Disclaimer: *Steve and Rich Barnes have obtained millions in recoveries for their clients and have supervised over $2.5 Billion Dollars in settlements.
Written by The Barnes Firm, reviewed by Richard Barnes
Rich Barnes
President
San Diego is the second-largest city in California, with 1.3 million residents citywide and 3 million residents countywide. With such high population numbers, it’s no surprise that San Diego accounts for over 49,000 motor vehicle crashes per year.
At The Barnes Firm, our team of experienced San Diego car accident lawyers will work hard for you to help you get the best result possible for your case. If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident in or near San Diego, call the trusted car accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000.
After being injured in a car accident, contacting an experienced personal injury attorney at The Barnes Firm can help you get your questions answered and help you understand what your case might be worth. Our team of car accident lawyers work tirelessly to help our clients get the best result throughout the greater San Diego area. Call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 and find out what your case is worth – it could be the best call you make.
Being in a car accident can be traumatic and leave you with many questions. If you have been injured in a car accident, our team of experienced San Diego car accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm recommend you take the following steps:
Get to safety. If you can, move your car off the road to avoid further damage to you or your vehicle.
Call 911. After getting to safety, call 911 to report the accident and request an ambulance if needed.
Collect information about the accident. Collect the other driver’s personal information and insurance details. Before leaving the scene, ask a first responder for a copy of the police report and take as many pictures and videos as you can.
Call our team of car accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm. Our experienced car accident attorneys in San Diego are ready to take your call and answer any questions you may have about your accident claim.
Car accidents happen more frequently than most would expect in San Diego, and can usually be traced back to one, or more, of the following causes:
When a negligent driver causes your injuries, you are entitled to seek compensation. Our trusted team of San Diego car accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm will guide you every step of the way and help you get the best result possible for your accident claim.
“I have experienced first hand how devastating a serious injury can be for individuals and their families. When I was a teenager, I was a passenger in a catastrophic automobile accident that forever changed my life. Despite the years of rehabilitation and the permanent scarring, my most painful memory wasn’t physical; it was of the strain that the financial uncertainty placed on my family. I’ll never forget the concerned look on my parents’ faces as they sifted through the mountain of unpaid medical bills.”
Our team of San Diego car accident lawyers have experience handling all types of car accident cases, including:
If you were injured in a car accident, your number one priority should be recovering from your injuries and The Barnes Firm is here to help you do that. When you partner with our team of San Diego car accident lawyers, we will launch a full investigation into your accident and the circumstances surrounding it, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and prepare everything needed to take your case to trial if necessary. After an accident, don’t feel pressured to accept the first offer from the insurance company. Call The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 and find out what your case is really worth.
In California, you can file a claim against the party or parties responsible for your car accident if you can prove liability. Even if you are found to be partially at-fault for your accident, you can still recover compensation. At The Barnes Firm, our experienced car accident attorneys have successfully handled cases holding the following parties responsible:
All drivers in the state of California are required to carry vehicle insurance that covers a minimum of $5,000 for property damage, $15,000 of bodily injury coverage per person, and $30,000 of bodily injury coverage per accident.
Car accident claims in California can be very complicated. Our team of experienced car accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm will help navigate the laws and liability of your car accident to help you get the best result possible.
The statute of limitations in California is two years. This means you have two years from the date or accident, or injury discovery, to file a car accident claim. Not sure you have a case? Call The Barnes Firm today and get your questions answered.
San Diego has several dangerous intersections where multiple car accidents occur each year. These intersections include:
If you have been injured in a car accident at one of these dangerous intersections, or anywhere in the greater San Diego area, call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.
If you were injured in a car accident, it is wise to seek medical attention, no matter the severity of your injuries. A medical professional can help treat and diagnose any injuries you have after an accident. After seeking medical attention, call an experienced attorney at The Barnes Firm. Our team of San Diego car accident lawyers have helped car accident victims with many injuries, including:
Medical bills from these injuries may start to pile up after a car accident. Hiring a trusted car accident attorney at The Barnes Firm can help you obtain the compensation you deserve after being injured in a car accident.
Every car accident is different so the financial compensation you receive will depend on the circumstances surrounding the crash. After thoroughly reviewing your accident, our experienced team of San Diego car accident lawyers can help secure compensation for:
The Barnes Firm will work hard to help you recover all compensation for your accident case. Call us today to get started filing your car accident claim.
As one of America’s largest injury law firms, The Barnes Firm has handled over 50,000 personal injury cases and have helped our clients get the best result possible. Our San Diego car accident attorneys have a proven track record in helping our clients get the settlements they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact an experienced car accident attorney at The Barnes Firm today. From the first phone conversation through to the final settlement, the experienced team of attorneys at The Barnes Firm will work hard for you every step of the way.
The aftermath of an accident can be challenging, which is why it’s important to have our competent and experienced personal injury attorneys by your side.
Here are the top reasons why The Barnes Firm should be your first choice:
Choosing The Barnes Firm post-accident isn’t just about hiring a lawyer—it’s about partnering with a firm that is committed, experienced, and has your best interests at heart. Our storied history, combined with our impressive results and recognition, makes us an ideal choice for anyone seeking justice after a personal injury in San Diego or anywhere across the nation.
Experiencing a car accident can be an overwhelming and traumatic ordeal. The moments following the crash are crucial, both for your safety and for any legal or insurance steps you might need to take in the future.
Immediately after the accident, if possible and safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights. If moving the car isn’t an option, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
Every accident, regardless of its severity, should be reported to the police. Once they arrive, they’ll provide an official accident report which can be important for insurance claims.
Secure the personal and insurance details of all involved drivers. If there are any witnesses, their contact information can be valuable.
While cooperation is necessary, refrain from admitting fault or liability at the scene. Only relay the facts when speaking to authorities or other involved parties.
Get a medical check-up after an accident. Some injuries might not show immediate symptoms. Keep a thorough record of all medical interventions, treatments, and medications.
Informing your insurer about the accident promptly is necessary. Supply them with the facts, and share any evidence or documentation you might have.
Keep track of all related expenses, from medical bills to repair costs, and even jot down notes about your physical and emotional state post-accident.
If your injuries are serious or there’s a dispute over who’s at fault, hiring our personal injury attorneys can be a wise move. We can help with the claim process and ensure you’re adequately compensated.
It’s not uncommon for insurance companies to propose a swift settlement. Always meet with our attorneys before accepting any offers to guarantee your interests are protected.
Finally, it’s advisable to avoid discussing the accident or sharing related photos on social platforms. Such posts might be used against you during the settlement or litigation processes.
Remember, the steps you take after a car accident can be as important as the accident itself. Taking the right steps can ensure your safety and secure the compensation you deserve.
San Diego, with its beautiful coastline, bustling city life, and major freeways, sees a high volume of traffic daily. While many drives are smooth and uneventful, accidents, unfortunately, do occur.
Here’s a look at some of the most common causes of car accidents in San Diego:
The prevalence of smartphones and other electronic devices has made distracted driving a leading cause of accidents, not just in San Diego but across the country. Texting, checking GPS, or even changing the radio can divert a driver’s attention long enough to cause an accident.
High-speed roads like the I-5, I-8, and I-15, combined with the impatience of drivers, often result in speeding, a significant contributor to accidents. Driving above the speed limit reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
Despite rigorous law enforcement efforts and public awareness campaigns, drunk or drug-impaired driving remains a pressing concern in San Diego, leading to numerous preventable accidents each year.
While San Diego is known for its sunny and warm climate, the occasional rain can make roads slick and hazardous. Many drivers are unaccustomed to wet conditions, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents.
Intersections are common spots for collisions, often caused by drivers who attempt to beat a red light or who fail to stop entirely at a stop sign.
This includes aggressive maneuvers, tailgating, and changing lanes without signaling. Such behaviors can easily startle other drivers and lead to accidents.
Drivers who are tired or drowsy can have slowed reaction times or might even doze off at the wheel, leading to catastrophic outcomes.
Potholes, uneven road surfaces, or a lack of proper signage can contribute to accidents. While drivers are always urged to be cautious, sometimes unforeseen road conditions can lead to mishaps.
Occasionally, car accidents are caused not by the actions of the driver but by a vehicle malfunction, such as brake failure or a tire blowout.
Novice or young drivers might not have the experience to handle complex traffic situations or might be more prone to take risks, increasing the chance of collisions.
In summary, while San Diego offers a scenic driving experience, many factors can contribute to car accidents. Awareness of these common causes and practicing safe driving habits can go a long way in reducing the likelihood of accidents on the road.
Our firm handles a broad range of accidents. We can provide guidance, support, and representation no matter the circumstances. Here are the types of accidents and related incidents we handle.
These are perhaps the most common and can involve cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Whether it’s a minor crash or a major collision, our team is equipped to assist victims in navigating the aftermath.
Construction zones pose unique hazards. From equipment malfunctioning to negligence on the part of contractors, we represent victims injured in or around construction sites.
Whether due to wet floors, uneven pavements, or other hazards, slip and fall accidents can result in serious injuries. We work to hold property owners and managers accountable for any negligence.
Exposure to asbestos can lead to severe respiratory conditions, including mesothelioma. We advocate for victims of asbestos exposure, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve for their suffering and medical expenses.
When healthcare professionals fail in their duty of care, the results can be disastrous. We stand by victims of medical negligence, whether it’s a misdiagnosis, surgical error, or other forms of malpractice.
Beyond typical car accidents, we handle various incidents that result in physical harm, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
While less common, accidents involving aircraft can be catastrophic. Whether it’s a commercial airline or a private jet, we investigate and represent victims of aviation accidents.
Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe. When they fail in this duty, it can lead to accidents and injuries. We take on these companies, ensuring they are held responsible for their negligence.
No matter the nature of the accident or related incident, our team is equipped and ready to stand by your side. Our goal is to provide the best possible legal representation, ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
California car accident laws are the rules and regulations that govern the rights and responsibilities of drivers and passengers involved in motor vehicle collisions in the state.
California is a fault-based state, which means that the driver who causes an accident is liable for the damages and injuries suffered by the other parties. The injured parties can file a claim with their own insurance company, the at-fault driver’s insurance company, or a personal injury lawsuit in court to seek compensation for their losses.
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means that the amount of compensation that an injured party can recover is reduced by their percentage of fault for the accident. For example, if a driver is 30% at fault for a crash and suffers $100,000 in damages, they can only recover $70,000 from the other driver who is 70% at fault.
California has certain minimum insurance requirements for drivers. Drivers in California are required to have at least $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident in bodily injury liability coverage, and $5,000 in property damage liability coverage. These coverages pay for the damages and injuries that the driver causes to others in an accident. Drivers can also purchase additional coverages, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, collision coverage, and comprehensive coverage, to protect themselves from other risks.
California also has specific reporting requirements for drivers involved in accidents. Drivers must stop at the scene of any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage. They must exchange information with the other parties, such as name, address, driver’s license number, vehicle registration number, and insurance details. They must also report the accident to the police or the California Highway Patrol within 24 hours if anyone is injured or killed. They must also file a written report with the DMV within 10 days if the accident causes more than $1,000 in property damage or any injury or death.
California has a statute of limitations for car accident claims. A statute of limitations is the deadline for filing a lawsuit.
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims is two years from the date of the accident or injury. The statute of limitations for property damage claims is three years from the date of the accident. There are some exceptions and circumstances that can extend or shorten these deadlines, such as filing a claim against a government entity, discovering the cause of injury later, or having a minor plaintiff.
Selecting the right car accident lawyer in San Diego can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:
No, California is not a no-fault state when it comes to car accidents. In California, the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering damages. This means if you’re involved in an accident in California, you have the right to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance or sue the at-fault driver for damages.
Consider hiring our lawyers for a car accident in the following scenarios:
Remember, our car accident lawyers can provide guidance, ensure that your rights are protected, and aim to get the best possible outcome for your case. It’s always a good idea to consult with our firm after an accident to understand your options.
In 2019, there were 19,938 car accidents in San Diego County that resulted in injury or death. That’s about a 1.6% decrease over the prior year.
In 2018, San Diego City had the largest number of car accidents in the entire San Diego County, with over 49,000 car accidents, which is so many times more than the next city, Chula Vista, with only 7,705 accidents.
In 2017, there were 20,385 car accidents in San Diego County that resulted in injury or death. This was a 5.9% increase from 2016 and a 14.4% increase from 2015.
The most common causes of car accidents in San Diego County are speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, and failure to yield.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, construction accident, or have suffered another type of personal injury contact our team today.
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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.
Most people have never needed a lawyer when they find themselves injured and in need of legal advice. We hear the following questions from many of our clients. We hope the answers help clarify your options and considerations.
One issue that often prevents accident victims from getting legal representation is concerns about cost. California car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means you do not pay anything upfront for representation. Instead, you will pay a percentage from your settlement. If you do not win your case, you do not pay attorney fees. Your financial status should not prevent you from getting justice.
Learn more: How Much Does a Lawyer Charge for a Car Accident Case?
The amount you can recover for your car accident will depend on your case worth. Some factors to consider include injury severity and medical treatments. You might be eligible to recover compensation for:
Learn more: How much to expect from a car accident settlement in California?
You can take legal action against anyone who causes you injury or harm. When another driver is negligent, they must pay for their losses. You can file an insurance claim with their insurance company. However, if that does not pan out, the next step is filing a formal lawsuit.
Insurance companies have 85 days in California after a filling to issue a decision. That is a little less than three months. If a lawsuit is filed, it will take more time—most car accident cases (74%) resolve within 540 days. The National Center for State Courts average is closer to 486 days. Overall, 5% of accidents were resolved within a year. The average timeline will vary as numerous factors can shorten or extend the timeline.
You should get a lawyer even for a minor car accident. You might think you can handle a simple claim, but the insurance company will still push back to deny your claim. If they approve your claim, they may offer you less than your case worth.
If you’re at–fault, several things can happen. The injured victim can file a claim against you to recover damages. However, they may have contributed to the accident, which can help you reduce your liability.
Learn more: What happens if i’m at fault in a car accident California?
California works on vicarious liability. This law means a car owner is responsible for whatever happens when they lend their vehicle to someone. So the driver and the vehicle owner can share responsibility.
Learn more: What happens if someone else is driving my car and gets in an accident in California?
You must call the police to report the accident. Then, you must gather evidence at the scene and get medical attention. You should also speak to a California car accident lawyer to start your claim.
Many factors can impact how long it takes to settle a claim. Your case may take longer if you suffer a severe injury. If you are still undergoing medical treatment, that can also lengthen the time frame. The insurance company policies will also impact case length. They may intentionally be delaying the process.
Needing to work with experts or file a formal lawsuit will also be an issue that can lengthen your settlement. When you file a formal complaint, the litigation process gets even longer. Another reason your car accident settlements take so long is because you do not have appropriate legal representation.
If the driver does not own the vehicle, you can file a claim with the owner’s insurance company. If the owner knowingly let the unlicensed driver take the car, they are liable for your damages.
Learn more: What happens if an unlicensed driver has an accident with my car?
Often, crash victims do not get medical attention. They may think their injuries are minor and do not require treatment. Sometimes, they do not want to deal with the inconvenience of making and attending doctor appointments. Sometimes, the lack of visible physical injuries is the reason. No matter why you are delaying your medical treatment, you must not. Failing to get medical attention can lead to serious legal issues.
While it is best to get medical attention immediately, you should see a doctor as soon as you feel any symptoms. Medical records are crucial as they will create a foundation for your case. It might be too late if you wait months or years after the accident to see a doctor. It is advised to go within a few days or a week.
Car accidents stay on your driving record for three years. If a commercial vehicle or hazardous materials were involved, it could stay for ten years.
Learn more: How Long Does an Accident Stay on Your Record in California?
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