Car accidents can have long-lasting and devastating impacts on your physical, mental, and financial well-being. When accidents occur, many people do not understand their rights and unfortunately may rely solely on the guidance of insurance companies that quite frankly do not have their best interest in mind, Many insurance companies are focused on minimizing what you have been through in order to reduce the amount they must pay for the harm that you and your vehicle have sustained. At the Law Offices of Ali Yousefi, P.C., our Sacramento car accident lawyer, Ali Yousefi, will help make sure that you are not taken advantage of and are fully compensated for your injuries, missed wages, medical and follow-up care, and damage to your car.
How Can an Attorney Help with Your Car Accident Claim?
You might be wondering how a car accident attorney helps after you’ve been in an accident. The answer is that an attorney can help with your car accident claim in several ways. After receiving assistance for your immediate medical injuries, contact an attorney as soon as possible. They can speak to the insurance adjusters for you, help build a strong case for compensation, collect evidence, and represent your best interests. These steps position you to receive maximum compensation.
Negotiations
Insurance companies are in business to make money, and if they pay you the full value of your claim, they don’t make as much money. Their adjusters are trained in using certain tactics to influence the case and pay out less money to you than you are owed. In other words, they often take advantage of unrepresented parties who don’t know how the system is supposed to work.
They may try to get you to say something that they can interpret as an admission of fault. They will likely throw out a lowball offer in the hopes that you’ll take it before you even know what your case is worth or what expenses you will encounter down the road. Or they could deny legitimate claims altogether. If you don’t have an attorney, you might fall prey to any of these unfair practices that end up denying you the assistance you need and deserve.
Meet Deadlines
An attorney knows how to move the case along so that no deadlines are missed. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in California is two years from the date of the injury. If the discovery of the injury occurs later, then the statute of limitations is one year from the date it was discovered. That can sound like a lot of time, but building a case takes time—so you need to get started right away, and your lawyer will know what steps to take.
Prove Negligence
We can help you determine if you have a case for which you may recover damages.
Under California law, to file a case to pursue compensation for injuries and losses, you must establish the following:
- The accident occurred due to the negligence of another party,
- You sustained injuries and or other losses, and
- The accident caused your injuries and damages.
Your attorney is well-versed in what it takes to establish the other party’s negligence—even if you are partly at fault. California follows the legal doctrine of pure comparative negligence. This means that you can still get compensation if you suffer injuries in an accident for which you share the blame. Your compensation will simply be reduced by your percentage of fault. Therefore, if you have $100,000 in damages but are 20% at fault, you can still recover $80,000. Your lawyer knows how to minimize your percentage of fault and how to assert your claim.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in CA
Car accidents can occur due to a variety of factors, ranging from human error to environmental conditions. Here is a list of common causes of car accidents that we see most often at our firm:
- Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of car accidents is distracted driving. This includes activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging with electronic devices while operating a vehicle. Distractions divert attention away from the road, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
- Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or at an unsafe speed significantly raises the risk of accidents. Higher speeds reduce reaction times and make it more challenging to control the vehicle, increasing the severity of potential crashes.
- Drunk Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a dangerous behavior that impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times. Intoxicated drivers pose a serious risk to themselves and others on the road.
- Reckless Driving: Reckless behaviors, such as aggressive driving, tailgating, erratic lane changes, and running red lights, greatly increase the chances of accidents. Reckless drivers disregard traffic laws and compromise the safety of everyone sharing the road.
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, fog, or ice, can make driving more hazardous. Reduced visibility, slippery road surfaces, and decreased traction contribute to a higher risk of accidents.
- Fatigue: Driving while fatigued or drowsy can impair concentration, reaction times, and decision-making abilities. Fatigue-related accidents are particularly prevalent during late-night or long-distance driving.
- Failure to Obey Traffic Laws: Disregarding traffic signals, failing to yield the right of way, or improperly changing lanes can lead to collisions. Neglecting to follow basic traffic laws puts drivers and others at unnecessary risk.
- Inexperienced or Elderly Drivers: Inexperienced drivers, such as newly licensed teenagers, may lack the necessary skills and experience to handle challenging driving situations. Similarly, elderly drivers may experience reduced reflexes and impaired vision, which can contribute to accidents.
By being aware of these common causes, drivers can take proactive measures to avoid accidents and make responsible choices behind the wheel. Practicing defensive driving, maintaining focus, obeying traffic laws, and adapting to weather conditions are crucial steps toward creating a safer driving environment for all.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can have long-lasting effects on the victims. It is essential to understand the common types of car accident injuries to be aware of the potential risks involved. This list provides a brief overview of common car accident injuries and their associated details.
- Whiplash: Whiplash is a soft tissue injury that commonly occurs when the head jerks forward and then snaps back abruptly, causing strain to the neck muscles and ligaments.
- Head Injuries: Car accidents can cause various head injuries, including concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can range from mild to severe and have long-term effects on cognitive function.
- Back Injuries: Back injuries, such as herniated discs, spinal fractures, and sprains, can result from the forceful impact during a car accident, leading to chronic pain, limited mobility, and potential nerve damage.
- Chest Injuries: The impact of a car accident can cause chest injuries like broken ribs, collapsed lungs, or damage to internal organs, which may require immediate medical attention.
- Fractures: Car accidents often result in fractures of the arms, legs, ribs, or other bones, which can cause significant pain, require extensive treatment, and lead to prolonged recovery periods.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, such as contusions, lacerations, and bruises, are common in car accidents and can cause pain, swelling, and potential scarring.
- Psychological Injuries: Car accidents can also have psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, which may require therapy or counseling.
- Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, can occur without visible external signs, making them potentially life-threatening and requiring immediate medical attention.
Car accidents can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Victims may experience physical, emotional, and financial challenges as a result of these injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly and consult with a qualified personal injury attorney to understand your rights and pursue fair compensation for your damages.
Where Are the Most Dangerous Intersections in Sacramento?
We know what kinds of car accidents occur the most often, and we know what kinds of harm they can cause, but where do these accidents happen the most? That can depend on the type of accident involved. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, alcohol-involved accidents were the most prevalent type of motor vehicle crashes in Sacramento in 2020, and accidents involving pedestrians were the second most prevalent type of accident in the city.
Where Are the Most Dangerous Intersections in Sacramento for Alcohol-Related Accidents?
The Sacramento Bee reports that the following intersections were among the locations that saw the most alcohol-related collisions in recent years:
- Franklin Boulevard and Fruitridge Road. From 2013 to 2021, 2 people were killed, 1 person was severely injured, and 24 people were injured in alcohol-related accidents at this intersection.
- Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard and 47th Avenue. From 2013 to 2021, 1 person was killed, 3 people were severely injured, and 15 people were injured in alcohol-related accidents at this intersection.
- Watt Avenue and Auburn Boulevard. From 2013 to 2021, 1 person was killed, 3 people were severely injured, and 12 people were injured in alcohol-related accidents at this intersection.
- Florin Road and Stockton Boulevard. From 2013 to 2021, 6 people were severely injured, and 24 people were injured in alcohol-related accidents at this intersection.
Locating and identifying the most dangerous and deadliest intersections in Sacramento can help the city and others safeguard the well-being of both drivers and pedestrians. Information about potentially unsafe intersections can also help you identify unique hazards that might have been at play when your accident occurred.
At What Locations in Sacramento Do the Most Accidents Involving Pedestrians, Cyclists, and Other Motorists Occur?
The City of Sacramento’s Vision Zero program is dedicated to preventing crashes in the city. With its vision, the city has located where the most crashes occur within its boundaries. Through Vision Zero, the City of Sacramento has pinpointed the following corridors as corridors having the highest numbers of serious collisions:
- Florin Road. This corridor spans from 24th Street to Munson Way.
- El Camino Avenue. This corridor spans from Del Paso Boulevard to the paved levee trail near Steelhead Creek.
- South Stockton Boulevard. This corridor spans from McMahon Drive to Patterson Way.
- Marysville Boulevard. This corridor spans from North Avenue to Arcade Boulevard.
- Broadway/Stockton Boulevard. This corridor spans from Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard to 13th Avenue.
The city is conducting studies on these corridors to determine how to improve traffic safety in these areas. And if your accident occurred within one of these corridors, there might be location-specific factors that contributed to the harm you suffered.
Knowing the most dangerous intersections in the city can help you avoid future harm and gather evidence to prove your right to compensation in any accident that occurs. But no matter where a car crash occurs due to the wrong actions of another, you have the right to compensation and legal relief.
Economic, Non-Economic & Punitive Damages in California
In California, car accident victims may be entitled to three types of damages: punitive, non-economic and economic. Punitive damages are awarded in cases where the at-fault party’s conduct was especially reckless, willful, or malicious. These damages aim to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from engaging in similar behavior. Non-economic damages are awarded to victims who have experienced pain and suffering, humiliation, or loss of consortium due to an accident. Economic damages, on the other hand, are intended to compensate the victim for tangible financial losses resulting from the accident.
Economic damages may include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and future earning capacity. In California, there is no statutory cap on economic damages, allowing victims to seek full and fair compensation for their financial losses. However, punitive damages are subject to certain limitations, such as a requirement to provide clear and convincing evidence of the defendant’s misconduct. Consulting an experienced car accident attorney is crucial to navigating the complexities of pursuing punitive, non-economic and economic damages and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident?
In most cases, hiring an attorney following a car accident is wise. But it isn’t necessary to hire an attorney after every accident. If the accident was a minor fender bender where no one sustained injuries, an attorney might be unnecessary. However, if you have a small claim, you still deserve compensation. If you receive no resolution on your claim, you may need to hire an attorney, even if you do not have any significant injuries.
Is It Worth Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer?
If you sustain an injury in an auto accident due to the negligence of others, contacting a Sacramento car accident lawyer is an important step.
An attorney can build a strong case and position your claim in an advantageous way as they take your case to the negotiating table. They know how to handle the insurance adjusters and deflect their tactics that are designed to deny you the money you need and deserve. They know how to best present your case, and if negotiations fail, they know how to take your case to trial and win. They won’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. The at-fault party’s insurance company will likely have more resources than you do. But your attorney’s skills level the playing field and give you a much higher chance of getting full compensation.
What Are the Qualities of the Best Car Accident Attorney?
Finding the best car accident attorney near you can be critical to your case outcome. A skilled attorney can make all the difference in your case and your ability to receive the compensation you deserve. Let’s look at what qualities your attorney should possess.
Experience
When seeking an attorney, make sure they have years of experience winning your type of case. Additionally, find a lawyer who has ample trial experience. Most cases settle without going to a jury. We seek to resolve cases without litigation, if at all possible, to reduce costs and maximize client returns. However, out-of-court resolutions are not always possible. Thus, finding an attorney with trial experience is critical if your case goes to trial.
Compassion for Accident Victims
Finding a Sacramento car accident lawyer who cares for you as a person is vital to winning the best outcome for your needs. Compassion for accident victims makes the attorney-client relationship operate more effectively. When an attorney exhibits compassion, they will fight harder and more fully understand your concerns.
Determination
Insurance companies seek to maximize profits. They use countless tactics to discourage and demoralize victims who attempt to file claims or lawsuits. The attorney you hire should not only have experience achieving outcomes with the insurance companies, but they should possess the determination to push through any of the tactics adjusters typically use.
Who Pays for the Attorney in a Car Accident?
Like many personal injury lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means that our services are completely free unless and until we get money for you. If you win, we collect a fee based on a percentage of your settlement. You will never have to pay us out-of-pocket. We begin each case with a free consultation with no obligation to hire us.
Contact a Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer Today
You might wonder, How do I find a car accident attorney near me? Contact the Law Offices of Ali Yousefi, P.C. Attorney Ali Yousefi goes to work each day to see that clients are compensated for the injustices they have suffered. As an auto accident victim himself, he can personally relate to the physical, emotional, and mental toll the claims process can entail. The legal team at the Law Offices of Ali Yousefi, P.C. will fight aggressively for you so that you can focus on recovery.
We also focus on car accident claims such as:
Contact us today at 650-409-9701 or contact us online and see how our attorney Ali Yousefi can help you.