Best Car Accident Lawyers in California

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Or refine your search by selecting a city:

Bates Law
San Diego, United States

English
Bates Law, located in San Diego, California, specializes in personal injury and workers' compensation cases. With over 20 years of experience, the firm has successfully resolved thousands of cases, demonstrating a deep commitment to securing maximum compensation for clients who have suffered due to...
Sweet James Accident Attorneys
Newport Beach, United States

English
Sweet James Accident Attorneys stands as a premier law firm in California, recognized for its deep expertise in personal injury law and insurance claims. The firm's experienced attorneys have successfully represented thousands of clients, handling cases involving car accidents, motorcycle...
Alaa Ibrahim Law Firm, APC
Anaheim, United States

English
Alaa Ibrahim Law Firm, APC is a distinguished legal practice based in California, offering robust representation in personal injury cases and a wide range of legal services. The firm's experienced attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of California law and are adept at handling complex litigation...
Nye, Stirling, Hale Miller & Sweet, LLP
Santa Barbara, United States

Founded in 1989
15 people in their team
English
Nye, Stirling, Hale, Miller & Sweet LLP is a civil litigation firm with a national reputation for pursuing complex, high-stakes matters on behalf of individuals and institutions. The firm focuses on litigation in areas including education, employment, civil rights, intellectual property, consumer...

Founded in 1998
English
The Ledger Law Firm | Personal Injury and Car Accident Attorneys is widely recognized throughout California for its committed advocacy on behalf of injury victims. The firmโ€™s team of seasoned trial attorneys brings decades of experience to every case, handling a broad spectrum of personal injury...
Law Offices of Brent W. Caldwell Injury Attorneys
Huntington Beach, United States

English
Law Offices of Brent W. Caldwell Injury Attorneys is a highly regarded law firm in California dedicated to representing individuals in personal injury, civil litigation, and insurance claim disputes. The firm is led by Brent W. Caldwell, an attorney with a proven track record of securing...
Vivian & Agil Law
Santa Rosa, United States

English
Vivian & Agil Law is a Santa Rosa, California law firm that focuses on family law, criminal defense, personal injury, mediation, and trial practice. The firm handles divorce, child custody and support, spousal support, domestic violence restraining orders, DUI and other criminal matters, and a wide...
Cohen Legal

Cohen Legal

30 minutes Free Consultation
Santa Monica, United States

Founded in 2001
1 people in their team
English
Spanish
Cohen Legal offers top-tier personal injury representation in Santa Monica, specializing in car accidents, wrongful death, and more. Led by Wayne Cohen, the firm provides compassionate, results-driven service, with millions recovered for clients. Pro bono services also available for civil rights...
Goodrow Law Office
San Francisco, United States

English
Goodrow Law Office, based in San Francisco and Santa Barbara County, California, specializes in personal injury and civil litigation. Founded by attorney Russell Goodrow, the firm has over a decade of experience representing clients in cases involving car accidents, motorcycle crashes, slip and...
RP Law Group
San Bernardino, United States

Founded in 2003
English
RP Law Group, based in Riverside, California, specializes in workers' compensation and personal injury cases. Founded in 2003 by attorney Raj Patel, the firm has successfully handled over 1,000 cases, recovering millions in compensation for clients. Their expertise encompasses a wide range of...
AS SEEN ON

About Car Accident Law in California, United States

Car accident law in California is governed by a mix of state statutes, regulations, and case law that determine how liability and compensation are handled after a motor vehicle accident. California operates under a fault-based system, meaning those responsible for causing accidents are held liable for resulting damages. Victims of car accidents can seek compensation through insurance claims or civil lawsuits, often for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Understanding your rights and obligations after a car accident in California is crucial to protecting your interests and ensuring fair compensation.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Not every car accident requires the help of an attorney, but there are several situations where legal assistance is beneficial. You may need a car accident lawyer if:

  • You suffered significant injuries or long-term disability from the accident.
  • Liability is disputed or multiple parties are involved.
  • The insurance company denies your claim, offers a low settlement, or delays payment.
  • The other driver was uninsured or underinsured.
  • You face legal action or need to defend yourself in court.
  • There are complexities such as commercial vehicles, government vehicles, or pedestrian involvement.

Lawyers help gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, ensure your claim follows deadlines and requirements, and represent you in court if necessary.

Local Laws Overview

There are several key aspects of California law to keep in mind after a car accident:

  • California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, allowing you to recover damages even if you are partially at fault, though your recovery may be reduced by your percent of fault.
  • Drivers are legally required to stop, provide information, and assist after an accident causing property damage or injury.
  • You must report collisions resulting in injury or death to local police or highway patrol within 24 hours and to the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days if the accident involved injury, death, or property damage exceeding a certain amount.
  • The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in California is two years from the date of the accident. Property damage claims generally have a three-year limit.
  • California law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage for bodily injury and property damage.

Being familiar with these laws helps protect your rights and ensures compliance with legal duties after a car accident.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a car accident in California?

Check for injuries, call 911 if needed, move to a safe area if possible, exchange information with the other driver, document the scene, and report the accident as required by law. Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly.

Do I need to call the police after a minor accident?

California law requires you to contact law enforcement if there are injuries or deaths. For minor property damage only, it is still advisable to have an official police report for insurance purposes.

What if the other driver is uninsured?

If the other driver is uninsured, you may make a claim under your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage if you have it. You can also sue the at-fault driver directly, though recovery may be challenging if they have limited assets.

How is fault determined in California car accidents?

Fault is determined by reviewing evidence such as police reports, witness statements, physical damage, and accident reconstruction. California uses comparative negligence, so more than one driver can share fault.

What damages can I recover after a car accident?

Possible damages include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, property damage, and compensation for pain and suffering. The exact types and amounts depend on the specifics of your case.

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

You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit and three years for property damage. Filing late can bar you from recovering compensation.

Will my insurance rates go up after an accident?

Your insurance rates may increase if you are found at fault. Rate increases depend on your insurer, policy, driving history, and the details of the accident.

What happens if I am partially at fault?

California law allows you to recover damages even if you are partly at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Can I still recover if I was not wearing a seatbelt?

You may still recover damages, but your failure to wear a seatbelt can be considered in determining comparative fault and may reduce your compensation.

Should I accept the insurance settlement offer?

Insurance companies often make initial offers that may not reflect the full value of your claim. Consult an attorney before accepting any settlement to ensure your rights and interests are protected.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance regarding car accidents in California, consider the following resources:

  • California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
  • California Highway Patrol
  • California Courts Self-Help Center
  • State Bar of California Lawyer Referral Services
  • Local city or county bar associations
  • National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

These organizations provide educational materials, forms, and assistance for motorists and accident victims.

Next Steps

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in California and need legal help, consider the following steps:

  • Gather and organize all documents related to the accident, including photographs, police reports, medical records, and insurance correspondence.
  • Consult with an experienced car accident attorney to evaluate your case and explain your options.
  • Contact your insurance company and report the accident as required by your policy and state law.
  • Do not admit fault or sign any documents without understanding your rights.
  • Follow up on medical care and keep detailed records of your expenses and injuries.

Taking prompt and informed action maximizes your chances of a favorable outcome and ensures you receive the compensation you deserve.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in California through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Car Accident, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in California, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.