Types of Car Accident Claims We Handle
Every motor vehicle accident presents its own set of facts and legal issues. Factors such as the cause of the crash, the severity of the injuries, the available evidence, and the parties involved can all affect how a claim is handled.
We represent clients in a wide range of car accident matters, including:
- Rear-end collisions
- T-bone and side-impact accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Multi-vehicle accidents
- Distracted driving accidents
- DUI accidents
- Speeding and reckless driving accidents
- Highway and freeway accidents
- Intersection accidents
- Failure-to-yield accidents
- Left-turn accidents
- Hit-and-run accidents
- Rollover accidents
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist claims
- Accidents involving commercial vehicles
- Rideshare accidents (Uber and Lyft)
No matter how your collision occurred, our firm carefully evaluates the circumstances of the accident, the available evidence, and the extent of your injuries to determine the most appropriate course of action for your claim.
How Our Riverside Car Accident Lawyers Can Assist You
After a car accident, dealing with insurance companies, medical documentation, and legal issues can add stress during an already difficult time. At Najera Law Group, APC, we help guide clients through the personal injury process by handling the legal aspects of their claims and working to protect their interests.
Our representation may include:
- Investigating the accident - We review the circumstances surrounding the collision, gather available evidence, obtain relevant records, and identify information that may support your claim.
- Documenting your injuries and losses - We help organize medical records, treatment information, and other documentation related to the impact the accident has had on your life.
- Handling insurance communications - We communicate with insurance companies and other parties involved in the claim while working to ensure your rights and interests are considered throughout the process.
- Pursuing a resolution through negotiation or litigation - We evaluate settlement options and prepare cases for litigation when appropriate, using careful preparation and advocacy at every stage.
We understand that every accident is different, which is why we take the time to understand your circumstances and provide guidance based on the specific facts of your case.
Recovering Compensation After a Car Accident
A serious car accident can affect nearly every aspect of your life, from your physical health and finances to your ability to work and care for your family. Whether you suffered broken bones, a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, other catastrophic injuries, or your family is pursuing a wrongful death claim after the loss of a loved one, California law may allow you to seek compensation from the responsible party.
At Najera Law Group, APC, we carefully evaluate the facts of your case and the available evidence to identify the damages that may be recoverable.
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:
- Medical expenses - Emergency medical treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, physician visits, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and other reasonable and necessary medical care.
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity - Income lost while recovering from your injuries and, when supported by the evidence, compensation for a reduced ability to earn income in the future.
- Pain and suffering - Physical pain, emotional distress, inconvenience, and the ways your injuries have affected your daily life and overall well-being.
- Property damage - The cost to repair or replace your vehicle and compensation for other personal property damaged in the collision, when applicable.
Every car accident claim is different. The compensation that may be available depends on the specific facts of the case, the nature of the injuries, and other applicable legal and factual considerations.
Call (951) 821-4647 to speak with an experienced car accident attorney in Riverside. We can also be reached through our online contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Riverside?
If you're able to safely do so, move to a safe location, check for injuries, and call 911 to report the accident and request medical attention if needed. Exchange information with the other driver, take photos of the vehicles and the scene, and get contact information for any witnesses. Seeking prompt medical evaluation, even for injuries that seem minor at first, can be important both for your health and for documenting your claim.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in California?
California generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, though shorter deadlines may apply in certain situations, such as claims against a government entity. Because these deadlines can significantly affect your rights, it's best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to understand how the timeline applies to your specific case.
What if the other driver didn't have insurance, or didn't have enough coverage?
If you were injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, you may still have options for recovering compensation, including through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, if you carry it. We can review your policy and the circumstances of the accident to help determine what coverage may apply.
Will my car accident case go to trial?
Many car accident claims are resolved through negotiation with the insurance company without the need for a trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, we prepare cases for litigation so our clients are ready to pursue their claim in court if necessary.
What does it cost to hire a car accident attorney?
We handle car accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there is no upfront cost to you, and we only get paid if we recover compensation on your behalf. We also offer free initial consultations to discuss your case.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
California follows a comparative negligence rule, which generally allows injured individuals to recover compensation even if they share some fault for the accident, though the amount recovered may be reduced based on the degree of fault assigned. An attorney can help evaluate how this may apply to your situation.
How is pain and suffering valued in a car accident claim?
Pain and suffering compensation accounts for the physical and emotional impact of your injuries, including ongoing discomfort, distress, and the way the accident has affected your daily life. There is no fixed formula, and the value depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, your recovery, and the overall impact on your life.
Should I accept the insurance company's initial settlement offer?
Insurance companies often make early settlement offers that may not reflect the full extent of your damages, particularly before the scope of your injuries and future medical needs are fully known. Before accepting any offer, it's generally advisable to have an attorney review it to help ensure your interests are protected.
What should I do if I was injured in a rideshare accident, such as an Uber or Lyft crash?
Rideshare accidents can involve additional layers of insurance coverage and liability issues, depending on whether the driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request, or transporting a passenger at the time of the crash. These cases often require a careful review of the applicable policies, and we can help identify the sources of compensation that may be available.
How long does it typically take to resolve a car accident claim?
The timeline for resolving a car accident claim varies based on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the length of your medical treatment, and whether the insurance company disputes liability or the extent of damages. Some claims settle in a matter of months, while others involving more serious injuries or disputed liability may take longer to fully resolve.
