Every year, California is one of the top states in the country in terms of the number of car accidents.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, 210 victims in Alameda were injured and killed in traffic accidents in 2022, while Alameda County had 9,249 fatal and injury crashes.
At Jacoby & Meyers, we have collected more than $2 billion in settlements for our clients.
Our reputable Alameda car accident attorneys have earned the title of #1 Personal Injury Firm six years in a row.
Our lawyers understand the challenges that can come with a car accident, and are here to help you move forward with the information you need to make decisions with confidence.
Get help for your motor vehicle accident case in Alameda today.
Contact our local car accident attorneys at (415) 855-4289 for a cost-free case evaluation.
No Fees Unless We Win
#1 Firm 6 Years Running, $2 Billion Won
Why Choose Jacoby & Meyers
- Since 1972, we have earned the trust of tens of thousands of clients with exceptional service and life-changing case results.
- We are experts in serious automotive accident cases. Our Alameda personal injury lawyers are prepared to handle all types of car accident cases, including car, truck, motorcycle, rideshare, bicycle and pedestrian accidents.
- There are no attorney’s fees unless we win. We work for you, not an insurance company. If an insurer denies coverage for your car accident in Alameda, we will not collect a fee. Our law firm does not take any money unless we settle your case.
Understanding California Car Accident Laws
The majority of states use a fault-based insurance law, which allows injured car accident victims to receive financial compensation from the insurance provider of the at-fault party.
California is a fault state,not a no-fault state. This means if a car crash leaves you with medical bills or property damage, you can file a claim against the person who caused your crash in pursuit of financial compensation.
Determining Liability in Your Car Accident Case
Determining who to hold liable, or legally and financially responsible, for your car accident in Alameda typically requires an investigation of fault. For the most part, the driver who broke a traffic law leading up to the crash will be held accountable.
An attorney can help you support your injury claim with evidence against the other driver, such as a police report, witness statements, accident reconstruction done by experts, photos and videos, and cell phone records.
California’s Comparative Negligence Law
In California, the comparative negligence rule makes it possible to recover compensation from another party even if you are found to be partially at fault for the car accident.
California Code of Civil Procedure § 1714states that if an injured person brought the injury upon himself or herself, this will reduce the liability of the defendant accordingly.
For example, if you are allocated 15 percent of fault for your automobile accident but the other driver is given 85 percent, a $60,000 settlement would be reduced by your 15 percent of fault ($9,000) to $51,000.
Since California is a pure comparative negligence state, a victim will not be barred from financial compensation with any degree of fault, short of 99 percent.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Alameda
Negligence is the number one cause of car accidents in Alameda.
Negligence means that a driver or another party involved in the crash failed to act with proper care, or with the amount of care expected of motor vehicle drivers.
Examples include:
- Driving while distracted
- Texting and driving
- Driving under the influence
- Speeding or racing
- Reckless or aggressive driving
- Tailgating or following too closely
- Making unsafe lane changes
- Drowsy driving
If another driver caused your crash, he or she can be made to pay for your losses.
Once you understand the cause of your accident, you can identify the defendant(s) and file your claim against the correct party or parties.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Car Accident in Alameda?
Car accident insurance claims in Alameda can result in payment for a variety of your crash-related losses.
All drivers in California are required to carry at least $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage.
This can pay for your medical expenses, lost wages and out-of-pocket costs. Drivers must also carry $15,000 in property damage liability insurance.
If you have access to another driver’s car insurance or you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit against one or more parties for contributing to your crash, you could recover compensation for your past and future medical bills, income losses, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, disability expenses, loss of consortium, wrongful death damages, and more.
Discuss the value of your case with our attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Alameda?
Check yourself for injuries and get medical attention right away. Call 911 to report the accident. While you wait for the police to arrive, exchange insurance information with the other driver and take photos of the crash scene. Notify your car insurance company without delay, but avoid admitting fault. Before you accept an insurance settlement, consult with an attorney for advice.
How much is my car accident claim worth?
This question can only be answered by an attorney after evaluating your case and gauging the extent of your losses. Case values can vary significantly based on the severity of the victim’s injuries, the length of medical recovery, the number of liable parties, the insurance coverage available, comparative negligence and other factors.
Contact Our Alameda Car Accident Lawyers Today
No matter how safe a driver you are, you can’t always prevent a car accident. If you have recently been hurt in a car crash in Alameda, Jacoby & Meyers can help you hold the responsible party accountable. We will give you the legal advice and guidance that you need to get through this difficult time.
We are right where you need us, with 14 office locations throughout California for your convenience.
Call our local car accident lawyers in San Francisco directly at (415) 855-4289 or contact us online and we will get back to you right away to schedule a free consultation. If you are injured, we can travel to meet with you. Jacoby & Meyers: because you deserve justice.