Car Accident Lawyers in California

Every case is different. But in all personal injury claims, there are a few elements that we look at to see if you have a case. We check to see if:
 

• There Were Damages: Personal injury lawsuits aim to recover compensation for “damages,” such as medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. The injury must involve substantial costs to pursue a lawsuit, which can differ depending on the state.
• Someone Else Was At Fault: To get compensation from someone else’s insurance company in California; they must have acted negligently in a way that caused or contributed to your injuries.
• There’s Enough Insurance Coverage: Personal injury lawsuits are usually filed against insurance companies, not individuals. The parties responsible must have enough insurance coverage to fully cover the injured person’s medical expenses or compensate them for their injuries.

If you are unsure if you have a case, contact us. We are here to help California residents.

Immediately after a car accident in California, your primary focus should be safety, well-being, and securing the necessary help.

Begin by assessing yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If someone is hurt, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance. If it’s safe, move your vehicle out of the traffic flow. If you can’t move the car, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.

Next, notify the police. Even in minor accidents, it’s important to have an official report. The responding officer will document the scene, which can be valuable for insurance purposes or future legal matters.

Collect information from the other driver, including their name, contact details, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information. Be polite, but avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be used against you later.

Take photos or videos of the accident scene in California, including vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and other relevant details. These can serve as critical evidence. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information and ask if they would be willing to provide a statement.

Even if you feel fine, getting checked out by a medical professional is wise. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can become serious if untreated. A medical visit also creates evidence that you took your accident seriously.

Next, report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.

Finally, contact a car accident lawyer at Morgan & Morgan in California—especially if you’ve sustained injuries or the damage is significant. One of our auto injury lawyers can help protect your rights and guide you through the claims process.

The statute of limitations, which varies by state, determines the time frame for filing a car accident injury claim. Typically, you have one to four years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline may result in losing your right to pursue compensation.

In some cases, injuries or damages may not be immediately apparent. The discovery rule allows the statute of limitations to begin when the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered. This is particularly relevant in cases where internal injuries or long-term health issues arise after the accident.

It's crucial to see a medical professional promptly after an accident. Even if you don't experience any immediate pain, a thorough examination can document your current health status and reveal any injuries that may not yet be apparent. In some states, medical paperwork filed shortly after the incident is a requirement for obtaining certain benefits.

Filing a claim sooner rather than later is key to building a strong case. Evidence can deteriorate, memories fade, and witnesses may become harder to locate. By acting promptly, you improve your chances of securing vital evidence.

Given the complexities of statutes of limitations and the potential for exceptions, it’s wise to consult a car accident lawyer in California immediately after your accident. A lawyer can help ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame and advise you on the best action.

The time it takes to resolve a car accident lawsuit can vary widely depending on several factors, including the case's complexity, the severity of injuries, and the parties' willingness to settle.

After the accident, your lawyer in California will investigate the case, gather evidence, and calculate damages. Once this is complete, they will file a claim with the insurance company or a lawsuit in court. Depending on the case's complexity, this initial phase can take several weeks to months.

Many car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without going to court. Settlement discussions can begin soon after the claim is filed and may take several months to resolve. The timeline depends on the willingness of both parties to reach an agreement and the complexity of the damages involved.

Choosing the right legal team in California can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. With over 35 years of experience handling car accident cases, our attorneys are well-versed in state and federal traffic laws and insurance regulations. We know what it takes to build a strong case and secure the compensation you deserve.

When you choose Morgan & Morgan in California, you’re not just hiring a lawyer; you’re gaining access to an entire army of legal professionals dedicated to your case. This team includes paralegals, investigators, and medical experts who work together to build the strongest possible case on your behalf.

The best part is that you don’t pay a dime unless we win your case. We understand that after a car accident, the last thing you need is additional financial stress. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis. That’s right—the Fee is Free™. You only pay a share of your compensation if we win.

As the nation’s largest personal injury law firm with a strong presence in California, you communicate that you mean business when you work with Morgan & Morgan. Morgan & Morgan has recovered over $25 billion for clients, and our reputation for winning is known nationwide.

You don’t have to face this challenging time alone. At Morgan & Morgan, we are committed to helping car accident victims in California navigate the complexities of their claims and achieve the justice and compensation they deserve. Remember, our services are free unless we win your case, and we’re here to fight for you every step of the way.

If you were hurt in a car accident in California, don’t wait. Complete our free case evaluation form to learn how Morgan & Morgan can help you begin your recovery and justice journey.

A "no win, no fee" agreement, also known as a contingency fee agreement, allows California clients to hire a no-win, no-fee lawyer without paying any upfront fees.

When you hire a lawyer under a “no win, no fee” agreement in California, you are not required to pay any money upfront. This makes legal representation accessible to anyone, regardless of their financial situation.

You only pay your lawyer if they win your case through a settlement or court judgment. If your lawyer is unsuccessful, you owe nothing for their services.

If your lawyer wins the case, their fee is typically a percentage of your compensation. The specific rate may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the amount of work involved.

The “no win, no fee” arrangement aligns the lawyer's interests with yours, as they only get paid if you win. This strongly incentivizes your lawyer to work diligently on your behalf and seek the maximum possible compensation for your case.

At Morgan & Morgan, we believe justice should be accessible to all, so we operate on this same contingency fee system and have made it our motto that the Fee Is Free™—you only pay if we get you compensated.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in California, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, depending on the specifics of your case.

• Medical Expenses: This includes compensation for all past, present, and future medical costs related to your injury. It covers hospital bills, doctor’s visits, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and necessary medical equipment. Compensation should also account for future expenses if your injury requires ongoing treatment.
• Lost Wages: If your injury has led to missed work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes income already lost and potential future earnings if your injury impacts your ability to work. For permanent disabilities, this may also cover compensation for diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Car accident injuries can cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering is intended to address the non-economic impact of your injuries, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and the overall decrease in your quality of life.
• Emotional Distress: Severe accidents can lead to emotional trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Compensation for emotional distress aims to provide financial relief for the psychological impact of the accident.
• Disability and Disfigurement: If the accident resulted in a permanent disability or disfigurement, such as a loss of limb or scarring, you could receive additional compensation to address the lifelong impact of these injuries.
• Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse or family, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium. This can cover the loss of companionship, affection, and support from your injury.
• Punitive Damages: In some cases, where the at-fault party’s conduct was particularly reckless or malicious, you may be awarded punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
• Property Damage: You can also seek compensation for damage to your vehicle or other personal property. This includes repair or replacement costs and any rental car expenses while your vehicle is being repaired.

Each car accident case in California is unique, and the types of compensation you can receive will depend on the details of your injury, the impact on your life, and the circumstances surrounding the accident. A Morgan & Morgan lawyer in California can help you determine the full extent of your damages and fight for the compensation you deserve.

While hiring a lawyer for a minor car accident in California may seem unnecessary, doing so can be crucial to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation.

Even in minor accidents, insurance companies may try to minimize payouts. They might offer a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover your expenses or losses. A lawyer in California can help you evaluate the offer and negotiate a fair settlement that includes all of your damages, even those that may not be immediately apparent.

Also, not all injuries are immediately noticeable after an accident. Some, like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue injuries, may take days or weeks to manifest. Without legal representation, you might settle too early before the full extent of your injuries is known. A lawyer can ensure that all potential future medical costs are considered.

At Morgan & Morgan in California, our reputation and team of trial-ready lawyers can communicate to the other side that low-ball settlements will not work and that we intend to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

While you might think you can handle a minor accident alone, having an auto accident lawyer in California on your side can help you avoid potential pitfalls and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

No. Consultations at Morgan & Morgan are completely free. We believe everyone deserves access to legal advice, regardless of their financial situation. Hiring one of our car crash lawyers in California is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation on our site or by phone.

When you hire Morgan & Morgan in California, you don’t just hire a lawyer; you hire the largest personal injury law firm in the country with an army of over 1,000 lawyers and offices in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Your case will be handled by a dedicated team of professionals, including personal injury lawyers, paralegals, and support staff. You will be assigned a care team with a primary attorney overseeing your case and ensuring you receive personalized attention.

After your initial consultation in California, your care team will schedule regular meetings to discuss your case, provide updates, and prepare you for upcoming proceedings. We’re dedicated to keeping you informed and maintaining clear communication throughout the process. Based on your case’s needs and preferences, meetings can occur in person, over the phone, or virtually.

The average settlement for a car accident claim can vary widely depending on several factors, including the severity of injuries, the extent of property damage, and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The severity of your injuries is the most significant factor in determining a settlement amount.  Cases involving minor injuries, such as whiplash or bruising, may result in smaller settlements. In contrast, severe injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or multiple fractures, can lead to much more substantial settlements.

Your medical bills play a crucial role in calculating your settlement. This includes costs for emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and any ongoing or future medical care. The higher your medical expenses, the larger your settlement will likely be.

Proving fault in a car accident case can help you secure compensation for your injuries and damages. The process involves gathering and presenting evidence demonstrating the other party’s negligence or wrongdoing.

After an accident, a police officer typically investigates the scene and files a report. This report often includes the officer’s observations, statements from the drivers and witnesses, and sometimes the officer’s opinion on who was at fault. While not definitive, a police report can be strong evidence to establish fault.

Witnesses who saw the accident can provide valuable accounts that support your version of events. Their testimonies can help corroborate your claims and strengthen your case.

Photographic evidence from the accident scene can play a vital role. Images capturing vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, road conditions, and other key details can help identify what happened and illustrate how the accident unfolded.

If the other driver broke traffic laws—such as running a red light, speeding, or not yielding—this can strongly suggest they were at fault. Any traffic citations issued to them at the scene can further support your case.

In more complex cases, Morgan & Morgan’s accident reconstruction experts in California may be called upon to analyze the evidence and provide an opinion on how the accident occurred and who was at fault. Their expertise can help clarify the events leading up to the collision.

If the other driver admits fault at the scene or afterward, that statement can be important evidence. However, it's essential to be mindful of what you say, as your words could be used against you.

Your firsthand account of the accident, describing what you saw, heard, and felt, is crucial. Providing a clear and consistent testimony can help establish the facts of the case.

Proving fault requires a comprehensive approach to gathering and presenting evidence. A Morgan & Morgan lawyer in California can assist you in building a strong case, ensuring that all relevant evidence is collected and effectively used to demonstrate the other party’s liability.

Yes, in California, which follows a pure comparative negligence system, you can still recover compensation even if you were mostly at fault for the accident. Unlike other systems that limit recovery based on your level of fault, California allows you to seek damages regardless of how much blame you share. Your compensation will simply be reduced according to your percentage of fault.

For example, if you're awarded $100,000 in damages but found 80% at fault, your final recovery would be $20,000.

Insurance companies may try to assign you a higher share of the blame to reduce their payout. That’s why having an experienced attorney is essential. A skilled legal team can push back against these tactics and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Strong evidence—such as accident reports, witness statements, and photos or video—can support your version of events. An attorney from Morgan & Morgan in California can help gather and present this evidence to ensure a fair outcome.

Getting legal help early gives you the best chance of securing compensation, even if you bear a large portion of the fault.

If you’re involved in a car accident in California with an uninsured or underinsured driver, recovering compensation for your damages can become significantly more complicated. Without adequate coverage, you may be left facing serious financial burdens.

While California does not require drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, many drivers choose to include it in their auto insurance policy for added protection. This optional coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver has no insurance or lacks enough coverage to fully compensate you.

Claims involving uninsured or underinsured drivers can be complex and frustrating to handle on your own. A Morgan & Morgan car accident lawyer in California can evaluate your coverage, deal with the insurance companies on your behalf, and pursue every available path to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Car accidents involving rideshare (such as Uber or Lyft) or delivery drivers (such as those working for DoorDash or Amazon) present unique legal challenges.

As with any car accident, your priority should be your safety and health. Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately.

Collect as much information as possible at the scene, including the driver’s name, contact information, and details about their vehicle. If they were working for a rideshare or delivery service at the time, get the name of the company and any relevant details about their employment status. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses.

Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be crucial when filing a claim with the appropriate insurance company in California.

Notify the rideshare or delivery company about the accident. Uber and Lyft, for example, have protocols for handling accidents involving their drivers. The company may also have its own insurance policy covering the driver while on the job.

File a police report, an important document for your insurance claim or lawsuit. When describing the accident, mention whether the driver was working for a rideshare or delivery service.

Inform your insurance company about the accident. Depending on the situation, your insurance may cover some of the damages.

Accidents involving rideshare or delivery drivers in California can be complicated, often involving several insurance policies, such as the driver’s personal coverage, the company’s insurance, and possibly your own. A skilled attorney at Morgan & Morgan in California can help you sort through these complexities, identify the applicable policies, and fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.

Rideshare and delivery companies often have large insurance policies to cover accidents involving their drivers, but getting the compensation you’re entitled to can be challenging. An attorney in California can advocate on your behalf, negotiate with the insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court to protect your rights.

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident in California can be a terrifying experience. If the other driver leaves the scene, staying calm and taking specific steps to protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering compensation is important.

First, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Your safety and health should always be the top priority.

If possible, try to remember and document as much information about the fleeing vehicle as you can, such as the make, model, color, and license plate number. Also, note the direction in which the car fled.

Seek out witnesses who may have seen the accident. Their statements could be crucial in identifying the hit-and-run driver and supporting your claim. Ask for their contact information, as they may be able to provide a statement to the police or your attorney.

Contact the police as soon as possible to report the hit-and-run in California. Provide them with all the details you gathered. A police report will be essential for your insurance claim and any potential legal action.

Even if you don’t feel injured, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is important. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but could have long-term effects. Medical documentation will also be vital for your claim.

Next, report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Depending on your policy, you may have coverage options such as uninsured motorist coverage, which can help pay for your damages when the at-fault driver is unknown.

Hit-and-run cases can be complex, especially when the at-fault driver cannot be identified. An experienced car accident attorney at Morgan & Morgan in California can help you navigate the legal process, work with your insurance company, and explore all possible avenues for compensation.

Even if the hit-and-run driver is never identified, you may still be eligible for compensation through your own insurance or other available avenues. An attorney in California can review your case, outline your options, and work to secure the compensation you deserve.

Each time we get behind the wheel, we take on a responsibility that calls for caution and awareness. Despite advancements in vehicle safety, car accidents remain common and can result from many factors. At Morgan & Morgan, we believe that recognizing these risks is essential to preventing them.

• Distracted Driving: In an era of technology, distracted driving has become a pervasive issue. Whether texting, talking on the phone, or engaging with in-car entertainment systems, diverted attention can have devastating consequences.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits poses a significant risk on the road. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents, making it a leading contributor to collisions.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a major cause of accidents. Impaired judgment and coordination significantly elevate the likelihood of crashes with severe outcomes.
• Reckless Driving: Dangerous behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and running red lights create hazardous conditions and are a major cause of accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather, from rain and snow to fog and ice, amplifies driving challenges. Reduced visibility and slippery roads make accidents more probable during inclement weather.
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Ignoring traffic signals and signs endangers all road users. Drivers who fail to follow these important rules often cause crashes at intersections.
• Driver Fatigue: Tired and drowsy driving impairs cognitive functions and reaction times. Fatigue-related accidents are more prevalent than one might think, especially during long-distance travel and late-night driving.

Sometimes, however, other negligent drivers can introduce more risks on the road, regardless of how carefully you drive. If you're involved in a car wreck in California, that wasn’t your fault; Morgan & Morgan's dedicated team is here to help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

A car accident lawyer from Morgan & Morgan in California can be an invaluable ally after a car accident, providing expert legal guidance to navigate your case's complexities and help secure the compensation you deserve.

Car accident laws are often complex and vary from state to state. As the nation’s largest personal injury law firm with a strong presence in California, Morgan & Morgan’s attorneys are well-versed in the local laws and regulations that apply to your case. Your lawyer can explain your rights, outline your legal options, and help you understand the potential outcomes of your case.