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Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer

Have you been in a car accident in Los Angeles and feeling exhausted and unsure what to do next? For auto accident compensation after an accident where you are not at fault, hire a Los Angeles car accident lawyer for your case and overcome the legal process challenges.

Our Los Angeles auto accident attorney is here to assist you every step of the way, offering a free consultation to discuss your car accident case in Los Angeles or elsewhere throughout California. We have a reputable and successful record of managing and recovering compensation for drivers after a car accident.

Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. understands the difficulties and challenges that arise during the recovery process after a car accident. Our car accident attorney in Los Angeles can help you file a solid, well-supported personal injury claim to make sure you receive maximum compensation. We have an award-winning car accident lawyer and dedicated staff who are qualified with the legal resources needed to make your car accident claim journey as efficient as possible.

  • Hiring us as your car accident lawyer can maximize your compensation.
  • You can get a free consultation to discuss your auto crash case.
  • Our lawyer has a strong track record of resolving accident and personal injury cases.
  •  We handle all car accident injury cases on a contingency fee basis.

Our top priority is to maximize your recovery and hold the liable parties responsible for their actions. Trust and hire our car accident lawyer and discover how we can help you and your family. Call us now at 323-524-8994 to get a FREE auto accident consultation.

Car Accident Lawyer Los Angeles

Why Hire a Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer?

Hiring a car accident lawyer can make a big difference for you by handling the tough legal parts of your accident case like dealing with the negotiations with the insurance company, legal paperwork, court filings, and deadlines, and ensuring you get what you need to move forward after the accident. The top reasons to hire a car accident lawyer in LA are given below:

Experience in Car Accident Personal Injury Cases

An experienced car accident lawyer has the knowledge and expertise to handle complex car accident injury cases which makes the legal process of your accident case more efficient and increases the chances of resolving your case. This expertise is crucial, especially when dealing with serious injuries or disputes about who is at fault.

Maximizing Car Accident Personal Injury Compensation

Negotiating with the insurance companies and getting car accident injury compensation is challenging, especially when you don't know the relevant lawsuits and your legal rights. This is where a car accident lawyer can be a beneficial asset for your car accident insurance claim.  They can handle negotiations with the insurance company to maximize the compensation for your auto crash injuries, pain, and suffering and evaluate the true amount of your claim which includes medical expenses, and lost wages.

Navigating Legal Process

Dealing with the legal process of your case can be very stressful when you are recovering from car accident injuries and mental stress. The stress of managing court filings, deadlines, and legal paperwork can be reduced by hiring a car accident attorney. This allows you to concentrate on improving while they manage the complex aspects of your case.

What You Need to Know About Los Angeles Car Accidents & Auto Accident Attorneys

Do you need to hire a lawyer for your accident?

Every injured person who gets into a car accident thinks about his legal rights and compensation for the injuries and may think to has a legal resource to fight for his/her accident case to get fair compensation and legal rights. But do you need a car accident attorney for your personal injury case?

Most of the cases which include minor accidents with no or very small damages, injuries or losses can be resolved directly between the parties

If you've been in a car accident, you might wonder if you need to hire an auto accident attorney. Many minor accidents can be resolved directly between those involved or through their insurance providers. However, even accidents that seem simple at first can become complicated later. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate these complexities and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer

Questions you should ask a car accident lawyer in LA before hiring them:

It is crucial to inquire about the right questions when selecting a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles. Important inquiries to keep in mind include:

1.      How many car accident cases you have managed including personal injury matters?

2.      What is your success rate?

3.      Will I be working with a paralegal or straight with you?

4.      Do you work on a contingent basis and what are your fees?

5.      How often would you deliver updates on my case?

What Should I Do After a Car Accident?

Use these guidelines to uphold your rights and ensure your safety should you be in an auto accident:

·         Get to Safety and Call 911: Move right away to a safe area and call 911 to let the correct authorities know about the accident.

·         Cooperate with Authorities: When the attending officer shows up, fully cooperate and present your best interpretation of the facts. Your car accident checklist demands this vital component.

·         Gather Information: If possible, compile witness details and photograph the pertinent vehicles and scene.

·         Seek Medical Attention: Whether or not you believe you are hurt, get the right medical attention for evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.

·         Hire a car accident lawyer: See a respectable law firm to handle all facets of your auto accident claim. This guarantees the protection of your rights and the payment you are due.

What Not to Do After a Car Accident in Los Angeles?

After a car accident, avoid these typical mistakes to protect your claim and yourself:

·         Do Not Admit Fault: One of the most important things not to do following an automobile accident is not to admit fault or any wrongdoing at the accident scene.

·         Do Not Guess Facts: Do not assume or guess facts when giving the attending officer information. Stay with your knowledge.

·         Do Not Delay Medical Treatment: You must pay quick attention to medical treatment. Do not wait to seek medical attention; do not postpone treatment.

·         Do Not Talk to Insurance Representatives: A common mistake that can affect your car accident claim is to give statements to insurance companies on your own. Avoid giving any statements to any insurance representative, including your own.

·         Do Not Accept Settlement Offers: Never accept any settlement offers or agreements without first speaking with a lawyer. This helps avoid car accident errors that might affect your payback.

Types of Auto Accidents in Los Angeles, California

The type of injuries you sustain are often the result, in part, of the type of car accident, which may require the intervention of a Los Angeles car accident attorney. Most common types of crashes involve the following:

  1. Head-on collisions, which are among the most devastating types of collisions that result in serious and life-threatening bodily injuries
  2. Rear-end accidents, which are among the most common and frequently result in whiplash
  3. T-bone car accidents, which are common, usually occur at intersections and result in a range of injuries depending on where the vehicle was struck
  4. Roll-over accidents, which are less common but result in head and neck injuries
  5. Sideswipe accidents, which are less common and occur when two or more vehicles travel parallel with each other, and one swipes the side of the other vehicle
  6. Blind spot accidents, which are less common and occur when one vehicle fails to spot another vehicle while changing or merging into another lane.

Liability for property and bodily damage can often be determined, in part, by the type of accident. 

It's important to remember, though, that accidents can be complex events, and so though the type may initially and seemingly indicate fault, a thorough investigation must be conducted for a clear understanding of where liability falls.  

That is why you need the assistance of one of the reputable Los Angeles car accident law firms. We handle your case with professionalism and expertise.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer

Reputation and Track Record

Choosing a car accident attorney greatly depends on the reputation and success record of the attorney. The result of your claim may be much different depending on the attorney you choose to handle car accident claims. A strong track record of handling such cases will help greatly. Search for lawyers who have experience in managing car accident cases.

Communication Style

Good communication is crucial. Talking about your case with your attorney should make you feel at ease knowing they are attentive to your needs. Select a lawyer who promptly answers your questions and keeps you informed.

Fee Structure

Understanding the fee structure is essential before hiring a lawyer. Some attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.

Important Resource: How Do I Settle on a Fee with a Lawyer?

What Types of Car Accident Injuries Can I Suffer From?

Car accidents can cause minor cuts and bruises to life-altering injuries. Even minor auto accidents can damage the spine, brain, joints, and bones, making it crucial to hire a car accident lawyer to protect your rights and seek fair compensation.

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Whiplash is a common injury in low-speed impact accidents, typically occurring when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward. Neck pain, stiffness, and long-term complications can result.

  • Whiplash, nerve injuries, radiculopathy, etc.
  • Torn ligaments
  • Dislocated or deranged joints
  • Strained or sprained muscles

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

Back and spinal cord injuries can be severe. Disc herniation and spinal fractures can cause paralysis or chronic pain.

  • Partial or full paralysis from spinal cord injuries, temporary or permanent.
  • Back or spine crush injuries

Head and Brain Injuries

Car accidents often cause concussions and traumatic brain injury (TBI), which are serious head injuries. These injuries may impact brain function, memory, and quality of life for years. Other injuries include:

  • Facial, eye, dental, and head injuries include scarring.
  • Internal injuries, such as bruises, damaged, or lacerated organs (if involving the head or brain)
  • Broken bones in the skull or face

The human body can sustain many different types of injuries in a car accident, ranging from minor car accident injuries like bruises and lacerations to serious, life-threatening conditions.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Seeking Medical Attention

After a car accident, health should be your top priority. Even if you feel good, it's crucial to get a proper check-up by a medical professional. Some of the injuries might not be immediately apparent but prompt medical attention can help document your injuries for future claims.

Gather Evidence and Document the Accident Scene properly

It is very important to get the evidence at the scene. Take pictures of the car, any injuries that can be seen, and the accident scene. Get the contact information of both the witnesses and the other driver. This proof can be very crucial to help you with your accident insurance claim and any other legal processes.

Important Resource: Evidence Code - EVID

Notify the Insurance Company

You must phone your insurance company to document the accident once you get home. Give them all the necessary information as well as any documentation you have acquired. Get the name and phone number of the adjuster who is assigned to your claim from the insurance company. This stage guarantees that your claim is handled without problems.

Filing the car accident lawsuit - legal process and time frames

Car accident lawsuits usually include a sequence of interactions and settlement negotiations with insurance officials. As per California Legislative Information the statute of limitation for car accident claims is typically 2 years from the date of accident. Insurance companies are sure to have legal counsel, sometimes a complete team of attorneys. See a local car accident attorney in Los Angeles now if you are thinking about filing a civil lawsuit over an automobile collision. It is very important to consult with a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles, as their expert knowledge of California law can have an immense effect on the outcome of your case.

The difference between a car accident lawsuit and a car accident insurance claim sometimes needs to be clarified. Though both processes require an agreement, they are different processes. Let's talk specifically about filing a car accident lawsuit.

First, let's clarify the difference between car accident lawsuits and car accident insurance. Both processes require settlement, but both involve different processes.

Aspect

Car Accident Lawsuit

Car Accident Insurance Claim

Definition

A legal action taken in civil court

A request made to an insurance company for compensation

Participants

Plaintiff (person suing) and Defendant (person being sued)

Policyholder, insured, claimant, and the insurance companies.

Process

Involves filing a lawsuit in civil court

Involves submitting a claim to the insurance company

Objective

To collect money for car accident injuries and property damage

To seek payment for damages covered by the policy

Connection to Insurance

Separate from insurance claims process; may involve suing the insurance company if compensation is unsatisfactory

Directly involves the insurance company

Settlement

Settlement reached through court judgment or out-of-court agreement

Settlement reached through negotiation with the insurance company

Timeline

Generally, longer, involving court procedures

Typically, quicker, involving claim processing by the insurance company

Cost

Legal fees and court costs involved

Usually no cost, but may involve paying deductibles

 

File a car crash complaint

The initial step in the process of pursuing a car accident lawsuit is to submit a complaint to the court. This document includes a standardized court form and a detailed narrative explaining what happened, the damages you're claiming, and the legal basis for the lawsuit. Your complaint must be submitted within the statute of limitations of your state, which in California is generally two years from the date of the accident that resulted in your injuries.

Serve the Complaint on the Defendant

Once the complaint is filed, it must be served to the defendant. This involves giving the individual you are suing a copy of the complaint. This step is necessary because it serves as an official notification to the defendant of the lawsuit.

In response to your complaint, the defendant submits an answer

After being served, the defendant has a specific amount of time to respond to your complaint. They will submit a response that addresses the issues you presented and may include defenses or counterclaims.

Discovery

Both parties collect evidence to substantiate their respective points of view during the discovery phase. This might include testimony by experts, witness statements, and documents. The process of discovery is crucial for the development of a compelling case, but it can be time-consuming.

Trial

The case will proceed to trial if it fails to resolve during the discovery phase. Both parties present their evidence and arguments during the trial. The case's outcome will be determined by a judge or jury.

It's never wise to wait until the last minute to file your case. Substantial evidence can be lost or forgotten over time, making it harder to prove your case. Or you can miss the deadline to file.

What types of auto accident compensation am I entitled to in Los Angeles?

Medical expenses

It's important to keep all your medical records to show what you need to be paid back for. If you are injured in a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation to cover your medical expenses. Medical expense compensation can include:

  • Ambulance bills
  • Hospital bills
  • Physical therapy
  • Consultations with medical specialists
  • In-home medical care services
  • Psychiatric counseling

Property damage

If your vehicle has been damaged in an accident, you may be eligible for compensation to either repair it or purchase a new one. This also covers additional things in your vehicle that were damaged, such as your laptop or phone.

Pain and suffering

You may also receive compensation for the pain and suffering you experienced as a result of the accident. This applies not only to emotional stress but also to physical pain. Although it is more challenging to determine this, it's still very important.

Lost wages

If you can't work because of the accident, you can get money for the paychecks you missed. This helps you keep up with your bills while you're getting better.

Car accident victims in Los Angeles are entitled to receive complete compensation for their losses. Having experienced legal car accident attorney representation can assist in securing your rights, as the insurance company of the negligent driver will attempt to reduce its payout.

Understanding Contributory and Comparative Negligence in Car Accident Claims

To determine fault and liability in car accidents, states use contributory and comparative (pure and modified) negligence rules.

Contributory Negligence

Contributory negligence rules state that, if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may not be able to recover any compensation at all. This strict rule can be harsh for accident victims.

For Example, a car accident victim suffers $100,000 in damages. The plaintiff is found to be 5% responsible, while the other driver is 95% responsible by the jury. Although the injury victim was only partially at fault, they are unable to recover any damages from the other driver.

 

Modified Comparative Negligence

All other states follow modified comparative negligence. Under modified comparative negligence, you can recover damages if you are not more than 50% at fault. Just to understand, if you are found to be 51% or more responsible, you cannot recover any compensation.

Pure Comparative Negligence

California follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means you can still recover compensation even if you are mostly at fault. For instance, if you are 99% responsible for the accident, you can still recover 1% of the damages. This system ensures that victims can receive some compensation, no matter their level of fault.

Can you still take my car accident case if I am Undocumented?

Yes, Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. can still take your case if you are undocumented. In California, it is against the rules in any civil case, including a car accident lawsuit, to use someone's immigration status against them. When someone is negligent and causes you injury, it is irrelevant what, how, or why you are here. To this end and to be on the safe side, we always issue privacy objections to stop any line of questioning meant to elicit this type of information.

How Much Is My Car Accident Case Worth in Los Angeles?

It is not possible for a lawyer to tell you what your case is worth. Not only is it unethical, but most of the time it is very complicated or unclear (not an exact value) to determine the value of a car accident case.

Several factors can impact the final amount of your auto accident compensation which you might receive. These factors include the severity of your crash injuries, the cost of your medical treatments, property damage, and lost wages. Additionally, some non-financial losses like pain and suffering are also considered.

It is necessary to consult with a car accident attorney in Los Angeles to obtain a more comprehensive understanding. They can provide a more precise estimate by considering the specifics of your case.

  • Medical expenses: These expenses include the costs for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments.
  • Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other damaged property can be included in property damage.
  • Lost wages: Income lost due to the inability to work during recovery.
  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.

It's important to remember that every case is unique. The way an accident happened, and the injuries sustained can vary greatly from one person to another. Consulting with an experienced lawyer can help you understand the potential value of your claim and guide you through the legal process.

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

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is a crucial deadline you must be aware of. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, there are exceptions (e.g., claims against the government). If your claim is only for property damage, you have three years to file. Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to seek compensation.

Don't delay in seeking legal advice. The sooner you consult with a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles, CA, the better your chances of a successful claim.

Keep in mind that the courts are strict about these deadlines. So, make sure to file your claim within the defined time frame to avoid any complications.

Car Accident Frequently Asked Questions

Car accidents can be confusing and stressful. Here are some common questions people have after a car accident in Los Angeles.

What should I do immediately after a car accident?

  • Check yourself, your passengers, and any other individuals who may be present in the accident.
  • In case of an injury or substantial damage, contact 911.
  • If possible. relocate to a secure location.
  • Exchange information with the other driver.
  • Document the accident scene with photos and notes.
  • Seek medical attention.

How much do car accident lawyers charge in Los Angeles, California?

Many car accident lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, which means that they are compensated only if you prevail in your case. The fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or judgment.

How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident.

What if the other driver doesn't have insurance in a car accident?

If the other driver is uninsured, you may still be able to recover damages through your insurance policy if you have uninsured motorist coverage.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of faults.

For example, if your approved claim is $500,000 and you are 25% liable for the accident then your recovery will be $375,000.

Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

Having a lawyer can help you with the process. Often, the adverse party's representatives will not take you seriously without representation. The outcome of your case can be significantly impacted by the hiring of a skilled car accident lawyer in Los Angeles. An experienced attorney is your most valuable ally, as they can assist you in navigating the legal process and maximizing your compensation.

What kind of compensation can I get after a car accident?

You can get money for medical bills, car repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The amount depends on how bad your injuries are and other factors.

Why Hire Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C for Your Los Angeles Car Accident Claim?

Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. has a strong reputation for handling car accidents and personal injury cases in Los Angeles. We offer a free car accident consultation for your personal injury cases to discuss your case and provide tailored attention.

We are properly qualified to fight for your car accident damage compensation and legal rights since we appreciate the complexity of these cases. Our Los Angeles car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping you maximize the compensation for your car accident lawsuit. Knowing how complex these cases can be, we have the necessary resources and knowledge required to fight for your legal rights and injury compensation in auto collisions.

Contact Us Today

Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. is committed to answering your questions about Personal Injury law issues in Los Angeles, Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Woodland Hills, West Hills, and the San Fernando Valley.

We'll gladly discuss your case with you at your convenience. Contact Us today to schedule an appointment.

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