Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer

How Our Top Los Angeles Car Accident Attorneys Can Ensure Your Recovery’s Success

Were you seriously injured in a car accident in Los Angeles? A skilled car accident attorney can protect your rights and help you achieve maximum compensation. Our Los Angeles-based attorneys have decades of experience defending car accident victims’ rights.

Steps our attorneys will take to secure your case’s success:

• Review the details of your case
• Conduct an in-depth investigation to identify all responsible parties
• Gather evidence to build a strong case on your behalf
• Outline the types of compensation owed to you
• Ensure you reach maximum medical improvement
• Ensure the insurance company’s offers reflect the full extent of your damages
• Negotiate for a fair settlement amount and file a lawsuit if negotiations fail

When both your health and financial recovery are at stake, you deserve the best—don’t leave your future to the mercy of insurance companies. Trust L.A.’s top law firm, El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, to handle your case.

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Types of Car Accidents Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You With

In all our years of experience, we have seen all types of car crashes imaginable.

Our law firm handles various types of traffic collisions, including those resulting in wrongful death claims. Our team of personal injury attorneys in Los Angeles, provides expert guidance for complex auto accident cases, ensuring justice is served.

The following list includes some of the most common types of traffic collisions that we see in our law firm:

• Head-On Collisions: Accidents where the front ends of two vehicles collide with each other.
• Rear-End Collisions: Occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle.
• Side-Impact Collisions (T-Bone Accidents): When the side of a car is hit by the front or rear of another vehicle.
• Single-Vehicle Collisions: Involve only one vehicle, such as a car hitting a tree, pole, or guardrail.
• Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups: Traffic collisions involving three or more vehicles, often occurring on highways or in heavy traffic.
• Rollovers: Occur when a vehicle flips over onto its side or roof, often due to sharp turns, high speeds, or impact with another vehicle.
• Hit-and-Run Accidents: Occur when a driver flees the scene without providing contact information or aid.
• Intersection Collisions: Happen at intersections and can involve various types of collisions.
• Sideswipe Collisions: When vehicles traveling parallel in the same or opposite directions brush against each other.
• Broadside Collisions: Also known as a side-impact collision, occur when the side of a vehicle is struck by the front or rear of another vehicle.
• Merging Collisions: Occur when vehicles collide during a lane change or while merging onto highways or freeways.
• Rear-End Collisions: When one vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle.
• Underride accidents: Happen when a smaller vehicle slides under a larger one, like a truck, causing serious damage.
• Jackknife accidents: Occur when a truck’s trailer swings out and forms a 90-degree angle with the cab. This can lead to collisions with other vehicles.

If you were in any of these types of accidents, don’t delay calling for your free case evaluation. These accidents often implicate serious injuries.

About El Dabe Ritter’s Car Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles

Our team, boasting over 50 years of combined experience, has successfully represented clients in auto accident cases throughout Los Angeles County and beyond. We’ve secured over $75 million for our clients and continue to fight for fair compensation with skill and professionalism.

Featured Los Angeles Traffic Collision Cases

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact our auto accident attorneys at (213) 985-1120. We’re available 24/7 to assist you and guide you toward achieving the full financial compensation you deserve.

Establishing Negligence in a Car Accident: What You Need to Know

Establishing negligence in a car accident is an important step for determining legal liability and securing compensation for damages.

The process begins with proving the “duty of care“. This means drivers must drive safely and make sure others on the road are safe too.

To establish negligence, we must show that the at-fault driver breached this duty by acting carelessly or recklessly. For instance, if the other driver was speeding, texting while driving, or ignoring traffic signals, they breached duty of care.

Once the breach of duty is proven, we must show that this violation directly caused the accident and resulted in injuries or property loss.

Duty of care is the cornerstone in building a strong case, as it forms the foundation of any negligence claim in car accident cases.

6 Steps to Follow After a Car Crash

1. Assess Yourself for Injuries: After a car accident, injuries are common. Avoid moving to prevent worsening your injuries. If you’re seriously hurt, seek medical help first, then contact a personal injury attorney.
2. Find Somewhere Safe: If you are not seriously hurt, you can drive the car to the roadside, where you are safe from other road users. However, car accident attorneys would advise you to leave it at the scene of the accident to avoid tampering with the evidence.
3. Call the Police: Police officers are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the safety of the citizens and property. They will fill out the details of the accident detailing how and when it happened. If the accident was a minor one, you can drive to the nearest police station and report the accident. Remember, your insurer may request a copy of the police report to process your claims.
4. Exchange Important Information with the Other Driver: Contact information, insurance policy number, model of the car, and license plates.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Get examined by a doctor even if you think you might be uninjured. Many bad crashes result in injuries that are not always fully apparent at the scene.
6. Inform Your Insurer and Start Processing Your Claims: Call your insurance representative. The insurance company will tell you exactly what they need to process your claim.

Safeguard Your Insurance Claim: What Not to Do After a Car Crash

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the right steps to secure your insurance claim. Certain actions can jeopardize your claim, making it harder to receive the compensation you deserve. Avoid common pitfalls that could negatively impact your insurance claim; avoid the following:

1. Leaving the Scene

Never leave the scene of an accident, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. One can interpret leaving as a hit-and-run.

2. Failing to Report the Traffic Collision

Always report the accident to the police and your insurance company, regardless of the severity. A police report provides an official record of the even. Failing to notify your insurer could violate your policy terms, leading to a denial of your claim.

3. Admitting Fault

Avoid discussing fault at the accident scene with other drivers or the police. Even casual apologies can imply an admission of liability. The police and insurance adjusters will investigate the incident thoroughly to determine fault.

4. Not Gathering Evidence

After ensuring everyone’s safety and calling for help, gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the accident scene, damages, and any relevant road conditions or signs. Also, collect contact information from witnesses. Lack of evidence can weaken your claim and affect the outcome of your compensation.

5. Forgoing Medical Attention

If you’re injured, seek medical attention immediately, even if the injuries seem minor. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bruising, may not be immediately apparent. Delaying medical care can not only worsen your condition but also make it harder to prove that your injuries were a result of the accident.

6. Providing a Recorded Statement Without Preparation

Be cautious when your insurance company requests a recorded statement. Providing one immediately is not an obligation. You can request time to prepare. Consult with a lawyer to ensure that your statement is accurate and does not accidentally damage your claim.

7. Accepting the First Settlement Offer

Insurance companies often offer a quick settlement that may be insufficient to cover all your damages and medical expenses. Always review the offer with a legal advisor. Accepting the first offer without thinking it through can lead to money issues later. This is especially true if your recovery takes longer than expected.

8. Neglecting to Review the Insurance Policy

Understanding the details of your insurance policy is crucial. Know your coverage limits, deductibles, and any exclusions that apply. Not knowing your policy can lead to problems when you make claims.

9. Not Getting a Free Case Evaluation

Many people forget to get a free case evaluation. This is important after a car crash. They should consult a qualified car accident lawyer in Los Angeles. People often think their insurance will take care of everything, not realizing how complicated their claim can be.

What to Expect in the Car Accident Claim Process

Knowing what to expect in the car accident claim process is beneficial for your financial and medical recovery.

First, report the accident to the police and your insurance company. Make sure to document all details carefully.

Next, an insurance adjuster will evaluate the incident, examining vehicle damage and any personal injuries involved. This step is crucial as it determines the extent of your coverage and the compensation offer.

Get ready for negotiations; the initial settlement offer may not cover all damages and medical costs. Throughout this process, legal advice might be necessary, especially if disputes arise regarding legal liability or claim value. Understanding each phase will help you manage the process effectively and secure a fair outcome. Learn more about the claim process.

Motor Vehicle Collisions are a Leading Cause of Accidental Injuries in Los Angeles

Car accidents are a leading cause of injuries in our region. Annually, about 63,000 people in Los Angeles County are treated for motor vehicle injuries, with nearly 7,000 hospitalized. Serious crashes can be life-threatening, with an average of 3,661 fatalities statewide and 722 in Los Angeles County each year.

Statistics gathered and sourced from the California Office of Traffic Safety.

A new report has identified some of the deadliest roads in California, highlighting stretches that are particularly hazardous.

In the Los Angeles metro area, while having a high population density, the deadliest stretches include parts of I-605, SR-22, and I-5. Specifically, the I-605 from Exit 5B to Firestone Blvd in Norwalk/Cerritos and SR-22 through Garden Grove are notable for their high fatality rates.

Stretches of 15, 10 and 5 freeways in SoCal among the deadliest roads in the state, report says.

ABC7

Common Car Accident Injuries Sustained Around Los Angeles County

Auto accidents in Los Angeles frequently result in injuries, impacting victims’ quality of life. The following are some of the most common:

• Whiplash
• Head and Neck Injuries
• Back Injuries
• Broken or Fractured Bones
• Spinal cord injury
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Catastrophic injury
• Bruises

Most car accident injuries may not be evident immediately after the accident. However, if treatment is delayed, the repercussions may worsen.

Also, the statute of limitations requires timely action to seek compensation through jury trials. Don’t delay seeking an experienced attorney to recover lost wages and health care costs.

Main Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Los Angeles

Auto accidents are all too common in greater Los Angeles. This is, perhaps, because no one seems to walk in the city. On any given day, in any given hour in Southern California, virtually everyone is on wheels.

The excess traffic on the roads inadvertently results in numerous cases of Los Angeles car crashes. A wide range of factors can cause these traffic collisions. The major ones are:

Every day, about 37 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes — that’s one person every 39 minutes. In 2022, 13,524 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths. These deaths were all preventable.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

How Do You Calculate the Value of a Car Accident Claim?

The worth of your auto accident claim in Los Angeles depends on the extent and nature of your injuries and damages or losses to your vehicle or property. The more significant the injuries, damages, and losses, the higher the value of your claim.

Overall, car crash victims in California receive compensation for physical, nonphysical, and punitive damage.

Typical items included in a compensation claim include:

• Medical bills: If your incident results in injuries, you will need to get treatment and rehabilitation, which can be costly. Your complaint should cover the cost of emergency treatment, surgery, hospitalization, medication, medical equipment, and physical or rehabilitative therapy.
• Loss of wages or earning capacity: Your injuries can force you to take some days off work for recovery. This can lead to loss of wages, for which you will need to be compensated. Additionally, if your injuries result in a permanent disability that causes you to lose your source of income, you should set a claim for the loss of future income.
• Non-monetary damages: Traffic collisions cause significant trauma to both victims and their families. Non-monetary claims include damages and losses that cannot be counted in dollars. It covers all nonphysical injuries such as emotional distress, mental anguish, and pain and suffering.

Our auto lawyers will work diligently to get you the maximum possible remuneration for your anguish and suffering.

FAQ

If I’m Partially At-Fault for The Traffic Collision, Can I Still Make a Claim?

Yes, you can still make a claim even if you are partially at-fault for an traffic collision. In California, the rule of comparative negligence applies when more than one person is at fault in a car accident.

This means that if you’re involved in an accident and partially to blame, you can still receive money for your damages, but it will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.

For example, if you are found to be 30% responsible for an accident and the total damages are $10,000, you would receive $7,000. Understanding this rule can be crucial in ensuring you are fairly compensated for any losses you endure due to a car accident.

Can Undocumented Immigrants File a Car Accident Claim?

Yes, undocumented immigrants have the right to file a claim for damages sustained in a car accident. In California, the law protects all drivers, regardless of immigration status. This includes the right to seek compensation for injuries and damages without fear of deportation or penal action due to their legal status.

How Much Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge in Los Angeles?

Most car accident lawyers in Los Angeles work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only receive payment if you win your case. Typically, the fee ranges from 33% to 40% of the settlement amount.

How Long Does A Car Accident Claim Take?

Car accident claims involving severe injuries like amputation can take months to resolve. Brain damage cases often require expert witnesses, prolonging the legal process significantly. Ambulance records and medical documentation play crucial roles in determining claim duration.

The duration of a car accident claim can vary widely depending on several factors, such as:

• The difficulty of the case
• Clarity of fault,
• Extent of the injuries and damages
• Responsiveness of the insurance companies

Typically, a straightforward case might settle in a few months. More complex cases involving severe injuries and disputed liabilities can take a year or more to resolve.

Can You File a Traffic Collision Claim After a Hit-and-Run?

Yes, you can file a claim after a hit-and-run accident. If the driver who hit you flees, you can make a claim under your own vehicle insurance policy if you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. This coverage compensates you for personal injury when the other driver is unknown or uninsured.

Should I Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?

Yes, consult with a lawyer after a Los Angeles accident, even if it wasn’t your fault. A lawyer can advocate for you in the following areas:

• Assess the damages
• Deal with the insurance companies
• Handle all legal aspects of your claim
• Determine fault
• Negotiate for maximum payout
• Take the case to trial

What are Punitive Damages?

In California, punitive damages are a special type of compensation awarded in some car accident cases. These are not meant to cover your medical bills or property damage but are instead designed to punish the person who caused the accident if their actions were especially harmful or reckless.

For example, if a driver was excessively speeding or driving under the influence, a court might order them to pay punitive damages. This is to send a clear message that such dangerous behavior on the roads will not be tolerated and aims to deter similar actions in the future.

Should I Accept the Insurance Company’s First Settlement Offer?

Generally, it’s not advisable to accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer. These initial offers are often low, designed to save the company money. It’s best to consult with a personal injury lawyer who can assess your case’s true value and negotiate for a fair settlement.

What Evidence do I Need to Prove Fault in a Car Accident?

To prove fault in a car accident, gather police reports, witness testimony, photos of the crash scene and vehicle damage, medical records, and any available video footage. These pieces of evidence help establish the circumstances and responsibility for the collision.

How do Car Accident Lawyers Work?

Car accident lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in representing individuals who have been involved in motor vehicle collisions. Their primary role is to advocate for the rights of their clients and help them recover financially and medically following an accident.

These lawyers work by reviewing the details of the accident, gathering evidence, and determining liability. They will assess the extent of the damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage, to determine the appropriate compensation that their client is entitled to. Car accident lawyers also handle communication with claims adjusters and defendants. They also negotiate settlements, and, if necessary, represent their clients in court.

Additionally, car accident lawyers provide invaluable guidance and support to their clients throughout the entire legal process. They ensure that their clients understand their rights, obligations, and options, and help them make informed decisions that will best serve their interests. By leveraging their expertise in personal injury law and their negotiation skills, car accident lawyers work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for their clients, helping them pursue the justice and compensation they deserve.

We Fight for the Maximum Compensation for Injured Victims

Hurt in a car collision in Los Angeles? You need financial support to cover your bills, provide for your family, and start rebuilding. Unfortunately, insurance companies aim to minimize their payouts

Don’t manage the aftermath of a car crash by yourself. As the victim, you deserve focused legal representation without the hassle of battling insurance companies. Our Los Angeles auto accident attorney fights for maximum compensation. You may be able to recover for:

• Property damage, such as vehicle repairs
• Ambulance transportation and emergency room care
• Hospital bills and other types of medical costs
• Physical therapy and mental health service
• Loss of wages and loss of ability to earn a living
• Pain and suffering & emotional distress
• Disability or disfigurement, and
• Wrongful death of a family member

Why Hire our Los Angeles Car Accident Attorneys at El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers?

Managing the fallout of a bad car crash is not easy. With so much at stake, you must have the right Los Angeles traffic collision lawyer on your side. Our law firm operates on a contingent fee basis, which means we only get paid if we win your case, ensuring our interests are fully aligned with achieving the best possible outcome for you.

Our client testimonials and case results demonstrate our ability to get justice for victims and families.

Act quickly, the statute of limitations on car accident claims in California places a time limit.

Ready to take the next step with your personal injury claim? Call or complete the form below to schedule your free consultation. Whether you’re dealing with a hit-and-run, a commercial vehicle accident, or any other type of motor vehicle collision, our experienced team is here to help you navigate your legal options.

Car Accident Articles and Resources

• What to Do When Your Car Accident Claim Exceeds Insurance Policy Limits
• Auto Accident Attorney Fees: What You Need to Know
• Common Los Angeles, CA Car Accident Injuries
• How Car Insurance Lawyers Can Help Overcome Denied Claims
• Legal Assistance with a Wrongful Death Claim
• How do I know if I’ll need a lawyer to help me with my case?