San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents are one of the most common causes of serious injuries in San Bernardino.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle collision in the Inland Empire, you may be eligible for financial recovery from the other driver.

While it may be difficult to think about an insurance claim or lawsuit after an accident, pursuing a claim may help address medical bills and property damage.

At Jacoby & Meyers, our law firm focuses on representing individuals who have been injured in car accidents.

Our San Bernardino car accident attorneys assist clients in understanding the insurance process and their legal options.

We can help you pursue a claim involving a careless or negligent driver and assist in communicating with insurance companies.

Our team works to provide legal representation based on the facts and circumstances of each case. Contact us at (909) 245-8920 or by filling out a contact form to discuss your situation.

The road to recovery after a car accident can be challenging; however, legal guidance may help you navigate the process.

Why Hire Jacoby & Meyers’ Car Accident Lawyers?

Our San Bernardino personal injury lawyers have been assisting and representing individuals involved in car accident cases since 1972.

• We have experience handling motor vehicle accident claims involving passenger vehicles, commercial trucks, rideshare services, motorcycles, and non-motorists such as bicyclists and pedestrians.
• Our attorneys are familiar with how insurance companies evaluate claims and how to present supporting documentation.
• We have recovered over $2 billion in compensation for clients, including cases involving rideshare and bicycle accidents.*
• We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning fees may depend on the outcome of your case.

*Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

How a San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You

While California law does not require that you hire a personal injury attorney after a car accident, if you suspect that anyone was injured, you may consider speaking with one.

Insurance companies evaluate claims based on their own processes and criteria.

From the moment the accident is reported, they may begin assessing the claim and potential settlement.

A car accident attorney may assist by communicating with the insurance company and helping you understand your options.

Your lawyer can explain the process, applicable deadlines, and what documentation may be needed to support your claim.

At Jacoby & Meyers, our car accident lawyers begin by reviewing the circumstances of the collision and gathering available evidence, such as eyewitness statements and physical evidence.

We can also assist clients in accessing medical care and documenting their injuries.

Once there is a clearer understanding of the injuries and related losses, we may assist with presenting a claim and communicating with insurance companies.

If needed, an attorney may also assist with filing a lawsuit and representing you in court.

At Jacoby & Meyers, our San Bernardino accident lawyers aim to support clients throughout the legal process.

Our team of attorneys, medical case managers, assistants, and negotiators can handle every aspect of your case and stand by your side every step of the way.

Important Evidence in Car Accident Cases

If you are involved in a car accident, the outcome of your case may depend on the evidence that is available.

This evidence can help establish who was at fault, whether a duty of care existed, and the impact of the accident and injuries. This can include:

• Eyewitness testimony
• Police reports
• Accident reconstruction
• Tire skid marks and tread patterns
• Dash cam or surveillance camera footage
• EDR (Event Data Recorder) data
• Medical records and bills for treatment
• Subject matter expert statements (such as medical experts)
• Insurance contracts and communication with adjusters
• Driver logs and maintenance records (in cases involving commercial vehicles)

The evidence available will depend on the specific circumstances of each case.

In many cases, prompt action may be important, as some evidence—such as EDR data or skid marks—may change or become unavailable over time.

Eyewitness accounts may also become less reliable.

Speaking with a lawyer early may help with preserving relevant information.

Common Causes of Automobile Accidents in California

One of the most common factors in car accidents is driver behavior.

In many cases, accidents involve negligent or unsafe driving.

In car accident law, “negligence” refers to the failure of a party to act with a reasonable level of care, such as a driver violating a traffic law.

Common causes of motor vehicle accidents are: 

• Speeding 
• Inattention
• Distracted driving
• Reckless driving
• Texting and driving 
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol 
• Aggressive driving or road rage 
• Inexperience
• Driving while tired 
• Following too closely 
• Ignoring road signs 
• Failing to yield the right-of-way 
• Unsafe or illegal passing 
• Poor vehicle maintenance and part breakdowns 
• Dangerous road conditions and defects 
• Back-up accidents 

If a driver or another party, such as a vehicle manufacturer or a government agency, contributed to your car accident in San Bernardino, that party may be held financially responsible for resulting losses.

Time limits, evidentiary requirements, and available insurance coverage may vary depending on the responsible party.

For this reason, speaking with an attorney may help you better understand your situation and available options.

Common Injuries in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Vehicle collisions are among the leading causes of injury and death in the United States.

In vehicle-centric cities such as San Bernardino, this remains a concern. Common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Lacerations
• Nerve and soft-tissue damage
• Burns
• Head and brain injuries
• Back and spinal cord injuries
• Injuries to the extremities, including the knee, ankle, and even amputation injury
• Crushing injuries
• Chest injuries
• Injury to internal organs
• Death

While some injuries are severe, even less serious injuries can affect daily life.

Nerve damage, for instance, can cause ongoing pain, affect the ability to work, and impact quality of life.

The type and extent of injuries depend on the circumstances and the individuals involved.

For example, pedestrians struck by motor vehicles often sustain serious injuries, while motorcyclists may experience road rash and lower-extremity injuries.

San Bernardino Car Accident Statistics

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, in 2022, 1,370 fatal and injury crashes were reported in the City of San Bernardino.

San Bernardino County had 15,381 total fatal and injury accidents the same year.

Citywide, 174 crashes involved speeding, 166 were hit-and-runs, and 117 involved alcohol.

Pedestrians represented 137 of the accident victims, in addition to 38 bicyclists.

Since 2014, the number of people injured in motor vehicle accidents in San Bernardino has grown by 18 percent.

Where are Drivers in San Bernardino at Highest Risk of Motor Vehicle Accidents?

According to a Jacoby & Meyers analysis of California crash data, intersections are a common location for accidents in San Bernardino.

The data indicates that the city has an intersection crash rate that is 13 percent higher than the California average. 

The analysis identified several high collision intersections in San Bernardino, including: 

• N. Sterling Avenue & E. 5th Street
• E. Date Street & N. Del Rosa Avenue
• N. Arrowhead Ave. & W. Baseline Street
• E. Highland Avenue & Valencia Avenue
• W. Baseline Street & N. Mountain View Avenue

While a collision can occur in many locations, drivers may wish to exercise caution when approaching or passing through intersections.

Is California a No-Fault State?

No, California is not a no-fault state. As outlined in California Civil Code Section 1714, it folloNo, California is not a no-fault state. As outlined in California Civil Code Section 1714, it follows a fault-based system, meaning the person or party found responsible for causing a car accident may be financially responsible for resulting damages.

(a) Everyone is responsible, not only for the result of his or her willful acts, but also for an injury occasioned to another by his or her want of ordinary care or skill in the management of his or her property or person, except so far as the latter has, willfully or by want of ordinary care, brought the injury upon himself or herself.

In motor vehicle collisions, California is a pure comparative negligence state (adopted by Li v. Yellow Cab Co., 532 P.2d 1226), allowing individuals to pursue compensation even if they are found to be partially at fault, although recovery may be reduced by their percentage of fault.

In many cases, compensation is paid through insurance coverage. California drivers are required to carry liability insurance to cover property damage, injuries, or deaths resulting from collisions they cause. Minimum coverage amounts are set by California Insurance Code §11580.1b at:

• $30,000 for injury/death to one person.
• $60,000 for injury/death to more than one person.
• $15,000 for damage to property.

In cases involving serious injury, these minimums may not fully cover all losses.

An attorney may assist in identifying additional sources of coverage, such as underinsured motorist policies or other potentially responsible parties.

What to Do After a Car Accident in San Bernardino

It is common to get overwhelmed and frustrated in the aftermath of a car accident in San Bernardino.

However, it is important to try to stay calm and consider the steps you need to take to protect yourself and preserve information related to your injury claim.

If you are able, consider taking the following actions: 

1. Check yourself and others for injuries.
2. Seek medical care, even if you initially feel fine.
3. Call 911 to report the car accident.
4. Exchange information with the other driver.
5. Avoid admitting fault.
6. Take pictures of the crash scene before you leave.
7. Get copies of your police report and medical records. 
8. Notify your car insurance company of the accident.
9. Contact the other driver’s insurance company to file a claim.
10. Consider speaking with a car accident lawyer in San Bernardino before accepting a settlement.

After contacting a lawyer, you can begin to understand your rights and options.

A legal professional may assist with different stages of your claim.

Dealing With the Insurance Company After a Crash

When dealing with the insurance claims process, it is important to understand that insurance companies evaluate claims based on their own procedures.

During conversations with an insurance claims adjuster, you may choose to avoid providing recorded statements without first understanding your rights.

When answering questions about your crash, it may help to provide accurate but concise information and avoid speculation.

If you receive a settlement offer, you may wish to review it carefully before accepting.

You may also consider discussing the offer with a legal professional to better understand how it relates to your claim.

What Is the Average Car Accident Settlement in San Bernardino?

While it may be possible to calculate an average car accident settlement, each case is different.

The value of a case depends on factors such as the nature and extent of injuries, available insurance coverage, and other case-specific details.

It may not be helpful to rely on an “average” amount when evaluating your claim.

The value of your case will depend on factors such as your injuries and recovery process.

For this reason, speaking with an attorney may help you better understand how your claim may be evaluated before accepting a settlement offer.

As a car accident claimant in San Bernardino, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for various losses.

These may include medical treatment costs, lost wages and future earnings, property damage, pain and suffering, out-of-pocket expenses, loss of consortium, wrongful death damages, and, in some cases, additional damages permitted by law.

What Compensation Can I Expect After a Car Accident?  

If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident and file a claim, it may help to understand the types of damages that may be available.

In California, the law permits the recovery of economic and non-economic damages in many cases, as well as additional damages in limited circumstances.

Economic damages can include:

• Present and future foreseeable medical bills 
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Consultations with specialists
• Property damage repairs or replacement 
• Lost wages 
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Travel or transportation costs 
• Out-of-pocket expenses

Non-economic damages can include: 

• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional injuries
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Psychological effects
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Inconvenience
• Loss of independence
• Scarring or disfigurement
• Loss of companionship and support

In certain cases involving particularly serious conduct, courts may also consider awarding additional damages where permitted by law.

How Long Does It Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim? 

The timeline for a San Bernardino car accident claim depends on the specific circumstances of the case.

An attorney may review your situation and provide a general estimate of how long it may take to resolve.

If a case is resolved through an insurance claim and does not involve complex issues, it may be resolved within a few months.

If there are complications such as serious injuries, liability disputes, or additional investigation, it may take longer.

A car accident case that proceeds to trial in California can take one year or longer, depending on court schedules and the length of the investigation or discovery process. If a case proceeds to trial, legal representation may assist in navigating the process.

Your Options if You Lost a Loved One in a Car Accident 

Some car accidents in San Bernardino may result in fatal injuries. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, California law provides options for certain family members to pursue a wrongful death claim.

In California, a surviving spouse, child, or parent may file a wrongful death claim to seek financial damages following a fatal accident.

Families generally have two years from the date of death to take legal action under California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1.

A claim may include damages such as funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, loss of consortium, loss of household services, and other related losses.

Tips for Choosing the Right Car Accident Lawyer in San Bernardino 

When selecting a San Bernardino car accident lawyer, you may wish to look for a law firm with experience handling car accident cases.

You can review case results, law firm reviews, and client testimonials to better understand the attorney’s background.

You may also consider scheduling a consultation to meet the attorney and determine whether they are a good fit for your needs.

It may be helpful to feel comfortable with the attorney’s communication style, approach to handling your case, and explanation of legal fees.

Contact Our San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyers Today

If you have questions following a car accident in San Bernardino, you may consider contacting Jacoby & Meyers to learn more about your options.

At Jacoby & Meyers, our car accident lawyers have represented individuals and families for many years.

We assist clients as they move through the claims process and address legal and insurance-related matters.

Call us at (909) 245-8920 to discuss your situation. We handle many cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning fees may depend on the outcome of the case.

Visit Us at Our San Bernardino Office

We serve clients throughout the Inland Empire and the state of California from 14 office locations and also help Fontana accident victims.

Our San Bernardino law office is located at:

473 E Carnegie Dr #200,
San Bernardino, CA 92408

Get directions

You can call (909) 245-8920 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to set an appointment at our San Bernardino office.  You can also contact us online, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

We also have a team of lawyers in surrounding areas to ensure you can get the help you need:

• Victorville car accident lawyers
• Rialto car accident lawyer 
• Apple Valley Car Accident Lawyer
• Redlands Car Accident Lawyers
• Highland Car Accident Lawyers
• Colton Car Accident Lawyers