Car accidents in Los Angeles are more than just an inconvenient headline—they’re an everyday reality. With congested highways and bustling streets, the “City of Angels” sees more than its fair share of accidents, many of which have severe or life-changing consequences.
If you’ve been in a car crash, you might already be navigating through the pain of physical injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional stress. And just when you think it can’t get more overwhelming, there’s the daunting task of dealing with insurance companies and navigating legal claims.
That’s where hiring an experienced personal injury attorney becomes not just important—it becomes essential.
At Frantz Law Group, our auto accident lawyers specialize in personal injury and car accident cases, and are committed to helping LA car accident victims reclaim their lives and secure fair compensation.
Through this guide, we’ll walk you through key aspects of car accident claims, from understanding fault and liability to filing a claim and why having a trusted legal partner in a car accident attorney matters.
The Basics of Fault and Liability
When it comes to car accidents, determining fault and liability is at the heart of the entire legal process. But what does this mean, exactly?
Negligence and Its Role in Car Accidents
California follows a “pure comparative negligence” system, which allows you to recover damages even if you are partially at fault for an accident. However, your compensation will be adjusted based on your level of responsibility for the incident.
For example, if a negligent driver was 20% responsible for an auto accident, they could still recover 80% of the damages.
Negligence typically refers to actions—or inactions—that breach someone’s legal duty to ensure safety on the road. This includes everything from distracted driving (hello, texting!) to speeding or ignoring traffic signals.
Beyond the Driver
Fault doesn’t always stop with the other driver. Liability can extend to:
- Vehicle manufacturers for faulty parts or systems (think brakes or airbags that fail).
- Road maintenance authorities for dangerous potholes, unclear signage, or road design defects.
Each case is unique, and pinpointing the responsible parties often requires a skilled legal team.
Los Angeles Traffic Laws
Keep in mind, LA’s jam-packed roads are governed by traffic laws designed to minimize hazards. Violating these laws—whether by running a red light or driving under the influence—can heavily influence fault determination. At Frantz Law Group, we dissect every detail of car accident lawsuits to build a bulletproof case for our clients.
The Most Common Car Accident Injuries in LA
Car accidents can lead to a variety of injuries—some visible, others internal and long-lasting. Here are the most common injuries from vehicle collisions we often see in Los Angeles:
Whiplash
The sudden jerk of impact can strain or damage the neck muscles and ligaments. Whiplash can cause chronic pain, dizziness, and even long-term headaches.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
From concussions to severe brain injuries, head trauma is one of the catastrophic injuries from car accidents. TBIs can result in memory loss, cognitive issues, and significant medical costs.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, often necessitating lifelong medical care and rehabilitation.
Broken Bones
From minor fractures to compound breaks, the force of a collision often leads to broken ribs, arms, legs, or hips.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Sprains, tears, and bruises might appear minor but can cause ongoing issues without proper medical treatment.
If you’re dealing with any of these injuries, seeking medical assistance immediately is crucial—not just for your recovery, but also to document evidence as part of your claim. We can walk you through how to collect and preserve this evidence effectively.
Filing a Car Accident Claim in California
The claim process can feel like a maze with confusing and critical steps. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention
First and foremost, prioritize your health. Visit a doctor and seek medical treatment even if you feel “fine.” Internal injuries can take days—or even weeks—to surface.
Step 2: Report the Accident
File a police accident report immediately after the accident. This document is critical evidence for your insurance claim and potential personal injury lawsuit.
Step 3: Gather Evidence
Take photos of the accident scene, make notes about what happened, collect witness statements, and retain all medical bills and medical records yourself.
Step 4: File an Insurance Claim
Notify insurance providers as soon as possible, but tread carefully—insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts. Avoid giving recorded statements until speaking with an attorney.
Step 5: Negotiate or File a Lawsuit
Many claims turn into car accident settlements. But if negotiations fail, you may need to pursue legal action. A skilled attorney can escalate your claim to ensure fair compensation.
The Benefits of Hiring an Experienced Attorney
The legal process for motor vehicle accidents is rarely straightforward. Between confusing terminologies and relentless insurance adjusters, you need someone in your corner who knows the game inside out. Here’s how an experienced car accident attorney can help:
Handle the Heavy Lifting
From investigating the accident to negotiating with insurers, auto accident attorneys manage the time-consuming tasks so you can focus on recovery.
Determine the True Value of Your Claim
Evaluating all factors, including medical costs, pain and suffering, and future expenses, our California car accident lawyers can help determine the worth of your claim.
Bring in Experts
An experienced attorney has access to a network of experts, from medical professionals to accident reconstruction specialists, that can provide valuable evidence for your case.
Maximize Your Settlement and Compensation
A personal injury attorney understands the full scope of damages you’re entitled to, including medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but having an attorney on your side can ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Plus, if negotiations fail, they can take your case to court.
Navigate Legal Complexities
Whether it’s adhering to California’s strict filing deadlines or determining fault for property damage among multiple parties, legal expertise is invaluable. Even small mistakes can jeopardize your claim, making it essential to have a knowledgeable attorney by your side.
Don’t navigate the aftermath of a car accident alone. Contact Frantz Law Group today for a free consultation and let our experienced attorneys fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Remember, fault isn’t always cut-and-dried in car accidents—so don’t hesitate to seek professional help to receive the full extent of what you’re entitled to.
Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Meet our legal team.
Frantz Law Group: Your Partner in Justice
If you were injured in an LA car accident, you deserve more than just compensation—you deserve peace of mind. Here’s why Frantz Law Group is your best choice:
Your Recovery is Our Priority
We’re here to ensure you receive every dollar you’re rightfully owed, covering damages from medical expenses to pain and suffering.
Experienced Legal Team
With decades of experience, our attorneys know what it takes to win. We’ve recovered hundreds of millions for our clients knowing how to navigate the ins and outs with insurance providers.
Personalized Legal Representation
Your case is unique, and we treat it that way. You’ll receive tailored strategies and undivided attention at every step of the process.
Contact Us Today
Don’t wait—California imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. Schedule your free consultation with us today and take the first step toward justice.