Long Beach Car Accident Lawyers

There are few situations as scary and frustrating as being in a car accident, especially when another driver’s negligent actions cause the crash and your injuries. Since many motorists do not know what to do after a collision, it can be easy to make the wrong decisions in the days and months ahead. That is why it is essential to have an experienced Long Beach car accident attorney on your side. At The Barnes Firm, our attorneys can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with insurers, all while keeping your best interests in mind throughout the personal injury claim.

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Causes of Car Accidents in California

Last year, California saw 3,606 deaths resulting from car accidents. Tragically, the negligent actions of other motorists contribute to the number of deaths. Drivers must understand the most common causes of car accidents in Long Beach, California, so they may decrease their risk of being in a collision.

  • Speeding: It takes more time for drivers who speed to come to a safe and complete stop. It also makes a crash more likely to occur because speeding reduces drivers’ reaction time and control over their vehicle. If you notice a speeding driver, safely merge to a different lane and allow them to pass.
  • Impaired driving: Drunk drivers contribute to thousands of California car accidents each year. Most DUI fatalities occur between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m., so avoid driving during these hours. If you notice a vehicle swerving, speeding, or braking erratically, the driver may be drunk. When this happens, keep your distance and report the driver to the police.
  • Distractions: Driver distractions are a prevalent form of car crashes in Long Beach, but texting behind the wheel is not the only cause of distraction. It may also be eating, changing the radio, adjusting the GPS, interacting with passengers, and daydreaming.
  • Failing to obey traffic laws: Running red lights, ignoring stop signs, and improperly changing lanes also contribute to Long Beach traffic accidents. When you are at a stop sign or red light, double-check for cross traffic before proceeding. When traveling on a multi-lane road, always be aware of other vehicles and be on the lookout for drivers who may cut you off.

It is important to remember that the most dangerous hazard on Long Beach roads is other drivers. Being aware of your surroundings at all times is the best way to reduce your chances of being involved in a car accident.

Common Injuries Resulting from Long Beach Car Accidents

Car accidents often involve excessive force. The direction and amount of force may cause damage to your body by twisting and bending it in unnatural ways. When you’re injured in a crash, you may suffer from soft tissue injuries, head injuries, or internal injuries. Remember to seek medical attention following a car accident. You might feel unharmed or show no external injuries, but a doctor can perform a complete check-up and diagnose any internal damage.

Male Motorist With A Whiplash Injury after a Car Crash Getting Out Of the Vehicle before calling The Barnes Firm Injury Attorneys

Soft Tissue Injuries

Even a simple fender bender can cause bruises. Collisions can push you into your seatbelt, which can leave you with a bruise for a few days. While bruising is rarely severe, it might be a sign of a more serious internal injury. The forces at work in a car accident can also cause your body to move in ways that it should not. If you experience pain in your neck or back after a crash, you might have sustained whiplash. You might also suffer from disc herniations or ruptures in your spine, which can cause immense pain. While you may fully recover from most of these injuries, it may take a long time to feel functional.

Head Injuries

During a collision, you can easily hit your head on the steering wheel or headrest, which may cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, you do not have to hit your head to suffer from a TBI. You may also suffer from this injury when your head is violently moved during the collision. It is possible to recover from a TBI, but the degree of recovery depends on the type and severity of the damage.

woman on a couch with a headache from a concussion and hand on her forehead
woman on a couch with a headache from a concussion and hand on her forehead

Head Injuries

During a collision, you can easily hit your head on the steering wheel or headrest, which may cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, you do not have to hit your head to suffer from a TBI. You may also suffer from this injury when your head is violently moved during the collision. It is possible to recover from a TBI, but the degree of recovery depends on the type and severity of the damage.

doctor looking at a chest x-ray

Internal Injuries

Bones can only handle so much force, and they break when too much force is applied. The speed at which your seatbelt stops you might fracture your ribs, or your arm may break by hitting it against the door. Broken bones are common injuries in car accidents and usually heal within a few months; although, some fractures may require surgery to treat.

Of the internal injuries you may sustain, internal bleeding is among the most severe types. The force from a car crash can damage your organs, which may lead to liver lacerations or kidney damage. These injuries are prevalent in high-speed crashes, and you must treat them immediately.

How Much Time Do You Have To File an Injury Claim After a Car Accident?

What Kind of Compensation Can I Receive for Car Accident Injuries in Long Beach?

Just because you were involved in a car accident does not mean you are entitled to financial compensation. To obtain compensation for your accident-related expenses, your attorney must prove that the other driver acted negligently. If they can show this successfully, you might be able to secure compensation for the following losses:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Property damage costs
  • Pain and suffering

It is also important to remember that the type of compensation and the amount will depend on your accident and injuries. Hiring an experienced Long Beach car accident attorney is the best way to determine how much your case is worth.

Speak to an Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Long Beach Today

If you or someone you know were in a car accident because of another’s negligence, contact The Barnes Firm. Our car accident attorneys will launch a thorough investigation into the accident to pinpoint liability. You only have two years to file a personal injury claim in California. The sooner you contact the attorneys at The Barnes Firm, the more help they can be for your case. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today.

The Barnes Firm (800) 800-0000

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The Barnes Firm was very friendly, always quick to respond to our calls, emails. When we had any questions or concerns they were there to walk us through everything. Would definitely recommend them to anyone that is looking for an attorney that will honestly fight for you and has your best interest in mind.

-Nichole W.