Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer | Free Consultation

Jacoby & Meyers’ car accident lawyers focus their practice on personal injury law and have recovered over two billion dollars in settlements and verdicts for clients across a wide range of cases. Car accidents are prevalent in the United States, and California is no exception.

California, the most populous state in the country, has a significant number of car accidents each year due to its extensive network of highways and urban regions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 42,795 fatalities from vehicle crashes in 2022.

Car accidents can lead to unexpected challenges, from injuries to mounting medical bills and repair costs. If you’ve been in a collision, it’s essential to know your legal rights and options. A Los Angeles personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options and pursue compensation available under the law while helping you address financial concerns.

Why Choose Jacoby & Meyers Car Accident Attorneys?

• Experience Handling Personal Injury Cases: Our personal injury attorneys have recovered over $2 billion in settlements and verdicts in personal injury and wrongful death matters.*
• Client-Focused Approach: We prioritize clear communication, guidance, and legal support throughout the process.
• Contingency Fee Structure: In many personal injury cases, fees are based on a contingency arrangement, meaning attorney’s fees depend on the outcome of the case. We explain all fee terms clearly during your consultation.*
• Consultations Available: Call us at 800-500-0000—our lines are open 24/7 to provide information and schedule a consultation.

How We Help:

A traffic accident lawyer in LA can:

• Help evaluate your case and discuss potential legal strategies.
• Handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies.
• Address issues involving medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related damages.

Need Answers?

Our experienced attorneys have compiled answers to frequently asked questions from car accident victims. These insights are intended to help you understand your rights and make informed decisions about your case.

You do not have to navigate this process alone. Contact Jacoby & Meyers to discuss your situation and learn more about your legal options.

What should I do after an auto accident?

Car accident victims may sometimes commit actions that put themselves in danger and affect their claim. If you are involved in a car accident in Los Angeles, you must know the appropriate steps to ensure your safety and help pursue a claim when a negligent driver hits you.

The following are the dos and don’ts when handling vehicle collisions:

Do’s After a Collision

• Stay calm.
• Call 911 or the Los Angeles Police Department.
• Check if you have injuries from the impact of the car crash.
• Contact the nearest hospital in Los Angeles and seek medical attention swiftly.
• If you can, gather evidence at the accident scene, such as the other driver’s contact details, photos of the crash, and witness statements.
• Cooperate with the police officers.
• Seek legal advice from a Los Angeles car accident lawyer who can help establish your car accident claim.

Don’ts After a Collision

• Not seeking medical attention. Remember that your health is the most important thing you need to attend to after a vehicle crash. Make sure to seek medical attention to avoid further health complications.
• Admit fault. Saying sorry may hold you accountable for the car accident, even if you didn’t cause it. A car crash attorney will advise you to stick to the facts and be cautious about leading questions. Listen intently and answer as briefly & honestly as you can without jeopardizing yourself and admitting fault. (TIP: You may want to call an auto accident lawyer promptly so you know how to answer the authorities in case you are partially liable for the car crash.)
• Leaving the accident scene without notifying authorities or other involved parties. If you leave the accident scene without exchanging information with the involved individual or notifying the authorities, you may appear as the at-fault driver in the car accident. In most cases, you can also be tagged as a hit-and-run driver. If you are unsure what to do, it is recommended to call a car crash attorney who can give you quick on-the-spot advice.
• Failing to obtain the other driver’s information. Any auto accident lawyer will advise you to collect as much information about the other party involved in the accident. The contact information of the other driver is important, especially if you are filing a personal injury claim. You can properly address your claim to the negligent party and collect compensation if you have the appropriate information.
• Failing to gather other evidence at the scene. You must have valid proof to show that the negligent driver caused your collision. If you have been physically wounded, you can contact a car accident attorney in California who can assist in gathering the evidence needed to pursue a personal injury claim.
• Providing a recorded statement to the insurance company. Insurance companies may try to reduce the compensation or work to dismiss a case. It is recommended to seek advice from an auto accident lawyer before speaking to insurers.
• Filing a car accident claim independently. Although one may pursue a case without legal representation in minor accidents, it is still advised to reach out to a car accident attorney to protect one’s legal rights.

What types of compensation can I recover?

A car accident claim may be pursued if the negligent party’s acts caused injuries or other losses. To seek compensation, you must establish your damages.

In many cases, an accident may involve:

• Economic damages – monetary losses determined by invoices, receipts, and other documentation.
• Non-economic damages – non-monetary losses suffered as a result of the accident. This can involve emotional anguish and a loss of enjoyment in life.
• Punitive damages – damages that may be awarded in limited circumstances when conduct is proven to be intentional or especially harmful, as permitted by law.

Economic Damages	Non-Economic Damages
Medical Bills	Pain & suffering
Other health-related expenses, such as medical treatment or aid	Emotional Distress
Vehicle repair or replacement costs	Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Lost wages	Loss of Life Enjoyment
Future loss of income	Loss of Companionship or Love

Los Angeles car accident lawyers can assist in identifying and calculating damages based on the specific facts of your case.

How will my case value be computed?

In Los Angeles, the value of your car accident claim typically depends on multiple factors, including:

• The complexity of the case,
• The extent of your injuries and documented damages
• The impact of those injuries on your daily life

For example, one car accident victim sustained minor facial lacerations from a car crash. On the other hand, another injured driver incurred a permanent leg disability from a crash. When comparing these two scenarios, the initial case will generally have a lower settlement than the latter since the impact of the collision is more severe.

Another instance is when you are partially liable for the crash. This is crucial information that you must disclose to your auto accident lawyer right away so they can help you understand how comparative fault may affect your potential recovery. For example, you weren’t wearing a seatbelt when a drunk driver hit you. From the scenario, we can deduce that you may be found 10% responsible for the accident, while the drunk driver may be 90% accountable for the crash. In such a case, your compensation may be reduced proportionally based on your percentage of fault.

This is why it is essential to consult with a Los Angeles car accident attorney who can examine the facts of your accident and evaluate potential compensation based on the specific circumstances of your case.

Who can be held liable for a car accident in Los Angeles?

Discovering and proving the negligent individual liable for the collision is essential before pursuing a car accident claim. In a car accident, particular parties can be responsible for the crash.

The Negligent Driver

The driver is one of the most common parties liable for a car accident. Since they are responsible for others’ safety on the road, a simple violation of traffic rules can cause an accident, resulting in injuries and other damage. The most frequent driver errors that result in car accidents are the following:

• speeding
• distracted driving
• driver fatigue
• impaired driving
• reckless driving
• tailgating
• disobeying traffic signals and road signs
• inexperienced driving, and
• lane splitting.

If you have sufficient evidence demonstrating the driver’s infractions that caused the accident, you may file a personal injury claim against the other driver.

Multiple Parties

If multiple parties caused your accident, you may file several car accident claims against each. That process can also be overwhelming and challenging, but legal guidance can help you navigate it.

In some cases, victims who pursue multiple cases at once risk procedural complications that may affect their claim. It is best to contact a Los Angeles auto accident attorney with the knowledge and resources to gather evidence for each claim and analyze the liability of the parties involved.

Other Negligent Entities

In Los Angeles, there are times when neither you nor the other driver is to blame for the accident. Poor road conditions may cause a car accident in several instances, such as: potholes, uneven pavements, missing or illegible road signage, faulty traffic signals, thawed ice or snow on the road, and others.

In such cases, you may file a claim against the local authority responsible for road maintenance. You must, however, do so within six months of the car crash.

If, on the other hand, the crash was caused by faulty vehicle parts or products, you may be entitled to pursue compensation from the manufacturer. In such circumstances, you would then be pursuing a product liability claim.

Client review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

They are reliable, helpful, and responsive! I got into a car accident and not knowing who I should contact I came across a commercial and called that moment, I spoke to a representative. I was transferred to a case coordinator that was very helpful and answered all the questions I had. Marina was very helpful.
Melanie Meas – Actual Client

*Client testimonial reflecting an individual experience. Results vary depending on the facts of each case.

Partial Liability: What if I am partly to blame?

California is a pure comparative fault state. This means that a car accident victim can file a personal injury claim regardless of how much they are responsible for the accident damage. However, compensation may be reduced in proportion to that percentage of fault.

Suppose you were talking on the phone while driving when a drunk driver hit you in San Bernardino or anywhere in California. Since you were distracted on the road, you may be found 40% responsible for the crash. In that case, your recovery may be reduced by 40%.

On the other hand, the impaired driver’s recovery may also be reduced based on their percentage of fault. These percentages vary by case, which is why it is important to be transparent with your car accident lawyer so they can properly assess your situation..

Do I really need a car accident lawyer?

Even if you think you might pursue your claim without hiring a Los Angeles car accident lawyer, you may face challenges, especially if you lack evidence or familiarity with personal injury procedures.

For instance, you were hit by a negligent driver who was drunk at the time of the accident. While their wrongful action is evident, the at-fault party’s insurance provider may argue that you are liable if you apologized at the accident scene. In such cases, your claim could become more complicated.

Another example is when you avoid hiring a car accident lawyer because you believe the crash resulted in minor damage. Let’s say the other driver’s insurance company offered an initial settlement and you accepted it. Months later, you discovered late-appearing injuries.

In many instances, once a claim is settled, it cannot be reopened. Regardless of whether the collision is minor or catastrophic, consulting a Los Angeles auto accident lawyer with experience in handling car accident claims can help you understand your legal options.

How can a car accident lawyer help me?

If you believe your case may benefit from legal representation, here’s what auto accident attorneys typically do:

• Process all paperwork related to the claim
• Work to pursue fair compensation based on documented damages
• Educate and guide you through the legal process
• Represent you in court when necessary
• Gather relevant evidence
• Coordinate with medical professionals and other experts when appropriate

How much does Jacoby & Meyers charge?

Most Los Angeles and California car accident lawyers charge between 33.3% – 40% of the total recovery obtained in a case. Fee arrangements vary and are explained before representation begins.

If you have been involved in an accident and are suffering from injuries, you may have missed work or experienced property damage. Many personal injury firms, including Jacoby & Meyers, handle cases on a contingency fee basis.

This means attorney’s fees are typically based on a percentage of any recovery obtained, as outlined in the written fee agreement.

How much do I need to pay upfront?

Under a contingency fee structure, clients generally do not pay attorney’s fees upfront.

If no recovery is obtained, attorney’s fees are typically not owed. Specific terms and costs are explained in the written agreement before representation begins.

The Jacoby & Meyers Difference: Very few people come out unscathed from a car accident. We understand that accidents create legal and medical concerns. At Jacoby & Meyers, we assist clients throughout the legal process and may help coordinate access to medical providers and related services.

This allows clients to focus on recovery while their legal matter is being handled.

Can I fire my car accident lawyer?

Yes, you can. After some time has passed, you might feel that you are not aligned with your lawyer or that your lawyer isn’t really on your side. It could also be a logistical issue. You might prefer a local lawyer who has more area-specific experience.

It only makes sense that a Los Angeles car accident attorney would have more experience and familiarity with courts and procedures in Los Angeles County than someone from Nevada.

It can also be a correspondence issue. You might not have the same communication style or you simply didn’t feel like you were a priority.

This is why it’s important to get to know your personal injury law firm before signing with them.

Read: My Personal Injury Settlement is Late; How Long Will It Take?

J&M Tip: Get to know your potential car wreck lawyer by visiting their social media channels and even their LinkedIn accounts. Review their experience handling cases similar to yours. What advocacies are they involved in? What is their company culture like?

Though it’s important to take your time in choosing a law firm, be mindful of legal time limitations that may apply to your claim. Reading their blogs, checking social media posts, and reviewing feedback can help you determine whether the firm is the right fit for you.

How do I choose the best car accident attorney?

Car wreck lawyers are everywhere. How do you choose the right one? Here are things to consider when choosing a car accident lawyer for your case:

• Experience handling similar cases
• Years in practice
• The roster of lawyers and team members
• Public reputation
• Awards and acknowledgements (with clear criteria and year identified)
• Communication and rapport

*Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case must be evaluated based on its own facts.

Hiring a Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer: Process Overview

Below is a summary of the steps a typical client goes through during a car accident lawsuit case in California:

• STEP 1: Intake
  We gather all documents, photos, and information needed to start your case.
• STEP 2: Treatment
  Your Case Manager may assist you in coordinating medical treatment and communicating with the insurance company. If you were in a car accident, we may also assist with property damage coordination.
• STEP 3: Medical Records
  After completing medical treatment, a Medical Specialist assists in obtaining and reviewing medical bills and records.
• STEP 4: Demands
  We compile your bills, records, and other documents into a demand package and submit it to the insurance company seeking compensation supported by documentation. If negotiations do not resolve the claim, filing a lawsuit may be necessary.
• STEP 5: Liens negotiation
  If your case resolves through settlement or judgment, we work to address outstanding medical liens and coordinate distribution of funds.
• STEP 6: Litigation
  If the case is complex or cannot be resolved through negotiation, litigation may be recommended. Litigation timelines vary depending on court schedules and case-specific factors. The decision to proceed is always yours after discussing your options.

First meeting with your car accident lawyer: What to bring, what to expect

Since not all cases need to be litigated, initial consultations are conducted by legal teams first.

Your initial consultation will help you understand your legal options and how your case may proceed based on its facts. Attorneys cannot guarantee outcomes, but they can explain potential claims and available remedies.

It is essential to bring the necessary documents to help your car accident lawyer and legal team understand the facts of your crash and evaluate your viable legal options.

Prepare the following documents and information before meeting with a personal injury attorney:

Medical Records

• Name of the hospital and attending doctors
• Identification of the emergency ambulance service
• The doctor’s diagnosis of your car accident injuries
• Medical bills and receipts
• Documentation of recommended future medical treatments
• Records of treatments, rehabilitation, and prescriptions
• Medical examinations
• Documentation indicating the time and date of hospital admission and discharge

Insurance Information

• A document presenting the details about your insurance provider
• Files highlighting the coverage of your insurance policy outlining auto insurance

Police Accident Report

• Police accident report from the responding law enforcement department
• The accident report from the fire department, if applicable

Other Necessary Evidence

• Accident photos presenting car accident injuries and vehicle damage from the crash
• Witness statements
• Other driver’s contact information

Legitimate Google Review; Check Live Post Here*

*Client testimonial reflecting an individual experience. Results vary depending on the facts of each case.

The Jacoby & Meyers Difference: How we handle your case

We could say we have extensive experience handling car accident cases in Los Angeles and throughout California, and that our awards and past settlements reflect that experience. However, rather than focusing on labels, we focus on explaining how we handle cases: full-service representation from beginning to end.

Full-service representation, from intake through resolution

Being in this field for over 50 years, we understand that the path to resolving a claim can be complex. A client involved in a car accident may have immediate needs even before a case resolves. This is why we offer coordinated support throughout the process. This may include helping clients locate medical providers or other resources while their legal claim is ongoing.

Client empowerment

Client empowerment is central to Jacoby & Meyers. We develop materials to help clients understand their personal injury claims at each stage. Lawyers and team members guide clients through legal processes so they can make informed decisions.

A team of integrity

Jacoby & Meyers assigns teams to handle different aspects of a case. This means that personnel experienced in specific stages of a claim manage those components.

All cases have different timelines. Our goal is to advocate for our clients and pursue available legal remedies within the bounds of the law. We remain committed to honesty, fairness, and transparency. Our teams provide full disclosure of information that may affect the proceedings of a case to support an informed client relationship.

Other Frequently Asked Questions:

• What happens if the at-fault party does not have insurance?
• Who is at-fault in a T-bone car accident?
• Who can be sued in a car accident case?
• Who is at-fault in a multi-vehicle accident?
• What happens if I feel the pain AFTER my car accident?
• How long does settlement negotiation take?
• How to find a good car accident lawyer

Do you have any more questions? Read about our Frequently Asked Car Accident Questions here.

Los Angeles and California Car Accident Statistics

A quick preview of Los Angeles car crash statistics:

Overall Numbers:

• 2021 saw a 7.6% increase in traffic fatalities alone. From 3,980 in 2020 to 4,285 in 2021.
• MDR ( Mileage Death Rate) for the year 2021 was at 1.38. (MDR is fatalities per 100 million miles traveled)

California DUI Statistics

• A huge 16% increase from 2020 to 2021.
• These fatalities involve accidents involving a car driver or motorcycle rider with a reported Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or above.

Drug-impaired Driving

• 52.9% of drivers killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2021 tested positive for both legal and/or illegal drugs. This number shows a 5.5% decrease from 2020.

Passenger Protection

• Unrestrained passenger occupant fatalities increased in 2021. From all seating locations, passenger vehicle occupant deaths rose to 12.4% in 2021 vs. 2020.

Motorcycle Vehicle Collisions

• Deaths from motorcycle crashes increased 3% from 2020 (549 deaths) vs. in 2021 (565 deaths)
• Death from not wearing proper helmet protection in creased 9% in 2021 vs. 2020.

Teen Driving

• Teen drivers (aged 15-20) who were involved in fatal crashes rose to 14.8% in 2021.

Pedestrian & Bicycle Crash Statistics

• Pedestrian deaths rose to 9.4% from 1,013 in 2020 to 1,108 in 2021.
• Bicycle accident deaths on the otherhand decreased 8% in 2021 vs. 2020.

Data Source: Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS)

Get a Free Consultation With a Los Angeles Auto Accident Lawyer

This may be your first car accident or personal injury lawsuit, but our California car accident lawyers have represented many individuals in personal injury matters.

Your consultation will be confidential and free of charge. Speaking with an attorney can help you understand your rights and available legal options. There is no obligation to retain the firm after your consultation.

Our Main Office in Los Angeles, California

We serve the whole of California with 14 satellite offices. You can visit us at our Main Los Angeles Office at Wilshire Blvd.

Jacoby & Meyers 2000 Ave of the Stars Suite 1150S, Los Angeles, CA 90067
Fill out a form today for a free case assessment or give us a call to talk to a live legal expert.

Our Los Angeles Accident Attorneys can also help with the following:

• Los Angeles Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
• Los Angeles Fatal Car Accident Lawyer
• Los Angeles Food Delivery Car Accident Lawyer
• Los Angeles Head-On Collision Lawyer
• Los Angeles Parking Lot Accident Lawyer
• Los Angeles Rear-End Collision Lawyer
• Los Angeles Red Light Accident Lawyer
• Los Angeles Rollover Accident Lawyer
• Los Angeles Side-Impact Collision Lawyer
• Los Angeles Speeding Accident Lawyer
• Los Angeles Texting and Driving Accident Lawyer
• Los Angeles Uber and Lyft Ridesharing Accident Lawyer
• Los Angeles Whiplash Injury Lawyer
• Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer for a Minor Accident?
• What Usually Happens in a Hit-and-Run Accident?

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