Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer: Being involved in a car accident can be a frightening ordeal, and it can also result in significant medical expenses and vehicle repair or replacement costs.
Working with a skilled personal injury lawyer can help you file a claim and secure the financial compensation you need to cover your costs. If you need a high-quality car accident lawyer in Los Angeles, CA.
Car accidents can have devastating consequences, causing serious injuries, significant damage to your vehicle, or even the tragic loss of a loved one.
You have the option to file a personal injury claim against the driver responsible for the accident. It could result in you receiving financial compensation for your damages. You may also be eligible for compensation for other damages, such as pain and suffering or loss of consortium.
When you’ve been in an accident, it can be a huge relief to have a personal injury lawyer by your side. They’ll walk you through the legal process and handle your claim, taking some of the stress off your shoulders. They can also represent you in court if your claim escalates to a lawsuit.
If you need assistance with filing your auto accident claim or lawsuit in Los Angeles County, the best Los Angeles car accident lawyer can provide you with an experienced car accident attorney.
Los Angeles Car Accident Statistics
In 2022, the number of car accident-related deaths in Los Angeles reached a record high, marking the highest in two decades, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.
Last year, the number of deaths on LA streets exceeded 300, marking a 5% increase from 2021 and a significant 29% increase since 2020.
Here are the statistics on the number of fatalities in auto crashes in Los Angeles:
- 159 deaths reported in car accidents involving pedestrians
- 20 individuals tragically lost their lives in car accidents involving bicycles.
- LA has more traffic fatalities per 1000 people compared to the national average.
City officials are advocating for significant changes to city roadway engineering and education in response to concerning rates. They want to implement a program that has proven successful in large cities like New York City.
Common Areas Where Car Accidents Occur in LA
As per the Los Angeles Police Department, here are the intersections in LA that are considered the most dangerous:
1. Balboa Boulevard and Saticoy Street in Lake Balboa
This intersection is near various popular eateries, including Baskin Robbins and Del Taco. It is also conveniently situated near Hollywood RV Park and Balboa Market. It’s conveniently located near several popular local spots, with only one stoplight for five lanes.
2. Cahuenga Boulevard and Selma Avenue in Hollywood
This intersection is conveniently located near the Hollywood Farmers’ Market, the Los Angeles Film School, and multiple hotels.
3. Florence and Vermont avenues in South L.A.
This intersection is frequently used by parents with children attending Gerald A. Lawson Academy or Loren Miller Elementary School, as it is conveniently situated between the two schools. The intersection is frequently congested due to its eight lanes and numerous stoplights.
4. Soto Street and Washington Boulevard in South L.A.
Soto Street meets the LA River, and this intersection is located on a busy road surrounded by various wholesalers, including Associated Ready Mix Concrete and International Marine Products.
Top LA Areas for Speeding Citations
Speeding is a major cause of the many auto accidents in Los Angeles that result in injuries and fatalities each year. Based on a report from an informal survey conducted by the California Highway Patrol, here are the top areas in LA for speeding citations:
- The stretch between 10th St. West and Avenue 1 in Antelope Valley is a short and easily navigable route.
- The section of the 210 freeway between Grand Ave. and Baseline Rd. in Baldwin Park
- Take the 134, the 5, and the 101 from Lankershim to Sunset in Central Los Angeles.
- The location at Rosemead Boulevard in East Los Angeles
- Traveling from Gorman to Castaic (Newhall) on the southbound 5.
- Take the 210 from State Route 118 to Mountain Ave. in Pasadena.
- Pathfinder Rd. in Santa Fe Springs, between Fullerton Rd. and the Brea Canyon cutoff
- From Anaheim St. to Gaffey St. in South Los Angeles, you’ll find the SB 110.
- WB 90 stretches from Inglewood Blvd. to Culver Blvd. in West Los Angeles.
- Travel easily from Parkway Calabasas to the LA and Ventura County lines (West Valley).
Who Is At Fault For A Car Accident In Los Angeles, CA?
When filing a personal injury claim after an accident, it’s crucial to establish the responsible party among the motorists involved.
Determining fault in a car accident is only sometimes easy, despite initial assumptions.
There are instances where multiple drivers are found to be responsible. However, in certain situations, like someone hitting a deer, it’s important to note that no one is to blame.
In addition, it’s important to note that being deemed at fault for an accident does not automatically mean being held responsible for any damages or injuries that may have occurred as a result.
Is The At-Fault Driver Always Liable In A California Car Accident?
Liability in a car accident is not permanently assigned to the at-fault driver. Sometimes, multiple parties can be held responsible.
In order to be held accountable for a car accident, a driver must not only be at fault for causing the accident but also have acted negligently.
Initially, it may seem that the person involved in the accident is to blame, as they had no other option but to run a red light due to faulty brakes.
Nevertheless, there was no negligence involved, as the motorist was not behaving carelessly, thoughtlessly, or unreasonably, considering the circumstances they faced.
The company responsible for manufacturing the car would be held accountable for the damages caused.
What can you do legally after a car accident in Los Angeles?
After an auto accident, the initial step you can take is to file a personal injury claim with the driver’s insurance company responsible for the incident.
When you file a claim, you are requesting compensation for any injuries you sustained in the accident and other damages that may not be as obvious.
While filing a claim on your own is an option, enlisting the assistance of a skilled personal injury lawyer from a respected law group can greatly enhance your chances of building a solid case and obtaining just compensation.
If your claim is unsuccessful and you decide to file a lawsuit, a car accident lawyer can offer ongoing legal guidance and support.
What To Do After A Car Accident In Los Angeles, CA
Addressing your concerns and acting immediately after a car or truck accident is essential.
1. Gather Evidence
After an accident, it’s essential to gather as much information as possible while you’re still at the scene. The aftermath can be hectic, so being prepared is key.
Crucial evidence to gather at the accident scene may consist of:
- Contact details for all parties involved
- License and plate numbers for all drivers and vehicles
- Insurance details for every driver
- Photos of the vehicles involved and the accident scene
- Photos of any injuries you sustained
Can I have a copy of the police report from the accident?
If the accident was serious and resulted in catastrophic injuries, it may be necessary to have a loved one assist you in collecting these documents. A car accident lawyer can also assist you in organizing relevant information and submitting evidence when needed.
2. Contact A Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney
Contacting a personal injury lawyer or legal team promptly following a car accident is essential. It will prevent any actions or statements that could harm your accident claim settlement.
By promptly contacting an attorney following an accident, you can be assured of their unwavering support throughout the process, including any potential legal proceedings.
3. File A Car Accident Claim
Once you’ve selected a car accident lawyer from a reputable law firm, your next move is to file an accident claim against the responsible party.
A personal injury attorney can handle this, collecting and submitting necessary documents or evidence.
4. Negotiate A Fair Settlement Offer
Working with an experienced car accident lawyer offers the advantage of having someone who can negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Both lawyers and the insurance adjusters will engage in ongoing communication until they reach an agreed settlement amount.
5. File A Personal Injury Lawsuit If Necessary
It is rare for the parties involved in an auto accident to be unable to reach a resolution and fair settlement during the negotiation process, but it does happen occasionally.
It is crucial to have a skilled auto accident lawyer represent you in court. They will advocate for you.
What Damages Can You Claim For A Personal Injury Case In California?
There are various types of damages that can be included in a personal injury claim in California, although certain ones are more frequently encountered than others.
Car accident victims often seek compensation for various types of damages they have suffered:
- Property damage
- vehicle repairs or replacement
- Medical bills
- medical treatment costs for any accident injuries
- Loss of wages
- loss of income during the recovery process
- Loss of earning capacity
- loss of future income as a result of the accident
- Loss of consortium
- loss of companionship, usually regarding a husband or wife
- Pain and suffering
- emotional distress, loss of interest in life
- Wrongful death
- loss of a loved one
What Injuries Can You List In Car Accident Cases?
Injuries resulting from auto accidents can vary in severity. It is essential to include all car accident injuries on a claim, regardless of severity.
Ensuring that your medical expenses are covered and allowing you and your loved ones to focus on healing from the accident is the goal of a successful claim.
Here are some common injuries that can occur from car accidents and are often listed on Los Angeles auto accident claims:
- Chest injuries
- Cuts and scrapes
- Limb loss
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Internal injuries
- Burns
- Facial injuries
- Bone fractures
- Dislocated joints
- Whiplash
- Wrongful death
What Are The Top Causes Of Car Accidents?
Although auto accidents can have various causes, negligence often contributes to many car accidents.
Car accidents are often the result of people’s carelessness or thoughtless actions, even if they didn’t mean to cause them.
Possible reasons for car accidents in Los Angeles, CA, can include:
- Driving recklessly: following too closely, changing lanes frequently
- Driving while distracted can be dangerous, especially when talking on the phone or texting.
- Watch out for road blockages, such as animals crossing and large objects in the road.
- Visibility is reduced due to fog and heavy rain.
- Teenage drivers are often considered inexperienced behind the wheel.
- Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and dangerous.
Factors that can impact your personal injury claim in California
These are some California laws that could impact your personal injury claim.
1. At-Fault Insurance Laws
Similar to other states, California operates under an at-fault system for car accidents and insurance. To collect damages for an accident, you need to file a claim with the insurance company of the party at fault.
In states with no-fault systems, car accident victims must file claims with their insurance company.
2. California Personal Injury Statute Of Limitations
It’s essential to file a personal injury claim in California before the statute of limitations expires. This time frame starts from the date of the car accident.
As per the Judicial Branch of California, the statute of limitations in California lasts two years. This may appear to be a significant amount of time, but it can go by faster than you realize.
3. California’s Pure Comparative Negligence Principle
Under this negligence principle, a claimant is eligible to claim damages, regardless of being mostly responsible for the accident.
In contrast to states that follow a modified comparative negligence principle, where the amount of fault is limited to 50% for each party, this is not the case here.
Connect With The Best Car Accident Attorneys Serving Los Angeles
Choosing the correct car accident lawyer in Los Angeles can significantly impact the outcome of your claim or lawsuit, ensuring that you receive the highest possible compensation for your injuries.
Hiring a car accident attorney in Los Angeles
If you are in a car accident, we’re here to assist you with any questions. Here is a list of commonly asked questions by car accident victims in Los Angeles.
FAQ
How Much Is The Average Car Accident Settlement In California?
Car accident settlements in California typically range around $21,000, but individual settlements can vary significantly.
The cost of your settlement will vary depending on the nature and seriousness of the accident. Accidents that lead to more severe injuries or fatalities will require significantly larger settlements.
What Kind Of Lawyer Do I Need For A Car Accident In Los Angeles?
If you’ve been in a car accident in Los Angeles, it’s essential to consult a personal injury lawyer, particularly one specializing in auto accidents.
A personal injury attorney can represent individuals involved in various accidents, while an auto accident attorney focuses specifically on representing victims of car accidents.
Can You Sue Someone For A Car Accident In California?
If your original claim doesn’t reach a settlement, you have the option to pursue legal action for damages following a car accident in California.
Typically, car accident claims are resolved outside of court, so the chances of needing to file a lawsuit after an auto accident are low.
How Much Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge In California?
Car accident lawyers in California may have different pricing structures, but many operate on a contingency fee basis. It means that the law offices do not require upfront payment. Instead, payment is only collected once a settlement is reached. The lawyer typically receives a percentage ranging from 30% to 40%.