Sacramento Car Accident Lawyers

Seriously Injured in a Car Accident in Sacramento?

Have you been injured, missed work, or struggled with bills after someone hit your car in Sacramento? Thompson Law’s top car accident lawyers can help you get the money you need to recover.

Insurance companies often try to pay you less by saying the crash was partly your fault. Our strong legal team makes sure that doesn’t happen. We fight for every dollar you deserve for your injuries and losses. You pay nothing unless we win your case. Call us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

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Common Types of Crashes Our Sacramento Car Accident Attorneys Handle

Our Sacramento car accident lawyers possess the capabilities to handle an extensive range of vehicle crash cases. Whether it’s a minor collision or a much rather severe accident, our legal team works thoroughly to uncover every detail and fight for the compensation victims deserve.

Here are some of the most common types of car accidents we handle:

Fatal Car Accidents

These devastating crashes leave families grieving and facing huge financial burdens. We help families get money for funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional pain of losing someone you love.

Rear-End Collisions

These happen often in stop-and-go traffic on Sacramento freeways. Even at low speeds, they can cause whiplash and back injuries that last for years.

T-Bone or Side-Impact Collisions

When a car hits you from the side (like at an intersection), there’s little protection. These T-bone crashes often happen at places like Alhambra and J Street when someone runs a red light.

Head-On Collisions

These extremely dangerous crashes happen on rural Sacramento County roads like Jackson Highway. They often cause severe injuries or death because of the combined force of both vehicles.

Speeding Accidents

Sacramento sees many crashes from people driving too fast, especially on wide roads like Sunrise Boulevard. High-speed impacts often cause much worse injuries.

Weather-Related Accidents

When winter rain hits Sacramento, crashes increase. The first rain after a dry spell makes roads extra slippery from built-up oil.

Accidents Involving Elderly Drivers

As we age, driving becomes more challenging. Accidents involving older drivers often happen at complex intersections or when visibility is limited.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Unfortunately, Sacramento has many drivers who flee after causing a crash. We help victims find all possible ways to get compensation, even when the other driver can’t be found.

Rideshare Accidents

If you’re hurt in an Uber or Lyft in Sacramento, figuring out insurance coverage gets complicated. Our lawyers know how to navigate these complex cases.

Driverless or Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

As autonomous vehicles become more common on Sacramento streets, new legal questions arise about who’s responsible when they crash.

Intersection Accidents

Sacramento’s busy intersections like Watt and Fair Oaks are hotspots for crashes, often caused by drivers running red lights or turning without looking.

If you’ve been hurt in any of these types of crashes, our car accident lawyers in Sacramento can help you get money for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. Call us today to learn how we can help.

Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Sacramento

Car accidents in Sacramento happen for many reasons, but the ones below are the most common:

  • Distracted driving:  Looking at phones, eating, or adjusting the radio takes your eyes off the road. For example, reading a text takes about 5 seconds at 55 mph, which can be described as driving the length of a football field with closed eyes.
  • Speeding:  Going too fast for conditions is dangerous, especially on busy streets like Howe Avenue or during Sacramento’s foggy winter mornings.
  • Drunk or high driving:  Just one drink slows down your reactions. Sacramento police has regular DUI checkpoints on major roads like Folsom Boulevard.
  • Reckless driving:  Weaving through traffic on I-5 or tailgating on Madison Avenue creates dangerous situations for everyone.
  • Not yielding:  Not being able to yield at tricky intersections like Howe and Fair Oaks leads to a ton of preventable crashes.
  • Weather problems:  Sacramento’s heavy winter rain and dense Tule fog make driving hazardous if you don’t slow down.
  • Car problems or road issues:  Bad brakes, worn tires, poorly marked construction zones, or confusing road signs can all lead to crashes.

How to Prove Negligence in a Sacramento Car Accident Case

You have to prove negligence in order to hold someone accountable for a car accident. Drivers in Sacramento are legally required to observe traffic laws and be responsible so that the safety of others, including passengers, pedestrians, and fellow drivers, are met. A driver who doesn’t fulfill this duty can be held liable for their actions.

Proving negligence requires four main elements:

  1. Duty of Care:  The at-fault party must have had a legal obligation to act responsibly and safely on the road.
  2. Breach of Duty:  Show that this duty was violated, such as by speeding, texting while driving, or ignoring traffic signs.
  3. Causation:  Demonstrate that the breach directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries.
  4. Damages:  Provide evidence of harm, such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, caused by the accident.

Sacramento uses “pure comparative negligence” rules. This means even if you were partly at fault, you can still get compensation. For example, if a texting driver hit you while you were speeding, and you’re found 20% at fault, you could still get 80% of your damages covered.

If you’re not sure about how the negligence law is going to affect your case, you can reach out to our experienced Sacramento car accident lawyers who are more than willing to guide you throughout your process for a FREE CASE REVIEW and fight for the financial compensation you deserve.

Call for Your Free Consultation

(844) 308-8180

Time Limits for Filing Car Accident Claims in Sacramento

Don’t wait to take action after a crash. Sacramento follows California’s law, which gives you just two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. This might seem like plenty of time, but building a strong case takes longer than most people think.

For children hurt in crashes, the two-year clock starts when they turn 18. If you’re suing a government entity (like if a Sacramento city vehicle hit you), you must file a claim within six months.

Miss these deadlines, and you could lose your right to compensation forever.

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Car Accident in California?

Sacramento follows a law that allows car accident victims to seek compensation for damages that were done by another driver’s negligence. Generally, there are two categories when it comes to these damages: economic damages (special damages) and non-economic damages (general damages).

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover specific financial losses from the accident. These include:

  • Doctor and hospital bills
  • Physical therapy costs
  • Lost wages from missing work
  • Future medical care you’ll need
  • Car repair or replacement
  • Help around the house if you can’t do normal activities

When it comes to calculation, economic damages aren’t difficult to compute because there’s usually bills and invoices that can be used as evidence. Our Sacramento car accident lawyers will review your financial records to determine the full amount you’re owed.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are for intangible losses that don’t provide an exact monetary value, such as:

  • Physical pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress and anxiety
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Permanent scars or disfigurement
  • Loss of consortium (damage to your relationships)

Even though it may be much harder to calculate, non-economic damages are just as important. Insurers may refer their calculations on jury verdicts in similar cases. Our legal team here at Thompson Law will work to ensure you receive fair compensation for these losses.

Punitive Damages

In extreme cases, like drunk driving crashes, Sacramento courts sometimes award punitive damages to punish outright bad behavior.

While no compensation can truly restore your health condition or bring back a loved one, filing a claim can help cover financial losses and give you a sense of justice.

At Thompson Law

Our Sacramento car accident lawyers know the local courts, the insurance companies, and the challenges accident victims face. We gather evidence, talk to witnesses, work with medical experts, and negotiate with insurance companies so you don’t have to.

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What to Do After a Car Accident in Sacramento

Going through a car accident is scary and can be traumatizing, but knowing what to do after makes a huge difference in the outcome. With this, you’re able to protect your rights and make sure you’re getting the compensation you deserve. It’s important to follow these steps so you can strengthen your claim and recover the money needed for damages.

Here are six important steps to take after a car accident in Sacramento:

1. Move to Safety

If your car can still drive and it’s blocking traffic, pull over to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights so other drivers can see you. On busy Sacramento roads like Business 80 or Arden Way, this step might prevent another crash.

2. Call 911

Sacramento police need to know about your accident. When they arrive:

  • Tell only what you know for sure happened
  • Don’t guess about details you’re unsure of
  • Never say “I’m fine” if you feel any pain at all
  • Ask for a copy of the accident report number

The Sacramento Police Department creates official reports that insurance companies and courts take seriously.

3. Take Pictures of Everything

Your phone camera is your best tool right after an accident. Take photos of:

  • All car damage from multiple angles
  • The entire accident scene, including the road
  • Traffic signs and signals nearby
  • Weather and road conditions
  • Your injuries, even minor ones
  • License plates of all vehicles involved

For example, if you crashed at the notoriously dangerous Howe Avenue and Fair Oaks intersection, photos of the traffic light timing could be crucial to your case.

4. Find Witnesses

Ask anyone who saw what happened for their name and phone number. Witnesses often leave quickly, so do this right away. Sacramento is full of businesses with security cameras that might have caught your accident. Look around for cameras at gas stations, stores, or traffic lights.

5. See a Doctor Right Away

Many injuries don’t hurt right away because of adrenaline. Sacramento has excellent medical facilities like Mercy General Hospital and UC Davis Medical Center where you can get checked out.

6. Call a Sacramento Car Accident Attorney

Insurance companies often offer quick, low settlements hoping you’ll accept before knowing the full extent of your injuries. A local Sacramento accident lawyer knows:

  • How Sacramento courts handle car accident cases
  • Which insurance companies serve our area and their tactics
  • The true value of injuries like yours based on Sacramento medical costs
  • How Sacramento’s comparative negligence laws affect your case

Sacramento has some unique traffic challenges, from downtown’s grid system to the heavy commuter traffic on the Capital City Freeway. The best car accident lawyers in Sacramento are aware of these factors.

Remember: what you do in the first hours after your accident can affect your case for months or years to come. Take these steps to protect yourself and your right to fair compensation.

Contact Thompson Law today for a FREE CONSULTATION about your case.

Common Car Accident Injuries in Sacramento

Car crashes in Sacramento happen every day, from tiny bumps to serious wrecks. These accidents often lead to injuries that can change your life. Here’s what you need to watch for if you’ve been in a crash.

Your body takes a beating during a crash, even at low speeds. These are the injuries we see most often:

  • Whiplash When your head snaps forward and back, damaging neck muscles and ligaments
  • Head injuries:  From mild concussions to serious brain damage
  • Neck and back pain:  Often from muscle strain or damaged discs
  • Spinal cord injuries Can cause weakness, numbness, or even paralysis
  • Burns:  From airbags, hot engine parts, or vehicle fires
  • Soft tissue damage:  Bruised or torn muscles that can take months to heal
  • Broken bones:  Especially wrists, ribs, arms, and legs
  • Internal bleeding Hidden injuries that might not show symptoms right away
  • Cuts and scrapes:  From broken glass or impact with parts of the car
  • Mental trauma:  Anxiety, PTSD, and fear of driving again

Always see a doctor after an accident, even if you feel okay. Some injuries take days to show symptoms, and a medical record helps protect your legal rights.

High-Risk Roads in Sacramento

Some Sacramento streets see more crashes than others. Make sure you watch out for these high-risk areas:

  • Watt Avenue and Fair Oaks Boulevard:  This busy intersection averages 15-20 crashes every year, making it one of Sacramento’s most dangerous crossroads
  • Howe Avenue and Arden Way:  Heavy shopping traffic leads to frequent fender benders and serious crashes
  • Florin Road Corridor:  Especially between Stockton Boulevard and Franklin Boulevard, with numerous side-street entrances creating collision risks
  • Stockton Boulevard near the UC Davis Medical Center:  High pedestrian traffic and frequent emergency vehicles create hazardous conditions
  • Business 80/Capital City Freeway:  Particularly at the E Street and 16th Street exits, where merging traffic causes frequent accidents
  • I-5 through Downtown Sacramento:  Sees nearly 30 fatal crashes annually, with congestion and construction zones adding to the danger
  • Madison Avenue between I-80 and Sunrise Boulevard:  Fast-moving traffic and multiple commercial entrances create a perfect storm for crashes.

How Much Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge in Sacramento?

Worried about lawyer costs after your crash? Good news: our Sacramento car accident lawyers don’t ask for money upfront.

We work on what’s called a contingency fee. This means:

  • You pay nothing unless we win your case
  • Our payment comes as a percentage of your settlement
  • We cover the costs of building your case (court filing fees, expert witnesses, accident investigations)
  • If we don’t win, you owe us nothing

This system means everyone can afford quality legal help after an accident, regardless of their financial situation. The standard contingency fee for Sacramento accident lawyers ranges from 33% to 40% of your settlement, depending on whether your case settles quickly or goes to trial.

Call Thompson Law’s Sacramento car accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Sacramento Car Accident Statistics

The roads in Sacramento can be dangerous. Traffic data shows alarming trends that affect everyone who drives, walks, or bikes in our city.

According to the Sacramento Transportation Authority, our city saw 54 traffic deaths in 2022, up from 49 the previous year. This 10% increase happened even though many people were still working from home part-time.

Drunk driving remains a serious problem on Sacramento streets. Police reports show that alcohol played a role in about 28% of all fatal crashes in our county last year. That’s 15 families who lost loved ones because someone chose to drink and drive.

Drug use behind the wheel is equally concerning. Testing revealed that nearly half of drivers killed in Sacramento crashes had some type of drug in their system. Marijuana was the most common, followed by prescription medications and harder drugs.

Not wearing seatbelts continues to cost lives. Sacramento County recorded 12 deaths last year involving people who weren’t buckled up. Most of these victims were thrown from their vehicles during the crash.

Motorcycle accidents are particularly dangerous on our busy roads. Sacramento saw 17 motorcycle deaths last year, with 3 involving riders who weren’t wearing helmets. The intersection of Watt Avenue and Auburn Boulevard has been especially hazardous for motorcyclists.

Teen drivers in Sacramento face high risks too. New drivers were involved in over 800 crashes last year, with 9 resulting in deaths. The area around local high schools sees a spike in accidents during afternoon dismissal times.

Pedestrians remain vulnerable on Sacramento streets. Last year, 14 people died while walking in our community, mostly while crossing major roads like Stockton Boulevard and Florin Road. Many of these accidents happened after dark.

Bicycle safety shows some improvement. Sacramento recorded 3 cyclist deaths in 2022, down from 5 the year before. The addition of protected bike lanes downtown may be helping, but dangerous conditions persist in many areas.

These aren’t just numbers. Each statistic represents a real person and a family forever changed by a preventable tragedy. Understanding these patterns helps us all make safer choices when traveling Sacramento’s streets.

Sacramento County Car Accidents Statistics

According to Sacramento’s traffic records system, the county averaged 982 crashes per year recently. This is much lower than Los Angeles County’s 4,572 crashes per year, but way higher compared to small counties like Modoc (12 crashes yearly) or Sierra (9 crashes yearly).

The number of crashes in Sacramento has fluctuated, with 1,037 crashes in 2022, the highest in recent years. For comparison, nearby counties like San Bernardino and Riverside averaged 1,324 and 1,210 crashes annually.

Some areas of Sacramento see more accidents than others:

  • Downtown intersections during rush hour
  • Highway 50 and I-80 interchanges
  • Watt Avenue corridor
  • Arden Way shopping areas
  • Florin Road commercial district

For more detailed data, visit the TIMS website.

Call Thompson Law About Your Car Accident Case

At Thompson Law, we’ve recovered over $1.9 billion for injured people and we know exactly how to handle Sacramento insurance companies.

You pay nothing unless we win your case. That’s our promise. Sacramento has a limit on how long you can wait to file a claim, so don’t delay. Call us today and you could have a lawyer working on your case within 15 minutes.

Why Choose Thompson Law

After a crash, you need help right away. One quick call connects you with a Sacramento accident expert who will guide you through every step of the process. No waiting, no confusion, just immediate support when you need it most. Reach out for a FREE CONSULTATION to get started.

FAQs About Car Accidents in Sacramento

What should I do if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?

This happens a lot in Sacramento. In 2022, about 22% of California drivers were reported have no insurance at all.

If you have uninsured motorist coverage on your own policy, we can help you file a claim with your insurance company. Most Sacramento drivers have this coverage, which typically matches your liability limits.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes! Sacramento follows California’s “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means you can recover money even if you were partly responsible for the crash. Your compensation gets reduced by your percentage of fault.

Can you sue a minor for a car accident in Sacramento?

Yes, but the process works differently than with adult drivers:

  • Parents can be held responsible if they knowingly let an unsafe teen drive
  • The teen’s insurance (usually their parents’ policy) typically covers damages
  • If the teen was driving recklessly or breaking the law, additional liability may apply

Our Sacramento car accident lawyers can investigate the incident, analyze the driver’s behavior, and determine whether a minor or their parents are responsible for the damages. Contact us for a consultation to discuss your options.

How long does it take to settle a car accident case in Sacramento?

Every case is different. Simple cases might settle in 3-6 months. Complex cases with serious injuries can take 1-2 years. At Thompson Law, we always try to resolve cases quickly, but never at the expense of getting you the full compensation you deserve.

Can I claim compensation for emotional distress after a car accident?

Absolutely. Physical injuries aren’t the only damage from accidents. Sacramento courts recognize emotional suffering too:

  • Anxiety and depression
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Fear of driving
  • Sleep problems
  • Relationship difficulties

Thompson Law Guarantee

Thompson Law charges NO FEE unless we obtain a settlement for your case. We’ve put over $1.9 billion in cash settlements in our clients’ pockets. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident, get your questions answered, and understand your legal options.

State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident, so call today.