Car Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles
The Legal Landscape of Car Accidents in Los Angeles
Understanding the legal landscape in Los Angeles is crucial when handling car accident claims. Los Angeles is known for its heavy traffic and dense population, which contribute to a higher incidence of vehicle collisions. Several California Vehicle Code statutes, including those governing distracted driving and proper lane use, directly impact accident liability.
Familiarity with these local regulations, as well as the procedures of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, can influence the outcome of your case significantly. At Law Offices of Ali Taheripour, we leverage our knowledge of these nuances to advocate effectively on behalf of our clients.
Representing Those Who Have Been Injured in Auto Accidents in California
In the U.S., there are nearly 4 million miles of public roadways traveled by millions of Americans daily. While vehicles are becoming safer each year, and accidents are generally preventable, with so many miles of asphalt and concrete filled with vehicles, accidents are inevitable—some minor, some severe, and some fatal. Tragically, these occur daily.
Studies show that an average of over two people are killed every day in Southern California due to car accidents. Most are caused by driver negligence and distraction. At the Law Offices of Ali Taheripour, our experienced and knowledgeable Woodland Hills car accident lawyers work tirelessly to combat distracted driving, negligent driving, drunk driving, and all other types of preventable, accident-causing behaviors.
If you were injured or your loved one was killed in a car collision, contact us for a consultation with our Woodland Hills car accident attorney. Call (818) 629-1121 today.
Common Types of Car Accidents in California
Common types of car accidents in California include:
- Rear-End Collisions: These occur when one vehicle hits another from behind, often due to distracted driving, tailgating, or sudden stops.
- Side-Impact Crashes: Also known as "T-bone" accidents, they usually happen at intersections when drivers fail to yield or run red lights.
- Head-On Collisions: These severe accidents occur when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide, often due to wrong-way driving or fatigue.
- Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Common on California’s busy freeways, these involve multiple cars, complicating fault determination.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents: When a driver flees the scene, California law imposes penalties, and victims may recover damages through uninsured motorist coverage.
These accidents are not only unfortunate but also complex, requiring thorough investigation to determine fault and pursue compensation. Navigating the aftermath requires the guidance and support of a seasoned legal team. If you’re facing such challenges, our team at Law Offices of Ali Taheripour can help clarify your legal options and offer steadfast representation.
Understanding these accident types and the state's comparative fault system is critical. Consulting an auto accident attorney in Woodland Hills near you helps protect—get in touch with Law Offices of Ali Taheripour.
The Role of Negotiation & Litigation in Car Accident Cases
The approach to car accident claims often involves a strong negotiation process to achieve fair settlements for individuals suffering from losses. Insurance companies may offer settlements quickly, but these are often less than what is deserved. Through robust negotiation tactics, the attorneys at Law Offices of Ali Taheripour help ensure that clients do not settle for less.
When an agreeable settlement is unobtainable, transitioning the case to litigation is a viable step. Our attorneys are equipped to handle cases in court, advocating assertively for the highest compensation achievable. This dual strategy allows us to tailor our approach to the specific needs of each client.
This commitment to seeing justice done, regardless of the time and resources required, exemplifies our dedication to client satisfaction and legal excellence. By maintaining clear communication and involving clients at every step, we ensure that their voices are heard and their goals prioritized.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents occur for various reasons. However, the most common factor in numerous car accidents is negligence.
This is evident in the most common causes of car accidents, which include:
- Distracted driving, including cellphone use and texting while driving
- Speeding/driving above posted speed limits
- Drunk driving/operating while intoxicated (OWI)
- Reckless or aggressive driving
- Illegal driving behaviors (such as illegal lane changes)
- Defective car parts, including tires, brakes, airbags, and seatbelts
- Poorly maintained roads, dangerous conditions, and faulty road design
Besides negligence, external factors like road conditions, traffic design flaws, and unexpected weather changes also contribute materially to accidents. Each of these causes entails different legal considerations and necessitates distinct approaches to building a successful claim. Evaluating the specifics of each accident with a qualified legal professional ensures all potential contributors are identified and addressed appropriately.
In these and other common causes of car accidents, the negligence of another driver, auto manufacturer, or another entity can lead to serious consequences. In such cases, victims and their families are entitled to take legal action against the negligent party.
How Weather Conditions Impact Car Accidents in California
Weather conditions in California vary widely and can often contribute to car accidents. Here's how they may affect driving:
- Rain: California’s occasional rainstorms can make roads slippery due to oil buildup, increasing the risk of hydroplaning and reducing stopping ability.
- Fog: Common in coastal and valley regions, fog drastically reduces visibility. Drivers may struggle to see other vehicles or road markings, leading to accidents.
- High Winds: Particularly in areas like the Central Valley or near mountain passes, strong winds can push vehicles off course or cause debris to create sudden obstructions.
- Wildfire Smoke: Heavy smoke can lower visibility and create hazardous conditions similar to fog, especially during wildfire season.
In Los Angeles, unique weather patterns can significantly affect driving conditions, often catching drivers off guard. The rapid onset of fog in coastal regions, combined with smoke from frequent wildfires, can suddenly reduce visibility to dangerous levels. Drivers unaccustomed to these phenomena may find themselves unprepared, leading to abrupt braking or swerving, which increases accident risks.
California’s unique weather requires attentive driving & preparation. If you’ve been in an accident due to weather-related hazards, a collision attorney in Woodland Hills from Law Offices of Ali Taheripour can help assess liability & guide you toward compensation.
What Are the Most Common Injuries from Car Accidents?
In the U.S., car accidents are a leading cause of injuries. The location and severity of the injuries can vary depending on many factors.
Here are some of the most common injuries from a car accident:
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Brain injuries
- Broken and fractured bones
- Cuts, bruises, and burns
- Whiplash
- Internal damage
- PTSD
These injuries often require extensive and ongoing treatment, which can quickly escalate medical expenses and recovery time. Victims may suffer from prolonged physical pain and emotional distress, impacting various aspects of their lives, including the ability to work and maintain personal relationships. Seeking adequate compensation is vital for covering these costs and aiding in recovery.
Additionally, understanding the scope of these injuries is crucial not just for immediate medical attention, but also for long-term health implications. Some injuries, like whiplash or PTSD, may not reveal their full impact until weeks or even months after the accident, underscoring the importance of thorough medical evaluations and legal consultations.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Car Accident
Collisions and car wrecks are frightening experiences, regardless of how major or minor they may be. Many people are unsure of what to do immediately after a car accident, but there are a few things you can and should do to protect your health, safety, and rights.
If you are involved in a car accident, ensure you do the following:
- Stay at the Scene: Never leave the scene of an accident until you have been cleared to do so. If you flee the scene, it is considered a hit-and-run. You can face serious criminal penalties, especially when injuries are sustained.
- Check on All Drivers & Passengers: If you can, check on all parties involved in the accident to determine if anyone needs medical attention. Never move an unconscious person or someone complaining of neck or back pain unless their life depends on it. Call for help if medical attention is needed. If everyone is okay, assess property damage.
- Exchange Information: Get names, phone numbers, addresses, drivers’ license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information from all drivers involved. If there are passengers, also obtain their names, numbers, and addresses. You also want to gather contact information for any witnesses at the scene.
- Take Pictures: If you can, take pictures at the scene of the accident, all vehicles involved, and any damage to your vehicle and the other vehicle related to the accident. Be sure to get photos of any injuries as well. Photos will help determine who is at fault in case of disputes, serve as important pieces of evidence if your case goes to court, and can help determine compensation for your claim.
- Call the Police: Whenever there is evidence of property damage, injury, or death, the police must be called. Always gather officer names and badge numbers and request that a police report be filed.
- Avoid Discussing the Accident: You should not discuss the accident with anyone except your attorney, your insurance company, and the police. Never talk to the other insurance company; refer the call to your lawyer instead.
- Seek Medical Attention & Keep Track of Your Medical Treatment: Seek medical attention immediately and anytime you have been involved in more than a fender bender. Note any doctors or other medical professionals you received treatment from. Keep a detailed record of dates, times, treatments, and/or medications you receive. Request a copy of all medical reports and expenses. Keep a record of how your injuries have impacted your daily life. Include any time off work, missed routine activities, and how the injuries have affected your family life and personal life.
- Inform Your Insurance Company: Review your insurance policy and then contact your insurance company immediately. Explain the facts of the accident clearly. Obtain and review any police report filed so you can check for accuracy and determine who was at fault. Keep a detailed account of all conversations with insurance company representatives and be sure to take note of their names, phone numbers, and job titles.
- Request Vehicle Valuation: Request insurance adjuster’s estimation of vehicle valuation. If you agree, proceed with getting estimates from body shops for repairs. If you don’t agree with the insurance adjuster, get at least two independent valuations and report back to the initial insurance company. Contact an experienced Woodland Hills car accident attorney if you still can’t agree on a value.
- Reject Early Settlement Offers: Never sign a release with the other insurance company. Refer all offers to your lawyer. Never accept an offer until all medical treatments have concluded, and you have been fully released by your medical provider. Always consult with a personal injury attorney before signing any legal documents related to your accident.
- Consult with an Experienced Woodland Hills Auto Accident Lawyer to answer your questions: Auto accident claims can be complicated, especially if injuries were sustained in the accident. A personal injury attorney can help ensure you receive a fair settlement and recover maximum compensation for your injuries.
Contact Our Woodland Hills Car Accident Attorney Today
If you would like to discuss your car accident case with an experienced and highly skilled lawyer, contact the Woodland Hills car accident attorney at the Law Offices of Ali Taheripour and request a consultation today. We offer contingent fees, meaning you do not pay unless we win your case. We also offer legal services in Spanish & we can travel to meet you if you are not able to make it into our office for your consultation.
Contact our dedicated Woodland Hills car accident lawyers online or by phone at (818) 629-1121 today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Los Angeles?
After a car accident in Los Angeles, your priority should be ensuring the safety of all involved. First, if possible, move your vehicle to a safe spot to avoid further collisions. Check for injuries and call 911 if medical assistance is needed. It is also crucial to report the accident to the police to generate an official report. Exchange information with the other driver, including insurance details, and take photos of the scene, damage, and any visible injuries. These steps help protect your legal rights and support any future claims.
How Can I Tell if The Insurance Offer is Fair?
Determining if an insurance offer is fair can be complex as it requires evaluating both immediate and potential future costs associated with the accident. Consider the coverage for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and any ongoing rehabilitation needs. Insurance companies often provide initial offers that might undervalue your claim. Consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer in Los Angeles, like those at Law Offices of Ali Taheripour, can provide a more accurate assessment of your claim's true value and aid in negotiating a more equitable settlement.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Car Accident Claim in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim due to a car accident is typically two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation. However, specific circumstances might alter this timeframe, such as when the injured party is a minor. It's crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the legal time limits and to safeguard your rights to recovery.
Why Do I Need an Attorney for a Car Accident Claim?
Hiring an attorney for a car accident claim is vital because they provide professional guidance and expertise in navigating complex legal processes. An attorney handles communications with insurance companies, gathers essential evidence, and builds a strong case to maximize your compensation. At Law Offices of Ali Taheripour, our client-centered approach ensures personalized legal care, allowing you to focus on recovery while we manage the legal intricacies on your behalf.
Can I Claim Compensation for Non-Visible Injuries Like Emotional Distress?
Yes, compensation for non-visible injuries such as emotional distress is possible in car accident claims. Emotional and psychological impacts, like PTSD or anxiety, can significantly affect a victim's quality of life. Proper documentation, including medical evaluations from psychological professionals, is crucial in proving these claims. Our attorneys at Law Offices of Ali Taheripour can help compile the necessary documentation and advocate for all aspects of your suffering to be recognized in your claim.
The Opinions That Matter Most
Our Clients Share Their Stories
At Law Offices of Ali Taheripour, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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Best lawyer!!
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