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After a serious car accident, many people are left trying to manage medical treatment, time away from work, vehicle damage, and pressure from insurance adjusters. These issues can become even more difficult when injuries are severe or liability is disputed.

A car accident lawyer can help investigate the crash, review available evidence, handle communications with insurance companies, and explain what compensation may be available under the law. Depending on the circumstances, a claim may involve medical costs, lost earnings, pain-related damages, and other financial losses.

Our firm helps injured individuals and families understand their options after a crash. We approach each case based on its specific facts and work to provide clear guidance throughout the process.

Determining fault in a car accident in California

California operates under a fault system, meaning another driver must be deemed responsible for causing the accident for you to seek damages through an insurance claim. Under California’s comparative negligence law, each driver can be assigned a percentage of fault based on the extent to which they contributed to the accident.

To establish negligence, it must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt that:

  1. The at-fault driver had a duty to operate their vehicle safely.
  2. The at-fault driver breached that duty.
  3. The at-fault driver’s actions directly or indirectly caused the accident.
  4. The accident resulted in injuries and/or monetary losses to other parties involved.

If an accident occurs due to inadequate road maintenance, you may be able to file a claim against the department, city, or state responsible for the negligent road conditions.

Future Protection

  • Review Your Coverage: Regularly update your policy to ensure it meets your current needs.
  • Enhance Your Driving Skills: Consider enrolling in defensive-driving courses to improve your road safety.
  • Be Prepared: Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle for unexpected situations.
  • Stay Organized: Download our Car Accident Checklist and keep a copy in your glove box for quick reference.

Common Types of Car Accidents

These are the types of accidents that can often lead to serious injuries for anyone involved:

Rear-End Accidents.

Minor collisions, known as fender benders, are common on roads. However, rear-end collisions, depending on the vehicles involved and the speed of impact, can result in significantly more extensive damage to both life and property. Generally, the driver of the rear-end vehicle is deemed at fault, as these incidents often result from tailgating or driver inattention. However, if the rear-end vehicle is backing up at the time of the collision, it may be held responsible for the accident.

T-Bone Accidents.

These accidents occur when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another. With the passenger area of the car frequently bearing the brunt of the impact, T-bone collisions can pose a deadly threat to all occupants involved.

Sideswipe Accidents.

Such accidents happen when vehicles collide sideways. Sideswipes are common in parking lots and on highways when a driver changes lanes without checking their blind spot. The severity of injuries from side collisions can range from minor to severe, depending on the vehicles’ speeds at the time of the accident.

Head-On Accidents.

Cars crashing into each other while traveling in opposite directions, regardless of speed, can produce a surprisingly destructive impact. Head-on collisions can result in severe injuries or death for all parties involved.

Single-Vehicle Accidents.

When a vehicle collides with stationary objects due to a driver losing control, serious injuries can ensue, even when only one vehicle is involved. Reckless driving, mechanical malfunctions, driver fatigue or impairment, and hazardous road conditions are common causes of single-car crashes.

Vehicle Rollovers.

A vehicle overturning poses an exceptionally hazardous scenario for its occupants. The vast majority of rollover fatalities occur in single-vehicle accidents.

Common Injuries Resulting From Car Accidents

Over the past decade, millions of car accidents have taken place in the United States, leading to various injuries commonly associated with vehicle collisions. Despite ongoing advancements in safety technology by vehicle manufacturers, serious injuries stemming from accidents continue to happen daily. Below are some of the most common injuries resulting from auto collisions.

  • Whiplash happens when someone’s head is thrown abruptly back and forward during an impact. This type of injury can cause severe spinal cord injuries & strain on parts of the neck and the back. While most cases of whiplash tend to be less severe and heal on their own, some may require physical therapy or surgery to heal.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) are another result of car accidents and impacts. A TBI happens when the soft tissue of the brain is thrown against the hard inner surface of the skull. Such injuries are particularly dangerous because symptoms may not appear immediately, which is why seeking medical care after an accident is so important.
  • Broken Bone Injuries are one of the most common injuries in crashes. Being struck by a car can generate enough force to fracture bones, from hairline fractures to more serious ruptures. Any broken bone should be treated seriously and evaluated by a qualified medical professional.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident?

If you’ve sustained injuries in a car accident, the first step should be to contact the police and seek medical attention. These actions serve as crucial pieces of evidence in most car accident cases. The police report aids in reconstructing the accident’s conditions, while medical tests and procedures validate and document the severity of your injuries resulting from the accident. Ideally, you should also photograph the accident scene and promptly obtain the other driver’s insurance information.

It’s imperative to follow all recommendations from your doctor throughout the recovery process, including medication, treatment, and therapy instructions. Failure to comply could increase your liability for the accident’s negative outcomes, thereby reducing the potential settlement amount.

Following medical treatment, it’s always helpful to consult with a lawyer before working with insurance companies. Avoid disclosing any information to insurance adjusters or companies that could be used to reject your claim or diminish the payout amount. An experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate common pitfalls that insurance companies use to deny or decrease settlements.

Commonly Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a lawyer after a car accident?

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, especially one involving injury, legal representation can be crucial. Heidari Law Group can help assess the situation and determine if you’re entitled to compensation for damages and injuries. A consultation with our team can clarify how a lawyer can support your case.

What if the other driver involved in the accident is uninsured?

If the other driver in your accident is uninsured, you still have options for recovery. Heidari Law Group can assist you in exploring potential claims under your insurance policy, including uninsured motorist coverage.

What is the difference between settling a claim and going to trial?

Settling a claim generally involves negotiating a compensation amount with the opposing insurance company, which can resolve the matter quickly and with less stress. Going to trial, however, might be necessary if settlement offers are insufficient and the case must be presented in court.

Why Choose Heidari Law

Choosing Heidari Law Group for your car accident case offers several distinct advantages:

  1. Client-Centric Service: We prioritize our clients’ needs and work diligently to ensure their comfort and understanding throughout the legal process. Our approach is personalized, and we’re committed to being accessible and responsive, keeping you informed every step of the way.
  2. Experience: Heidari Law Group has experience in securing favorable settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our firm works to advocate for clients throughout negotiations and litigation.
  3. Comprehensive Support: From the moment you start working with us, we handle every aspect of your case, from dealing with insurance companies and other lawyers to coordinating with medical professionals to ensure you receive appropriate care. Our goal is to allow you to focus on recovery while we handle the legal proceedings.

By choosing Heidari Law Group, you ensure that your case is handled by dedicated professionals who are committed to working toward favorable resolutions based on the facts of each case. We strive to make the legal process as smooth and efficient as possible, allowing you to regain your life and move forward from the accident.

Areas Served for Auto Car Accident Injuries