San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyers Fighting For Your Recovery
We Listen. We Fight. We Win for Crash Victims in San Bernardino.
Crashes on the 210, collisions along Waterman Avenue, and rear-end wrecks near Inland Center Mall are everyday realities in San Bernardino. Car accidents in this city often happen in a split second but leave behind long-term consequences: injuries that require months of recovery, mounting medical bills, lost work, and the emotional toll of being blindsided by someone else’s mistake.
Oaks Law Firm stands with car accident victims in San Bernardino and throughout the San Fernando Valley, taking on the legal burden so you can focus on healing. We fight for real results, like the $5.3 million settlement we secured for a pedestrian who lost a leg after being struck in a devastating crash. When you need a San Bernardino car accident lawyer who listens and delivers, we’re ready.
If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a San Bernardino car crash, contact us for a free consultation. You shouldn’t have to take on this fight alone.
FAQs About Car Accident Claims in San Bernardino
Justice starts with the right information, and when you’ve been injured in a crash, getting answers from a trusted San Bernardino car accident lawyer can make all the difference. The FAQ below offers clear, reliable guidance to help victims and families understand their rights and what comes next.
- What should I do if I was rear-ended at a red light in San Bernardino?
- Who is responsible in a T-bone crash at an intersection?
- Can I file a claim if I was hit by a rideshare driver with Uber or Lyft?
- How are pedestrian accident claims handled in San Bernardino?
- What if I was injured in a hit-and-run accident?
- How do I file a claim if I was hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver?
- Can I sue for damages if I was hit by a drunk or distracted driver?
- What are my legal options after a head-on collision?
- Are e-bike and e-scooter riders covered under California’s car accident laws?
- What compensation is available for fatal car accidents in San Bernardino County?
- What should I watch out for when an insurance company offers a fast settlement after a crash?
- How do I read my California car accident report?
- How is fault determined in intersection crashes when both drivers say the other ran the light?
- What is the average settlement for a serious car accident injury in San Bernardino?
- How can a San Bernardino car accident lawyer help me?
What should I do if I was rear-ended at a red light in San Bernardino?
Rear-end collisions may seem straightforward, but neck and back injuries can develop slowly and lead to long-term pain. Taking the right steps early can protect both your health and your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what to do after a rear-end crash:
- Seek immediate medical attention: Even if the pain is mild, early diagnosis is critical for spine and nerve injuries.
- Get imaging tests if recommended: X-rays or MRIs can reveal injuries that aren’t obvious right away.
- Document everything: Take photos of your vehicle, the accident scene, and your symptoms as they progress.
- Follow your treatment plan: Gaps in care can weaken your claim and give insurers an excuse to downplay your injury.
- Keep records of expenses and missed work: These details help support your claim for compensation.
An experienced attorney can help you establish the link between the crash and your injuries, something insurance companies often try to challenge.
Who is responsible in a T-bone crash at an intersection?
T-bone collisions often happen when one driver ignores traffic signals or misjudges a turn, but proving fault is rarely simple. In busy San Bernardino intersections, liability can depend on many factors. Possible at-fault parties in a T-bone crash include:
- The driver who ran a red light or stop sign: A common cause at intersections with heavy cross-traffic.
- A distracted or speeding driver: Phone use or aggressive driving reduces reaction time.
- A driver making an illegal or unsafe left turn: Failing to yield to oncoming traffic is a major contributor.
- The city or entity responsible for traffic signals: If a malfunctioning light or missing signage contributed to the crash.
- A third driver: Sometimes another driver’s illegal maneuver triggers the chain of events.
Getting witness statements, surveillance footage, and reviewing the police report are essential. A lawyer can handle this process while you recover.
Can I file a claim if I was hit by a rideshare driver with Uber or Lyft?
Yes, you can file a claim if you were injured by a rideshare driver, but the process is more complex than a typical car accident. Whether Uber or Lyft’s insurance applies depends on what the driver was doing at the time: waiting for a ride request, en route to pick up a passenger, or actively transporting someone.
These cases often happen near pick-up zones in places like San Bernardino’s Hospitality Lane corridor or at transit hubs. A lawyer can help determine which policy applies and hold the rideshare company accountable for fair compensation.
How are pedestrian accident claims handled in San Bernardino?
If you were in a marked crosswalk or had the right of way, such as crossing at E Street, and were hit by a vehicle, you likely have a strong personal injury claim. California law protects pedestrians in crosswalks, and drivers are required to yield, even at unmarked intersections.
Unfortunately, drivers often blame pedestrians or claim visibility issues, which can delay or reduce compensation. A lawyer can secure traffic footage, witness statements, and crash data to establish fault and fight for full damages.
What if I was injured in a hit-and-run accident?
Being injured in a hit-and-run is frustrating. Even without identifying the at-fault driver, you may still have options for compensation, particularly through your own insurance policy. Compensation may be available through:
- Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage: This often applies in hit-and-run scenarios in California.
- Medical payments (MedPay) coverage: Can help with immediate medical bills regardless of fault.
- Health insurance: While not ideal, it can help bridge the gap while your legal team pursues other options.
- Victim compensation programs: California offers limited aid for hit-and-run victims in certain cases.
- Other third-party liability: For example, if poor road design or defective vehicle parts played a role.
A lawyer can help identify every available path to compensation, even when the other driver disappears.
How do I file a claim if I was hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver?
Accidents involving drivers with little or no insurance are unfortunately common throughout the Inland Empire. Filing a successful claim often means working with your own insurer under specific policy provisions. Here’s how the process usually works:
- Notify your insurer immediately: There are time limits for filing uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) claims.
- Confirm your UM/UIM coverage: California doesn’t require it, but many drivers carry it.
- Gather all evidence of the crash and injuries: Your insurer will still require proof of fault and damages.
- Request a copy of the police report: This can help establish that the other driver was uninsured or underinsured.
- Avoid giving a recorded statement without legal advice: Even your own insurer may try to minimize your claim.
Having an attorney involved helps ensure your own insurance company treats your claim fairly, just like they would if they were the defendant.
Can I sue for damages if I was hit by a drunk or distracted driver?
Drunk and distracted drivers can be held both civilly and criminally liable, and crashes involving them often occur near nightlife areas or busy corridors like Court Street or 5th Street. You may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and even punitive damages due to the reckless nature of the driver’s behavior.
A San Bernardino car accident lawyer can help build a strong case using toxicology reports, phone records, and police findings to hold the driver fully accountable.
What are my legal options after a head-on collision?
Head-on crashes are among the most devastating types of accidents and often involve serious or fatal injuries. If the crash occurred on a major freeway, multiple liability factors may be in play. Your legal options may include:
- Filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver: Especially if they were speeding, intoxicated, or driving the wrong way.
- Investigating road design issues: Poor lighting, lack of barriers, or inadequate signage can contribute to wrong-way crashes.
- Pursuing punitive damages: If the other driver was egregiously reckless or under the influence.
- Filing a wrongful death claim: If a loved one was killed in the crash.
- Accessing multiple insurance policies: Commercial truck or umbrella policies may apply in high-speed cases.
These claims are complex and high-stakes. Working with a car accident attorney ensures nothing is missed.
Are e-bike and e-scooter riders covered under California’s car accident laws?
Yes, under California law, e-bike and e-scooter riders have many of the same protections as pedestrians and bicyclists when injured by negligent drivers. These accidents are increasingly common near CSUSB, local parks, or high-traffic areas like Orange Show Road. If a driver failed to yield, opened a car door into your path, or was speeding, they can be held liable for your injuries. Legal representation is crucial in these cases, as insurance companies frequently attempt to shift blame onto riders for “risky behavior” to avoid full compensation.
What compensation is available for fatal car accidents in San Bernardino County?
When a family loses a loved one in a crash, the emotional and financial toll can be enormous. California law allows surviving family members to seek damages through a wrongful death claim. Compensation may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses: Often a significant immediate burden.
- Loss of future financial support: Income the deceased would have earned.
- Loss of companionship and guidance: Particularly for spouses and children.
- Medical expenses prior to death: If the deceased received care before passing.
- Pain and suffering (in a survival action): In some cases, the estate can pursue damages for the victim’s suffering before death.
A lawyer can help your family pursue justice while handling the legal process with care and respect.
What should I watch out for when an insurance company offers a fast settlement after a crash?
A fast settlement may seem like a relief, but it’s often a red flag. Insurance companies use early offers to limit their financial exposure, not to ensure you’re fully compensated. Before accepting a quick settlement, consider:
- The long-term cost of your medical care: Especially if you haven’t finished treatment.
- Lost wages and future income: These may not be accounted for in the initial offer.
- Pain and suffering: Early settlements rarely include fair compensation for emotional and physical trauma.
- Whether liability is fully investigated: Quick offers may be made before all the facts are known.
- The fine print: Once you accept, you usually waive your right to any future claims.
Consulting with an attorney can help you evaluate the true value of your case before agreeing to anything.
How do I read my California car accident report?
The California Traffic Collision Report (CHP 555) includes key information that can strengthen or weaken your case. Pay close attention to the “party at fault” determination, any mention of traffic violations, and the collision diagram.
Errors in location, statements, or injury severity can be used by insurance companies to challenge your claim. A car accident lawyer can review your report for red flags and work to correct inaccuracies that might hurt your case.
How is fault determined in intersection crashes when both drivers say the other ran the light?
Disputes over fault are common in intersection crashes, particularly when there are no witnesses. Still, there are ways to uncover the truth. Evidence that helps determine fault includes:
- Traffic camera footage: Many San Bernardino intersections are equipped with surveillance.
- Skid marks and vehicle damage analysis: These can show who was braking or speeding.
- Witness statements: Pedestrians, nearby drivers, or business employees may have seen what happened.
- Vehicle data: Some cars log speed, braking, and direction.
- Police reports: Officer opinions and citations can carry weight, even if not definitive.
When liability is contested, having a lawyer to gather and analyze the evidence can be the key to proving your side of the story.
What is the average settlement for a serious car accident injury in San Bernardino?
There’s no fixed number, but serious injury settlements in San Bernardino often range from $25,000 to several hundred thousand dollars, depending on the specifics. Factors like injury severity, medical costs, and insurance limits all influence the outcome. Factors that affect settlement value include:
- Type and extent of injuries: Broken bones, spinal damage, or head trauma increase case value.
- Medical expenses and lost wages: The more financial impact, the higher the potential compensation.
- Pain and suffering: Emotional and physical distress must be documented.
- Fault and liability clarity: Clear-cut fault leads to stronger settlements.
- Insurance coverage limits: Both yours and the other driver’s.
Every case is different. A lawyer can help assess your specific claim and push for the full amount you deserve.
How can a San Bernardino car accident lawyer help me?
The legal process after a crash can be overwhelming when you’re also trying to heal. A car accident lawyer helps take the pressure off while fighting for the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Here’s how a lawyer can support your recovery:
- Handling all communication with insurance companies: So you’re not misled or pressured.
- Negotiating for full coverage of your medical care: Including future treatment needs.
- Documenting lost income and future earning capacity: So your financial future is protected.
- Working with medical experts and specialists: To fully understand your prognosis.
- Pursuing compensation for pain, suffering, and quality of life losses.
When the stakes are this high, having the right legal team can make all the difference.
Contact a San Bernardino Car Accident Attorney Today!
Car accidents can derail everything in an instant, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. A San Bernardino car accident attorney from Oaks Law Firm will stand by your side, listen to what matters most, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. Consultations are free, and there’s no fee unless we win your case.
Get the legal support you need to move forward. Contact Oaks Law Firm today!