Car Accident Attorney in Glendale

Car Accident Attorney in Glendale – Free Strategy Session

Every day, numerous car accidents occur in Glendale, leading to injuries and costly damages. Whether the cause is speeding, reckless driving, or distraction, the aftermath can be overwhelming. In such challenging times, it’s crucial to have an experienced Glendale car accident attorney by your side to protect your rights and ensure the responsible party is held accountable. Our team at My Rights Law is committed to offering expert legal support, fighting tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries and damages. We’ll guide you every step of the way, so you can focus on your recovery.

Ready to speak with a Glendale car accident attorney? Contact us now at (747) 231-5090 or contact us online.

What You Need To Know About Car Accidents

Car accidents happen quickly, often leaving little time to react. The consequences can be severe, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 1.19 million people lose their lives in car accidents annually. It’s essential to understand common causes, potential injuries, and legal ramifications of car accidents to ensure you are adequately prepared in case of an incident.

Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents:

Distracted Driving

Whether it’s texting, eating, or navigating using a GPS, distracted driving continues to be a major cause of accidents. In 2020 alone, over 324,000 people were injured in crashes linked to distracted driving.

Speeding

Speeding reduces reaction time, making it difficult for drivers to avoid collisions. Excessive speed increases the risk of severe accidents, putting everyone on the road at risk.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment and reaction time. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 37 people die every day in alcohol-related crashes, underscoring the deadly consequences of impaired driving.

Extreme Factors

Car accidents can also result from unpredictable factors like poor weather conditions, mechanical failures, or driver fatigue. While some of these factors are out of our control, maintaining your vehicle and staying vigilant can minimize risks.

Regardless of the cause, it’s essential to consult a skilled car accident lawyer to secure the legal support and compensation you deserve. A top Glendale car accident lawyer will assist with evidence gathering, insurance negotiations, and courtroom representation if necessary.

What You Should Do After a Car Accident

Immediately following a car accident, your actions can impact your health and your legal case. Here’s a guide on what to do:

Ensure Your Safety:

Move to a safe location if possible and assess your injuries. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to check your body for any hidden injuries, as some may not be immediately apparent.

Call Emergency Services:

Dial 911 to report the accident and request medical help. Even minor injuries should be evaluated by a professional, as symptoms may worsen over time.

Exchange Information:

Collect names, contact details, and insurance information from all involved parties. Also, gather witness statements and vehicle identification numbers (VINs) for your records.

Document the Scene:

Capture photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and traffic signs. These images can serve as vital evidence in your legal case.

Notify Your Insurance Company:

Inform your insurance company about the accident and seek assistance with the claims process. Your attorney can help navigate the complexities of insurance negotiations and ensure you are fully compensated for medical bills, property damage, and other losses.

What You Should Not Do After a Car Accident

In the aftermath of an accident, it’s easy to make mistakes. Avoid the following actions to protect your claim:

Admit Fault

Never accept blame or make statements that could be interpreted as an admission of fault. These remarks can be used against you in court.

Delay Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, don’t delay seeking medical treatment. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not manifest symptoms immediately but can worsen without proper care.

Neglect Documentation

Gather all relevant information, including medical records, repair bills, and communication with insurance companies. Proper documentation is essential for securing compensation.

Accept Early Settlement Offers

Do not agree to a quick settlement without consulting a lawyer. Insurance companies may offer settlements that are far lower than what you’re entitled to.

Should You Hire a Lawyer for Your Car Accident?

While minor accidents may not require a lawyer, if you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s wise to consult with an experienced Glendale car accident attorney. A lawyer can help you understand your legal options, assess the compensation you may be entitled to, and advocate for your best interests. If you’ve suffered significant injuries, a skilled attorney can help you secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can result in various injuries, some of which can have long-term effects on your health. Common car accident injuries include:

Whiplash

Whiplash occurs when the neck is jerked forward and backward, often causing pain and stiffness. It can lead to long-term discomfort if left untreated.

Broken Bones and Dislocated Joints

Fractures and dislocations are common in high-impact accidents, requiring medical intervention and rehabilitation.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-lasting effects on cognitive function.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal injuries can cause paralysis or permanent disability, requiring extensive treatment and ongoing care.

Internal Injuries and Bleeding

Internal injuries, including organ damage and internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if untreated.

Emotional Trauma

The psychological effects of a car accident, such as anxiety or PTSD, should not be overlooked. Treatment for emotional trauma is essential for recovery.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, seeking prompt medical attention is vital for your health and will also strengthen your injury claim. Medical documentation can play a crucial role in securing compensation for your injuries and related expenses.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Glendale and need legal help, it’s crucial to choose the right car accident lawyer. The process of finding the right attorney can be overwhelming with so many options available. To ensure you hire the best fit for your case, ask potential lawyers the following questions:

What Is Your Experience with Car Accident Cases?

Experience in handling car accident cases is crucial. Make sure the lawyer has a proven track record in personal injury law and specifically in car accident cases.

How Many Cases Like Mine Have You Handled?

Different car accidents come with different complexities. Ask the lawyer about their experience with cases similar to yours, including any that went to trial or settled outside of court.

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

Ask about the lawyer’s success rate in obtaining settlements or winning court cases. This will give you an idea of their effectiveness in securing compensation for clients.

What Are Your Fees and Payment Structure?

Clarify the lawyer’s fee structure. Many car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case. Make sure you understand any potential costs involved.

How Will You Communicate with Me Throughout the Process?

Clear communication is essential. Ensure the lawyer will keep you informed about your case’s progress and that you can easily contact them if you have any questions.

Asking these questions will help you make an informed decision when hiring a car accident attorney in Glendale. The right lawyer will provide the expertise and support you need to navigate your case and secure the compensation you deserve.

The Legal Process and Time Frames

Understanding the legal process is key to managing your expectations during a car accident lawsuit. By knowing the steps involved and the timeframes, you can be better prepared for what’s to come. Here’s how the legal journey typically unfolds:

Initial Consultation

First, schedule a meeting with your Glendale car accident attorney to discuss the details of your accident, injuries, and legal options. This is where your lawyer will lay out the plan and steps they will take to ensure the best outcome for your case.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Your attorney will start by gathering evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photos from the scene. This phase may involve consultations with experts, especially if your case is complex. The length of this process depends on the specific circumstances.

Filing the Lawsuit

Once your case is ready, your lawyer will submit a complaint to the court, outlining your claims and the damages. In California, it’s essential to file within two years from the accident date to preserve your legal rights. Missing this deadline could result in your case being dismissed.

The Discovery Phase

After the lawsuit is filed, both parties exchange information, documents, and evidence through the discovery phase. This stage includes depositions, written questions, and requests for documents. The timeline for this step can vary depending on the complexity of the case.

Mediation and Settlement Negotiations

Before going to trial, your case may undergo mediation or settlement talks. A neutral mediator can assist in reaching an agreement between you and the defendant, saving time and court resources. Your attorney will be essential during this stage to protect your interests.

Trial

If no settlement is reached, your case will proceed to trial. Here, both parties present evidence and call witnesses before a judge or jury. The judge or jury then deliberates and issues a verdict based on the presented information.

Compensation You Can Recover After an Accident

After an accident, victims are entitled to compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial toll it takes. Let’s break down the types of compensation you can recover:

1. Economic Damages

These damages are easier to calculate and include out-of-pocket expenses you incur due to the accident. Here’s what typically falls under economic damages:

Medical Expenses

Medical bills are often the highest expenses after an accident. These include hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and any rehabilitation treatments required. Be sure to keep all receipts and medical records to substantiate your claims.

Lost Wages

If your injuries prevent you from working, you are entitled to recover lost wages. This includes both past wages and future earnings if your injury causes long-term or permanent disability.

Property Damage

Any damage to your car or personal property can be compensated. Ensure that you keep repair bills or any proof of replacement to substantiate these claims.

2. Non-Economic Damages

These are less tangible but just as important. They compensate for non-monetary losses:

Pain and Suffering

This covers the physical pain and emotional distress you endure as a result of the accident. It can be challenging to quantify, but factors such as injury severity and recovery time influence the amount.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

If you can no longer participate in activities you once enjoyed due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life.

Loss of Consortium

Injuries affecting your relationship with your spouse or family can lead to compensation for loss of companionship, affection, and intimacy.

3. Punitive Damages

If the defendant’s actions were grossly negligent or intentional, the court may award punitive damages to punish the defendant and deter future misconduct.

Why You Need to Hire a Glendale Car Accident Lawyer

When dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, it’s crucial to hire a Glendale car accident lawyer who can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system. An experienced lawyer offers several advantages:

Knowledge of Local Laws

Your attorney will have an in-depth understanding of Glendale’s specific traffic laws and regulations, ensuring that your case is handled according to local legal standards.

Experience with Local Courts

Having experience in the local court system is invaluable. Your lawyer will be familiar with the court’s processes, judges, and staff, which can streamline your case.

Access to Experts

Your lawyer will have access to accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists who can provide essential insights to strengthen your case.

Contact for a Free Consultation with a Car Accident Attorney in Glendale

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us for a free consultation with a trusted Glendale car accident attorney. Our team at My Rights Law is ready to help you get the compensation and justice you deserve. Call today to get started!

FAQS About Car Accident Charges

Ready to speak with a Glendale car accident attorney? Contact us now at (747) 231-5090 or contact us online.