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Every year, thousands of people are seriously injured or lose their lives in car accidents in California. These accidents happen for a wide variety of reasons, and most of them are preventable. Drivers who choose to operate their vehicle in a negligent manner must be held accountable, which is why California has laws in place to protect those who get injured due to negligence.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we pride ourselves on delivering high quality legal representation to car accident victims across California. Led by Managing Attorney Shawn S. Rokni, our firm is dedicated to advocating for clients’ rights and securing the compensation they deserve after a serious crash. Our accomplished legal team includes many experienced litigation attorneys who know exactly how to get the best possible outcome for each client.
Together, we bring a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success to every case we handle. Whether you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, a high-speed accident, or a crash involving uninsured drivers, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way. When you choose Countrywide Trial Lawyers, you’re choosing a team committed to your recovery, justice, and peace of mind.
Car accidents are an unfortunate reality in California, a state with one of the largest populations in the country and some of the busiest roads. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a more serious collision, car accidents happen every day in our state. According to the California Highway Patrol, over 200,000 traffic accidents are reported each year in the state. These accidents result in thousands of injuries and fatalities annually, making car accidents a leading cause of personal injury claims in California.
Car accidents can happen in many different ways, including rear-end collisions, side-impact crashes, and head-on collisions. In urban areas like Los Angeles, accidents often occur due to heavy traffic, distracted driving, or reckless behavior. In more rural areas, speeding and poor road conditions may be contributing factors. Regardless of the cause, the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve been injured or your vehicle has been severely damaged.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in California, you may be wondering what steps to take next. Navigating the legal and insurance processes after an accident can be complicated, and you may need legal assistance to ensure you are fairly compensated for your injuries or damages. This is where a California car accident lawyer can help.
A car accident case typically involves several key steps. First, after an accident, it’s important to ensure everyone is safe and to seek medical attention for any injuries. Once you’ve addressed any immediate concerns, gathering evidence is crucial. This might include taking pictures of the scene, exchanging information with the other driver(s), and collecting contact details from witnesses.
After the initial steps, the next part of the process involves filing an insurance claim. In California, the state follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning that the person responsible for causing the accident is liable for the damages. If the other driver is at fault, their insurance company may be required to pay for your medical bills, car repairs, and other costs related to the accident. However, insurance companies are often focused on minimizing payouts, which is why having a skilled California car accident lawyer can be essential in making sure you get the compensation you deserve.
In some cases, the insurance company may deny your claim or offer a settlement that doesn’t cover all your costs. If that happens, you may need to take legal action to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. A car accident lawyer can help you navigate this process, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing your interests in court if necessary.
The process of a car accident case can be long and complex, but with the right legal help, you can increase your chances of securing a fair outcome. Whether you’re dealing with minor injuries or significant damages, a California car accident lawyer can provide the guidance and support you need to move forward after an accident.
Car accidents in California can happen for a variety of reasons, often due to driver negligence. Knowing the main causes of car accidents can help you stay safer on the road and give you insight into how your legal claim may be handled if you're involved in an accident. Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents in California:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents not just in California, but across the nation. This occurs when a driver takes their attention away from the road to focus on something else, such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio. In California, it's illegal to use a handheld phone while driving, but distractions can still happen in various forms. Even a brief moment of distraction can lead to serious consequences. According to the California Highway Patrol, distracted driving contributes to a significant number of crashes each year, with drivers failing to notice red lights, stop signs, or other vehicles because their attention is elsewhere.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another major cause of car accidents in California. Drivers impaired by alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal substances have slower reaction times, diminished judgment, and reduced coordination, making it difficult for them to safely navigate the roads. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in California is 0.08%, but even lower levels of impairment can significantly affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle. DUI-related accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities, and California law takes these cases very seriously, with penalties including fines, license suspension, and possible jail time.
Speeding
Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions is a common cause of car accidents. When drivers speed, they have less time to react to sudden changes in traffic, such as a car stopping abruptly or a pedestrian crossing the street. Speeding also increases the severity of collisions, leading to more serious injuries. In California, the speed limits are posted clearly on most roads, but drivers sometimes ignore these limits, especially in areas with light traffic or on highways where speeding may seem tempting. However, speeding increases the risk of losing control of the vehicle, especially in adverse weather or on poorly maintained roads.
Reckless or Aggressive Driving
Reckless and aggressive driving involves behaviors such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, ignoring traffic signals, and making dangerous lane changes without signaling. Drivers who engage in these behaviors are more likely to cause accidents because they disregard traffic laws and put other drivers at risk. Aggressive driving is especially common in California’s heavily congested urban areas, like Los Angeles, where road rage can lead to erratic and unsafe driving patterns. In some cases, this type of driving can escalate into road rage, where drivers engage in dangerous confrontations that put everyone around them in danger.
Weather Conditions
California is known for its sunny weather, but the state does experience its share of rain, fog, and even snow in certain regions, especially in the mountains. Poor weather conditions can create dangerous driving situations. Rain, for example, can cause slippery roads, increasing the likelihood of vehicles hydroplaning. Fog reduces visibility, making it harder for drivers to see other vehicles, traffic signals, and road signs. In mountainous areas, fog,rain, snow and ice can make driving hazardous, with the added risk of vehicles losing traction. Drivers who aren’t prepared for these weather conditions, or who fail to adjust their speed and driving habits, are more likely to be involved in accidents during such conditions.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Running red lights or failing to stop at stop signs is a frequent cause of accidents, particularly in busy urban areas where traffic signals and signs are in constant use. Many accidents occur at intersections, where drivers either speed through a red light or ignore a stop sign, resulting in crashes with cross-traffic. In California, running a red light can be especially dangerous because of the state's high traffic volume. These accidents can often be severe because they typically involve high-speed impacts.
Driver Fatigue
Fatigue can impair a driver’s ability to make decisions and react quickly. This is a major issue in California, especially for long-distance commuters, truck drivers, and anyone working extended hours. Drivers who are too tired may fall asleep at the wheel or simply lose focus, making them more likely to crash. It’s important to recognize the signs of fatigue, such as yawning, difficulty concentrating, and heavy eyelids. If you feel drowsy while driving, it’s best to pull over and rest before continuing.
Vehicle Defects and Poor Maintenance
Sometimes accidents are caused not by the driver’s actions but by problems with the vehicle itself. Defective brakes, faulty tires, or engine malfunctions can all lead to accidents. In some cases, these issues are the result of poor maintenance or manufacturing defects. California has laws requiring vehicles to be regularly inspected to ensure they meet safety standards, but not all drivers follow these rules. When a vehicle is not properly maintained, it can increase the risk of an accident, particularly if essential components like brakes or steering fail during a drive.
In California, car accidents can be caused by any combination of these factors, and sometimes it’s a case of someone else's negligence or carelessness putting you at risk. If you’ve been involved in an accident due to one of these causes, it’s important to understand your rights and seek professional legal help. Your car accident lawyer can help determine who was at fault and assist with filing a claim to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Determining liability in a car accident is a critical step in ensuring that the responsible party is held accountable for their actions. In California, the person or party responsible for the accident is typically the one who caused the crash due to negligence, reckless driving, or failing to follow traffic laws. However, understanding how liability is determined can be a complex process, especially when multiple factors or parties are involved. Here’s a breakdown of how liability is determined in car accidents in California.
California follows a "fault" system for car accidents, which means that the driver who is found to be at fault for causing the accident is responsible for covering the damages. This includes medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other costs related to the accident. In most cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance company will pay for these expenses. However, if the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance or refuses to accept responsibility, you may need to pursue legal action to get fair compensation.
The process of determining fault usually starts with an investigation by the insurance companies. Each driver’s insurance company will look at the evidence and try to establish who caused the accident. If the accident is clear-cut, liability may be obvious, but in many cases, it can be more difficult to pinpoint exactly who is at fault.
One of the first steps in determining liability is investigating the accident scene. This often involves gathering evidence such as:
In most car accident cases, determining liability comes down to proving that one driver was negligent. Negligence occurs when a driver fails to exercise reasonable care on the road, which directly leads to an accident. Examples of negligence include:
To prove negligence, the party making the claim (the victim) must show that the other driver breached their duty to drive safely, and that this breach directly resulted in the accident and injuries.
Once fault has been determined, insurance companies play a significant role in resolving the claim. Each driver’s insurance company will review the evidence to decide how much of the damages it should cover. If the at-fault driver has insurance, their policy will typically cover your medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other costs. However, if the at-fault driver does not have insurance or doesn’t have enough coverage, you may need to file a claim with your own insurance company.
In some cases, insurance companies may dispute the level of fault or offer a settlement that is lower than what you deserve. In these situations, having a skilled California car accident lawyer can help protect your interests and ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
California follows a law known as "comparative fault," meaning that more than one party can share responsibility for an accident. If both drivers are partially to blame for the crash, each party’s degree of fault will be considered when determining liability. For example, if one driver was speeding while the other driver ran a red light, both drivers might share fault in varying degrees, such as 70% for the driver who ran the red light and 30% for the driver who was speeding.
Under California’s comparative fault rule, each party will be responsible for their percentage of the damages. If you are partially at fault for an accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you are determined to be 20% at fault for the accident, you would only be able to recover 80% of the total damages.
If you’re involved in an accident where liability is unclear or disputed, or if you are being blamed for something you didn’t do, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance. A California car accident attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if needed. Your lawyer can also help determine whether you’re entitled to additional compensation, such as pain and suffering, lost wages, or future medical expenses.
Liability in car accidents can be complicated, but with the right legal support, you can ensure that you are treated fairly and receive the compensation you deserve. Whether you are the injured party or the one being blamed, understanding how liability works in California is key to navigating the claims process and resolving the case successfully.
When you’re involved in a car accident, the importance of documentation cannot be overstated. One of the most crucial pieces of evidence in any car accident case is the police report. This report, along with other forms of documentation such as witness statements, photographs, and medical records, plays a critical role in determining liability, supporting your claims, and ensuring that you are compensated for your injuries or damages.
A police report is typically filed by officers who respond to the scene of the accident. In California, when an accident occurs that results in injury, death, or significant property damage, law enforcement is usually required to investigate the scene and file a report. The police report serves as an official record of the accident and contains essential details about what happened.
In legal proceedings, a police report is often one of the first documents examined to understand the circumstances surrounding the accident. The report typically includes information such as:
While the police report is not legally binding in terms of determining fault, it can heavily influence the outcome of a case. Insurance companies and courts often give significant weight to police reports because they are compiled by neutral third parties who are trained to assess accident scenes objectively. If the report indicates that another driver was at fault due to factors like speeding, drunk driving, or running a red light, it can be a powerful piece of evidence in proving liability.
Photographs and Videos: Taking clear pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and any relevant road conditions can be extremely helpful in illustrating the details of the crash. Video footage, if available (such as from traffic cameras or dashcams), can provide valuable visual evidence that may corroborate your account of events.
Witness Statements: If there were any witnesses to the accident, their statements could be crucial in proving fault. Witnesses can provide objective accounts of the events, which can counteract conflicting statements from the involved parties. Collecting witness contact information at the scene ensures you have access to these statements if needed later.
Medical Records and Bills: After the accident, it’s important to seek medical treatment, even if your injuries seem minor. Documentation of your injuries, including medical reports, diagnoses, and treatment plans, helps establish the extent of the damages caused by the accident. Additionally, medical bills serve as evidence of the financial costs you’ve incurred due to the accident, which is necessary for determining compensation.
Repair Estimates and Vehicle Documentation: Getting your vehicle assessed for damage and obtaining repair estimates helps establish the financial impact of the accident. If your car is deemed a total loss or needs extensive repairs, this documentation will be used to calculate the compensation for your property damage.
In any car accident case, whether you’re filing a claim with your insurance company or pursuing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, the documentation you collect will serve as the foundation for your case. Insurance companies rely heavily on evidence to determine fault and offer settlements. Without proper documentation, you may have difficulty proving your version of events or showing the extent of your damages.
If a legal dispute arises and the case goes to court, having solid documentation—especially a well-detailed police report—can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome. A police report provides an unbiased, official account of the accident, which can be used to support your claims in front of a judge or jury.
We understand that the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. Whether you've suffered physical injuries, damage to your vehicle, or emotional trauma, navigating the legal process can feel complicated and stressful. That’s why we are committed to providing our clients with thorough, hands-on legal representation from start to finish.
Our team works diligently to investigate the details of your case and build a strong case that ensures you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s a closer look at how we investigate and build strong car accident cases.
Initial Consultation and Case Review
The first step in building a strong car accident case is an in-depth consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. During this meeting, we listen carefully to your version of the accident, ask key questions, and gather basic details about the crash, such as:
We know that every case is unique, and this consultation helps us determine the best course of action. Our goal is to provide clear guidance on your legal options, answer any questions you may have, and determine whether we can take on your case.
Gathering Evidence
Once we’ve decided to move forward with your case, the next crucial step is gathering evidence. In car accident cases, evidence is key to proving liability, establishing damages, and supporting your claims. Our team takes a comprehensive approach to collect all relevant documentation, which may include:
Consulting with Experts
Building a strong case sometimes requires consulting with experts in fields like accident reconstruction, medicine, and engineering. If necessary, we bring in experts to evaluate the evidence and provide their professional opinions on key aspects of your case. For example, accident reconstruction specialists can analyze the evidence (such as skid marks, vehicle positions, and damage) to determine the cause of the accident and who was at fault.
We also work with medical experts who can testify about the long-term impact of your injuries. Their input helps us demonstrate the full extent of your pain, suffering, and future medical needs, which is critical when seeking maximum compensation.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Once we have gathered all the evidence, we begin the process of negotiating with insurance companies. In many car accident cases, the goal is to reach a fair settlement without having to go to trial. Insurance companies may offer a settlement, but it’s important to remember that their primary goal is to minimize their payout. Countrywide’s lawyers are skilled negotiators who advocate on your behalf to ensure that the settlement offer fully reflects the damages you’ve suffered.
We take into account all costs, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering, and we make sure the insurance company doesn’t pressure you into accepting a lowball offer. If the insurance company refuses to provide a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to court.
Filing a Lawsuit, If Necessary
In situations where a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are not afraid to take legal action. Our attorneys are experienced in handling litigation and will guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit. We’ll prepare all necessary legal documents, present the evidence, and advocate for your rights in court. Whether it’s a trial in front of a judge or jury, we are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Ongoing Communication and Support
Throughout the entire process, we believe in keeping you informed and involved. We provide regular updates on the status of your case and explain each step clearly, so you always know where things stand. Our clients are never left in the dark. We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is stressful, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
When you've been involved in a car accident, hiring a lawyer who understands the specific laws and practices of California will make a significant difference in the success of your case. From knowledge of local traffic laws to connections with local experts, there are several key benefits to working with a California-based car accident lawyer.
California has its own set of traffic laws that can impact how car accident cases are handled. For example, California follows a "fault" system, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages. A California-based lawyer will be familiar with local laws such as comparative fault and specific traffic regulations like distracted driving and DUI, helping them build a stronger case in your favor.
Every region has its own court system and insurance practices. A local lawyer knows how the courts in your area operate and understands the local insurance companies’ strategies. This familiarity allows them to navigate the legal process more efficiently and negotiate with insurance companies with greater confidence, increasing your chances of getting a fair settlement.
California’s diverse driving conditions mean different areas experience different types of accidents. A local lawyer understands the common causes of accidents in your area—whether it’s traffic congestion in cities like Los Angeles or mountainous roads in Northern California. This knowledge allows them to gather relevant evidence, like past accident data or road conditions, to help prove liability in your case.
A California-based lawyer has access to a network of local experts who can support your case. Whether it’s accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, or local investigators, these experts can provide valuable testimony and insights. Working with professionals who understand local conditions and standards ensures that the evidence you present is as strong as possible.
Choosing a local lawyer means you're more likely to receive personalized service. Local attorneys are invested in their communities and take the time to understand the unique details of your case. They also have connections with local hospitals, law enforcement, and medical providers, making it easier to gather evidence and ensure your case progresses smoothly.
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, there are exceptions, and missing deadlines can result in your case being dismissed. A California lawyer will ensure that all necessary steps are taken within the required time frame, protecting your legal rights.
A local lawyer's experience with California car accident cases is another valuable benefit. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we have a proven track record of handling a wide range of personal injury cases, so we know how to get maximum compensation for your injuries.
How soon after a car accident should I contact a lawyer?
It's important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after a car accident. Prompt legal advice can help ensure that you meet deadlines, preserve evidence, and protect your rights. The sooner you involve a lawyer, the better they can guide you through the claims process and improve the chances of a successful outcome.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
California follows a comparative fault rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. A lawyer can help you navigate this process and ensure you receive a fair settlement.
What damages can I recover in a car accident case?
If you’re injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to recover several types of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. A lawyer can help calculate the full extent of your damages and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Do I need to go to court for my car accident case?
Not necessarily. Many car accident cases are settled out of court through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit and taking your case to trial. Having an experienced lawyer by your side can help you navigate both settlement discussions and court proceedings.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, you may still be able to recover damages through your own uninsured motorist coverage if you have it. If not, a lawyer can help explore other options, such as pursuing a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver directly, depending on the circumstances.
We believe that every client deserves personalized attention, a tailored legal strategy, and a relentless commitment to achieving justice. From initial consultation to final resolution, you can trust that we’ll be in your corner, fighting for your future and helping you rebuild your life after a car accident.
Don’t face the aftermath of a car accident alone. Call Countrywide Trial Lawyers today at (213) 772-6547 to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.