Justia Lawyer Rating for Steven M. Sweat
BBB Rating A+
Avvo Rating 10.0 Top Attorney
Top 100 Trial Lawyers
10 Best 2018 Attorney - Client satisfaction
Multi-million Dollar Advocates Forum
Super Lawyers - Steven M. Sweat - 10 Years
The State Bar of California
Client Champion Silver 2020
Lead Counsel
Top 10 - Personal Injury Lawyer

Car Accident Attorney Los Angeles | Free Consult

If you were hurt in a crash, a car accident attorney in Los Angeles can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. We handle the insurance company communications, investigate fault, and build a claim designed to recover the maximum available under California law. Call for a free consultation to discuss your next steps.

Understanding the Aftermath: Why a Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney is Essential

Experiencing a car accident in Los Angeles can be a profoundly disorienting and distressing event. Beyond the immediate shock and potential physical injuries, victims often face a complex web of legal, financial, and emotional challenges. The bustling streets and freeways of Los Angeles, while vital to the city’s rhythm, also present a heightened risk of collisions. When such an unfortunate event occurs, navigating the aftermath alone can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, property damage, and the intricacies of insurance claims. This is where the expertise of a dedicated car accident attorney in Los Angeles becomes not just beneficial, but often indispensable.

Our firm understands the unique pressures and anxieties that follow a car accident. We recognize that you may be grappling with severe pain, mounting medical bills, lost wages due to an inability to work, and the emotional toll of trauma. The legal landscape surrounding car accidents in California is intricate, governed by specific statutes, precedents, and procedural rules that can be difficult for an untrained individual to comprehend. Insurance companies, while seemingly helpful, are primarily businesses focused on minimizing their payouts. Their adjusters are skilled negotiators whose objective is often to settle claims for the lowest possible amount, which may not adequately cover your long-term needs.

By entrusting your case to an experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney, you gain a powerful advocate who will stand between you and these challenges. We are committed to protecting your rights, ensuring your voice is heard, and relentlessly pursuing the full and fair compensation you deserve. From the moment you engage our services, we take on the burden of legal complexities, allowing you to focus on your recovery and well-being. Our approach is comprehensive, encompassing thorough investigation, meticulous evidence gathering, strategic negotiation, and, if necessary, aggressive litigation. We aim to demystify the legal process, providing clear communication and compassionate support every step of the way, ensuring you are informed and empowered throughout your journey to justice.

Los Angeles Car Accident Claims We Handle

Car accidents in Los Angeles manifest in countless ways, each with its own set of circumstances, challenges, and legal nuances. Our firm possesses extensive experience in handling a broad spectrum of these claims, representing victims across the diverse scenarios that can lead to injury and loss on California roads. Understanding the specific nature of your accident is the first step toward building a robust legal strategy tailored to your situation. We are equipped to manage cases arising from various types of collisions, regardless of their complexity or the severity of the resulting damages.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents, often occurring due to distracted driving, tailgating, or sudden stops. While they might seem minor, these accidents can lead to significant injuries, particularly whiplash, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries, even at low speeds. The impact can force the head and neck to snap forward and backward, causing severe soft tissue damage that may not manifest immediately. Proving fault in rear-end collisions often appears straightforward, as the trailing driver is typically presumed to be at fault. However, complexities can arise if the lead driver made an abrupt stop without warning, or if there were multiple vehicles involved. Our attorneys meticulously investigate the circumstances, examining factors such as traffic conditions, driver behavior, and vehicle damage to establish clear liability and quantify the full extent of your injuries and losses.

T-Bone (Side-Impact) Accidents

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, frequently occur at intersections when one vehicle fails to yield the right-of-way or runs a red light or stop sign. These collisions are particularly dangerous because the side of a vehicle offers less protection than the front or rear, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities for occupants on the impacted side. Common injuries include broken bones, internal organ damage, head trauma, and spinal cord injuries. Determining fault in T-bone accidents often involves analyzing traffic camera footage, witness statements, vehicle damage, and accident reconstruction reports. Our legal team is adept at piecing together these critical details to demonstrate negligence and hold the responsible party accountable. We understand the devastating impact these accidents can have and work tirelessly to secure compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are relatively rare but are almost always the most catastrophic type of car accident, often resulting in severe injuries or wrongful death due to the combined force of impact. These accidents typically occur when a driver crosses the center line, drives the wrong way on a one-way street or freeway, or attempts an unsafe pass. The sheer force involved can cause multiple fractures, severe internal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and permanent disabilities. Investigating head-on collisions requires a thorough examination of accident reports, toxicology results, road conditions, and driver behavior leading up to the crash. Our compassionate attorneys handle these cases with the utmost sensitivity and diligence, working to secure justice for victims and their families. We pursue compensation that reflects the profound and often life-altering consequences of such devastating impacts, including long-term care, specialized medical equipment, and significant non-economic damages.

Sideswipe Accidents

Sideswipe accidents occur when two vehicles traveling in the same direction make contact along their sides. These collisions often happen during lane changes, when a driver drifts out of their lane due to distraction or fatigue, or when merging onto a freeway. While they may seem less severe than head-on or T-bone crashes, sideswipe accidents can still cause significant property damage, loss of vehicle control, and serious injuries as drivers swerve to avoid further impact or collide with other objects. Injuries can range from whiplash and soft tissue damage to more severe trauma if the vehicle rolls over or strikes a fixed object. Establishing fault often involves analyzing witness statements, dashcam footage, and paint transfer evidence. Our legal team is skilled at uncovering the details to prove negligence and ensure you are compensated for vehicle repairs, medical expenses, and any other losses incurred.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents present a unique and frustrating challenge for victims, as the at-fault driver flees the scene, leaving the injured party to contend with damages and uncertainty. These incidents are unfortunately common in a large metropolitan area like Los Angeles. While the immediate aftermath can feel hopeless, victims often have avenues for recovery, particularly through their own uninsured motorist (UIM) coverage. Our attorneys are experienced in assisting victims of hit-and-run accidents, working with law enforcement to identify the fleeing driver, and guiding clients through the process of filing a claim with their own insurance company. We ensure that all available insurance policies are explored and maximized to cover medical costs, property damage, and other related expenses, providing a pathway to recovery even when the negligent driver remains unidentified.

Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups

Multi-vehicle pile-ups, especially those occurring on Los Angeles’s busy freeways like the 405, 101, 110, and 10, are complex scenarios involving multiple vehicles and often multiple injured parties. Determining fault in these chain-reaction collisions can be incredibly challenging, as each driver’s actions contribute to the overall sequence of events. These accidents often result in extensive property damage and a wide range of severe injuries due to multiple impacts. Our firm has the resources and expertise to manage these intricate cases, conducting thorough investigations that may involve accident reconstruction specialists, traffic engineers, and detailed analysis of police reports and witness testimonies. We work diligently to identify all liable parties and allocate fault appropriately, ensuring our clients receive fair compensation from all responsible insurers. Navigating the complexities of multiple insurance companies and legal claims requires a seasoned legal team, and we are prepared to advocate for your interests in these challenging situations.

Accidents Involving Commercial Vehicles

Accidents involving commercial vehicles, such as large trucks, buses, or delivery vans, introduce additional layers of complexity due to federal and state regulations governing commercial operators and the potential for severe damage and injuries. The sheer size and weight of these vehicles mean that collisions often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities for occupants of smaller passenger vehicles. Liability can extend beyond the driver to the trucking company, cargo loaders, or even vehicle manufacturers. Our attorneys are well-versed in the specific laws and regulations pertaining to commercial vehicle operations, including hours-of-service rules, maintenance logs, and driver qualifications. We meticulously investigate these cases, often involving expert witnesses, to uncover all contributing factors and hold all negligent parties accountable, ensuring victims receive compensation commensurate with the severe nature of their injuries and losses.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving has become a leading cause of car accidents, particularly with the pervasive use of mobile phones and in-car entertainment systems. Activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging with navigation systems divert a driver’s attention from the road, significantly increasing the risk of a collision. In Los Angeles, where traffic demands constant vigilance, distracted driving is especially perilous. Proving distracted driving can be challenging but may involve obtaining cell phone records, witness statements, or surveillance footage. Our legal team is skilled at gathering this crucial evidence to demonstrate negligence and establish liability. We are committed to holding distracted drivers accountable for the harm they cause, advocating for victims to receive compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and the emotional distress resulting from such preventable accidents.

Drunk or Drugged Driving Accidents

Accidents caused by drunk or drugged drivers are particularly egregious, as they stem from a conscious decision to operate a vehicle while impaired, demonstrating a blatant disregard for public safety. Victims of these accidents often suffer severe injuries and emotional trauma. In California, in addition to pursuing compensation for economic and non-economic damages, victims may also be eligible for punitive damages, which are intended to punish the at-fault driver for their reckless behavior and deter similar conduct in the future. Our firm works closely with law enforcement to obtain toxicology reports, arrest records, and other evidence to build a compelling case against impaired drivers. We are dedicated to seeking maximum justice for victims, ensuring that those who choose to drive under the influence are held fully responsible for the devastating consequences of their actions.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claims

Despite California law requiring all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, many drivers on Los Angeles roads are uninsured or underinsured. This creates a significant challenge for accident victims who may find themselves unable to recover compensation from the at-fault driver’s policy. Fortunately, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can provide a vital safety net in these situations. Our attorneys are highly experienced in navigating UIM claims, helping clients understand their policy limits, file appropriate claims, and negotiate with their own insurance providers. We ensure that you receive the full benefits you are entitled to under your policy, covering medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, even when the negligent driver lacks adequate coverage. We act as your advocate against your own insurance company if they attempt to undervalue or deny your legitimate UIM claim.

What To Do After a Crash in Los Angeles (Step-by-Step)

The moments immediately following a car accident in Los Angeles can be chaotic and confusing. However, the actions you take (or fail to take) during this critical period can significantly impact your health, safety, and the strength of any future legal claim. It is crucial to remain calm and follow a systematic approach to protect yourself and preserve vital evidence. This step-by-step guide provides essential advice for navigating the immediate aftermath of a collision on Los Angeles roads.

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Assess Injuries

Your immediate priority after a car accident is the safety of yourself and others. First, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent due to adrenaline. If possible and safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road or out of the flow of traffic to prevent further collisions. If your vehicle is inoperable or moving it would be unsafe, turn on your hazard lights. Do not attempt to move anyone who appears seriously injured unless they are in immediate danger, such as from a fire. Call 911 immediately if there are serious injuries or if the scene is unsafe.

Step 2: Call 911 and Report the Accident

Regardless of how minor the accident may seem, it is always advisable to call 911 to report the collision, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or if the other driver appears impaired or uncooperative. In Los Angeles, police will typically respond to accidents involving injuries or substantial damage. A police report serves as an official record of the incident, documenting key details such as the date, time, location, parties involved, and initial assessment of fault. This report can be invaluable evidence for your insurance claim and any subsequent legal action. Be sure to obtain the police report number before leaving the scene.

Step 3: Exchange Information with Other Drivers

After ensuring safety and reporting the accident, exchange information with all other drivers involved. This includes:

  • Full Name and Contact Information: Phone number and email address.
  • Insurance Information: Company name, policy number, and agent’s contact.
  • Vehicle Information: Make, model, year, license plate number, and vehicle identification number (VIN).
  • Driver’s License Information: Driver’s license number.

Avoid discussing fault or apologizing, as anything you say can be used against you later. Stick to factual information exchange only.

Step 4: Document the Scene Thoroughly

Evidence gathered at the scene is critical. Use your smartphone to take numerous photos and videos from various angles. Document:

  • Vehicle Damage: Close-ups of all damage to your vehicle and other vehicles involved.
  • Accident Scene: Skid marks, debris on the road, traffic signs, signals, and road conditions.
  • Injuries: Visible injuries to yourself or passengers.
  • Surrounding Area: Any relevant landmarks, weather conditions, and the overall environment.

Also, note the exact date, time, and location of the accident. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Their unbiased accounts can be crucial in establishing fault.

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, it is imperative to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident. Many serious injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding, may have delayed symptoms. A prompt medical evaluation ensures that any injuries are diagnosed and treated early, preventing them from worsening. Furthermore, medical records create an official link between the accident and your injuries, serving as vital evidence for your personal injury claim. Follow all medical advice and attend all follow-up appointments. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, diagnoses, medications, and expenses.

Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as reasonably possible, even if you believe the other driver was at fault. Most policies require timely notification. Provide only the basic facts of the accident – date, time, location, and the other party’s information. Do not provide a recorded statement or discuss fault with the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting with an attorney. Remember, insurance adjusters are not on your side; their goal is to minimize payouts. Your attorney can handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf.

Step 7: Consult with a Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney

Before making any statements to insurance companies or accepting any settlement offers, consult with an experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney. A lawyer can provide invaluable guidance, explain your rights, assess the true value of your claim, and protect you from common insurance tactics designed to reduce your compensation. They will handle all legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. The sooner you consult with an attorney, the better equipped you will be to navigate the complexities of your claim and secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

Compensation You May Recover After a Car Accident

When you’ve been involved in a car accident in Los Angeles, understanding the full scope of compensation you may be entitled to is crucial for your recovery and future well-being. California operates under an

at-fault (tort) system, meaning the party responsible for causing the accident is liable for the damages incurred by the victims . This system allows injured parties to pursue compensation for a wide range of losses, both economic and non-economic. Our firm is dedicated to meticulously calculating and aggressively pursuing every category of compensation you are legally entitled to, ensuring that your recovery is as complete as possible.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses that result directly from your car accident. These are often easier to calculate as they come with bills, receipts, and wage statements. However, accurately projecting future economic losses requires significant expertise. Our attorneys work with financial experts, medical professionals, and vocational rehabilitation specialists to ensure that every potential economic loss is accounted for.

  • Medical Expenses: This is often the largest component of economic damages. It includes all past and future medical costs related to your injuries. This can encompass emergency room visits, ambulance fees, doctor consultations, specialist visits (e.g., orthopedists, neurologists), diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans), prescription medications, physical therapy, rehabilitation, chiropractic care, and even long-term care or in-home assistance if your injuries result in permanent disability. We consider not just the bills you have already received, but also the projected costs of future treatments, surgeries, and ongoing care that your injuries may necessitate over your lifetime .
  • Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working, you are entitled to compensation for lost income. This includes wages, salary, bonuses, commissions, and other benefits you would have earned had the accident not occurred. For those with severe injuries that impact their ability to return to their previous profession or work at the same capacity, we also pursue compensation for loss of earning capacity. This accounts for the difference in what you could have earned versus what you are now able to earn over your working lifetime due to your injuries. This often requires expert testimony from vocational and economic experts to accurately assess .
  • Property Damage: This covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle, as well as any other personal property damaged in the accident (e.g., laptop, phone, eyeglasses). If your vehicle is deemed a total loss, you are entitled to its fair market value. We also pursue compensation for rental car expenses incurred while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced.
  • Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Accidents often lead to various unexpected expenses. This category includes costs such as transportation to and from medical appointments, childcare services while you are recovering or attending legal meetings, assistive devices (crutches, wheelchairs), modifications to your home or vehicle to accommodate disabilities, and even mileage reimbursement for medical travel. Keeping meticulous records of all these expenses is crucial for maximizing your recovery.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are more subjective and are intended to compensate you for the intangible losses that significantly impact your quality of life. While these damages do not come with a direct bill, they are often a substantial part of a car accident claim and reflect the profound personal suffering you endure. In California, there is no cap on non-economic damages in personal injury cases, except in medical malpractice cases .

  • Pain and Suffering: This is a broad category that encompasses the physical pain and emotional distress you experience as a result of your injuries. This includes chronic pain, discomfort, mental anguish, anxiety, depression, fear, and inconvenience. The severity and duration of your pain and suffering are key factors in determining this compensation. We gather extensive medical records, personal journals, and witness testimonies to paint a comprehensive picture of your suffering.
  • Emotional Distress: Beyond general pain and suffering, emotional distress specifically addresses the psychological impact of the accident. This can include conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, panic attacks, phobias (e.g., fear of driving), and depression. Psychological counseling and therapy records can be crucial evidence in proving emotional distress.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from participating in hobbies, recreational activities, or daily routines that you once enjoyed, you can seek compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life. This could include inability to play sports, engage in social activities, travel, or perform household tasks. This type of damage recognizes the diminished quality of life caused by the accident.
  • Loss of Consortium: This claim is typically made by the spouse of an injured person. It compensates for the loss of companionship, affection, comfort, moral support, and sexual relations due to the injuries sustained by their partner. In some cases, children may also claim loss of parental consortium.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are rarely awarded in car accident cases but can be significant when they are. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages are not intended to compensate the victim for their losses. Instead, they are designed to punish the at-fault party for particularly egregious conduct and to deter similar behavior in the future. In California, punitive damages may be awarded if the defendant acted with

“malice, oppression, or fraud” . This often applies in cases involving drunk driving, egregious reckless driving, or intentional misconduct. Our legal team carefully evaluates each case to determine if the circumstances warrant the pursuit of punitive damages, which can significantly increase the overall compensation awarded.

California’s Pure Comparative Negligence Rule

California adheres to a system of “pure comparative negligence” . This means that even if you are found partially at fault for the car accident, you can still recover damages. However, the amount of compensation you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if a jury determines your total damages are $100,000, but you were 20% at fault for the accident, you would receive $80,000. This system is crucial for victims, as it ensures that even those who contributed to an accident can still seek justice for the portion of damages caused by another party’s negligence. Our attorneys are skilled at minimizing your attributed fault and maximizing your recovery under this system.

Why Hire Our Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney

When you are recovering from a car accident, the thought of navigating the complex legal system, dealing with aggressive insurance adjusters, and fighting for fair compensation can be daunting. This is precisely why retaining an experienced and dedicated Los Angeles car accident attorney is not just a convenience, but a strategic necessity. Our firm offers unparalleled legal representation, combining deep local knowledge with a compassionate approach to ensure our clients receive the justice and financial recovery they deserve. We understand that your choice of legal counsel can profoundly impact the outcome of your case, and we are committed to providing the highest caliber of service and advocacy.

Local Expertise and Knowledge of Los Angeles Courts

Los Angeles is a vast and unique legal landscape. Our attorneys possess an intimate understanding of the local court systems, including the Los Angeles Superior Court and its specific procedures for personal injury cases, such as those handled by the Stanley Mosk Courthouse’s Personal Injury Hub . This local expertise means we are familiar with the judges, court staff, and even opposing counsel, which can be a significant advantage in negotiations and litigation. We are also well-versed in the specific traffic laws, accident trends, and dangerous intersections prevalent in Los Angeles, allowing us to build more informed and compelling cases. Our local presence ensures that we are always accessible to our clients, offering personalized attention and immediate support throughout their legal journey.

Comprehensive Investigation and Evidence Gathering

A successful car accident claim hinges on a thorough investigation and the meticulous collection of evidence. Our legal team leaves no stone unturned in building a robust case on your behalf. We go beyond police reports, often engaging accident reconstruction specialists, forensic experts, and medical professionals to analyze every detail of your collision. Our investigative process includes:

  • Scene Examination: Recreating the accident scene, identifying contributing factors, and documenting physical evidence.
  • Witness Interviews: Locating and interviewing eyewitnesses to gather crucial testimony.
  • Traffic Camera Footage: Obtaining and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras.
  • Expert Testimony: Consulting with medical experts to establish the full extent of your injuries and their long-term impact, and with economic experts to calculate future lost wages and medical costs.
  • Vehicle Data: Analyzing black box data from vehicles, if available, to determine speed, braking, and other critical pre-collision information.
  • Medical Records Review: Meticulously reviewing all medical documentation to establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries.

This comprehensive approach ensures that we have a complete and accurate picture of the accident, allowing us to effectively prove negligence and the full scope of your damages.

Skilled Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are formidable adversaries, equipped with vast resources and strategies designed to minimize payouts. Their adjusters are trained to settle claims quickly and for the lowest possible amount, often exploiting a victim’s vulnerability and lack of legal knowledge. Our attorneys are seasoned negotiators who understand these tactics and are prepared to counter them effectively. We handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf, protecting you from inadvertently saying or doing anything that could jeopardize your claim. We meticulously prepare demand letters, backed by compelling evidence, and aggressively negotiate to secure a settlement that truly reflects the value of your injuries and losses. Our goal is to achieve maximum compensation without the need for protracted litigation, though we are always prepared to go to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Aggressive Litigation and Trial Experience

While many car accident cases settle out of court, some require litigation to achieve a just outcome. If insurance companies refuse to offer a fair settlement, our firm is fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our Los Angeles car accident attorneys possess extensive trial experience, having successfully represented numerous clients in courtrooms across California. We are skilled litigators who are not afraid to challenge powerful insurance companies and negligent parties. Our trial preparation is exhaustive, involving detailed legal research, compelling presentation of evidence, and persuasive arguments before a judge and jury. We are committed to fighting tirelessly for your rights, ensuring that your story is heard and that you receive the maximum compensation available under the law, even if it means taking your case all the way to a verdict.

Compassionate Client Support and Communication

Beyond our legal acumen, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate and client-centered support. We understand that a car accident can be a traumatic experience, and we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process with empathy and clear communication. We believe in keeping our clients fully informed, explaining complex legal concepts in understandable terms, and promptly responding to all inquiries. You will never feel left in the dark about the status of your case. Our team is dedicated to alleviating your stress, allowing you to focus on your physical and emotional recovery while we handle the legal battles. We are not just your attorneys; we are your trusted advocates and partners in seeking justice.

No Upfront Fees – We Work on a Contingency Basis

We understand that financial concerns can be a significant burden after a car accident, especially when you are unable to work and facing mounting medical bills. To ensure that everyone has access to high-quality legal representation, our firm operates on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront legal fees. We only get paid if we win your case, either through a settlement or a favorable verdict at trial. Our fees are a percentage of the compensation we recover for you, aligning our interests directly with yours. This arrangement allows you to pursue justice without added financial stress, making top-tier legal representation accessible when you need it most.

FAQs About Los Angeles Car Accident Cases

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident often brings a multitude of questions. To help you better understand your rights and the legal process, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions by car accident victims in Los Angeles. If you have a question not addressed here, please do not hesitate to contact our office for a free consultation.

How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in California?

In California, the general statute of limitations for personal injury claims arising from a car accident is two years from the date of the accident . For property damage claims, the statute of limitations is typically three years. It is crucial to act quickly, as missing this deadline almost always means forfeiting your right to pursue compensation in court. There are very limited exceptions to this rule, so it is always best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the legal timeframe.

What if the accident was partially my fault?

California follows a system of pure comparative negligence . This means that even if you are found partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages. However, the amount of compensation you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if your total damages are $100,000 and you are found 30% at fault, you would be able to recover $70,000. Our attorneys are skilled at demonstrating the other party’s negligence and minimizing any fault attributed to you.

What kind of compensation can I receive?

You may be entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover quantifiable financial losses such as medical bills (past and future), lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and property damage. Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium. In rare cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the at-fault party.

Do I need to go to court for my car accident claim?

Not necessarily. While our attorneys are fully prepared to take your case to trial if needed, many car accident claims are resolved through settlement negotiations outside of court. We will aggressively negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf to achieve a fair settlement. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer adequate compensation, we will not hesitate to litigate your case to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.

How much does a car accident attorney cost?

Our firm handles car accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront legal fees. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you, either through a settlement or a court verdict. Our fees are a percentage of the total recovery, so you don’t have to worry about out-of-pocket expenses while pursuing your claim.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or is underinsured?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage . It is highly recommended that all drivers in California carry UIM coverage to protect themselves in such situations. Our attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of filing a UIM claim with your own insurance company to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

How long does a car accident claim take to resolve?

The timeline for resolving a car accident claim can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of your injuries, the willingness of the insurance companies to negotiate, and whether the case goes to trial. Simple cases may settle in a few months, while more complex cases involving severe injuries or extensive litigation can take a year or more. Our goal is always to resolve your case as efficiently as possible while maximizing your compensation.

Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company?

No, it is generally not advisable to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting with an attorney. Insurance adjusters may try to use your statements against you to minimize their payout. It is best to let your attorney handle all communications with the opposing insurance company to protect your rights and interests.

What evidence should I collect after an accident?

After ensuring safety and seeking medical attention, you should collect as much evidence as possible at the scene. This includes:

– Photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
– Contact and insurance information from all drivers involved.
– Names and contact information of any witnesses.
– The police report number.
– Details about the date, time, and location of the accident.

Keep all medical records, bills, and receipts related to your injuries and expenses. Your attorney will help you gather and organize all necessary evidence to build a strong case.

What are the most dangerous intersections in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has several intersections known for a high incidence of accidents. Some of the frequently cited dangerous intersections include Sunset Boulevard & Vine Street, Hollywood Boulevard & Highland Avenue, La Cienega Boulevard & Venice Boulevard, Sepulveda Boulevard & Sherman Way, and Figueroa Street & Manchester Avenue . While these are known hotspots, accidents can occur anywhere, and it’s crucial to always drive defensively and remain vigilant.

Contact Steven M. Sweat, Personal Injury Lawyers, APC Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Los Angeles, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The complexities of personal injury law, the aggressive tactics of insurance companies, and the physical and emotional toll of recovery can be overwhelming. Our experienced Los Angeles car accident attorneys are here to provide the dedicated legal representation and compassionate support you need to navigate this challenging time.

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss the specifics of your case, assess your legal options, and explain how we can help you pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. There are no upfront fees, and we only get paid if we win your case. Let us handle the legal burdens while you focus on healing and rebuilding your life. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards justice.

Steven M. Sweat, Personal Injury Lawyers, APC
Address:
11500 W. Olympic Boulevard #488
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Phone: (310) 592-0445
Email: ssweat@stevensweatapc.com

Client Reviews

I have known Steven for some time now and when his services were required he jumped in and took control of my cases. I had two and they were handled with the utmost professionalism and courtesy. He went the extra mile regardless of the bumps in the road. I can not see me using any other attorney and...

Josie A.

Steven was vital during our most trying time. He was referred by a friend after an accident that involved a family member. While he was critical and lying in the hospital, Steven was kind, patient and knowledgeable about what we were going through. Following our loss, Steven became a tough and...

Cheryl S.

Mr. Sweat is a pitbull in the courtroom as well as settlement negotiations - You can't have a better equipped attorney in your corner! It is a pleasure working as colleagues together on numerous cases. He can get the job done.

Jonathan K.

Because of Steven Sweat, my medical support was taken care of. Plus, I had more money to spare for my other bills. Steven is not only an excellent personal injury lawyer, providing the best legal advice, but also a professional lawyer who goes beyond his call of duty just to help his clients! He...

MiraJane C.

I must tell anyone, if you need a great attorney, Steve sweat is the guy! I had an awful car accident and had no idea where to turn. He had so much to deal with because my accident was a 4 car pile up. Not to mention all the other cars were behind me and they were not wanting to settle in any way!...

Audra W.

I believe I made the best choice with Steven M Sweat, Personal Injury. I was very reluctant to go forward with my personal injury claim. I had a valid claim and I needed a professional attorney to handle it. I felt so much better when I let Steven take my case. His team did everything right and I am...

Stia P.

I have to say that Steve has been exemplary! I met Steve at a point with my case that I was ready to give up. He took the time and dealt with all of my concerns. Most importantly, he was present and listened to what I was going through. He was able to turn things around, put me and my case on the...

Cody A.

Contact Us

  1. 1 Free Consultation
  2. 2 Se Habla Español
  3. 3 No Fee Until We Win Your Case

Fill out the form or call us at 866-966-5240 or 310-592-0445 to schedule your free consultation.

Leave Us a Message

Messages Consent
Disclaimer