Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyers

Who is Responsible for a Car Accident in Los Angeles?

Determining responsibility in a car accident involves proving negligence or wrongful actions by one or more parties. Here are common ways a driver or other party may be at fault:

• Fatigued driving – Tired drivers often have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, making them as dangerous as drunk drivers.
• Distracted driving – Texting, talking on the phone, or focusing on anything other than driving can lead to serious accidents in seconds.
• Ignoring traffic rules – Failing to signal, running lights, or not following road signs often causes avoidable crashes.
• Speeding or driving too fast for conditions – Even driving at the speed limit can be unsafe in bad weather, heavy traffic, or poor road conditions.
• Impaired driving – Alcohol and drug use are major causes of crashes due to their effects on coordination and decision-making.
• Reckless driving – Behaviors like speeding through intersections or failing to yield to pedestrians are reckless and dangerous.
• Third-party issues – Sometimes, accidents are caused by external factors like defective car parts, poorly maintained roads, or unclear signage, which could make manufacturers or local agencies liable.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Los Angeles

What you do after a car accident plays a key role in protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. Following the right steps increases your chances of recovering the money you need for damages. Here are six important steps to take after a car accident in Los Angeles:

• Move to safety if possible. Get to a safe area away from traffic and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the accident.
• Call 911 immediately. Emergency services will secure the scene and file an official accident report. If medical attention is required, an ambulance will be dispatched. When speaking with officers:
  • Stick to the facts and avoid speculation.
  • Don’t admit fault, even if you think you might be partially to blame.
  • Mention that you’re unsure about injuries if you don’t feel immediate pain.
• Take photos to document the scene. Capture images of:
  • Vehicle damage, driver’s licenses, insurance cards, and license plates.
  • Visible injuries like bruises, cuts, or burns.
  • The crash scene, including debris, skid marks, and traffic signs.
• Collect evidence from witnesses. Get their contact details and check for video footage from nearby businesses or dashcams.
• Visit a doctor promptly. Even if you feel fine, a medical evaluation is essential for identifying hidden injuries and linking them to the accident.
• Contact our Los Angeles car accident attorneys. Handling a claim alone can be stressful and lead to lower settlements. Working with experienced attorneys often results in significantly higher compensation.

Dos and Dont’s After a Car Accident

At Thompson Law, our goal is to help you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages after an accident. Follow these important steps to protect your rights and avoid common mistakes.

How Will Hiring Auto Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles Help?

Being in a car accident is a stressful experience. On top of physical and emotional challenges, you may face the financial strain of medical bills, car repairs, and lost income. Dealing with these burdens while negotiating with insurance companies on your own can be overwhelming and often results in receiving far less compensation than you deserve.

That’s why reaching out to an experienced car accident lawyer in Los Angeles is crucial. Our team is here to protect your rights and help you recover the full compensation you’re entitled to. A Los Angeles car accident lawyer can:

• Investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
• Defend you if others attempt to shift blame onto you.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation based on the specifics of your case.
• File a lawsuit if a reasonable settlement cannot be reached.

At Thompson Law, our Los Angeles car accident lawyers have a proven track record of helping clients achieve maximum compensation for their injuries. Let us handle the legal work so you can focus on your recovery and moving forward.

What Compensation is Available to Car Accident Victims in LA?

While California law allows vehicle accident victims to seek compensation for their injuries, getting the full amount you deserve can be challenging. Having experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyers on your side is essential to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.

Compensation for vehicle accident injuries typically falls into two main categories: economic damages and non-economic damages. The total value of your claim depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the insurance policies involved. Here’s a breakdown of the damages you may be eligible to receive:

Economic damages include:

• Medical expenses, including future treatment and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and reduced earning potential
• Property damage for vehicle repairs or replacement
• Out-of-pocket costs like transportation, childcare, or home adjustments

Non-economic damages cover losses that are more difficult to calculate, such as:

• Pain and suffering caused by physical injuries
• Emotional distress, including anxiety and PTSD
• Loss of enjoyment of life, such as being unable to participate in activities you once loved
• Loss of companionship or consortium for affected family relationships

In certain cases, you may also be awarded punitive damages. These are designed to punish the at-fault party for gross negligence or intentional misconduct, such as drunk or reckless driving.

The compensation you receive will depend on the specifics of your case, including the evidence gathered, the severity of your injuries, and the insurance coverage available.

Our Los Angeles car accident lawyers will work diligently to evaluate your claim, build a strong case, and fight to secure the maximum compensation you’re owed. Let us handle the legal process while you focus on recovering.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents in Los Angeles can vary from minor bumps to serious collisions, often resulting in injuries that may need immediate or ongoing medical attention. If you or a loved one has been in an accident, it’s essential to recognize the symptoms of common injuries.

Here are some of the most frequent injuries caused by car accidents in Los Angeles:

• Whiplash
• Head injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Burn injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Paralysis
• Fractures bones
• Internal injuries, such as organ damage
• Lacerations, abrasions, and cuts
• Nerve damage
• Concussions
• Amputation
• Wrongful death

Even if you feel okay after a car accident, getting medical attention is crucial. Some injuries, such as internal damage or concussions, might not have immediate symptoms and could take days or weeks to appear. A medical evaluation can uncover hidden issues and ensure you get the necessary treatment for a proper recovery.

Why Choose Thompson Law as Your Car Accident Lawyer

Selecting the right legal team after a car accident is essential to your recovery and compensation. At Thompson Law, we combine experience, dedication, and a client-centered approach to every case. Here’s why you can rely on us to handle your car accident claim in Los Angeles:

• You don’t pay unless we win. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t owe us anything unless we secure compensation for you.
• Proven success. With over $1.9 billion recovered for clients, our team has the expertise to fight for the best possible outcome.
• Quick and easy process. Getting started is simple—call or message us anytime to speak with a lawyer. You can sign up online, and we’ll begin working on your case right away.
• Support around the clock. Accidents can happen at any time, so we’re available 24/7 to provide the help and guidance you need.
• Personalized attention. We treat every client with care and respect, answering your questions and keeping you informed throughout the process.
• Bilingual assistance. Our bilingual team ensures Spanish-speaking clients can access justice without language barriers.

At Thompson Law, we focus on securing the maximum compensation you deserve, allowing you to concentrate on healing. From managing insurance negotiations to building a strong case, we’re here to lighten your burden.

Don’t wait! California law limits the time to file a claim after a car accident. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let our Los Angeles car accident lawyers fight for the justice and compensation you need.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Laws in LA

Can I take legal action if I was working during my car accident?

Yes, you may be able to pursue both a workers’ compensation claim and a civil lawsuit. Workers’ compensation can cover your medical expenses and lost wages if the accident occurred while performing job duties. Additionally, you may file a lawsuit against third parties (non-employers) who were responsible for the crash. Our team has extensive experience handling car accident and workers’ compensation cases, ensuring you’re covered on all fronts.

Can you help me even if I’m undocumented?

Yes, we can. In California, your immigration status cannot be used against you in a personal injury case. When someone’s negligence causes you harm, it doesn’t matter why or how you’re here. Our legal team also takes steps to protect your privacy by raising objections to questions about your immigration status.

What should I do if the at-fault driver in my accident was uninsured?

You can still pursue compensation even if the other driver doesn’t have insurance. California requires all drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which may help cover your damages. If your own insurance policy doesn’t provide enough compensation, a car accident attorney can help explore other options, such as filing a lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Los Angeles?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file within this time frame, you may lose your right to pursue compensation. Certain exceptions may apply, such as if the claim involves a government entity or if injuries weren’t immediately apparent. A lawyer can help ensure your claim is filed on time.

Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault for my car accident in Los Angeles?

Yes, you can. California follows a “comparative fault” system, which allows you to recover compensation even if you share some of the blame for the accident. Your recovery will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For instance, if you are awarded $1,000,000 but are found to be 25% responsible, you would receive $750,000. Even if you are 99% at fault, you may still recover damages. Our skilled car accident lawyers in Los Angeles can help minimize your percentage of liability and maximize your compensation.