Car accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence, and the aftermath can be overwhelming. If you’ve been involved in a car wreck, understanding your rights and options is crucial, especially when injuries and damages are involved. This is where a Car Wreck Accident Lawyer becomes an invaluable ally. At The Dominguez Firm, we are dedicated to supporting car accident victims through every step of the recovery process. Our experienced team of trial lawyers and investigators is committed to securing the maximum compensation you deserve, going beyond what insurance companies may initially offer.
If you’re dealing with the consequences of a car wreck, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lawyer who prioritizes your best interests. Contact The Dominguez Firm’s personal injury attorneys today to discover how we can assist you and your family. Call us 24/7 at (800) 818-1818 for immediate support and guidance.
When Should You Consult a Car Wreck Lawyer After an Accident?
Following a car accident, you might question whether legal representation is necessary. While minor incidents might seem resolvable directly with involved parties or insurers, the complexity of even seemingly small accidents can quickly escalate. Latent injuries, disputes over fault, or delayed compensation can transform a simple case into a significant challenge.
In situations involving serious injuries, long-term health impacts, or disputes with insurance companies, engaging a car wreck accident lawyer is not just advisable—it’s essential. Specifically, seek legal counsel if your car wreck resulted in:
- Severe or permanent injuries affecting your ability to work or enjoy life.
- Insurance claim complications, such as denials or underpayment.
- Disagreements regarding who was at fault for the car wreck.
- Refusal from the at-fault party or their insurer to cover accident-related damages.
- Involvement of a government entity as the other party, which adds layers of complexity to legal claims.
Key Questions to Ask When Choosing a Car Wreck Attorney
Questions you should ask a car wreck accident lawyer before hiring them
When selecting a car wreck accident lawyer, it’s important to ask pertinent questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Consider asking potential lawyers:
- Have you previously handled car wreck cases similar to mine?
- Will I be responsible for any legal costs if my case is unsuccessful?
- What are your legal fees and payment structures?
- What resources, both staffing and financial, will you dedicate to my car wreck case?
- How many years of experience do you have specifically with car wreck claims?
- What is a possible timeline for resolving my car wreck lawsuit?
- What strategies can be employed to maximize the chances of a favorable outcome in my case?
Immediate Actions After a Car Wreck
- Prioritize Safety and Contact Emergency Services: Move to a safe location away from traffic and immediately call 911 to report the car wreck to the police.
- Cooperate with Law Enforcement: Provide a factual account of the accident to the responding officer to the best of your ability.
- Gather Information at the Scene: If physically able, collect contact information from witnesses and take photographs of vehicle damage and the accident scene.
- Seek Prompt Medical Attention: Immediately seek medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for any potential injuries.
- Engage Legal Representation: Contact a reputable law firm specializing in car wrecks to manage all legal aspects of your claim.
What Not to Do Following a Car Wreck
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Refrain from admitting fault or wrongdoing at the scene. Even apologies can be misconstrued as admissions of guilt.
- Stick to Facts: Do not speculate or guess when providing information to law enforcement or anyone else.
- Don’t Delay Medical Care: Prompt medical attention is critical. Do not delay seeking professional medical evaluation.
- Limit Communication with Insurers: Do not give statements to any insurance representatives, including your own insurer, without legal counsel.
- Avoid Quick Settlements: Do not accept any settlement offers or sign any agreements without first consulting with a car wreck accident lawyer.
Common Injuries Resulting From Car Wrecks
It’s a common misconception that only high-impact car wrecks lead to significant injuries. In reality, even seemingly minor collisions can cause substantial harm. The force exerted in a car wreck, even at low speeds, can be detrimental to the spine, brain, joints, and bones.
Frequently Seen Car Wreck Injuries Include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Fatal Injuries and Wrongful Death
- Spinal Cord Injuries, potentially leading to paralysis (temporary or permanent)
- Whiplash and Nerve Damage, such as radiculopathy
- Internal Organ Injuries, including bruising, lacerations, or damage
- Crush Injuries
- Facial, Eye, and Dental Injuries, and Scarring
- Bone Fractures
- Ligament Tears
- Joint Dislocations and Derangements
- Cuts and Lacerations
- Muscle Sprains and Strains
Understanding the Legal Process and Timelines in Car Wreck Claims
It’s important to differentiate between a car wreck insurance claim and a car wreck lawsuit. While both may involve settlements, they are distinct processes. Lawsuits for car wreck injuries are typically categorized as personal injury lawsuits and are pursued in civil court. Here, the injured party (plaintiff) seeks financial recovery from the responsible party (defendant). This legal action is separate from the insurance claim process, although suing the insurance company might be an option if settlement offers are unsatisfactory.
- Filing a Complaint: The initial step in a car wreck lawsuit is to file a formal complaint with the court. This document details the incident, the damages claimed, and the legal grounds for the lawsuit. It must be filed within the state’s statute of limitations—in California, generally two years from the date of the car wreck, though this can vary based on specific circumstances.
- Serving the Defendant: Once filed, the defendant must be officially notified of the lawsuit through a process known as ‘serving the complaint,’ which follows specific legal protocols.
- Defendant’s Response: The defendant then files a response, usually admitting or denying the allegations and stating any legal defenses.
- Discovery Phase: This involves both parties exchanging evidence, including documents, written interrogatories, and depositions to build their case.
- Trial Proceedings: If a settlement isn’t reached, the case proceeds to trial. Both sides present evidence, witnesses, and expert testimonies. The judge or jury then delivers a verdict, determining liability and compensation. It’s worth noting that most car wreck cases are resolved before reaching trial through settlements.
Navigating a car wreck lawsuit in California requires considerable legal expertise. It is highly advisable to consult with an experienced car wreck accident lawyer to guide you through this complex process.
Types of Compensation Available in Car Wreck Cases
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for all medical costs related to your injuries, potentially covered by your insurance or the at-fault party’s insurance. This includes hospital, ambulance, therapy, surgery, specialist consultations, in-home care, and mental health services.
- Property Damage: If the other party is at fault, you’re entitled to compensation for vehicle repair or replacement costs.
- Pain and Suffering: These ‘non-economic damages’ address the emotional and physical distress caused by the car wreck. An experienced car wreck accident lawyer can help quantify these damages, which can form a significant part of your compensation.
- Lost Wages: You can claim compensation for lost income if your injuries have prevented you from working.
Other Important Considerations in Car Wreck Claims
Common Types and Causes of Car Wrecks
Car wrecks vary widely in nature and cause. Common types include:
- Rear-End Collisions
- Head-On Collisions
- Left-Turn Collisions
- Side-Swipe Collisions
- T-Bone Collisions
- Merging Accidents
- Right-of-Way Violations
Vehicles Involved in Car Wrecks Can Include:
- Passenger Cars (sedans, coupes, hatchbacks)
- Minivans
- SUVs
- Pick-up Trucks
- Motorcycles
- Light Utility Trucks
- Box Trucks
- Large Commercial Trucks (semi-trucks, 18-wheelers)
Frequent Causes of Car Wrecks:
- Speeding
- Distracted Driving (texting, eating, phone use)
- Drowsy/Fatigued Driving
- Impaired Driving (alcohol or drugs)
- Reckless Driving
- Tailgating
- Disregarding Traffic Signals and Signs
- Vehicle Malfunctions or Recalls
- Road Design or Maintenance Issues
- Inexperienced Drivers
- Adverse Weather Conditions
- Construction Zones
According to California Office of Traffic Safety data from 2020:
- 3,982 fatalities resulted from car wrecks.
- 203,888 individuals sustained injuries in car wrecks.
- Fatalities among vehicle occupants increased by 11% from 2019.
Nationally, the NHTSA reported 42,514 car wreck fatalities in 2022, a 1.7% decrease from 2021.
Legal Representation Regardless of Immigration Status
In California, your immigration status cannot be used against you in a personal injury case. If someone’s negligence causes you harm, your immigration status is irrelevant to your right to seek compensation. Our attorneys protect our clients’ privacy and prevent any inquiries into immigration status during legal proceedings. We also provide licensed interpreters to ensure clear communication for non-English speakers in court, preserving your voice and story accurately.
Comparative Negligence in Los Angeles Car Wrecks
California operates under a “comparative fault” rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you are partially at fault for the car wreck. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if your total damages are $1,000,000 and you are 25% at fault, you can recover $750,000. Even if you are found to be significantly at fault (up to 99%), you may still have grounds for a claim. A skilled car wreck accident lawyer can investigate to accurately determine liability percentages.
Car Wrecks Occurring During Work Hours
If your car wreck happened while you were working, you might be eligible for both a workers’ compensation claim and a personal injury lawsuit against any at-fault third parties (excluding your employer). Our firm has expertise in both car wreck law and workers’ compensation, offering comprehensive support in these complex scenarios.
Let The Dominguez Firm’s Car Wreck Attorneys in Los Angeles Assist You
Founded on Compassion, Service, and Results, The Dominguez Firm, led by J.J. Dominguez, is committed to providing exceptional legal representation and client service. Our firm’s long-standing success reflects this commitment.
Attorney Juan J. Dominguez, founder of The Dominguez Firm
For over three decades, The Dominguez Firm has aided thousands of car wreck victims in rebuilding their lives, securing over $1 billion* in verdicts and settlements. We manage every aspect of our clients’ cases and possess the resources to challenge large corporations and insurers effectively. We are not a referral service and pledge to fight for the full value of your claim, not just a quick settlement.
Contact The Dominguez Firm today at 800-818-1818 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We are available 24/7 and can visit you at home or in the hospital.
