San Diego Car Accident Lawyers

Contact Our San Diego Car Accident Lawyers Today

At Thompson Law, we help car accident victims get fair compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Our experienced San Diego car accident lawyers build strong cases backed by solid evidence, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

After an accident, finding a lawyer shouldn’t add to your stress. With just one call or message, you can talk to an expert, sign up online, and have a lawyer working on your case in ASAP. No appointments, no delays, just the immediate help you need.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait for insurance companies to take advantage of you. Call us now to get started.

How Much Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge in San Diego?

Most car accident lawyers in San Diego work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless they win your case. This system allows accident victims to get legal help without worrying about upfront costs.

Here’s how it works:

• No Win, No Fee:  If your lawyer doesn’t secure a settlement or verdict, you owe nothing.
• Percentage of Settlement:  If your lawyer wins your case, their fee is a percentage of your compensation. This percentage is typically between 33% and 40%, depending on the case’s complexity.
• No Hidden Costs:  Many lawyers cover upfront expenses like filing fees and investigation costs. These costs are deducted from the settlement once the case is resolved.

Because lawyers only get paid if they win, they are motivated to fight for the highest possible compensation. If you have questions about legal fees or need help with a claim, contact our San Diego car accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION today.

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Car Accident in San Diego?

Victims of car accidents in San Diego can seek compensation for their losses. Damages fall into two categories:

Economic Damages

These cover direct financial costs caused by the accident, such as:

• Medical expenses (doctor visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescriptions)
• Lost wages and future loss of income
• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation costs, home care, etc.)

Economic damages are easier to calculate since they have clear dollar amounts based on bills and receipts.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate for personal suffering and losses that do not have a set price, including:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of companionship in wrongful death cases

Non-economic damages can be harder to calculate, but they are often significant, especially in severe injury cases.

Punitive Damages

In rare cases where a driver’s behavior was especially reckless, such as drunk driving or road rage, the court may award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the at-fault driver and prevent similar behavior in the future.

No amount of money can undo an accident, but fair compensation can help you rebuild your life and cover financial losses.

How to Prove Negligence in a San Diego Car Accident Case

To win a car accident claim, you must prove that another driver was negligent. Negligence means the driver failed to act responsibly, causing the crash and your injuries.

There are four main elements needed to prove negligence:

• Duty of Care:  The driver had a legal responsibility to follow traffic laws and drive safely.
• Breach of Duty:  The driver acted recklessly, such as by speeding, running a red light, or texting while driving.
• Causation:  Their reckless behavior directly caused the accident and your injuries.
• Damages:  You suffered financial losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, or vehicle repairs, because of the accident.

Evidence like police reports, witness statements, photos, and medical records can help prove negligence.

San Diego follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning even if you are partially at fault, you can still recover compensation. For example, if you are 20% responsible for an accident and your damages total $10,000, you would receive $8,000.

If you’re not sure how negligence laws affect your case, reach out to our experienced San Diego car accident attorneys for a FREE CASE REVIEW. We’ll guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Time Limits for Filing Car Accident Claims in San Diego

If you were injured in a car accident, you only have a limited time to file a claim. In San Diego, the statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits is two years from the date of the crash.

If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover compensation. However, there are some exceptions:

• If the injured person is a minor, the deadline is extended until they turn 18.
• If the at-fault party is a government entity (such as a city or county vehicle), you must file a claim within six months.

It is best to start the legal process as soon as possible to avoid missing important deadlines.

Why Choose Thompson Law As Your Car Accident Lawyers?

As one of the best personal injury law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated car accident lawyers who are ready to fight for your legal rights.

At Thompson Law, we understand the emotional distress that comes with serious injuries, and we are committed to providing you with the best legal representation possible. Our trial lawyers are not afraid to take your case to court if necessary and have successfully secured billions of dollars in compensatory and punitive damages for our clients.

We have extensive experience working with insurance companies, large corporations, and medical professionals, and we know how to get you the results you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not have to pay anything until we win your case.

Don’t let a personal injury case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law’s San Diego Car Accident Lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated injury attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

San Diego Car Accident Statistics

Car accidents are a serious issue in San Diego, contributing to injuries and fatalities each year. Here are some statistics from SanDiegoCounty.gov to highlight the risks on local roads:

• In 2023, San Diego County recorded over 18,000 car crashes, slightly down from 19,593 in 2021.
• In San Diego, alcohol-related crashes increased by 16% in 2021, contributing to 1,370 deaths statewide.
• Pedestrian fatalities rose by 9.4%, with 1,108 deaths in 2021.
• Motorcycle fatalities increased by 3%, with 565 deaths in 2021.

These numbers show how dangerous the roads can be. If you’ve been injured in an accident, Thompson Law is available for the best, reliable legal help in San Diego.

Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in San Diego

Car accidents in Diego often happen because of preventable mistakes or reckless behavior. Here are the most common causes:

• Distracted driving:  Texting, eating, or even adjusting the radio can cause a crash in seconds.
• Speeding:  Driving too fast for road conditions or exceeding the speed limit increases the risk of serious accidents.
• Driving under the influence:  Alcohol or drug impairment slows reaction time and impairs judgment, leading to severe accidents.
• Reckless driving:  Weaving through traffic, tailgating, or ignoring traffic signals leads to avoidable collisions.
• Failure to yield:  Many accidents happen when drivers ignore right-of-way rules at intersections.
• Weather-related issues:  Rain, fog, and slippery roads make it harder to stop or control a vehicle.
• Other factors:  Faulty car parts, poorly maintained roads, or confusing signage may direct liability to manufacturers or local agencies.

Common Types of Car Accidents Our San Diego Attorneys Handle

Our legal team of San Diego car accident lawyers handles a wide range of car accident cases, from minor fender benders to fatal crashes. Here are some of the most common types of accidents we see:

Fatal Car Accidents

Losing a loved one in a car crash is devastating. We help families seek justice and financial compensation to cover funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Rear-End Collisions

These often happen in traffic when a driver isn’t paying attention. Even at low speeds, they can cause painful neck and back injuries like whiplash.

T-Bone or Side-Impact Collisions

These crashes are especially dangerous because the sides of cars provide less protection. They often happen when someone runs a red light or stop sign.

Head-On Collisions

Some of the deadliest crashes involve two cars hitting each other front-first. They usually happen at high speeds and often lead to life-threatening injuries or fatalities.

Speeding Accidents

Speeding makes accidents worse because higher speeds mean stronger impacts. These crashes often lead to serious injuries, including broken bones and spinal cord damage.

Weather-Related Accidents

San Diego doesn’t get much rain, but when it does, roads become slippery fast. Many drivers fail to slow down in wet conditions, causing avoidable crashes.

Accidents Involving Elderly Drivers

Aging can affect reaction time, vision, and coordination, leading to more accidents involving older drivers.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

If the at-fault driver flees the scene, you may feel hopeless. But don’t worry because our San Diego car accident lawyers use police reports, surveillance footage, and witness testimony to help track them down.

Rideshare Accidents

Accidents involving rideshare drivers are legally complicated because of insurance coverage issues. We make sure you’re not left dealing with medical bills on your own.

Driverless or Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

With more autonomous vehicles on the road, liability in these crashes is often unclear. We investigate whether the car manufacturer, software developer, or human driver was at fault.

Intersection Accidents

Most car accidents happen at intersections because drivers fail to yield, run red lights, or make risky left turns.

If you or someone you love has been in an accident, you don’t have to go through this alone. Let us fight for you. Call today for a FREE CASE REVIEW, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

What to Do After a Car Accident in San Diego

What you do after a car accident can make a big difference in protecting your rights and getting fair compensation. Taking the right steps helps you recover the money needed for medical bills, car repairs, and lost wages. Here are six important steps to follow after a car accident in San Diego:

1. Move to a safe location
   If possible, get out of traffic and find a safe spot. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. If your car is drivable and blocking traffic, move it to the side of the road. If it’s not safe to move, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives.
2. Call 911 immediately
   A police report is one of the strongest pieces of evidence in an accident claim. If there are injuries, ask for medical assistance. When talking to the police:
   • Stick to the facts and avoid guessing or speculating.
   • Do not admit fault, even if you think you might be responsible.
   • If you are unsure about injuries, say that you don’t know rather than assuming you are fine.
3. Document the scene
   Take as many photos as possible, including:
   • Damage to all vehicles involved
   • License plates and insurance information
   • Any visible injuries
   • The crash site, including skid marks, debris, traffic signs, and road conditions
4. Gather evidence and witness details
   If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Check for any nearby security cameras or dash cams that may have recorded the accident.
5. See a doctor promptly
   Even if you feel okay, some injuries take time to show symptoms. Internal injuries, whiplash, and concussions may not be noticeable right away. Seeing a doctor helps document your injuries and connects them to the accident.
6. Contact Our Lawyers
   Handling an insurance claim alone can be frustrating and overwhelming. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A skilled attorney can negotiate on your behalf and help you get the compensation you deserve. Get a FREE CASE REVIEW.

High-Risk Roads in San Diego

San Diego has some of the busiest and most dangerous roads in California. Heavy traffic, speeding, and distracted driving contribute to a high number of accidents each year.

Some of the most accident-prone roads in San Diego include:

• Interstate 5 (I-5):  One of the most dangerous highways in California, I-5 runs through San Diego and sees a high number of crashes due to congestion and reckless driving.
• Interstate 8 (I-8):  This highway is a hotspot for accidents, especially near on-ramps and off-ramps where drivers merge at high speeds.
• State Route 78 (SR-78):  Known for frequent accidents, SR-78 has several dangerous intersections where crashes often happen.
• Interstate 15 (I-15):  Heavy commuter traffic, speeding, and distracted driving make I-15 one of San Diego’s riskiest highways.
• El Cajon Boulevard:   A high number of pedestrian accidents occur on this busy road due to speeding and jaywalking.

Driving carefully and staying alert on these roads can help reduce the risk of an accident. If you find yourself injured from a car accident, don’t wait until the last minute. Thompson Law is here to fight for what you deserve!

Car Accident FAQs for San Diego

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

If the driver who caused the accident doesn’t have insurance, you still have options:

• Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage:  If you have UM coverage in your auto insurance policy, it can help cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
• Other Insurance Policies:  In some cases, you may be able to seek compensation through other types of coverage, such as personal injury protection (PIP) or MedPay.
• Legal Action:  While suing an uninsured driver is an option, many uninsured drivers don’t have the financial means to pay damages. Our San Diego car accident lawyers can help you explore the best course of action.

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

Yes. San Diego follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means you can recover compensation even if you were partly responsible for the accident. However, your settlement will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

For example, if you were 20% at fault in a crash and your total damages are $100,000, your compensation would be reduced to $80,000.

Can you sue a minor for a car accident in San Diego?

Minors under 18 typically cannot be sued directly, but their parents or guardians may be held responsible in certain situations.

• Parental Responsibility:  Parents may be liable if they allowed their child to drive without a license or knew they were reckless behind the wheel.
• Minor’s Negligence:  Teen drivers must follow the same traffic laws as adults. If they cause an accident, their level of experience may be considered when determining fault.
• Willful Misconduct:  If a minor intentionally causes harm, such as engaging in reckless driving or using a vehicle as a weapon, their guardians may be responsible for the damages.

Our San Diego car accident attorneys can investigate the case, analyze the minor’s driving history, and determine who may be held liable. Contact us for a consultation to discuss your options.

How long does it take to settle a car accident case in San Diego

The time it takes to settle a car accident case varies. Some claims are resolved in a few months, while others take longer if litigation is required. Factors that affect the timeline include the severity of injuries, complexity of the case, willingness of the insurance company to negotiate, and whether the case goes to trial.

Insurance companies often delay settlements to pressure victims into accepting lower offers. An experienced lawyer can push for a faster resolution while ensuring you receive full compensation.

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

Yes. Emotional distress is part of non-economic damages, which compensate for pain and suffering, anxiety, PTSD, depression, and reduced quality of life caused by the accident. These damages are harder to quantify, but they can be significant, especially if the accident caused lasting trauma.