Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer

A car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. Painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncooperative insurance companies can leave you overwhelmed. You don’t have to face this alone. At J&Y Law, our Los Angeles car accident attorneys fight for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing. 

We bring over 80 years of combined experience and a proven track record of success. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients, and we won’t charge any fees unless we win your case. We speak Spanish : Our team offers bilingual legal services in English and Spanish to serve the diverse Los Angeles community.

Founded by Los Angeles natives Yosi Yahoudai and Jason Javaheri , J&Y Law has deep roots in the community. We are familiar with the local courts and insurance tactics in Southern California. Whether you suffered injuries on the 405 freeway or a surface street in LA, our dedicated car accident lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the legal process. 

We treat every client with compassion and personal attention – you’re not just another case to us.

Why Choose J&Y Law for Your Car Accident Case?

Decades of Experience and Local Expertise

Since our founding, J&Y Law has become a pillar of the Los Angeles legal community. With experience handling auto accidents in LA, we understand California’s car accident laws and the nuances of local courts.

This local insight helps us navigate your case efficiently and anticipate the tactics of insurance companies and opposing counsel. We’ve successfully handled every type of crash, from routine fender-benders to catastrophic collisions, so you can trust our knowledgeable team to know precisely how to approach your case for the best outcome .

Proven Results in Difficult Cases

We don’t just talk about results, we deliver them. Our case results include numerous multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients who have been injured. For example, in one recent car accident case, the insurance company offered only $100,000, but our attorneys secured a $2.65 million settlement for the victim . 

In another case, we obtained a $2 million car accident settlement for a client who was initially offered nothing. We have recovered millions of dollars for car accident victims through aggressive negotiation and, when necessary, through court victories. 

These results demonstrate our unwavering commitment to maximizing compensation for our clients. Insurance companies know we mean business. If they don’t offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take the case to trial.

Client-Focused, 24/7 Service (We Even Come to You)

At J&Y Law, you are never just a file number. We genuinely care about our clients’ well-being and treat them like family. From the moment you contact us, we listen to your story and tailor our approach to your unique needs . Our team is available 24/7 , and we will even travel to your home or hospital if you’re unable to come to us – whatever is most convenient for you . 

You will have a direct line to your attorney for updates and questions throughout the case. We also know that communication is key: our staff is bilingual in English and Spanish, ensuring nothing is lost in translation when you communicate with us. 

This personalized, around-the-clock support is what sets us apart. Past clients consistently praise our responsiveness and compassion. You focus on recovering; we’ll handle everything else.

No Fees Unless We Win – Guaranteed

Hiring a lawyer should not add to your financial stress after an accident. That’s why J&Y Law works on a contingency fee basis . You pay nothing upfront and no legal fees unless we win compensation for you . This “no win, no fee” promise means our interests are fully aligned with yours. 

We will advance all case costs (investigation, experts, court fees) so you can pursue your claim without worrying about out-of-pocket expenses. If we don’t obtain a settlement or verdict for you, you owe us nothing. 

There is zero risk to you. 

We offer free consultations to evaluate your case, so it costs you nothing to speak with our Los Angeles car crash lawyers about your options.

Los Angeles Car Accident Statistics and Common Causes

Greater Los Angeles has some of the most congested and dangerous roads in the country, and accidents are unfortunately common. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety , 26,132 injuries or fatal traffic accidents occurred in the City of Los Angeles in a single year.. 

Driving behaviors play a significant role in these crashes; of those accidents, 2,282 involved alcohol , 3,297 were speed-related, and 3,903 were hit-and-run incidents . 

The human toll is sovereign: in 2023, Los Angeles recorded 364 traffic deaths, a 20% increase from the year before . 

Statewide, traffic fatalities have been rising as well – California saw 4,285 motor vehicle deaths in 2021, up 7.6% from 2020 .

These numbers underscore that car accidents are a serious public safety issue in LA and throughout California.

Common causes of car accidents in Los Angeles include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting or using a smartphone while driving is a leading cause of crashes in LA, despite laws against it. Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can result in a devastating collision.
• Speeding: Excessive speed is a factor in many severe accidents. Los Angeles freeways and surface streets see frequent speeding, which increases stopping distance and crash forces. Thousands of accidents each year in LA are attributed to drivers going too fast.
• Driving Under the Influence: Drunk driving and drug-impaired driving remain significant problems. Alcohol was involved in over 2,200 Los Angeles crashes in one recent year. Intoxicated drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, often resulting in high-speed, high-injury crashes.
• Reckless or Aggressive Driving: Tailgating, unsafe lane changes, running red lights, and road rage incidents frequently lead to wrecks. Los Angeles’s heavy traffic can be frustrating for drivers, but aggressive behavior significantly increases the risk of accidents.
• Poor Weather or Road Conditions: Although Southern California’s weather is generally mild, rain, fog, or slick roads can contribute to some accidents. Drivers not adjusting to conditions (like the first rainy day after a dry spell) can cause multi-car pileups. Additionally, road hazards like potholes or debris can contribute to accidents, although driver inattention often plays a role in those cases.
• Vehicle Defects: In some cases, a mechanical failure (such as a tire blowout or brake failure) or even design defects can cause a crash. These incidents could lead to product liability claims against auto manufacturers or maintenance providers in addition to the driver.

Most crashes boil down to human error or negligence . When a driver violates traffic laws or fails to drive responsibly, others on the road are put in danger. If someone else’s negligence caused your accident – whether they were texting, speeding, intoxicated, or simply not paying attention – you have the legal right to seek compensation for your losses.

Common Los Angeles Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-changing trauma. Don’t be fooled by the damage to your car – even low-speed collisions can cause serious bodily harm. Seemingly minor accidents can result in catastrophic injuries ; it doesn’t take much force to injure the human body’s vulnerable parts. Always seek medical evaluation after a crash, as some injuries (like internal damage or concussions) may not show symptoms immediately.

Some of the most common car accident injuries we see include:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden jolt of a collision (even a rear-end “fender bender”) can cause the head and neck to whip back and forth, straining the soft tissues. Whiplash can cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and can sometimes lead to chronic issues.
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: The impact of a crash can injure vertebrae or disks in the spine. More severe trauma may cause spinal cord injuries , potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Back injuries often require lengthy therapy or surgery, and spinal cord damage can be permanently life-altering.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Hitting your head or a violent shaking motion can lead to a traumatic brain injury (TBI) . TBIs range from concussions to severe brain damage. Even a concussion (mild TBI) can cause memory issues, mood changes, and other symptoms. Severe brain injuries can impair cognitive and motor functions long-term. Always be evaluated for head injury after a hard impact. You may not realize you have a concussion or a bleed on the brain without medical tests.
• Internal Injuries: The force of a crash can injure internal organs or cause internal bleeding (for example, a seatbelt can injure organs in a high-impact crash). Internal injuries are very dangerous if untreated. You might feel okay immediately after an accident, only to develop life-threatening symptoms hours or days later. This is why prompt medical attention is critical.
• Broken Bones and Orthopedic Injuries: Fractures are extremely common in car accidents, from broken ribs and collarbones (often from seatbelts or airbags) to broken arms, legs, or wrists. Severe fractures may require surgical fixation and can lead to lasting impairment. Crash forces can also cause joint injuries (dislocations, torn ligaments) or soft tissue injuries (muscle and tendon sprains/strains).
• Facial and Dental Injuries: The face is fragile – impact with an airbag, steering wheel, or shattered glass can cause broken noses, facial cuts or scarring, eye injuries, or dental trauma (including lost or chipped teeth). These injuries may require cosmetic surgery or dental reconstruction.
• Psychological Trauma: Not all injuries are physical. A bad car accident can leave victims with emotional and psychological injuries – anxiety, depression, phobias about driving, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) . Pain and suffering aren’t visible, but they are very real injuries that deserve compensation (more on this below).
  

Tragically, some accidents resulted in wrongful death . If you lost a loved one in a car accident, our team can help your family pursue a wrongful death claim to seek justice and financial support for your devastating loss.

If you have been injured in a crash, seek medical care immediately, and follow up with all recommended treatment. Documentation of your injuries and consistent treatment is not only vital for your health, but also creates records that will support your injury claim later. Keep track of all medical bills, diagnoses, and doctor’s notes. Our attorneys will use this evidence to prove the extent of your injuries and demand appropriate compensation from the insurance company.

Do I Need to Hire a Car Accident Attorney?

If you were involved in a car accident in Los Angeles, you might wonder if you need a lawyer. In very minor accidents with no injuries and apparent fault, people can sometimes handle the situation through their insurance. 

However, even accidents that initially appear minor can later prove to be highly complicated . Injuries may not surface for days, or the other driver may change their story and deny fault. In our experience, there are many situations where having an experienced car accident attorney on your side is highly beneficial – and often essential – to protect your rights and financial recovery.

You should strongly consider hiring a lawyer if:

• You suffered serious injuries. If you or a loved one sustained significant injuries (eg, broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries, or anything requiring hospitalization), you should speak with an attorney. Severe injuries lead to high medical bills, extended time off work, and possibly long-term care or disability.
  An attorney will fight to recover all these costs (and future costs) for you. Without a lawyer, you risk settling for far less than you need or missing certain damages entirely.
  
• Liability is disputed or unclear. If there is any dispute about who caused the accident, you need a lawyer to investigate and gather evidence. Don’t rely on the insurance companies to figure it out – their goal is to pay as little as possible, and they may try to pin the blame on you. Our team can collect police reports, eyewitness statements, traffic camera footage, accident reconstruction analyses, and more to prove the other party’s negligence .
• The insurance company is offering a low settlement (or denying your claim). It’s a sad fact that insurers often make lowball offers or even wrongfully deny valid claims in the hope that unrepresented victims will just accept it. If the insurance company isn’t willing to pay for the full extent of your damages, an attorney can step in and negotiate aggressively on your behalf . We know the current value of your claim and won’t let the insurer short-change you for things like pain and suffering or future medical needs.
  
  
• Your accident was complex. Crashes involving multiple vehicles, commercial trucks, rideshare drivers (such as Uber or Lyft), or government vehicles introduce complex legal issues. There may be multiple insurance policies or defendants. Special laws and shorter deadlines can apply (for example, claims against government entities must be filed within 6 months ). A seasoned attorney will navigate these complexities, identify all sources of recovery, and ensure no critical deadlines are missed.
  
  
• You’re worried about insurance tactics. Insurance adjusters may call you soon after the accident, acting friendly and concerned. Remember: their job is to protect the insurance company’s bottom line , not to pay you fairly. They may ask for a recorded statement or push you to sign a quick settlement. Do NOT give a statement or sign anything without legal advice. Adjusters are trained to get you to say things that could hurt your case. When you have an attorney, we handle all communications with the insurers, ensuring that you don’t inadvertently jeopardize your claim.
  
  
• The accident resulted in death or severe injuries. If a family member was killed or left permanently disabled (eg, brain injury, paralysis) after a crash, the stakes are enormous. These cases often involve very high damages and potentially contentious litigation. You need a legal team to handle a wrongful death or catastrophic injury claim while you focus on your family and healing.
  

In summary, if you’re unsure whether you need a lawyer, it’s free to consult with us and get an honest assessment. We’ll tell you if we believe you can reasonably handle it yourself. However, keep in mind that studies have shown that injury victims with attorneys generally recover significantly more compensation , even after accounting for attorney fees, than those who represent themselves. Don’t risk leaving money on the table or having an insurance company take advantage of you. When in doubt, talk to an experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer about your case.

How Can a Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?

Hiring the right lawyer can make a world of difference after a serious accident. Our job is to take the burden off you by handling all the legal legwork and fighting for maximum compensation on your behalf.

Here are some of the key ways J&Y Law will help with your car accident case:

• Thorough Accident Investigation: We will conduct an immediate investigation to gather crucial evidence . This includes obtaining the police accident report, photographing the scene and vehicles, collecting debris or skid mark measurements, and securing any available video footage. We’ll locate and interview witnesses while memories are fresh. In complex cases, we collaborate with professional accident reconstruction experts to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Our team leaves no stone unturned in building a strong case to prove who was at fault.
  
  
• Handling All Communication: Once you hire us, you can refer any calls from insurance adjusters to your attorney . We will handle all communications with the insurance companies – both yours and the other driver’s. This protects you from saying anything that could be misconstructed. It also relieves you of the stress of dealing with adjusters who may pressure you. We know the tricks insurance companies use to minimize payouts , and we won’t let them take advantage of you. By having us as a buffer, you can focus on your recovery.
  
  
• Calculating the Full Value of Your Claim: Our lawyers are experienced in accurately valuing injury claims . We work with medical professionals and financial experts when needed to assess all your damages. This includes current and future medical expenses, lost income (and loss of future earning capacity if you have a long-term disability), the cost of ongoing therapy or home care, and all the “non-economic” damages like pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life. Insurance companies often undervalue pain and suffering , but we make sure nothing is overlooked. We will compile a comprehensive demand that truly reflects everything you’ve lost.
  
  
  
  
• Aggressive Negotiation with Insurers: We know the insurance industry and how to negotiate effectively. Our attorneys will present the evidence and demand letter to the at-fault party’s insurer and fight for a fair settlement . We don’t back down until we’ve secured the maximum compensation available under the policy. Our reputation for tough negotiation (and our track record of taking cases to trial when needed) often pressures insurance companies to pay more rather than face us in court. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you as efficiently as possible.
  
  
• Filing a Lawsuit and Litigation: If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, we will not hesitate to file a lawsuit on your behalf. Sometimes, showing you’re willing to litigate compels the insurer to increase their offer. If not, we are fully prepared to take the case through litigation, including discovery, depositions, motion practice, and all the way to trial if necessary. Every step of the way, we handle the complex legal procedures and paperwork so you don’t have to worry about them. In court, we present a compelling case to the jury, backed by evidence and expert testimony, to pursue the justice you deserve.
  
  
• Guiding and Supporting You Throughout the Process: A lawsuit can be intimidating if you’ve never been through one. We take pride in guiding our clients with compassion. We explain your options, answer all your questions, and give candid advice at every juncture. We’ll prepare you for what to expect, whether it’s a deposition or an independent medical exam. Our team will keep you updated on significant developments in your case. You will never be in the dark. We strive to make the process as smooth as possible for you, handling the paperwork, deadlines, and legal strategy while you focus on getting better.
  
  

In short, having an experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer from J&Y Law levels the playing field . Individuals who try to handle serious accident claims alone often end up short-changed. With our firm fighting for you, you have skilled advocates on your side working to secure every dollar you deserve. 

Our involvement signals to the insurance company that your claim must be taken seriously. And if any issues arise – whether it’s an uninsured driver, a hit-and-run scenario, or a comparative fault argument – we know how to overcome those challenges (more on these topics below). 

Our mission is simple: to protect your rights and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

What to Do After a Car Accident in California

The moments and days after a car accident are critical. Taking the proper steps can protect your health and your right to compensation. Here’s what you should do (and not do) after a car accident in Los Angeles:

1. Prioritize Safety and Call 911: If you’re able, move to a safe location out of traffic to prevent further harm. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 immediately to report the accident. Even if the crash seems minor, it’s essential to get the police on the scene. When officers arrive, give them a clear account of what happened without admitting fault (stick to the facts as you know them). The police will create an accident report – be sure to get the report number or a copy , as this will be valuable evidence for your claim. If anyone is hurt, request medical assistance when you call 911, so paramedics can come as well.
   
   
2. Do Not Admit Fault: In the shock of an accident, people sometimes say “I’m sorry” or assume they are to blame. Avoid making any statements that sound like an admission of fault to the other driver, witnesses, or the police. Even saying “I didn’t see you” could be used against you later. Liability can be complex and is best determined after a full investigation. Simply cooperate with the police and provide facts. Likewise, do not accuse the other driver or get into arguments at the scene. Let the authorities handle it.
   
   
   
   
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can): If you are not too severely injured and it’s safe to do so, collect information and document the accident scene : exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver(s). Get names and phone numbers of any independent witnesses who saw what happened – their testimony could prove invaluable later. Use your phone to take pictures of vehicle damage, license plates, the positions of the vehicles , skid marks, debris, and any visible injuries. Photographic evidence can strongly support your case. If you are unable to do this because of injuries, ask a passenger or witness to help. Even a few photos and notes can make a big difference. Every bit of evidence you gather now can help your attorney piece together what happened and who was at fault.
   
   
   
   
4. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your health is your top priority. If you or anyone else is even slightly injured, seek medical attention immediately. Allow paramedics to examine you at the scene. If they recommend going to the hospital, do it , even if you feel “okay.” Adrenaline can mask symptoms of serious injuries. At the very least, see a doctor within 24-48 hours of the crash for a complete evaluation. This is crucial for two reasons: (1) To catch any injuries that may not show symptoms yet (such as concussions or internal injuries), and (2) to create a medical record linking your injuries to the accident .Follow all medical advice and attend any follow-up appointments. Gaps or delays in treatment not only jeopardize your health but can also give the insurance company an excuse to question whether your injuries are accident-related.

5. Inform Your Insurance Company (But Be Cautious): Most insurance policies require you to report an accident to your insurer fairly soon. Notify your insurance carrier of the basic facts (when/where the accident occurred, who was involved). However, do NOT give a recorded statement or detailed description to any insurance adjuster – whether yours or the other driver’s – before consulting with an attorney. You can simply tell your insurer that the accident is under investigation, and your attorney will be in touch. You are not obliged to speak to the other driver’s insurance at all. It’s best to let your lawyer handle all insurance communications beyond the initial report.
   
   
   
   
6. Preserve Documentation and Receipts: Start a file for all accident-related documents. This includes the police report, medical records, hospital bills, prescription receipts, vehicle repair estimates, towing bills, and other relevant documents. Also, keep track of the days of work you missed due to injuries or car damage. Save any correspondence from insurance companies. These records will help provide your damages (financial losses) later. Also, journal your recovery – note any pain, limitations, or ways the injuries affect your daily life. These personal notes can help demonstrate your pain and suffering when we negotiate your claim.
   
   
7. Contact a Car Accident Attorney Before Signing Anything: Finally, as soon as you’re able, consult with a qualified car accident lawyer – ideally before giving any statements or signing any settlement offer. Remember that the insurance company’s goal is to pay you as little as possible and close the claim as quickly as possible. They may rush to offer you a small check in exchange for a full release. Don’t agree to any settlement or sign any release of claims until you have legal advice. Once you sign, you generally cannot reopen your claim, even if you realize later your damages were far greater. An experienced attorney from our team at J&Y Law will evaluate your case for free and advise you on the best course of action. If you decide to hire us, we will handle the insurance adjusters on your behalf, so you don’t have to. Remember: the call is free, and you pay nothing upfront, so there’s no downside to getting professional guidance.
   
   
   
   
   
   

Following these steps can significantly strengthen your case and help protect your right to compensation. We know it’s a lot to think about, especially when you’re injured, which is why our attorneys are here to assist you at every step. 

If you ever have any doubts about what to do after an accident, just give J&Y Law a call – day or night – and we’ll help guide you.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Los Angeles Car Accident?

One of the most common questions we hear is, “ What can I recover for my losses? ” If another party was at fault for your accident, California law allows you to recover a broad range of damages to make you “whole” again. In a personal injury claim, you can seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages . 

Simply put, economic damages cover your financial costs, and non-economic damages compensate you for intangible harms like pain. In rare cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish egregious wrongdoing. 

Here’s a breakdown of the potential compensation:

• Medical Expenses: All reasonable and necessary medical bills related to your injuries can be recovered. This includes emergency room bills, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, medical devices (crutches, braces), and future medical treatment you will need. Don’t forget things like ambulance fees or home nursing care – those count too. We will claim both past and anticipated future medical costs based on your providers’ opinions.
  
  
• Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries caused you to miss work, you can recover the wages you lost (including salary, hourly wages, tips, bonuses, and any income). Suppose your injury affects your ability to work in the future, or you cannot return to the same job. In that case, you may also claim loss of future earning capacity – the income you will lose out on because of long-term disability. For example, if you have a permanent impairment that forces you to take a lower-paying job or retire early, the projected difference in earnings is compensable. We often work with economists or vocational experts to quantify these losses.
  
  
• Property Damage: You are entitled to reimbursement for damage to your vehicle and any other personal property (eg, car seats, glasses, phones) that were damaged in the accident. Typically, this refers to the cost of repairing your car. If the vehicle was totaled, you can recover its pre-accident fair market value. You might also recover loss of use (rental car expenses) while your car is in the shop. These are typically handled through property damage claims, but we ensure you receive full payment for your vehicle damage.
  
  
• Pain and Suffering: These are non-economic damages compensating you for the physical pain and emotional anguish caused by the accident and your injuries. There’s no exact price tag on pain, but it’s genuine and often the most significant component of a settlement. We will detail how your injuries have affected your life: the aches, limitations, mental distress, inconvenience, and loss of enjoyment of activities you once loved. For example, if you can no longer play with your kids or you experience nightmares and anxiety when driving, those are essential elements of your suffering. California law does not cap pain and suffering damages – they are subjective. Still, our attorneys know how to present a compelling case (of ten using medical evidence and even your testimony) to ensure you receive a fair amount .
  
  
  
  
• Emotional Distress and Mental Anguish: Beyond physical pain, accidents can cause serious psychological impact – depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, grief . These mental injuries are compensable as part of pain and suffering, but we highlight them separately when significant. For instance, if you now fear driving or have flashbacks of the crash, that emotional trauma deserves compensation. We may use mental health expert evaluations to support these damages.
  
  
• Permanent Disfigurement or Disability: If the accident left you with scarring, disfigurement, or a permanent disability , you should be compensated for the impact on your life. For example, disfiguring facial scars or the loss of a limb not only incur medical costs but also emotional pain and possibly future costs for prosthetics or cosmetic surgery. Similarly, suppose you’re wheelchair-bound or have chronic pain. In that case, your compensation should reflect the permanent change in your quality of life and any ongoing expenses (like modifications to your home or car).
  
  
• Loss of Consortium: In some cases, the injured person’s spouse (or domestic partner) can claim damages for loss of consortium . This refers to the loss of companionship, affection, intimacy, and support due to injuries. For instance, serious injuries that strain a marriage or prevent normal spousal relations may warrant these damages. These are considered non-economic damages for the impact on the relationship.
  
  
• Punitive Damages: In ordinary accident cases, punitive damages are not available. However, if the at-fault driver’s conduct was especially egregious – for example, driving drunk at excessive speeds or intentionally causing a crash – the court might award punitive damages to punish that behavior and determine others. In California, punitive damages require proving the defendant acted with malice, oppression, or a willful and conscious disregard for others’ safety. These damages are rare in car accident cases, but we will explore the possibility if the facts warrant it (such as a repeat drunk driver causing serious injury).
  
  

Every case is unique, and the types of damages you can claim depend on your specific losses. Our attorneys will do a thorough accounting of all the ways the accident cost you – financially, physically, and emotionally. Don’t let the insurance adjuster decide what your case is worth. Often, they will omit categories like future treatment or undervalue pain and suffering. We frequently see initial offers that ignore things like future surgery needs or the fact that you can’t lift your child due to your injuries. Rest assured, our team will demand full and fair compensation for everything you’ve been through .

Filing a Los Angeles Car Accident Lawsuit (Claims vs. Lawsuits and Deadlines)

Car accident cases typically begin as insurance claims . Our first approach is generally to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance and attempt to negotiate a fair settlement. However, if the insurer refuses to offer a reasonable amount or if liability is contested, we will file a lawsuit to protect your rights and interests . It’s essential to understand the difference between an insurance claim and a lawsuit . An insurance claim is typically handled between your attorney and the insurance company. A lawsuit, on the other hand, involves filing a formal complaint in civil court, and the case may proceed to trial if it is not settled beforehand.

Filing a personal injury lawsuit for a car accident kicks off a structured process governed by the courts. After the initial complaint is filed and served, the defendant files an answer. Both sides engage in discovery (exchanging evidence, depositions, etc.), and eventually the case could go to trial if a settlement isn’t reached. The vast majority of car accident lawsuits settle before trial, but initiating a lawsuit is often a necessary step to show you mean business or to use the court’s powers (subpoenas, expert testimony) to strengthen your case.

Critical : California’s Statute of Limitations for car accident cases is generally two years . This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in court. If you miss this deadline, you’ll likely lose your right to pursue compensation in court. (There are very few exceptions.) Additionally, if your claim is against a government entity (eg, you were hit by a city bus or other government vehicle), California law requires you to file a special government claim notice within 6 months of the accident. Do not wait to seek legal help. Two years might seem like a long time, but investigating and building a strong case can take months. It’s wise to involve an attorney early so we can ensure all filings happen on time. If you contact us soon after your accident, you won’t have to worry about these deadlines at all – we will calendar and handle everything.

It’s also important to know that even if an insurance claim is ongoing, the lawsuit deadline still applies. Sometimes insurers drag out negotiations. If we’re nearing the statute of limitations without a satisfactory resolution, we will file a lawsuit to preserve your rights while continuing settlement discussions. Bottom line: we won’t let the clock run out on your claim. Our team will keep your case on track.

Proving Negligence: To win any car accident lawsuit, we must prove that the other party was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. Negligence means that the other driver failed to use reasonable care, for example, by violating a traffic law or failing to pay attention. As your attorneys, we gather and present evidence to establish four key elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages . All drivers owe a duty to operate their vehicles safely and follow the law. We show how the defendant breached that duty (such as running a red light or driving drunk), and how that breach directly caused the crash. We then detail your damages (injuries and losses) resulting from the accident. Evidence in a car accident case can include the police report, traffic cam or dash cam video, witness statements, cell phone records (to prove distraction), vehicle black box data, accident reconstruction expert analysis, and medical records indicating your injuries to the crash. We will gather all necessary evidence to build a compelling case that the other driver was legally liable for the accident.

Comparative Fault in California: You might wonder, “What if I was partially to blame for the accident? Can I still recover anything?” In California, the answer is yes – California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means each party is liable only for their percentage of fault , and you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault. For example, if you were 20% responsible and the other driver was 80% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages (your 20% share of fault reduces your award). Even someone 99% at fault can recover 1% of their damages in California. In practice, if you were mostly at fault, it may not be worthwhile to pursue a claim, but if you have any uncertainty about fault, don’t assume you can’t recover. We have successfully obtained settlements for clients who were found partially responsible. Insurance companies love to claim you were partially to blame as a tactic to reduce payouts. Our attorneys will fight back against any unfair attempts to shift blame. We gather evidence to minimize your percentage of fault and maximize your compensation . And remember, determining fault is often complex – do not take the insurance adjuster’s word for it if they’re saying you were X% at fault. Let us advocate for you. We have won cases even when liability was initially disputed or shared.

Uninsured and Hit-and-Run Accidents: Los Angeles has a significant number of uninsured drivers or those who flee accident scenes (hit-and-run). If you were hit by an uninsured driver or a driver who was never identified, you still have options. First, check your auto insurance policy. If you carry Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage , you can file a claim with your insurance to cover your injuries and damages (up to the limits of your UM policy). UM coverage steps into the shoes of the at-fault driver’s insurance in these scenarios. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling UM claims and will help you obtain a fair recovery from your insurer. (Yes, you should have a lawyer fight your insurance company if needed – they can be just as tough as the other side.) If you are involved in a hit-and-run incident, report it to the police and your insurer promptly. Sometimes the police can locate the hit-and-run driver, in which case we can proceed normally against that driver’s insurance or assets. If not, a UM claim is typically the best option. We can also investigate whether any other party bears some responsibility – for example, if a bar overserved a drunk driver who then fled, or if a road defect contributed to the crash – to find additional avenues of recovery. These cases are complex, but we won’t give up on getting you compensated , even if the irresponsible driver had no insurance or fled the scene. We’ll pursue all possible sources of recovery so you’re not left footing the bill for someone else’s negligence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire a Los Angeles car accident lawyer?

At J&Y Law, we work on a contingency-fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and no attorney’s fees are incurred unless we win your case. We advance all case costs (investigations, experts, court fees) so you can focus on your recovery without financial stress.

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

Under California law, you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. If the at-fault party is a government entity (eg, a city bus), you must file a special claim within six months . Contact J&Y Law as soon as possible to ensure we meet all deadlines.

What if I were partly at fault for the accident?

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. Even if you share some fault, you can still recover damages for your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, you may recover 80% of your total losses. Our attorneys work to minimize your percentage of fault and maximize your recovery.

What types of compensation can I recover after a car accident?

You may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
• Vehicle and property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress (anxiety, PTSD)
• Loss of consortium
• Punitive damages (in rare, egregious cases)

How long will my car accident case take?

Every case is different. Simple insurance claims can be resolved in a few months, while more complex matters (multiple parties, serious injuries, litigation) may take a year or longer. J&Y Law aims for an e

Contact a Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney Today

A serious car accident can throw your life off course, but you don’t have to struggle through the aftermath alone . Let the experienced team at J&Y Law help you get back on track. We have successfully represented countless car accident victims in Los Angeles and throughout California – and we’re ready to fight for you, too.

Our mission is simple: to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and losses. We understand how overwhelming the days and weeks after an accident can be. While you focus on healing and your family, we will focus on winning your case . From investigating the crash to dealing with insurance adjusters and taking the case to court if necessary, we handle it all. Our attorneys are aggressive in their pursuit of justice, yet compassionate with our clients, guiding them through every step.

Worried about cost? Don’t be. We never charge a fee unless we win for you. Our initial consultation is free. We’ll review what happened, answer your questions, and explain your options. If you decide to hire us, you pay nothing upfront and no fees at all until we recover money for you. No recovery, no fee – guaranteed.

Available 24/7 – Reach Out Now: Car accidents don’t keep business hours, and neither do we. Our Los Angeles car accident lawyers are available 24/7, 365 days a year to take your call or message. We can also assist in Spanish. If you’re unable to visit our office due to your injuries, let us know. We can travel to you at home or in the hospital. Your priority should be getting better; let us handle the rest.

Take the first step towards justice and recovery. Call (877) 735-7035 or fill out our simple online form to schedule your free consultation with a top Los Angeles car accident attorney. There’s no obligation – just information and help. The sooner you have a legal professional on your side, the better protected your rights will be.

J&Y Law is here to stand up for you and make sure you aren’t stuck with the physical, emotional, and financial fallout of an accident that wasn’t your fault. Contact us today and let us put our experience, skill, and dedication to work for you. We’re ready to fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.