Driving a motor vehicle in Los Angeles or the surrounding area can be dangerous. California’s traffic laws exist to provide essential protection to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. A driver who knowingly violates these laws may place other people at risk of serious harm. They may also be liable for any accidents resulting from their negligent behavior.
Speeding crashes can cause devastating injuries that change lives forever. If someone else’s reckless driving hurt you or someone you love, the Los Angeles speeding accident lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers are here to help you pursue the compensation that covers your overall losses.
- Since 1972, our firm has recovered over $2 billion for clients across California, as shown in our real client testimonials. Client testimonials reflect individual experiences. Results vary depending on the facts of each case.
- With 14 locations and a team experienced in California premises liability law, we are equipped to evaluate your case and pursue fair compensation. Our proven results show our commitment to securing meaningful outcomes for our clients. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
- We work on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront attorney’s fees. Legal fees are only paid if compensation is recovered.
Experienced California Speeding Accident Attorneys
Since 1972, Jacoby & Meyers has represented Californians in serious personal injury cases, including high-impact speeding crashes. With 14 offices statewide, we serve clients in Los Angeles and surrounding communities with both local access and the resources of a large California firm.
Speeding accident cases often involve significant injuries and complex liability issues. Our legal team works with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and financial specialists to thoroughly investigate the crash, document your losses, and pursue compensation through strategic negotiation or, when necessary, trial.
Can I Afford a Speeding Accident Lawyer?
Medical bills, lost income, and vehicle repairs can create immediate financial pressure after a crash. Many injured people worry about adding legal fees to their expenses. With us, you won’t have to worry about the fees during the case process.
At Jacoby & Meyers, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means:
- No upfront attorney costs to hire our firm
- No hourly billing while we work on your case
- We only take a percentage of the settlement as our fees after recovering compensation for you
- Free initial consultation to evaluate your case
We only collect our fee if we secure compensation on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What To Do After a Speeding Accident
- Seek immediate medical attention. It’s crucial to get checked by a doctor right away and diligently follow all their treatment recommendations. Some injuries aren’t obvious at first but can worsen over time, so a professional evaluation is essential for your health and your case.
- Document the accident scene thoroughly. Use your phone to take photographs of everything involved, including vehicle damage from multiple angles, the overall road conditions, any skid marks on the pavement, relevant traffic signs, and any visible injuries you or your passengers have sustained.
- Collect contact and insurance information. Get the names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details from all other drivers involved. If there were any witnesses, be sure to get their contact information as well. Ask the responding police officers for their names and badge numbers so you can obtain the official accident report later.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to any insurance company without legal guidance. Insurance adjusters may try to use your words against you to minimize your claim. It is best to consult with an attorney before providing any formal statement.
- Speak with a Los Angeles speeding lawyer before accepting any settlement offers to ensure you fully understand your legal rights and options. A skilled attorney can review the details of your case, explain potential consequences, and help you determine the best course of action to protect your interests.
Legal Tip from Our Attorneys
Insurance companies often argue that posted speed limits were not violated or that road conditions justified the driver’s speed. However, California Vehicle Code §22350 establishes that drivers must operate vehicles at speeds that are reasonable and prudent given current conditions, regardless of posted limits. This means a driver traveling at or below the speed limit can still be found negligent if weather, visibility, traffic density, or road surface conditions require slower speeds. Evidence such as skid mark length, vehicle damage patterns, and witness testimony about driving behavior often reveals when speed was excessive for the circumstances, even when no citation was issued.
Common Causes of Speeding Accidents in Los Angeles
According to Los Angeles VisionZero (2015-2025), Unsafe speed contributed to 35% of all fatal collisions citywide, making it the leading cause of crashes.
Speeding crashes occur throughout the Los Angeles area for various reasons:
- Aggressive or impatient driving on congested freeways, including I-5, I-10, I-405, and US-101
- Running late and attempting to make up time during rush hour traffic
- Distracted driving, combined with excessive speed, reduces reaction time
- Ignoring weather conditions such as rain or fog that reduce visibility and traction
- Street racing or reckless driving on surface streets and highways
- Disregarding posted limits in residential neighborhoods, school zones, and construction areas
- Impaired judgment from alcohol, drugs, or fatigue
- Overconfidence in vehicle handling capabilities
Common Injuries in Speeding Accidents
The force of a high-speed collision often results in devastating and life-altering injuries. These can range from injuries requiring long-term rehabilitation to, in the most tragic cases, death. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were 1,104 fatal and injury crashes in Los Angeles in 2023 alone.
Some of the most common injuries we see in these cases include:
- Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions and intracranial hemorrhaging
- Spinal cord injuries that may result in partial or complete paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures requiring surgical intervention
- Internal organ damage and internal bleeding
- Severe lacerations and road rash from ejection or vehicle intrusion
- Chest and abdominal trauma from seatbelt force or steering wheel impact
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries affecting the neck, back, and shoulders
- Psychological trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression
Who May Be Liable for Your Injuries?
Getting behind the wheel of a car, truck, or motorcycle puts people into a social contract. In exchange for the right to use public roads, drivers must not place others at unnecessary risk of harm. A major part of this responsibility is following the rules of the road.
Speed limits are an example of these rules. However, they are also among the rules that people are most likely to break. According to the California Vehicle Code (VEH) §22350, no driver may operate their vehicle at a speed that is greater than what is reasonable given the current visibility, weather, traffic situation, or road conditions.
A speed limit may be posted by the side of the road, but a ‘reasonable’ speed may be open for interpretation at any given time. For this reason, a police officer may issue a citation even if a driver was not in violation of the posted limits. This may occur during periods of bad weather or other conditions that make driving hazardous.
When a driver breaks this rule and causes a collision, California law allows injured parties to pursue compensation from anyone whose negligence contributed to the accident. In speeding cases, potentially liable parties may include:
- The speeding driver who violated traffic laws or operated at unsafe speeds
- Vehicle owners, if they negligently entrusted their vehicle to an incompetent driver
- Employers, when speeding occurs during work-related driving
- Rideshare companies, when drivers were logged into apps and carrying passengers
- Government entities, if dangerous road design, poor signage, or inadequate maintenance contributed to the crash
- Vehicle manufacturers, if defective brakes, tires, or other equipment prevented proper vehicle control
Many speeding accidents involve multiple liable parties. Our speeding accident attorney’s investigation identifies everyone who shares responsibility for your injuries.
Why Speeding Accident Cases Are Legally Complex
These cases present challenges that require experienced legal representation:
- Disputed fault and comparative negligence under California law, which may reduce compensation based on any percentage of fault assigned to you
- Multiple potentially liable parties, including drivers, employers, vehicle owners, and government entities
- Technical evidence requirements involving accident reconstruction, vehicle data recorders, and expert testimony
- Insurance coverage disputes over policy limits, exclusions, and whether multiple policies apply
- Medical causation issues linking specific injuries to the collision, particularly when pre-existing conditions exist
Damages You May Be Entitled To
California law allows injured parties to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic losses.
Economic Damages
These are quantifiable financial losses:
- Medical expenses, including emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation
- Future medical care when injuries require ongoing treatment or long-term care
- Lost income for time away from work during recovery
- Reduced earning capacity if injuries prevent you from returning to your previous occupation
- Property damage to your vehicle and personal belongings
Non-Economic Damages
These address the human impact of your injuries:
- Pain and suffering from physical injuries and the recovery process
- Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life when injuries prevent participation in activities you previously enjoyed
- Permanent disability or disfigurement that affects your quality of life
- Loss of consortium for spouses affected by the injury
Attorneys use a comprehensive approach to calculate damages and ensure your compensation covers all losses. They meticulously review medical bills, pay stubs, and expert projections of future costs, such as ongoing treatment or reduced earning capacity. They also work with experts to assign monetary values to intangible losses, such as pain and suffering. By combining these calculations with a deep understanding of legal precedents, speeding accident lawyers fight to pursue a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages.
California Statute of Limitations
California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1 is the state’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases. It says that people seeking compensation after an accident generally have two years from the date of an injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.
However, shorter deadlines apply when government entities may be liable. Claims against California cities, counties, or state agencies typically require filing an administrative claim within six months of the incident.
Missing these deadlines can prevent you from pursuing compensation, no matter how strong your case is. Taking legal action early ensures you can seek justice without wasting time or resources.
Get an expert assessment today.
How a Lawyer Can Help with Speeding Accident Cases
Handling a speeding-accident claim on your own can quickly become overwhelming, leaving you feeling unprepared to navigate the complex process. Without proper guidance, you may find yourself at a disadvantage when dealing with insurance companies or legal procedures, as they often require expertise to ensure a fair outcome.
Here’s how a Los Angeles speeding accident lawyer can support you:
- Deal with Insurance Companies: Adjusters often work to minimize payouts by arguing fault, downplaying injuries, or questioning medical treatments. A lawyer ensures your claim is taken seriously and fights for fair compensation.
- Prove Liability: At-fault drivers and insurers may contest responsibility, especially if no citation was issued. Lawyers gather evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and expert opinions, to clearly establish negligence.
- Accurately Value Your Injuries: Insurance companies often offer quick settlements that don’t account for long-term medical needs, lost wages, or non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. A lawyer ensures all aspects of your injuries are considered.
- Handle Legal Complexities: California personal injury law involves strict procedures, evidence standards, and deadlines. A lawyer manages these details to avoid mistakes that could harm your case.
By working with Jacoby & Meyers, you can focus on healing while we handle the legal complexities and fight for the compensation that reflects the seriousness of your injuries.
How Jacoby & Meyers Builds Speeding Accident Cases
Our approach combines thorough investigation, strategic preparation, and aggressive advocacy:
- Initial Case Evaluation
We review the circumstances of your accident, analyze police reports, and assess the strength of potential claims during your free consultation.
- Evidence Collection and Investigation
Our team gathers critical evidence, including:
- Police reports and traffic citations
- Witness statements and contact information
- Photographs and video footage from the scene
- Vehicle damage assessments
- Skid mark measurements and accident scene documentation
- Cell phone records are obtained when a distraction is suspected
- Black box data and vehicle computer records, when available
- Damage Documentation
We work with medical providers to document the full extent of your injuries and, when necessary, coordinate with vocational and economic experts to calculate future losses.
- Insurance Negotiations
We handle all communications with insurance companies, present comprehensive demand packages supported by evidence, and negotiate for fair compensation.
- Litigation and Trial Preparation
When insurance companies refuse reasonable settlement offers, we file lawsuits and prepare cases for trial. Our litigation team has extensive courtroom experience and is ready to take your case before a jury if necessary.
How to Choose the Best Speeding Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles
High-speed impacts often cause serious injuries such as head trauma, spinal damage, fractures, and long-term mobility issues. Insurance companies may try to minimize the severity of the crash or shift blame to reduce their payouts.
The right Los Angeles speeding accident attorney will treat your case with the seriousness it deserves and build it on strong evidence from day one.
Here’s what to look for:
Experience With Serious Crash Injuries
Speeding accident cases often involve significant medical treatment and long recoveries. A skilled lawyer understands how to handle claims involving:
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Back and spinal injuries
- Broken bones and orthopedic trauma
- Internal injuries
- Ongoing pain and rehabilitation needs
Jacoby & Meyers has represented injured Californians for decades and recovered over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Reputation and Credibility
In serious injury cases, reputation matters. Insurance companies take experienced, well-recognized firms more seriously. Jacoby & Meyers attorneys have been recognized by different organizations.
Knowledge of Local Laws and Deadlines
A qualified Los Angeles attorney should understand:
- Local court procedures
- How speeding violations are proven
- How insurers defend high-speed crash claims
- Government claim deadlines when public entities are involved
Trial Readiness
Speeding cases can involve serious damages, and insurers may resist fair settlements. A trial-ready firm prepares every case as if it could go before a jury, strengthening your position in negotiations.
Choosing the right lawyer can make a meaningful difference in protecting your recovery and your future.
What You Need to Prove in a Speeding Accident Injury Claim
Speeding crashes often cause serious harm because of the force involved. Even so, insurance companies may question how the crash happened, whether speeding was truly the cause, or how severe your injuries really are. Strong documentation is critical to protecting your case.
Important evidence may include:
- Police reports noting speeding or traffic violations
- Photos of vehicle damage and the crash scene
- Witness statements describing how fast the driver was going
- Medical records linking your injuries to the impact
- Proof of missed work and lost income
- Receipts for medical bills and other accident-related expenses
Speeding accident cases often depend on proving both fault and the full extent of your injuries. An experienced injury attorney can gather critical evidence, work with accident reconstruction experts if needed, and clearly connect the driver’s excessive speed to the harm you suffered.
Client Testimonials
For more than 50 years, our firm has been committed to integrity and dependable support, ensuring every client receives the justice and advocacy they deserve.
“I would highly recommend Jacoby & Meyers and especially Laura Sedrish to anyone who is seeking representation after a serious injury. Laura fought for me until the very end and negotiated a good settlement for my case. She is relentless in fighting for her clients!” – Arkadi Razoumovitch from Google Review.
Disclaimer: Testimonials are voluntary statements from former clients. They are not intended to create expectations about outcomes and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results.
Case Outcomes That Make a Difference
Behind every case result is a person facing sudden, life-altering circumstances. These settlements have helped our clients access critical medical care, recover lost income, and regain financial stability after a devastating event.
- $19 Million – Ride Share Passenger VS. Auto / Quadriplegic
- $1.15 Million – Auto VS. Auto / Spinal Cord Injury
- $9.24 Million – Auto VS. Pedestrian / Spinal Cord Injury
- $2.25 Million – Auto VS. Auto
Read our case studies to learn how we protect our clients’ rights.
Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is evaluated based on its unique facts and evidence.
Speeding Accident Lawyer Near Me
Jacoby & Meyers serves injured clients throughout Los Angeles and across California from 14 office locations. Whether your accident occurred on the I-405 in West Los Angeles, surface streets in Downtown LA, or anywhere else in Southern California, our team is available to assist you.
Offices and Service Areas Include:
- Los Angeles
- Orange County
- San Diego
- San Jose
- San Francisco
- Oakland
- Sacramento
- San Bernardino
- Ontario
- Bakersfield
- Fresno
- Escondido
- Brea
See the areas we serve here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does comparative fault work in California speeding cases?
California follows a pure comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% responsible for the crash and your total damages are $100,000, you could recover $80,000. Insurance companies often try to assign more fault to victims to reduce payouts. We work to minimize any fault attributed to our clients.
What if my injuries didn’t appear immediately after the accident?
Many serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, internal injuries, and some soft tissue damage, may not produce obvious symptoms right away. Adrenaline and shock can mask pain immediately after a crash. This is why seeking medical evaluation as soon as possible is critical, even if you feel fine. Medical records documenting when symptoms first appeared help establish causation. California’s statute of limitations generally runs from the date of the accident, not the date you discovered your injuries.
What if the speeding accident involved a rideshare driver or passenger?
Rideshare accidents involving Uber or Lyft can involve multiple insurance policies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. If the driver was logged into the app and transporting a passenger, the rideshare company’s commercial policy typically provides coverage. If the driver was logged in but hadn’t accepted a ride, limited contingent coverage may apply. These cases require careful analysis of app status, insurance coverage layers, and company liability policies.
Can I still file a claim if the speeding driver didn’t receive a ticket?
Yes. While a traffic citation can serve as evidence of negligence, it is not required to prove fault in a civil case. Police officers may not have witnessed the accident or may have only limited information upon arrival. We can demonstrate that a driver was speeding through witness testimony, accident reconstruction analysis, skid mark measurements, vehicle damage patterns, and other evidence, even when no citation was issued.
What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or enough coverage?
California requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, but many drivers are uninsured or underinsured. If the at-fault driver lacks adequate coverage, you may be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if you carry it. We review all available insurance policies to identify every potential source of recovery.
How much does it cost to hire Jacoby & Meyers?
Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of the recovery, so we only get paid when you do. We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and explain how we can help.
For more information, you can visit our FAQ page.
Local Resources in Los Angeles
Note: We do not endorse or profit from these organizations. This list is for informational purposes only.
Emergency Rooms
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: 8700 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048
- Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center: 757 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Keck Hospital of USC: 1500 San Pablo St, Los Angeles, CA 90033
Urgent Care
- Dignity Health – St. Mary Medical Center: 1050 Linden Ave, Long Beach, CA 90813
- Exer Urgent Care: Multiple locations throughout Los Angeles County
- Total Access Urgent Care: Multiple locations throughout Los Angeles
Police Departments
- Los Angeles Police Department (Traffic Group): 100 W. 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department: 211 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Courthouses
- Los Angeles Superior Court: 111 N. Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Stanley Mosk Courthouse: 111 N Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Contact Jacoby & Meyers Today
If you were injured in a speeding accident in Los Angeles or anywhere in California, Jacoby & Meyers is ready to help. Our experienced legal team will investigate your case, identify all liable parties, and fight for the compensation that accounts for all the damages you suffered.
Call us at or complete our online form to speak with a Los Angeles speeding accident attorney today.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.
Attorney Review & Office Information
Attorney Review Disclosure
California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers have reviewed this content to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.
Los Angeles Office
Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067
24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792
Other Cases We Take On
- Car Accidents
- Personal Injury
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Truck Accidents
- Slip and Fall Accidents
- Dog Bites
- Pedestrian Accidents
- Scooter Accidents
- Premises Liability
- Hit and Run Accidents
- Construction Accidents
- Boat Accident
- Bicycle Accidents
- Paraplegia Injury
- Brain Injuries
- Catastrophic Injuries
- Burn Injuries
- Wrongful Death
- Laceration Injury
- Orthopedic Injury
- Whiplash Injury
- Amputations
- Broken Bone Injuries
- Neck Injuries
- Quadriplegia Injury
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Back Injury
- Rideshare Accidents
Michael Akiva is Managing Partner of Pre-Litigation of Jacoby & Meyers. Having started his career as an attorney at Latham & Watkins LLP, a prestigious, global corporate law firm, Michael quickly realized that representing big corporations was not for him. After leaving the firm, Michael dedicated himself to fighting for the rights of the injured. Education J.D. UCLA School of Law, Editor, UCLA Law Review B.S., Finance, University of Southern California, Magna cum laude