Car Accident Attorney in Fullerton

Car Accident Attorney in Fullerton – Free Strategy Session

Every day, Fullerton witnesses numerous car accidents, ranging from minor fender-benders to severe collisions. The aftermath can be overwhelming, and navigating through the legal process requires expert guidance. At My Rights Law, we understand the complexities of car accident laws and are here to help. Our experienced Fullerton car accident attorneys are dedicated to defending your rights and ensuring you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries. Let us help you get back on track while we work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable.

Ready to speak with a Fullerton car accident attorney? Contact us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online.

What You Need To Know About Car Accidents

Car accidents can happen in an instant, leaving individuals with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.19 million people lose their lives annually due to car accidents. Understanding the common causes of car crashes, the potential injuries they can cause, and the legal consequences is crucial. Whether you’ve been involved in a minor fender-bender or a major collision, knowing your rights can help you recover. Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents:

Distracted Driving

In 2020, over 324,652 individuals were injured in car accidents due to distracted driving, such as texting or using a GPS while behind the wheel.

Speeding

Driving above the speed limit often prevents drivers from reacting in time to avoid accidents, putting everyone at risk.

Driving Under the Influence

Despite the well-known dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, about 37 people in the U.S. die every day due to drunk-driving crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Extremal Factors

Sometimes accidents occur due to unforeseen factors like weather conditions, mechanical failures, or human error. It’s crucial to stay alert and regularly maintain your vehicle to avoid such issues.

Regardless of the cause, hiring an experienced car accident lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected. A skilled lawyer will gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.

What you should do after a car accident

Right after a car accident, it’s important to take the following steps to protect your well-being and legal rights:

Ensure Your Safety:

If possible, move to a safe location and assess any injuries. Even if you feel fine, check for signs of injury, as symptoms might not appear immediately.

Call Emergency Services:

Call 911 to report the accident and request medical help, even for minor injuries.

Exchange Information:

Collect contact information from all parties involved in the accident, including car insurance details and witness statements.

Document the Scene:

Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, traffic conditions, and surrounding areas, as these will be essential for your case.

Notify Your Insurance Company:

Immediately report the accident to your insurance provider. Your attorney can assist in ensuring that your insurance covers all damages and help negotiate for a fair settlement.

What you should not do after a car accident

While it’s clear what to do in the aftermath of a car accident, there are several common mistakes you should avoid:

Admit Fault:

Never admit responsibility for the accident, as your statement may be used against you later in court.

Delay Medical Attention:

Even if you feel fine, seek medical evaluation, as some injuries might not be immediately apparent.

Neglect Documentation:

Failing to gather important details and documents, such as police reports and witness contact info, can harm your case.

Accept Early Settlement Offers:

Do not accept any settlement offers without consulting a lawyer. Insurance companies may try to offer less than what you’re entitled to.

Should you hire a lawyer for your car accident?

While some minor accidents may not require a lawyer, consulting with an experienced attorney is recommended, especially if you’ve suffered significant damage or injury. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Fullerton can guide you through the legal process, ensuring you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Whether you’re facing medical bills, vehicle repair costs, or emotional distress, hiring a lawyer can help you navigate your options and protect your legal rights.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which have long-lasting effects on an individual’s health. Here are some of the most common injuries:

Whiplash

A sudden jolt can cause whiplash, leading to neck pain and stiffness that may last for weeks or months.

Broken Bones and Dislocated Joints

Car accidents can lead to fractures, dislocated joints, and other musculoskeletal injuries.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

A blow to the head can cause TBIs, leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional effects.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Serious accidents may result in spinal cord damage, leading to partial or full paralysis.

Internal Injuries and Bleeding

Internal injuries such as organ damage or internal bleeding can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Emotional Trauma

Aside from physical injuries, car accidents can also lead to emotional trauma, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

It’s essential to seek immediate medical care to ensure proper treatment for any injuries. Medical records can also strengthen your case and help secure compensation for your recovery.

Questions to ask before hiring a lawyer

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Fullerton and are looking for legal help, you might be overwhelmed by the number of lawyers available. Asking the right questions will help you choose the best attorney for your case. Here are some important questions to ask before hiring a Fullerton car accident lawyer:

What is Your Experience with Car Accident Cases?

It’s crucial that the lawyer has experience specifically handling car accident cases. While general legal experience is important, you need someone who understands the complexities of car accident law.

How Many Cases Like Mine Have You Handled?

Ask about the lawyer’s experience with similar cases, whether they’ve dealt with truck accidents, bike accidents, or wrongful death claims.

What is Your Success Rate in Obtaining Settlements or Verdicts for Your Clients?

Inquire about the lawyer’s track record with car accident cases, including how many settlements or court verdicts they’ve successfully secured for clients.

What are Your Fees and Payment Structure?

Ensure you understand the lawyer’s fees, including any upfront costs. Many car accident lawyers offer free consultations, allowing you to assess whether they’re a good fit.

How Will You Communicate with Me Throughout the Process?

Clear communication is key. Make sure you know how often the lawyer will update you on your case and their preferred method of contact.

The legal process and time frames

Understanding the legal process and the time frames involved in filing a lawsuit is crucial for setting your expectations. With this knowledge, you will have a clear idea of what to expect as you work with your Fullerton car accident attorney. Typically, the process unfolds in the following stages:

Initial Consultation

The first step is scheduling a consultation with your attorney. During this meeting, you’ll discuss the details of the accident, the injuries sustained, and the potential legal options. Your attorney will outline the steps they will take to help you secure a favorable outcome.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Once hired, your Fullerton car accident attorney will begin gathering evidence to support your case. This includes obtaining police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photographs of the accident scene. If necessary, the lawyer may consult experts or work with a team to strengthen your case. The duration of this phase depends on the complexity of the case.

Filing the Lawsuit

After gathering the necessary information, your lawyer will file a complaint with the court, outlining your claims and the damages you have incurred. It is important to note that in California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. Therefore, it is essential to act promptly.

The Discovery Phase

Following the filing of the lawsuit, both parties enter the discovery phase. This involves the exchange of documents, evidence, and witness testimony. Discovery can include depositions, interrogatories, and requests for documents. The length of this phase depends on the complexity of the case and the willingness of both parties to cooperate.

Mediation and Settlement Negotiations

Before going to trial, your case may enter mediation or settlement negotiations. During this stage, a neutral mediator helps facilitate negotiations between both parties to reach a settlement. If successful, this can save time and resources compared to a trial. Always ensure your lawyer is present during these negotiations to protect your interests.

Trial

If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. Both sides will present their evidence, call witnesses, and argue their case in front of a judge or jury. After the trial, the judge or jury will deliberate and render a verdict based on the information presented.

Compensation You Can Recover After an Accident

After a car accident, victims are entitled to various types of compensation to cover the financial, physical, and emotional impacts of the incident. Below are the types of compensation you may be eligible for:

1. Economic Damages

Economic damages are tangible, measurable losses that can easily be calculated. These include:

Medical Expenses

This covers the cost of medical treatments such as emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical care required due to the accident. Keeping track of all medical bills and records is crucial to ensure proper reimbursement.

Lost Wages

If the accident leaves you unable to work, you can seek compensation for both lost wages and future income that you will miss due to the long-term effects of your injuries.

Property Damage

Property damage compensation covers the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the accident. Keep receipts and documents to prove the extent of the damage.

2. Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are less tangible and more subjective, making them harder to quantify but still important. These damages include:

Pain and Suffering

This compensates for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. The amount varies based on the severity of the injury and its impact on your daily life.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

If the accident limits your ability to participate in activities or hobbies you previously enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation for the loss of enjoyment in life.

Loss of Consortium

This compensates for the impact of the accident on your relationship with your spouse, covering loss of companionship, affection, and intimacy due to the injuries sustained.

3. Punitive Damages

In cases where the defendant’s actions were grossly negligent or intentional, punitive damages may be awarded. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.

Why you need to hire a Fullerton car accident lawyer

When dealing with a car accident, securing the compensation you deserve requires skilled representation. A Fullerton car accident lawyer offers several advantages:

Knowledge of Local Laws

A Fullerton lawyer is well-versed in California’s traffic laws and understands the intricacies of local legal processes. Their expertise is invaluable when building a strong case.

Experience with Local Courts

Filing a claim can be overwhelming, but an experienced local attorney is familiar with the court procedures, judges, and legal personnel, making the process smoother.

Network of Experts

Your attorney has access to a network of local experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, who can strengthen your case and expedite the process.

Contact for a Free Consultation with a car accident attorney in Fullerton

If you have been in a car accident in Fullerton, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced attorneys are ready to guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Get in touch today for a free consultation, and let us help you achieve the justice you need.

FAQS About Car Accident Charges

Ready to speak with a Fullerton car accident attorney? Contact us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online.