If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in San Diego, contact Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers at (858) 551-2090 for a free case consultation. Our experienced San Diego car accident lawyers can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
With 80 years of combined experience, we’ve recovered over $100 million for our clients. Let us fight for your rights and provide the answers you need after a car accident in San Diego.
How Pines Salomon Can Help You After a Car Accident in San Diego, CA
At Pines Salomon, we understand the gravity of post-accident life. It can be almost unmanageable to handle all the losses by yourself. You need help.
You can call us for assistance when you need to pick up the pieces after a bad car wreck.
Hiring a car accident attorney in San Diego can be the best move when trying to recover after a devastating car wreck.
When you hire our San Diego personal injury attorneys, you can rely on our ability to:
- Provide you with well-researched information about the law and your rights
- Gather all the relevant and necessary evidence pertaining to your case
- Speak with important witnesses who have information related to your accident
- Hire leading experts to help prove essential elements of your claim
- Speak with insurance company representatives to negotiate a settlement on your behalf
- Present your case in court if the other parties are unwilling to settle fairly
- Guide you through your post-accident recovery
It is true that a car accident can completely turn your life upside down in San Diego, CA. You can feel disoriented, overwhelmed, and pressured beyond belief. Having a trusted legal representative can be the key to your success. Talk with our experienced legal team to learn how we can assist you.
Why Should I Hire a San Diego Car Accident Attorney?
A car accident attorney in San Diego can increase your chances of maximizing your compensation after a car accident. An attorney will represent you throughout the legal process and protect your rights. They will ensure that the insurance company treats you fairly.
You might be thinking that handling your own negotiations can save you time and money. However, doing so will put you at a severe disadvantage when dealing with insurance companies and defense attorneys. Remember, these companies want to pay you as little as possible. If you have no experience in valuing personal injury cases and don’t understand the law, an insurer might try to take advantage of you.
Our lawyers don’t back down to insurance company representatives and we will never accept anything less than the best for our clients. We know all the tricks and tactics that insurance companies try to use. We don’t let them get away with it, so neither should you. Let us handle all the negotiations so you can be sure that you are receiving as much as possible for your claim.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
Most car accident attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay anything unless they win your case. If your attorney secures a settlement or award for you, their fees will be a percentage of the recovery. If they don’t win, you don’t owe a single cent.
At Pines Salomon, we believe that everyone should have access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on contingency fee and offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and determine if we are the right fit for your needs. If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, call our San Diego law office or email us to get started.
How Much Money Can I Get From a Car Accident Case?
It will largely depend on the severity of your injuries. The average comprehensive cost of a motor vehicle accident ranges anywhere from $17,500 to over $13 million.
Several factors can impact the value of your claim, including:
- Whether your injuries affect your quality of life and/or ability to earn a living
- The cost of your medical care
- Whether you need ongoing treatment or physical therapy
- The extent of your physical and emotional pain
- The parties involved in your case
- Whether you share any fault for the crash
You can significantly increase your chances of receiving a full financial recovery by hiring an experienced car accident lawyer.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit?
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. Waiting too long can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.
Filing your case promptly also ensures that crucial evidence, such as accident scene footage or witness testimonies, is preserved. Delaying could result in the loss of important evidence that could support your claim.
That’s why it’s essential to contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible.
If you’ve been involved in an auto accident in San Diego, don’t wait. Reach out to our experienced personal injury attorneys. We will protect your rights and ensure that you meet all the important legal deadlines for your automobile accident case.
What Types of Damages are Available After a Car Accident?
Injured car accident victims in California can seek compensatory damages. These are divided into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages cover the tangible financial losses you’ve incurred, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation costs
- Car rental and other out-of-pocket costs
These types of damages are typically easier to quantify because they can be supported by bills, receipts, or invoices. This makes it easy for the jury or insurance company to assign value to the corresponding expense or loss.
Non-economic damages address the more subjective, intangible consequences of your accident, which might include:
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Anxiety and depression
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship
Assigning a value to non-economic damages can be a more complex exercise, but our legal team will work with experts to ensure that you receive fair compensation.
In rare cases, punitive damages might also be available. Punitive damages can be awarded when the at-fault party’s behavior was reckless, grossly negligent, or malicious.
Can I Get Money if I Was Partly At-fault for My Auto Accident?
California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, which means that you can still recover compensation even if you’re partially responsible for the accident. However, your total recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but are found to be 30% at fault, you would receive $70,000. Our car accident lawyers will fight to minimize your liability and maximize your compensation.
You don’t have to shy away from bringing a claim simply because you think you might share some of the blame. It is always wise to consult a car accident lawyer in San Diego to find out whether your claim is worth pursuing. When in doubt, call our law office to discuss your options.
Will My Car Accident Case Go To Trial?
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, only about 3% of all cases proceed to the trial stage. The vast majority of civil lawsuits, which include auto accident cases, will be resolved prior to trial through a mutual settlement.
A settlement can save all parties involved precious time, money, and energy. Conversely, trials can be expensive and unpredictable. A settlement can provide assurance and finality to a dispute.
While most car accident cases settle before going to trial, some require litigation if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement. At Pines Salomon, we are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. We know that most cases will settle, but we won’t approach your case with the mindset that it will automatically settle. If we did, it could put you at a disadvantage when negotiating with an insurance company.
Our experienced car accident attorneys in San Diego are skilled negotiators but are also seasoned trial attorneys. We won’t hesitate to take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve. If the at-fault party or their insurance company refuses to negotiate in good faith or won’t offer a reasonable amount, we will prove your case in the courtroom to make sure you get the compensation you are entitled to.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in San Diego?
After a car accident in San Diego, your first priority should be ensuring your safety.
If you’re in a dangerous location, try to move to a safe area.
Once safe, follow these steps to protect your rights and strengthen your potential car accident claim:
- Call the police and report the accident
- Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver, including details of the driver’s insurance company
- Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any injuries you sustained
- Speak to witnesses and gather their contact details
- Seek prompt medical attention if you aren’t transported to the hospital
- Avoid making any statements to insurance companies until you’ve consulted a lawyer
It’s also crucial that you do not admit fault at the scene. Even an apology could be used against you later. Contact us for guidance on how to best protect yourself immediately following an accident.
Types of Car Accident Claims We Handle
At Pines Salomon, we have extensive knowledge and experience in handling a wide variety of car accident claims in San Diego, including:
- DUI accidents
- Uber and Lyft accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Rear-end collisions
- Head-on collisions
- Hit-and-run accidents
- Rollover accidents
- Single-vehicle accidents
- Multi-vehicle accidents
- Distracted driving accidents
- Speeding accidents
- Intersection accidents
Our firm has extensive experience in handling any San Diego car accidents. If you were injured in a truck accident or car wreck, our attorneys are dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable and securing the compensation you need. Call our San Diego personal injury law office to get started on your case.
Who Could be Liable for My Injuries Resulting from a Car Crash?
In a straightforward car accident case, identifying the at-fault party can be a fairly simple exercise. For example, if another driver rear-ended you at a stoplight, it is clear that they are responsible for your injuries.
However, not all accidents are so clear-cut. In multi-vehicle collisions or accidents involving commercial drivers, multiple parties may share liability for your injuries. This could include employers, vehicle manufacturers, bus drivers or even government entities if road conditions played a role in the crash.
We will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover all parties who are potentially responsible for your accident. Once we identify who’s to blame, we will fight to ensure that they are held accountable.
California Accident Laws
Is California a No-Fault Insurance State?
No – California is a fault-based state when it comes to auto accidents. In other words, if you cause an accident, you (or your insurer) will be financially responsible for the resulting damages.
If you were involved in a collision that wasn’t your fault, you can file a claim with the other driver’s insurance provider.
Uninsured Motorists in California
Although all drivers must carry car insurance in California, not everyone follows the rules. Many people are either underinsured or uninsured.
If you were involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have the required insurance coverage, things can become complicated. It will be crucial to work with an attorney to evaluate your legal options.
You may be able to:
- File a claim with your own insurance company if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Initiate a claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver
- Pursue a claim against any liable third parties, such as an employer, manufacturer, or government agency
Consult a skilled car accident lawyer if you find yourself in this complex situation. Your attorney can identify all potential avenues for compensation and advocate for you.
Common Types of Auto Accident Injuries
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor discomfort to life-changing trauma. The impact of a crash can subject your body to violent forces, leaving you with serious or even life-threatening conditions.
Our car accident attorneys in San Diego have helped clients recover from various injuries, whether minor or major.
Common car accident injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Airbag-related injuries
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Paralysis
- Permanent disability
- Broken bones
- Lacerations and cuts
- Bruises and contusions
- Scarring
- Spinal cord injuries
- Catastrophic injuries
- Back injuries
- Neck injuries
- Knee injuries
- Nerve damage
- Joint damage
- Wrongful death
If you’ve been hurt in a car wreck and are dealing with serious injuries, our legal team is here to help you seek the compensation you need to cover your medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
We understand how difficult the road to recovery can be, so we can handle the legal aspects of your case while you mend and heal. We treat our clients like family, and our results speak for themselves. Our law firm has recovered millions of dollars for accident victims in the San Diego area.
Most Common Causes of Car Accidents
Driving in San Diego can be hazardous, especially when negligent or reckless drivers are on the road. Unfortunately, even one short moment of carelessness can lead to disaster and cause serious harm to innocent people.
Some of the most common causes of car accidents in San Diego include:
- Drunk driving
- Impaired driving due to drugs or fatigue
- Distracted driving, including driving while texting or using the phone
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Defective car parts
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Ignoring traffic signals and signs
- Poorly maintained roadways
San Diego’s unique driving challenges, such as heavy traffic and diverse road conditions, contribute to the risk of accidents. Whether your crash was caused by one of these common factors or something more unusual, our San Diego auto accident attorneys have the experience to handle your case. Contact us to schedule a free consultation to discuss how we can help you recover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Call the Police After a Car Wreck?
It’s always wise to call 911 after an accident. Under California law, you’re required to do so in the event of injury or death.
However, you should contact the San Diego Police Department or California Highway Patrol regardless of whether anyone was hurt.
If an officer is dispatched to the accident scene, they will speak to each driver and prepare a formal report of what happened. This document will be evidence that you can use when filing any subsequent legal claims.
Even if no law enforcement officers are sent to your location, you can still receive important information from the dispatcher. They may direct you to the nearest police station or notify you of any reporting requirements.
How Can I Obtain a Copy of My Car Accident Report in San Diego County?
There are several ways to obtain a copy of your San Diego traffic collision report:
- You can submit an online request via LexisNexis eCrash or email support (they have different options in their menu)
- You can call 866-215-2771 between 8 AM and 8 PM.
- You can mail a request to SDPD Records.
- You can visit the SDPD Records Division in person between 8 AM and 4 PM.
If you have an attorney representing you, they can obtain your report for you and gather other crucial evidence on your behalf.
When Should I Hire a Lawyer for a Car Crash?
You should hire an attorney as soon as possible after your crash, especially if you’ve sustained injuries. A lawyer can protect your rights, gather crucial evidence, and handle communications with insurers to ensure that you aren’t pressured into accepting a low settlement.
The earlier you consult an attorney, the stronger your case will be, as evidence and witness accounts are easier to preserve soon after the accident. Additionally, with legal representation, you are less likely to make mistakes that could hurt your claim. An attorney will help you with every part of the legal process.
Even if you aren’t sure that you need an attorney, you should schedule a free initial consultation with one. You can receive advice and determine the best course of action for your situation.
What Is the Average Settlement for an Auto Accident?
Car accident settlements vary widely depending on factors like the severity of injuries, the nature of the collision, and the extent of a victim’s losses. Some people receive a few thousand dollars, while others recover millions.
For example, a person who sustained a minor whiplash injury will likely receive far less than someone who suffered permanent paralysis. However, other factors, like whether the victim was partially to blame for the accident, will also need to be considered.
The best way to assess your unique case value is to speak with an attorney. They can provide a more personalized answer based on the facts and circumstances of your accident and injuries.
How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Car Accident Case?
The timeline for resolving a car accident claim depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and whether the matter is settled out of court or goes to trial.
Some cases may be resolved within a few months, while others can take a year or more if litigation is required. Settling a claim is generally faster, but it’s crucial not to rush into an agreement that undervalues your damages.
If the other party is unwilling to negotiate in good faith or liability is contested, you may need to engage in discovery and go to court. This will extend the time it takes for your case to conclude.
Finding the right car accident lawyer in San Diego can be a challenging task. With so many lawyers to choose from, it’s essential to do your research and find a lawyer who has experience handling auto accident cases.
An experienced attorney can guide you through the process and work toward a resolution that balances speed and fair compensation.
How To Choose The Right Car Accident Lawyer?
Here are some tips to help you find the right car accident lawyer:
- Look for a local lawyer with experience handling car accident cases: An attorney who has successfully handled these cases will have the knowledge and expertise to handle your case effectively. Also, if your accident took place in San Diego, you should look for a local attorney in this area.
- Research the lawyer’s reputation online: Look for reviews and testimonials from past clients to get an idea of the lawyer’s reputation and level of service. The attorney’s Avvo and Justia profiles can help you with your research.
- Check the lawyer’s credentials: Make sure the lawyer is licensed to practice law in California or the state you are in and has any necessary certifications or specialties.
- Meet with the lawyer in person: This will allow you to ask questions and understand the lawyer’s personality and style. Most accident attorneys offer a free consultation.
Choosing the right car wreck attorney will help you maximize your compensation. Visit our results page to learn more about our verdicts and settlements or call our law firm to explore your legal options.
What Are the Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections in San Diego?
San Diego is known for its vibrant community and bustling streets, but certain roads and intersections are more accident-prone than others.
The following are some of the most dangerous:
- Interstate 5
- Interstate 8
- State Route 163
- Interstate 805
- Clairemont Mesa Blvd & Convoy St
- El Cajon Blvd & 36 Street
- University Ave & 52nd Street
- 4th Ave & B Street
- Coronado Ave & Thermal Ave
- 15th St & F St
- 10th Avenue & E St
- Convoy St & Engineer Rd
- El Cajon Blvd & College Ave
- Market St & 6th Ave
These areas are hotspots for collisions due to heavy congestion and complex traffic patterns. Exercise extra caution when navigating these roadways and intersections.
San Diego Car Accident Statistics
Since San Diego is a large metropolitan city, it is easy to understand why so many accidents happen here each year. According to the California Transportation Injury Mapping System, for the entire year of 2022, San Diego County reported 12,838 car accidents.
A total of 17,386 injuries were reported. Unfortunately, there were also 285 fatalities reported in 2022. This is a sad statistic, especially when you consider that many accidents could have been avoided.
Most accidents in San Diego happen on highways, where vehicle speeds are increased. 4,500 collisions occurred on the highway in 2022. There were 982 accidents in which pedestrians were involved and 761 accidents that involved a bicycle. There were 1,485 accidents involving a motorcycle in 2022.
At Pines Salomon, you are much more than a statistic. Your life and your ultimate recovery are our first priority. Contact our firm to discuss how we can assist you.
Call Our San Diego Car Accident Lawyers Today for Help
For more than 33 years, we’ve fought for justice and financial compensation for injury victims. With a proven track record, our team at Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers will stand by your side, protecting your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a serious car accident in San Diego, contact us at (858) 585-9031 to schedule a free consultation with our San Diego car accident lawyers. Our firm is located near you. We have an office in San Diego at 835 Fifth Ave #302, San Diego, CA 92101, United States. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 32.7142173,-117.1624506.
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