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Understanding California Car Accident Lawsuits

When these accidents occur, knowing your legal rights and options is essential. You may be able to bring a personal injury lawsuit to recover a damages award.

California Car Accident Laws

Car accident cases fall under the personal injury law umbrella. As such, each state has unique car accident laws. California car accident laws include the following:

  • Drivers are required to have a minimum of $15,000 per person in bodily injury liability insurance
  • If involved in a car accident, drivers must report the collision to the police or California Highway Patrol (CHP) and show their driver's license, vehicle registration card, evidence of financial responsibility, and current address to the other driver or persons involved, or to a peace officer
  • The driver of any vehicle involved in a car accident must, within 24 hours, make a written report of the crash to the California Highway Patrol or to the police department of the city where the accident occurred if the collision resulted in injuries or death
  • Regardless of who is at fault in the accident, if a driver does not have insurance, they can only recover economic damages
  • Drivers must file an SR-1 form and provide their driver's license or identification (DL/ID) card, their vehicle's plate number or vehicle identification number (VIN), and their vehicle's insurance information
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Filing a California Car Accident Lawsuit

You may be entitled to compensation if you have been involved in a car accident in West Covina and suffered injuries or property damage. California law allows accident victims to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver to recover damages for their losses. These damages include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. To recover damages, the victim must provide evidence of their losses, such as:

  • Medical bills
  • Pay stubs
  • Repair estimates
  • Testimony about the impact of the accident on their life and finances

However, filing a car accident lawsuit can be complex and challenging. You’ll need to keep the following in mind:

  • California follows a comparative fault system, which means that compensation is apportioned based on the percentage of fault assigned to each party
  • To prove fault, the victim must show that the other party was negligent or acted recklessly, and this negligence caused the accident and their injuries
  • Evidence such as police reports, eyewitness testimony, and medical records can help establish fault

Using an experienced car accident lawyer in West Covina is essential for securing the best possible outcome in your case. Car accidents can lead to complex legal processes involving negotiations with insurance companies, evidence collection, and potentially even courtroom litigation. An experienced car accident lawyer possesses in-depth knowledge of the local laws and regulations specific to West Covina, ensuring your rights are protected and leveraged to your advantage.

Mauro Fione Jr. with Fiore Legal Injury Attorneys on a cell phone sitting in his office

What Is the Statute of Limitations For Car Accidents in California?

California has a statute of limitations of two years for personal injury claims and three years for property damage claims. If the victim fails to file within the specified time frame, they may lose their right to compensation.

The statute of limitations can be extended when:

  • There is a reasonable delay in the discovery of an accident-related injury
  • The defendant cannot be located or is imprisoned
  • The victim was a minor or disabled at the time of the accident

Car Accident Representation From a Real Trial Firm

Most personal injury lawyers want to settle your car accident case quickly, meaning you agree to accept money in return for dropping your action against the person who injured you. You'll sign a release absolving the other side of any further liability. 

Fiore Legal is not your average law firm. We are a real trial firm looking at your issue from a different perspective than lawyers who will pressure you into settling, whether or not it’s your choice. Because we always have your best interests at heart, we would never settle a case unless for the total value. We’re here to represent you in your pursuit of justice, whatever that takes.

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Fiore Legal Fights For West Covina Car Accident Victims

The legal process can be complex, and navigating the system can be daunting. Knowing that you have a team behind you from start to finish is invaluable when facing legal issues, such as car accidents in California. To simplify the process, you deserve a personal injury lawyer invested in your case as a confidant, not just someone looking to make a quick buck from settling for less.

You deserve Fiore Legal, a firm invested in the West Covina community. We work tirelessly to understand and represent those fighting against insurance companies. This dedication has resulted in eight locations with over thirty team members committed to providing their community with extensive experience and empathy. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

FAQs

What are the first steps to take after being involved in a car accident in West Covina?

What damages can I recover in a car accident lawsuit in California?

How does the statute of limitations impact filing a car accident claim in California?

What role does comparative fault play in car accident cases in California?

How can an experienced car accident lawyer help with my case in West Covina?

Why is it important to seek legal representation for a car accident case?

What sets Fiore Legal apart in representing car accident victims in West Covina?

What are the first steps to take after being involved in a car accident in West Covina?

After a car accident, it's essential to seek medical attention for any injuries and report the accident to the police or California Highway Patrol (CHP). Gathering information from the scene, such as contact details of the parties involved and any witnesses, can also be helpful.

What damages can I recover in a car accident lawsuit in California?

In a car accident lawsuit, you may be entitled to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. These damages aim to compensate for the losses incurred due to the accident.

How does the statute of limitations impact filing a car accident claim in California?

California has a statute of limitations of two years for personal injury claims and three years for property damage claims. Filing within these time frames is crucial to preserve your right to seek compensation.

What role does comparative fault play in car accident cases in California?

California follows a comparative fault system, where compensation is apportioned based on the percentage of fault assigned to each party involved in the accident. Understanding this system is important in assessing potential recovery.

How can an experienced car accident lawyer help with my case in West Covina?

An experienced car accident lawyer can provide valuable assistance in navigating the complexities of the legal process, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing your best interests in pursuing rightful compensation.

Why is it important to seek legal representation for a car accident case?

Engaging the services of a dedicated car accident lawyer can provide the legal expertise and support needed to navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that your rights are protected and leveraged to your advantage.

What sets Fiore Legal apart in representing car accident victims in West Covina?

Fiore Legal is a real trial firm dedicated to representing car accident victims and pursuing justice on their behalf. With a commitment to understanding and representing clients fighting against insurance companies, Fiore Legal offers extensive experience and empathy to the West Covina community.

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