emergency room care
- Hospital bills/medical bills
- Loss of wages
- Loss of future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Disfigurement
- Wrongful death
Why You Need a Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer
In most car accident cases, you will be up against the insurance company for the negligent driver, an organization with teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters whose job is to deny you a settlement. Do not let them control the circumstances.
Our car accident lawyers know how to handle the insurance company and work to make sure you get the settlement you deserve for your injuries.
A typical car accident case may require collecting a great deal of evidence in preparation for your case. We use our extensive experience and resources to prepare your case to the fullest, including reviewing photos and evidence, speaking to witnesses, reconstructing accident scenes, and evaluating medical records. We understand that a car accident can dramatically impact your life and we are dedicated to providing you comprehensive representation in your Los Angeles car accident claim.
How the Los Angeles Car Accident Attorneys at Oaks Law Firm Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of a motor vehicle crash is never easy. That case may be settled in negotiations, but you also want peace of mind in knowing that if your case does go to trial, you are represented by talented and experienced Los Angeles car accident attorneys. At Oaks Law Firm, we help clients with all aspects of their case, including:
- Locate caring and understanding physicians and medical care facilities.
- Avoid financial complications when an injury renders you unable to work.
- Obtain recovery for property damage.
- Hold guilty parties like hit-and-run drivers, drunk drivers, distracted drivers, and negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
- Obtain compensation for pain and suffering.
You never have to worry about the cost of hiring a top-tier car crash attorney. The Oaks Law Firm represents injured victims and their families on a contingency fee basis. There are no upfront costs or hourly bills to pay. Our Los Angeles, CA auto accident lawyers only get paid when you recover financial compensation.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Top-Tier Los Angeles Auto Accident Attorney Today
Hurt in a car crash in Los Angeles? You need a top attorney on your team. Insurance companies cannot be relied upon to protect your rights or your interests. Call Oaks Law Firm today to learn more about how we can help you. If you have been a victim, do not delay getting an experienced car accident attorney on your side. Initial consultations are free and strictly confidential. From our Los Angeles office, we handle auto accident claims throughout Southern California.
(877) 539-5366
Recovering the Damages You Deserve
If someone else is to blame for your injuries, you have the right to seek compensation for the full amount of damages you've suffered. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, as well as pain and suffering. You must bring forth your claim within one year of the accident date. Not filing your case within one year will bar you from recovery.
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