$250 MILLION+
Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
According to UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System, Los Angeles recorded 40,735 car crashes in 2023, primarily due to unsafe speeding and drunk driving.
A serious car accident can leave you facing medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle repairs, and difficult insurance negotiations. Understanding your legal rights early can help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to recover.
An experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses.
This guide explains the steps to take after a car accident, filing deadlines, how fault is determined under California law, the insurance claims process, and when it may be beneficial to work with a personal injury lawyer.
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After a serious car accident, insurance companies often move quickly to investigate claims and limit what they pay. RMD Law works to protect your rights, build a strong case, and pursue the full compensation available under California law.
Our firm has recovered over $200 million in personal injury settlements and verdicts, including:
When you hire RMD Law, we handle every stage of your claim, including:
Many car accident claims settle without going to court, but every case follows its own timeline. Straightforward claims may resolve within a few months, while cases involving severe injuries, disputed liability, or multiple parties can take a year or longer.
There are no upfront attorney fees. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
Accidents can occur unexpectedly on Los Angeles roads, so it’s essential to be aware of common types of collisions to stay safe and understand your rights if involved in a crash.
A rear-end accident happens when one vehicle crashes into the back of another, often caused by tailgating or abrupt braking. In 2023, Los Angeles recorded 12,776 rear-end crashes—527 involving motorcycles, 112 involving bicycles, and 86 with pedestrians. Over 62% of these collisions took place on major highways.
This serious type of accident occurs when two vehicles collide front-to-front, frequently leading to severe injuries due to the high impact. In 2023, Los Angeles reported 2,807 head-on collisions, resulting in 77 fatalities and injuring 4,513 individuals.
Rollover crashes happen when a car flips onto its side or roof, often due to high speeds, abrupt swerving, or a collision with an obstacle. In 2023, Los Angeles had 757 rollover accidents, with 301 involving motorcycles and 12 involving bicycles.
Also known as “T-bone” accidents, side-impact collisions occur when one vehicle strikes the side of another, often at intersections. Los Angeles reported 10,978 of these accidents in 2023, resulting in 163 fatalities and 17,096 injuries, with 876 involving bicycles.
An off-road accident happens when a vehicle veers off the road, potentially due to loss of control, tire blowouts, or obstacles. Los Angeles recorded 3,732 such crashes in 2023, leading to 135 deaths and 4,425 injuries.
In this type of accident, a vehicle collides with an object or hazard, such as debris, animals, or road obstacles. Common causes include poor weather, driver fatigue, or actions of other drivers, potentially endangering the driver and passengers.
A multi-vehicle accident involves three or more vehicles, typically in a chain reaction where one collision triggers additional crashes. These accidents often occur on freeways, especially in poor weather, and frequently lead to extensive property damage and injuries.
Failing to check blind spots when merging or changing lanes can lead to blind spot accidents, often causing sideswipes. Motorcycles and smaller vehicles are especially vulnerable in these situations.
Even low-speed crashes can cause injuries such as whiplash, bruises, or fractures. These accidents also pose risks to pedestrians and cyclists.
Merging accidents occur when drivers fail to check blind spots, match the traffic speed, or drive recklessly while entering a busy lane. Often, at high speeds, these accidents can result in serious injuries.
The following roads in Los Angeles have the highest number of collisions, with numerous fatalities reported in these areas from 2020 to 2022:
Many of these accidents and fatalities are due to high speeds on highways and reckless driving on city streets. This trend initially rose during the early pandemic when traffic was lighter.
Understanding how accidents happen and the types of injuries they cause can help you better understand your legal options after a collision. Establishing the cause of the crash is also an important part of proving liability in a personal injury claim.
Many Los Angeles car accidents result from:
Identifying the cause of a collision helps determine fault and may affect the amount of compensation available.
Some injuries are immediately apparent, while others may not develop symptoms until hours or days after a crash. Prompt medical treatment protects your health and creates documentation that may support your claim.
Common injuries include:
The value of a personal injury claim often depends on the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical treatment, lost income, future medical needs, and the overall impact on your daily life.
Recent crash data shows that Los Angeles continues to experience thousands of collisions each year.
Although statewide and local statistics provide useful context, every claim depends on the specific facts of the accident, available evidence, and the injuries involved.
If another party’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
Punitive damages may also be available in limited cases involving especially reckless or intentional misconduct, although they are not awarded in every case.
Types of Damages You May Recover After a Car Accident
If you experience a car accident, you may collect these types of settlements to help cover various expenses and losses:
Compensation can cover hospital stays, doctor visits, medications, surgeries, rehabilitation, and necessary medical devices.
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may receive compensation for income lost during recovery and potential future earnings if you’re unable to return to work.
In Los Angeles, the at-fault driver must cover the cost of repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle and other personal property.
You may receive damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
In particularly reckless or malicious behavior cases, the at-fault driver may be ordered to pay punitive damages to discourage similar actions in the future.
Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1 and § 338, you have two years to file a car accident injury claim and three years to file a claim for property damage. It’s essential to take action promptly to pursue compensation for any injuries or damages incurred in the accident.
Claims involving government agencies often have much shorter notice deadlines. Missing a filing deadline may prevent you from recovering compensation, so acting promptly is important.
California follows a comparative negligence system, meaning more than one party may share responsibility for a collision. If you are partially at fault, you may still recover compensation, although your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Evidence commonly used to establish fault includes:
Most Los Angeles car accident claims follow a similar process:
Insurance companies investigate every claim to determine liability and the amount they may owe. While adjusters may appear helpful, their goal is often to resolve claims as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.
To help protect your claim:
If liability is disputed or the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, legal representation may improve your ability to recover full compensation.
Establishing Fault in a Car Accident in Los Angeles
To successfully seek compensation after a car accident, gathering substantial evidence is crucial. Here’s what you should collect:
Take clear photos of the vehicles involved, any damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and other factors that may have contributed to the accident. These images will provide a visual record of the incident and are vital for your case.
Check if any nearby businesses or residences have security cameras. Their footage may capture the incident and help clarify the circumstances surrounding the accident.
If you or another driver has a dashcam, the recorded footage can show the events leading up to, during, and after the crash. This type of evidence is invaluable for establishing fault.
Collect contact information and statements from anyone who witnessed the accident. Their unbiased accounts can offer critical insights into what happened.
Document what the involved drivers and passengers say at the scene. Their perspectives can shed light on how they interpreted the events and who they believe is responsible.
When you call 911, the responding officers will create a police report documenting the accident. This official record should include an assessment of the incident and other essential details that can aid in determining fault.
An experienced attorney can manage the legal process while you focus on your recovery. Depending on your case, your lawyer may:
Although many car accident claims settle outside of court, preparing every case for trial often strengthens settlement negotiations.
Car accidents can lead to various injuries, and the treatment plan will vary based on the injuries sustained. Here are some common treatment options:
Doctors may give you medicine to help with pain, reduce swelling, or fight infections. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription pain meds, or anti-inflammatory drugs.
Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to help relieve pain and improve blood flow to the injured area. Meanwhile, phonophoresis adds medicine through the skin using sound waves to help with healing.
Physical activity can help you regain movement, strength, and flexibility after an injury. These exercises are designed for your specific needs and can speed up your recovery and prevent stiffness.
If you have broken bones or joint injuries, you may need braces or splints to support and stabilize the injured areas. They keep the injury still, reduce pain, and aid healing.
Physical therapy can help you regain your movement and strength, especially if you have severe injuries. It often includes exercises and treatments like massage or heat therapy to relieve pain.
Similar to physical therapy, physiotherapy focuses on hands-on treatments and special equipment to help you heal. It may include exercises, joint movements, and other techniques.
This treatment gently stretches your spine or other body parts to relieve pressure on nerves or muscles. It’s often used for neck and back injuries.
This technique applies gentle pressure to the connective tissue around your muscles to ease tension and pain. It can help with muscle stiffness after an accident.
This therapy uses small electrical pulses to stimulate muscles and improve blood flow. It can reduce pain, swelling, and muscle spasms while promoting healing.
Strengthening and conditioning exercises focus on rebuilding muscle strength and improving overall fitness. This treatment is essential for restoring your health and preventing future injuries.
Massage therapy helps relax muscles, improve blood flow, and reduce pain, making it helpful in treating soft tissue injuries, muscle tension, and stress after an accident.
Not every auto accident lawyer in Los Angeles will suit your needs. It’s essential to evaluate their experience, work ethic, and commitment to your case to ensure the best match. Here are some important questions to consider before making your choice:
It’s crucial to select an attorney who specializes in personal injury law rather than someone who handles a variety of cases. A specialized lawyer will be better equipped to help you pursue compensation and file your case effectively.
Ensure that an auto accident lawyer in Los Angeles you choose has handled cases like yours. For instance, if you’ve been injured in a car accident in Los Angeles, you’ll want an attorney with expertise in auto accident cases. If your injuries are severe, such as brain or spinal cord injuries, look for someone who has successfully managed complex cases.
You need a lawyer who will prioritize your case and advocate for the maximum compensation possible. Be cautious of attorneys who take on too many cases and settle quickly. Look for someone who is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you rather than rushing through the process.
Although many personal injury cases settle out of court, having an auto accident lawyer in Los Angeles prepared to take your case to trial is beneficial if necessary. An attorney with a strong courtroom presence will provide you with peace of mind should your case proceed to that stage.
A competent lawyer should provide realistic expectations for your case without making false promises. While they can’t give you an exact figure, they should offer honest insights based on their experience. Make sure your attorney is clear and transparent about what you can anticipate.
To evaluate a lawyer’s performance, check client reviews, ask for references, and inquire about their past outcomes. Working with a lawyer who has a successful track record can significantly impact your case.
Most personal injury attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This arrangement is often advantageous for clients since there are no upfront costs. Look for a lawyer who provides a free consultation, allowing you to discuss your case and determine if they’re the right fit for you.
If you believe fault has been assigned incorrectly, additional evidence may change the outcome of your claim. Photographs, surveillance footage, witness statements, expert analysis, and updated police information can all play a role in challenging an insurance company’s decision.
Because California follows comparative negligence rules, successfully disputing fault may increase the compensation available to you. An attorney can help evaluate the evidence, communicate with insurers, and advocate on your behalf throughout the dispute process.
Is Hiring a Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney Worth It?
Engaging a Los Angeles car accident lawyer can help you navigate your rights and options effectively. Here’s how a car accident lawyer can assist you:
An experienced attorney provides essential guidance and safeguards your rights. They are crucial for navigating the complexities involved in a car accident case.
A Los Angeles attorney can counter any biased treatment from insurance companies or other parties, ensuring your case is evaluated fairly. They will advocate for your rights to secure a just resolution.
Lawyers excel at negotiating with insurance companies. They can work to secure a settlement that accurately reflects your injuries and the damages to your vehicle.
Figuring out who is at fault in a car accident can be tricky. A Los Angeles car accident lawyer will collect evidence and create a solid case to identify who’s responsible and give you the best chance to win your claim.
An experienced attorney will consider all your current and future costs—including medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress—to ensure you receive fair compensation.
If negotiations fail to yield a fair settlement, your lawyer can file a lawsuit. They’ll represent you in court and fight for the best possible outcome for your case.
Questions to Ask a Law Firm Before Hiring
Not every auto accident lawyer in Los Angeles will suit your needs. It’s essential to evaluate their experience, work ethic, and commitment to your case to ensure the best match. Here are some important questions to consider before making your choice:
It’s crucial to select an attorney who specializes in personal injury law rather than someone who handles a variety of cases. A specialized lawyer will be better equipped to help you pursue compensation and file your case effectively.
Ensure that an auto accident lawyer in Los Angeles you choose has handled cases like yours. For instance, if you’ve been injured in a car accident in Los Angeles, you’ll want an attorney with expertise in auto accident cases. If your injuries are severe, such as brain or spinal cord injuries, look for someone who has successfully managed complex cases.
You need a lawyer who will prioritize your case and advocate for the maximum compensation possible. Be cautious of attorneys who take on too many cases and settle quickly. Look for someone who is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you rather than rushing through the process.
Although many personal injury cases settle out of court, having an auto accident lawyer in Los Angeles prepared to take your case to trial is beneficial if necessary. An attorney with a strong courtroom presence will provide you with peace of mind should your case proceed to that stage.
A competent lawyer should provide realistic expectations for your case without making false promises. While they can’t give you an exact figure, they should offer honest insights based on their experience. Make sure your attorney is clear and transparent about what you can anticipate.
To evaluate a lawyer’s performance, check client reviews, ask for references, and inquire about their past outcomes. Working with a lawyer who has a successful track record can significantly impact your case.
Most personal injury attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This arrangement is often advantageous for clients since there are no upfront costs. Look for a lawyer who provides a free consultation, allowing you to discuss your case and determine if they’re the right fit for you.
How to Dispute Fault in a Car Accident in Los Angeles
If you believe you were wrongfully blamed for a car accident, you can challenge that determination by following these steps:
Collect all pertinent information, including photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, and any available video footage. This evidence will help support your claim and contest the assigned fault.
If you feel the initial accident report is inaccurate, submit a supplemental report to the police or your insurance company. This report should include any new evidence or information that bolsters your perspective.
An experienced car accident lawyer in Los Angeles can review your case and provide expert guidance. They can help you understand your rights, navigate the dispute process, and advocate for a fair resolution.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles
Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming, but understanding the following steps can alleviate some of your concerns.
At RMD Law, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the difficulties that come with auto accidents. Our team of Los Angeles car accident attorneys, including the best car accident lawyer in Los Angeles, is focused on supporting your recovery—physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially.
Contact us today for a complimentary case review and let us assist you in getting your life back on track.
If you’ve been in a car accident, knowing where to get assistance and medical care is crucial. Here are some key facilities in Los Angeles to help you:
If your car has scratches or dents, these autobody shops can help restore it to its best condition.
Fix Auto offers high-quality repairs, specializing in collision repair and cosmetic touch-ups. Known for their fast turnaround and precision, they are a go-to for reliable service in downtown LA.
Beverly Hills Auto Body provides comprehensive bodywork and paint services with a strong focus on customer satisfaction. Their experienced technicians handle all types of auto body repairs with precision and care.
Specializing in collision repair and detailing, this shop is known for restoring vehicles to their original look. With advanced equipment and a dedicated team, they’re well-equipped to handle everything from minor scratches to major repairs.
Find out why RMD Law is the preferred choice for car accident victims in Los Angeles.
Prioritize everyone’s safety, call 911 to report the accident, and get medical help if needed. Exchange contact and insurance details with those involved, document the scene with photos and avoid discussing fault. Then, notify your insurance company about the accident.
You have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. Consulting a car accident lawyer soon after the incident helps ensure you meet all legal deadlines.
California’s comparative negligence system allows you to pursue a claim even if you are partially at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced by the degree of your fault.
While not mandatory, having a lawyer can be valuable for managing the complexities of your claim, negotiating with insurers, and fighting for fair compensation. An attorney can assist with evidence gathering and building a solid case on your behalf.
Explore expert insights on car accidents in our informative blog.
Determining liability in multi-car accidents is complicated. However, proving who’s responsible may require accident reconstruction experts, detailed evidence, and skilled legal guidance to untangle the sequence of events.
Car accidents become inevitable when drivers ignore proper safety precautions while on the road, such as exceeding the speed limit or using their phones while driving. Given that such incidents are prevalent in California, the visual guide below compiles everything you need to know about practicing road safety in the state.
Picture this: You’re cruising down familiar streets when, suddenly, a collision shatters the peace. Life’s unpredictable turns can lead you to unexpected places, like finding yourself in a car accident that’s clearly not your fault. According to the Traffic Incident Management System (TIMS), California witnesses thousands of collisions each year,
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We care about your recovery. We stake our reputation on it.
Aria is a member of the prestigious Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®. He speaks English, Farsi, and Spanish.
Nicole has settled hundreds of personal injuries claims, known for her professional, honest, and caring approach.
John is a former defense lawyer turned award-winning personal injury lawyer. He speaks English and Farsi.
Associate Attorney Yen Quach started work at RMD Law in 2017 as a paralegal. Injured clients seeking justice from insurance companies can do no better than Yen.
Shabnam’s passion for the law began with a simple goal: to help people who may not know their rights and stand up for those who need a strong advocate on their side.
At RMD Law, we believe that reputation is everything. When clients trust us with their cases, we do everything in our power to help guide them. That means personal service and sharp advocacy. We care about the details of your case because that is how we can get you the best settlement.
We are Los Angeles personal injury lawyers servicing all of California. Our attorneys regularly handle cases from all over the state.
Get the recovery you are entitled to regardless of what the police report may say.
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Life-changing injuries need experts in their corner.
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$250 MILLION+ Settlements and Cases Won in California
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