Van Nuys Car Accident Lawyer

Van Nuys Car Accident Attorney

Car accidents are a common occurrence in busy cities such as Van Nuys, where congested roads, high-speed traffic, and distracted driving often lead to collisions. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you may be dealing with physical injuries, mounting medical bills, and the stress of dealing with insurance companies. A Van Nuys car accident lawyer can provide the legal assistance you need to get through this challenging time.

With over 30 years of experience with personal injury claims, the office of Freeman & Freeman, LLP, is ready to work tirelessly and aggressively to pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. A Van Nuys personal injury lawyer from our firm can effectively advocate on your behalf.

The Importance of a Van Nuys Car Accident Lawyer

Car crashes can range from minor fender benders to serious, life-threatening collisions. In any case, it’s crucial to have legal representation to ensure your rights are fully protected. A skilled car accident lawyer understands the complexities of personal injury law and can help you build a strong case by gathering evidence, consulting with professionals, and negotiating with insurance companies.

Insurance companies are typically concerned with minimizing their payouts, often offering low settlements that don’t reflect the full scope of the victim’s medical needs and other damages. Without an attorney to assist you, you risk accepting a settlement far below what you’re entitled to. A Van Nuys car accident lawyer can fight to secure the maximum compensation for your case through negotiation or litigation.

Common Causes of Car Crashes in Van Nuys

Car accidents can happen for various reasons, many of which are preventable. Some of the most common causes of collisions in Van Nuys include:

• Distracted driving. One of the leading causes of accidents, often involving texting, talking on the phone, using directional apps, fiddling with the radio system, or other distractions that divert attention from the road.
• Speeding. Exceeding the speed limit can lead to loss of vehicle control and can greatly increase your stopping time, resulting in severe crashes if you are unable to stop quickly enough.
• Driving under the influence. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and slow reaction times, leading to devastating, sometimes fatal, accidents.
• Reckless driving. Tailgating, aggressive lane changes, and other dangerous behaviors often result in serious accidents.
• Running red lights or stop signs. Failing to obey traffic signals is a common cause of side-impact collisions at busy intersections.
• Poor road conditions. Potholes, faded road markings, and insufficient lighting can contribute to accidents, especially at night or in bad weather.

When accidents occur, determining fault is essential. The law firm of Freeman & Freeman, LLP, can investigate the circumstances surrounding your crash, collect relevant evidence, and help establish liability.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

The moments following a car crash can be chaotic, but it’s important to take specific steps to protect your health and legal rights. These steps include:

1. Seeking medical attention. It’s essential to obtain a thorough medical evaluation following a car accident, even if you don’t feel injured. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, such as internal bleeding and whiplash.
2. Calling the police. Reporting the accident ensures there is an official police report documenting the crash, which can serve as critical evidence if you choose to file a claim against the at-fault driver.
3. Gather evidence. If possible, take photos and videos of the scene, the vehicles involved, and any apparent injuries. Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver and collect contact information from any witnesses that are present.
4. Inform your insurance company. Report the car accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, avoiding accepting any settlements before speaking with a lawyer.
5. Consult a car accident lawyer. Contacting a Van Nuys car accident lawyer early on can help ensure your rights are protected and that you have a chance of obtaining fair compensation.

Types of Compensation Available in Car Accident Cases

After a car crash, victims are often left facing physical injuries and serious financial challenges. Medical bills, lost wages, and property damage can all take a toll. Fortunately, if you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation that can include:

• Medical expenses. All costs related to your treatment, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
• Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for lost income, including future earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
• Property damage. You can recover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the crash.
• Pain and suffering. This includes compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, psychological trauma, and the overall impact the accident has had on your quality of life.
• Punitive damages. In cases involving extreme negligence or intentional wrongdoing, you may also be awarded punitive damages, which are intended to punish the liable person and deter similar misconduct in the future.

The team at Freeman & Freeman, LLP, can evaluate your case and ensure all possible avenues of compensation are explored.

Navigating the Insurance Process

Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be frustrating and confusing. While insurance is meant to cover your damages, many companies are focused on reducing their liability and may offer settlements that fall significantly short of covering medical bills, lost wages, and other costs. Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize the severity of your injuries to reduce the payout.

Having a car accident lawyer on your side can make a significant difference. Your lawyer can handle all communication with the insurance company, gather the necessary documentation to support your claim, and negotiate for the highest possible settlement. If the insurance company does not offer you a fair settlement, you may be able to take your case to court, where your lawyer can advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

Hiring a car accident lawyer can greatly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and other damages. Your lawyer can:

• Investigate the accident. Gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage, to build a strong case.
• Work with professionals. Consult accident reconstruction professionals, medical professionals, and financial experts to establish liability and calculate damages.
• Handle your insurance claim. They can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you are given the compensation to cover all of your damages.
• File a claim if necessary. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can help you file a legal claim and represent you in court.
• Provide ongoing legal advice. Your lawyer can keep you informed at every step of the process and advise you on the most beneficial course of action.

Van Nuys Car Accident FAQs

Q: How Much Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge in Van Nuys, CA?

A: Many car accident lawyers in California charge a contingency fee, meaning they only get paid if they successfully recover compensation for you. Typically, the fee is a percentage of your settlement or court award. This arrangement allows you to seek legal representation without any upfront costs, making it accessible even if you are facing financial difficulties after the accident.

Q: What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Van Nuys, CA?

A: The average settlement for a car accident in California varies widely based on the severity of the injuries, the extent of property damage, and the level of negligence involved. Settlements can range from a few thousand dollars for minor accidents to hundreds of thousands, or even millions, for more serious cases. A Van Nuys car accident lawyer can help you assess the potential value of your case based on your specific circumstances.

Q: How Much Can Someone Sue for a Car Accident in Van Nuys, CA?

A: The amount you can sue for depends on the details of the accident, including the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical bills, and the impact on your ability to work. California allows victims to recover economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages, and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. In some cases, a victim may receive punitive damages if the responsible party’s behavior was particularly egregious.

Q: How Long After a Car Accident Can You Sue in Van Nuys, CA?

A: In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is two years from the date of the accident. If the accident resulted in property damage only, the deadline is three years. It’s important to consult a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to ensure you don’t miss these crucial deadlines.

Why Choose Freeman & Freeman, LLP

Our firm is dedicated to providing personalized legal services and fighting for the compensation our clients deserve. When you work with us, we can guide you through every step of the legal process, offering excellent advice and aggressive representation to secure the most favorable outcome for your case. If you’ve been involved in a car crash, don’t wait to seek legal help.

Contact our team at Freeman & Freeman, LLP, today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve.