Los Angeles is famous for its traffic.. Indeed, Los Angeles has a reputation as one of the worst cities in the nation to drive in, and has even been listed as one of the worst cities in the world for traffic congestion.
Traffic congestion is not just frustrating; it is also dangerous. The more cars that are on the road, the greater the risk of car accidents. Los Angeles County reports more collisions that result in injuries and fatalities than any other county in the state.
Being in a car accident can be life altering, especially if the accident leaves you with serious injuries. At the Dolan Law Firm, we are committed to helping our clients. Our Los Angeles car accident lawyers have experience in successfully handling a wide variety of car accident cases.
If you or someone close to you has been involved in a car crash, you may be allowed to pursue legal action to recover for your injuries. We want to help you receive the settlement that compensates you for your damages, and are available to meet for your free consultation today.
Call us toll-free at 888-424-5352 or fill out our contact form so we can discuss your case.
The High Cost of Los Angeles Auto Accidents
Car accidents are unfortunately an all-too-common occurrence. And when they happen, they can be serious.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety 4,285 people were killed in car accidents in 2021. And in 2022 in Los Angeles alone, over 300 people succumbed to traffic collisions on city streets, including pedestrians and bicyclists.
While you may be a cautious and careful driver, you may find yourself injured following a vehicle incident due to someone else’s negligence. Here are the many and significant causes behind car accident injuries:
- Speeding or driving recklessly;
- Driving while fatigued or while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol (drunk driving);
- Distracted driving, such as using a mobile phone;
- Failing to obey traffic signs and laws;
- Failing to properly yield to other vehicles or pedestrians.
Even if your car accident does not result in a fatality, you may still suffer serious emotional and physical injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain damage;
- Broken bones;
- Blunt-force trauma;
- Internal injuries and / or bleeding;
- Mental anguish;
- Cuts and lacerations;
- Burns;
- Neck or Back injury (whiplash);
- Concussions;
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis.
These injuries may be minor or they can leave you with long-lasting impairments.
Determining Liability after a Los Angeles Car Accident
If you are involved in a car accident, you will want to find out who is at fault, and whether or not you can get compensated for the losses you have suffered. Our office has devoted years to successful litigation and we meticulously study every case that we take on.
To do so, understanding the concept of liability and the legal theory of negligence is important – both of these factors will have a large affect on your ability to reach a settlementafter a crash.
California is an at-fault car insurance state, also known as a tort liability state. This means that whoever causes an accident is liable–or legally responsible–for the damages that result. Liability is based on negligence, the failure to exercise a proper duty of care. Acts that may be considered negligent range from those acts that are actually illegal (like driving while intoxicated) to acts that are merely unsafe (like having an unsecured pet in the car and attending to it while driving).
It is also important to remember that California recognizes the rule of comparative negligence, which holds that while a plaintiff can recover compensation from a negligent defendant, the plaintiff’s recovery award can be reduced in proportion to their own degree of fault.
Fault can have a significant effect on the amount of money you are able to recover through injury claims after a crash. Therefore, opening an investigation into your accident that proves that the crash would not have occurred but for the action(s) of the responsible party is key. Our lawyers will investigate the facts that establish liability.
Damages Recoverable in a Los Angeles Vehicle Accident Claim
Once fault for your car collision has been established, the next step is determining the amount of damages that you have suffered. Damages that are recoverable in a car accident claim or lawsuit may include:
- Medical bills and expenses. If your car accident resulted in any injuries, you may be compensated for the reasonable value of these costs, both present and future, including any hospital or doctor visits, surgery or other procedures, physical therapy, medication, and more.
- Lost wages. Injuries are often disabling, leaving a person temporarily or permanently unable to work and earn an income. When this is the case, compensation for the reasonable value of your lost wages and future lost wages may be awarded.
- Pain and suffering. Noneconomic damages, such as the value of your pain, suffering, emotional distress, loss of quality of life, etc., may also be available as part of a car accident settlement. Our lawyers can help you to understand how these damages are calculated and what your claim may be worth.
- Property damages. If your vehicle or property was damaged in the crash, you may be entitled to seek compensation for the cost of repairs or a replacement.
- Ongoing physical impairment or disability. If you suffer permanent injuries from your auto accident, you may be compensated for the continuing impact they will have on your life, your relationships, and your earning potential.
Find experienced auto accident attorneys in Los Angeles. At Dolan Law Firm, we work hard for our clients. As our client, we will provide you with options and determine the right course of action for your individual case. The Dolan Law Firm will seek all appropriate damages for your case, which may include economic and noneconomic losses, and if appropriate punitive damages. If your collision involved the loss of a loved one, the Dolan Law Firm attorneys may seek wrongful death damages in your case.
How Our Los Angeles Auto Accident Lawyers Help You
If you have been in a car crash, you may not think that you need an attorney. While it iss true that lawyers are not always necessary, working with one may significantly improve the outcome of your case. This is especially true when fault is disputed, your claim has been denied, or/and you have suffered serious injuries.
In those situations, you should speak to a car accident attorney immediately to get the information you need. At the Dolan Law Firm, our Los Angeles car accident lawyers team can help you by:
Investigating your case. Our lawyers have the resources that are required to thoroughly investigate your case. In addition to speaking with witnesses, gathering evidence, and reviewing police reports, we can also hire accident reconstruction specialists and other experts on your behalf.
Calculate your damages. We use our knowledge and years of experience to determine the value of your damages. We also work with experts and outside professionals when appropriate to establish the value of your case. Unlike an insurance company, we never shortchange the amount of damages you have suffered, always fighting for the full value of your losses.
Determine and prove liability. In order to improve your chances of recovering the damages you deserve, you must prove the liability of the other party. As experienced car accident attorneys in Los Angeles, we can handle this part of the claim process for you, so you can focus on your recovery.
Manage your claim. We manage all elements of your claim, including talks with an insurance adjuster, organizing documents, and ensuring that your claim is brought forth within the required time frame. We have a dedicated and experienced staff who assist us in being effective.
Assist with your recovery: Navigating the medical system is tough, especially if you are in pain. With our knowledge and resources, we can help make sure you have access to the resources you need, while offering advice on dealing with claims and creditors.
Negotiate a settlement. You should never accept a first settlement offer; they are typically less than a claimant deserves. If we handle your case, we will negotiate your settlement to improve your chances of getting the highest compensation possible.
Litigate your case. Finally, in the event that out-of-court negotiations are unsuccessful, we can litigate your case in court. We will guide you through this option as needed.
Together, we will work diligently to advocate on your behalf and build the strongest case for you.
Call Our Car Accident Lawyers in LA Today
There is no doubt that you deserve to be compensated when you are involved in an accident caused by the negligence of another party. If you have experienced a vehicle accident, you are likely scared, shocked, and confused. There is a lot to consider, and we know it can be overwhelming.
However, if you do not hire a lawyer, you may not recover a settlement amount that is fair and just.
When you speak with our lawyers, we will discuss your accident with you and provide you with legal advice free of charge. If you decide to hire our law firm, we will work on a contingency fee basis. (Attorneys are not paid for their time unless there is a recovery for your case.)
To schedule a free consultation, please call us today or send us a message. Our legal team is ready to advocate for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is the Dolan Law Firm one of the best Los Angeles auto accident attorneys?
Since our founding in 1995, we have a proven track record of obtaining successful outcomes for our clients and getting them the justice and the compensation they deserve. We have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements, including $6.5 million, $6 million, and $5.3 million dollar settlements for car accident claims.
Our team of attorneys, including founder Chris Dolan, are highly skilled leaders in the industry, and have been recognized by legal industry organizations and publications throughout California for our successes in Los Angeles and the Bay Area. Together, we will give you the personalized attention, resources, and dedication you deserve.
View more of our success stories, and learn more about our firm and our commitment to our clients.
What does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles?
At Dolan Law Firm, we don’t ask for upfront payments or charge hourly fees. We will evaluate your case for free, and if we agree to take it, we will only get paid a contingency fee if we achieve a verdict or a settlement. Your success is our success. Submit a contact form today so we can reach out to you.
How long do I have to pursue a case with a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles?
Any lawsuit you file will be bound by a statute of limitations under California law, which determines how long you have to file a claim. Different types of cases can involve different statutes of limitation. Some statutes can be as short as six months, so contacting a lawyer as soon as possible is advised.
If you feel that you have a potential lawsuit, we recommend that you speak to a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles as soon as you feel able and comfortable, so they can properly evaluate your specific case and the amount of time you would have to file.
Contact us today if you would like to discuss your potential case.
With the help of a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles, how long will it take to see compensation for my injuries?
Every case is different, but in general, the legal process can be time-consuming, especially when determining liability. As soon as practical for a case we will prepare and present a demand for settlement.
We understand you may already be in a difficult position, so we can offer guidance and advice on getting treatment and dealing with any financial difficulties in the meantime.
What other cases does a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles undertake?
With offices throughout California, Dolan Law Firm is dedicated to helping those that have experienced injustice and are actively looking for the compensation that they deserve. Among our personal injury practice areas include:
If you are considering legal representation, reach out to our team of experienced car accident lawyers in Los Angeles for a free case today.
