California Car Accident Attorneys

Common Injuries Caused by California Car Accidents

The dynamic and violent forces of a car accident can lead to numerous injuries. Even seemingly minor, low-speed collisions can result in serious, life-changing consequences.

Car accidents can cause many types of injuries, including:

• Chest injuries. Collisions can cause chest injuries due to the forceful impact against the steering wheel, dashboard, or seatbelt. In severe collisions, the chest area can be subject to high trauma levels, resulting in bruises, fractured ribs, or even more critical conditions such as internal bleeding and lung punctures. The risk of chest injuries is particularly high in front-end collisions, where the forward momentum may cause the torso to strike against hard surfaces within the vehicle. Symptoms of chest injuries can include sharp pains, difficulty breathing, and visible bruising.
• Head injuries. Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are some of the most severe potential outcomes of car accidents. The force of a collision can cause the head to strike the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows, leading to various head injuries like concussions, contusions, or more serious TBIs. Even in the absence of direct impact, the abrupt deceleration of the vehicle can result in the brain moving violently within the skull, potentially causing bruising or bleeding of brain tissue. Symptoms of TBIs can range from headaches and temporary confusion to unconsciousness, permanent cognitive impairment, and emotional instability. 
• Soft tissue injuries. A sudden jolt or impact can cause the body to move abruptly, leading to strains, sprains, or tears in the body's connective tissues, including muscles, ligaments, and tendons. One of the most recognized soft tissue injuries resulting from car accidents is whiplash, which affects the neck and upper back due to rapid back-and-forth movement. The symptoms of soft tissue injuries, such as pain, swelling, and reduced mobility, may not appear immediately, making it crucial for individuals involved in car accidents to seek medical attention even if they feel okay initially.
• Spinal cord injuries. The force exerted during a collision can put immense pressure on the spine, potentially leading to fractures, disc herniation, or spinal cord damage. Spinal fractures can occur in any part of the spine but often affect the lumbar (lower back) region. Disc herniation happens when the cushion-like discs between the vertebrae get compressed and rupture, leading to nerve pain and weakness. More catastrophically, a severe impact can bruise or sever the spinal cord, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. The location of the injury along the spinal column largely determines the extent of the paralysis, with higher injuries causing more widespread paralysis. Symptoms of back injuries from car accidents can range from mild back pain and stiffness to severe mobility limitations and neurological impairment.

Immediate medical evaluation following an accident can reveal hidden injuries that can worsen over time if left untreated. This evaluation is also important for documentation purposes, linking injuries directly to the accident, which is vital when pursuing compensation. Our team works closely with medical professionals to ensure that every injury is thoroughly evaluated and documented as part of the compensation process.

What to Do after a California Car Accident

In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, you should do your best to take certain steps to protect your rights. Documenting as much as possible can strengthen your personal injury claim and give you a better chance of recovering compensation. 

After a collision, you should make every effort to:

• Call 9-1-1. You must report the accident to the police if anyone was injured, so do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 once it is safe to do so. The responding officer will create an official accident report. You should request a copy of this report, as it may become an important part of your personal injury claim.
• Gather everyone's information. You need the names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance information, and driver's license information of everyone involved in the crash. 
• Ask witnesses for contact information. If anyone saw what happened, ask for their name, phone number, and e-mail, when possible. Witnesses may be able to help support your side of the story later on.
• Take photos. Before leaving the scene, use your smartphone to take photos of your injuries, damage to your vehicle, road conditions, the surrounding area, and anything else that may have contributed to the collision.
• See a medical professional. Whether you go to the emergency room right away or schedule a follow-up doctor's visit, you should get a full medical evaluation as soon as you can after the accident, even if you do not think you were seriously hurt. Some injuries will not be obvious at first, and you need to link any harm you sustained to the accident. 
• Keep a record of your expenses. Save receipts associated with vehicle repairs, vehicle rentals, medical bills, and any other costs incurred because of the accidents. 
• Get in touch with Carpenter & Zuckerman. You should discuss your options for recovering compensation with a legal professional as soon as possible after suffering injuries in an accident. Our California car accident lawyers can get to work on your claim.

Documenting a car accident properly can create a significant advantage in any subsequent legal proceedings. Photos and detailed notes can capture details that can be forgotten over time, such as the exact location of the accident, visibility conditions, and any signals or signs that may have played a role. Witness statements can provide impartial accounts that lend credibility to your narrative. With the right documentation, the likelihood of a successful resolution increases substantially.

How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help You

A car accident attorney in California can be invaluable in helping you navigate the complex process that follows an auto collision. From the moment you are involved in an accident, a skilled attorney can guide you through the legal maze, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Firstly, a car accident attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident. They will gather crucial evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage, to build a strong case in your favor. They can also work with accident reconstruction experts to determine fault, which is essential in securing a fair settlement.

The attorney will handle all communications with insurance companies, which can be a significant relief. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts, but an experienced attorney knows the tactics they use and can negotiate effectively on your behalf. This can prevent you from accepting a lowball offer that doesn't cover your medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages.

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a car accident attorney is prepared to take your case to court. They will represent you in litigation, presenting the evidence and arguing your case to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible.

Moreover, a car accident attorney can help with the various legal deadlines and procedural requirements, such as filing claims within the statute of limitations. They can also advise you on the potential long-term impacts of your injuries, ensuring that any settlement or judgment accounts for future medical costs and loss of earning capacity.

Beyond the immediate legal assistance, a seasoned attorney acts as a strategic advisor, helping clients make informed decisions at every step. This guidance extends to potential settlement offers and court proceedings, providing a clear assessment of each option's benefits and drawbacks. Clients often find reassurance in knowing they have a knowledgeable advocate steering their case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in California

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is typically two years from the date of the accident. This means you have a two-year window in which you are legally permitted to file a claim seeking compensation for injuries sustained in the incident. If you miss this deadline, the court may refuse to hear your case, effectively removing any legal recourse for injury compensation. There are exceptions, such as if the injury was not discovered right away. In such cases, the clock on the statute of limitations may start at the date of discovery.

How Is Fault Determined in California Car Accidents?

California follows a 'comparative fault' rule to determine liability in car accidents. This means that each party involved in an accident can be assigned a percentage of fault, and your compensation may be reduced by your share of the fault. For instance, if you are found to be 20% at fault for an accident, your total compensation could be reduced by 20%. Evidence such as eyewitness accounts, police reports, and accident reconstructions are often used to determine fault. Understanding these factors is crucial in pursuing a claim, as they can significantly impact the amount of compensation you may receive.

What Should I Do if the Insurance Company Offers Me a Settlement?

It's crucial not to accept any settlement offer from an insurance company before consulting with an attorney. Insurance adjusters are skilled in minimizing the amount they have to pay, often offering settlements that are far less than what your injuries and damages warrant. An experienced attorney can review the offer and ensure that it covers all your current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. Without legal counsel, you might unknowingly accept a payout that leaves you financially vulnerable, especially if unforeseen complications from your injuries develop.

Why Should I Contact a Lawyer Immediately After a Car Accident?

Contacting a lawyer immediately after a car accident is essential for many reasons. Early consultation allows your attorney to gather critical evidence, interview witnesses while memories are fresh, and help guide you through medical treatment considerations that could be important for your claim. Additionally, an attorney can help protect you from aggressive insurance tactics designed to undermine your claim. Immediate legal guidance can also help you avoid common pitfalls, such as missing filing deadlines or making statements that could harm your claim. Having a lawyer on your side promptly can provide peace of mind and secure your best chances for a fair outcome.

How Can I Maximize My Compensation in a Car Accident Claim?

Maximizing compensation in a car accident claim involves several strategic steps. Collecting comprehensive evidence is critical, including photographs, medical records, and witness testimonies. Documenting all expenses meticulously, from medical bills to lost wages, can significantly impact the compensation amount. Equally important is avoiding premature settlement offers from insurance companies. Consulting with a seasoned attorney is vital, as they can negotiate effectively with insurance adjustors and present a compelling argument if your claim goes to trial. Your legal team will ensure that all avenues for compensation are explored, such as claims for pain and suffering and future medical needs.

Don’t wait to get help contact our firm today at (888) 484-2033 to schedule an initial consultation.