Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a delivery truck accident, life can feel flipped upside down, especially if you’re unsure where to turn. At J&Y Law, we understand what you’re going through because we’ve been there ourselves.

Our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers have more than 80 years of combined experience helping people like you rebuild their lives after serious accidents.

Our car accident lawyers in Los Angeles put clients first. We ensure you have the support you need while we fight for your much-deserved compensation. With cutting-edge technology and true service, J&Y Law is here to guide you every step of the way. Let us help you take back control. Contact us today for a free consultation.

When Do I Need to Hire a Car Accident Attorney?

It’s a common question: Do you really need a personal injury lawyer? In cases of very minor accidents, you might be able to handle the situation on your own through insurance. However, what seems simple at first can become complicated.

Injuries may not appear until days later, or the other driver might change their story and deny fault. We’ve seen time and again how having an experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney can make a big difference in the outcome of a case.

Here are some situations where hiring a lawyer is recommended:

You Suffered Serious Injuries

If you or a loved one sustained severe injuries, you should speak with a lawyer immediately. Serious injuries often mean:

• High medical bills
• Time off work (lost wages)
• Long-term care or permanent disability

An experienced car accident attorney in Los Angeles will fight to recover all these costs, including future expenses. Without legal representation, you risk accepting a settlement that doesn’t fully cover your needs or missing out on damages like pain and suffering.

Liability Is Disputed or Unclear

When there’s any question about who caused the accident, things can get tricky. Insurance companies often try to shift blame to avoid paying, even when it’s not your fault.

What we do:

• Gather police reports.
• Interview witnesses.
• Review traffic camera footage.
• Work with accident reconstruction experts to build a solid case.

Don’t leave it to the insurance companies to figure out liability. They’re looking out for their own bottom line, not yours.

The Insurance Company Offers a Low Settlement or Denies Your Claim

Insurers commonly make lowball offers or wrongfully deny valid claims, hoping you’ll accept less than you deserve. If this happens, an attorney can:

• Negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
• Accurately calculate the value of your claim.
• File a lawsuit if necessary to ensure you get fair compensation.

Without a lawyer, you may not realize how much your case is worth or how hard the insurers will work to minimize your payout.

The Accident Was Complicated

Some accidents are more complicated than others, such as:

• Crashes involving multiple vehicles
• Accidents with commercial trucks, rideshare drivers (Uber or Lyft), or government vehicles
• Cases involving pedestrians or cyclists

These situations often involve multiple insurance policies, defendants, or even special laws. An experienced attorney will identify every possible source of compensation and make sure no critical deadlines are missed.

You’re Worried About Insurance Tactics

Insurance adjusters may contact you soon after the accident, acting friendly and concerned. Don’t be fooled—their job is to protect the insurance company, not you. They might:

• Ask for a recorded statement (which can be used against you).
• Offer a quick, low settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries.

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 hire a lawyer, we handle all communication with the insurance companies to protect your rights.

The Accident Resulted in Death or Catastrophic Injuries

If a loved one was killed or left permanently disabled (e.g., brain injury or paralysis), the stakes are incredibly high. These cases often involve:

• Significant damages for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering
• Complex legal battles, especially in wrongful death claims

Our experienced legal team can handle the details of your case while you focus on healing and taking care of your family.

Why You Should Consult a Lawyer

If you’re unsure whether you need an attorney, it costs nothing to talk to our team. We’ll give you an honest assessment of whether you can handle your case on your own or if legal representation is necessary.

Here’s the truth: Studies show that injury victims with attorneys recover significantly more compensation, even after accounting for attorney fees, than those who try to go it alone. Don’t risk leaving money on the table or letting an insurance company take advantage of you.

When in doubt, reach out to our experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer team. We’re here to answer your questions.

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

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 manage 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. You can trust our knowledgeable team to know precisely how to approach your case for the best outcome.

Proven Results in Difficult Cases

We deliver results. 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

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. 

No Fees Unless We Win, Guaranteed

Hiring a lawyer should not add to your financial stress after an accident. That’s why our personal injury law firm works on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing up front 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.

Common Causes of Car Accidents In Los Angeles

Greater Los Angeles is home to some of the most congested and dangerous roads in the country, making car accidents far too common. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were 26,132 injury or fatal traffic accidents in the City of Los Angeles in a single year.

Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents:

Distracted Driving

Texting or using a smartphone while driving remains a leading cause of crashes, despite laws prohibiting it. Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can lead to devastating collisions.

Speeding

Excessive speed is a major factor in many severe accidents. On freeways and surface streets, speeding is common and dangerous, increasing stopping distances and the force of impact in crashes. Thousands of accidents in LA each year are caused by drivers going too fast.

Driving Under the Influence

Drunk and drug-impaired driving remain significant problems. In one recent year, alcohol was involved in over 2,200 crashes in the city. Intoxicated drivers experience slower reaction times and impaired judgment, often leading to high-speed and high-injury accidents.

Reckless or Aggressive Driving

Tailgating, unsafe lane changes, running red lights, and road rage incidents are frequent causes of accidents. Heavy traffic can frustrate drivers, but aggressive behavior dramatically increases the risk of wrecks.

Vehicle Defects

Mechanical failures, like tire blowouts or brake malfunctions, and design defects can also cause accidents. These incidents may result in product liability claims against auto manufacturers, repair shops, or maintenance providers, in addition to the driver’s liability.

Human Error and Negligence

Most car crashes can be traced back to human error or negligence. When drivers violate traffic laws, drive recklessly, or fail to pay attention, they endanger everyone on the road. If someone else’s negligence caused your accident, you have the legal right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-altering trauma. Don’t be fooled by the damage to your car; even low-speed collisions can cause serious bodily harm. Some injuries may seem minor at first, but can turn out to be catastrophic. The human body is vulnerable, and it doesn’t take much force to cause significant damage.

Always seek a medical evaluation after a crash, as some injuries (like internal damage or concussions) may not show symptoms immediately. Below are some of the most common injuries we see from car accidents.

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

The sudden jolt of a collision—especially in rear-end accidents—can cause the head and neck to whip back and forth, straining the soft tissues. Even seemingly minor “fender benders” can cause whiplash, so don’t ignore symptoms or delay treatment.

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

The impact of a crash can damage the vertebrae, disks, or muscles in the back. More severe trauma can lead to spinal cord injuries, including:

• Partial or complete paralysis
• Chronic pain and limited mobility
• The need for long-term therapy or surgery

Spinal injuries are often permanently life-altering, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.

Head and Brain Injuries

A violent impact or shaking motion in a crash can result in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), ranging from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms may include:

• Memory loss, confusion, or mood changes (even with a mild concussion)
• Impaired cognitive or motor functions in severe cases

Always be evaluated for head injury after a crash. Bleeding or swelling in the brain might not be obvious without medical tests.

Internal Injuries

The force of a collision can damage internal organs or cause internal bleeding. For example, a seatbelt can cause abdominal injuries in high-impact crashes. Internal injuries are extremely dangerous and may not show symptoms immediately.

You might feel fine right after the accident, but develop life-threatening complications hours or days later. Immediate medical attention is critical.

Broken Bones and Orthopedic Injuries

Fractures are very common in car accidents. Car crashes can also cause joint injuries (like dislocations or torn ligaments) and soft tissue injuries (such as muscle or tendon sprains). These injuries can lead to lasting impairment if not treated properly.

Psychological Trauma

Not all injuries are physical. A car accident can leave victims with emotional and psychological harm as well. These are very real injuries that deserve compensation. Emotional trauma can affect your quality of life just as much as physical injuries.

Wrongful Death

Tragically, some car accidents result in the loss of life. If you’ve lost a loved one in a crash, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims seek justice and financial support for families dealing with devastating losses.

How Can a Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?

After a serious motor vehicle accident, hiring the right attorney can make a significant difference in your recovery process. Our trial lawyers will handle everything so you can focus on your health and well-being.

Here’s how we can assist:

Thorough Accident Investigation

Our team begins with an immediate and comprehensive investigation to gather critical evidence. This includes:

• Obtaining the police accident report
• Photographing the scene, vehicles, debris, and skid marks
• Securing any available video footage (such as from traffic cams or nearby businesses)
• Locating and interviewing witnesses while their memories are still fresh

For complex auto collision cases, we collaborate with professional accident reconstruction experts to analyze the circumstances surrounding the crash. Our goal is to leave no stone unturned in proving fault and building a strong case.

Managing All Communication

Once you hire us, you can refer all calls from insurance adjusters directly to your attorney. We handle all communication with:

• Your insurance company
• The at-fault driver’s insurance company

This protects you from saying anything that could be misinterpreted and ensures you’re not pressured by adjusters. Insurance companies often use tactics to minimize payouts, but we know how to counter them. By acting as a buffer, we relieve you of the stress and let you focus on recovery.

Accurately Valuing Injury Claims

Our lawyers are highly skilled in calculating the full value of injury cases. We work with medical and financial experts to assess all your damages, including:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost income and loss of future earning capacity (if you’re unable to return to work)
• Costs for ongoing therapy, rehabilitation, or home care
• Pain, suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life

Insurance companies often undervalue damages, particularly non-economic losses like pain and suffering. We ensure that no aspect of your claim is overlooked and compile a comprehensive demand that reflects the true extent of your losses.

Aggressive Negotiation with Insurers

Our trial lawyers are experienced in negotiating effectively with insurance companies. We present strong evidence and demand fair compensation from the at-fault party’s insurer. If necessary, we leverage our reputation for taking cases to trial to pressure insurers into offering higher settlements.

Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for you efficiently, but we are never afraid to litigate if the insurance company refuses to cooperate.

Filing a Lawsuit and Litigation

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we will not hesitate to file a lawsuit on your behalf. Once the case enters litigation, we handle every aspect, including:

• Discovery and evidence collection
• Depositions and witness interviews
• Motion practice and trial preparation

In court, we present a compelling case backed by evidence and expert testimony to fight for the injured parties we represent. You can rely on us to handle all legal procedures and paperwork required for your case.

Guidance and Support Throughout the Process

For many clients, a legal claim or lawsuit can feel overwhelming. We take pride in offering compassionate guidance by:

• Explaining your legal options in clear terms
• Answering your questions and keeping you updated throughout the case
• Preparing you for key steps, such as depositions or medical exams

You’ll never feel in the dark. Our team works hard to make the process as smooth as possible, managing the paperwork, deadlines, and legal strategy while you focus on your recovery.

Maximizing Compensation for Your Losses

Beyond injuries, car accidents often leave victims dealing with expensive car repairs or vehicle replacement costs. We ensure these damages are included in your claim, along with any other financial losses caused by the accident.

Why Hiring a Lawyer Levels the Playing Field

Attempting to handle a motor vehicle accident claim on your own can leave you vulnerable to insurance companies trying to minimize your recovery. With our experienced personal injury attorneys on your side, you’ll have experienced trial lawyers fighting to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

Our involvement signals to insurers that your claim must be taken seriously. If challenges arise—such as dealing with an uninsured driver, a hit-and-run, or arguments about comparative fault—we know how to overcome them.

Our Mission: Protecting Your Rights

Our mission is to secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life after an auto collision. Whether it’s medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or car repairs, we fight for every dollar you deserve.

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 wide range of damages to help make you “whole” again.

In a personal injury claim, you can seek compensation for both economic and non–economic damages. Economic damages cover your financial costs, while non-economic damages compensate for intangible harms like pain and emotional distress.

In rare cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish particularly egregious wrongdoing. Below is a breakdown of the potential compensation available after a car accident.

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 like crutches or braces
• Future medical treatment
• Additional costs, such as ambulance fees or home nursing care

We will claim both past and anticipated future medical costs based on your healthcare providers’ opinions to ensure all expenses are covered.

Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity

If your injuries caused you to miss work, you are entitled to recover the wages you lost, whether they include salary, hourly wages, tips, bonuses, or other income.

If your injury impacts your ability to work in the future, you may also claim loss of future earning capacity, which refers to the income you will lose due to long-term disability.

For example, if a permanent impairment forces you to take a lower-paying job or retire early, the projected difference in earnings is recoverable. Our team often works with economists and vocational experts to calculate these losses accurately.

Property Damage

You are entitled to reimbursement for damage to your vehicle and any other personal property that was damaged in the accident, such as car seats, glasses, or phones. In most cases, this refers to the cost of repairing your car.

If your vehicle was totaled, you can recover its pre-accident fair market value. You may also recover loss of use expenses, such as rental car costs, while your vehicle is being repaired. Although property damage claims are typically handled separately, we ensure that you receive the full amount owed for your vehicle damage and related expenses.

Pain and Suffering

These non-economic damages compensate you for the physical pain and emotional anguish caused by the accident and your injuries. Pain and suffering damages are subjective, but they often make up a significant portion of a settlement.

We will detail how your injuries have affected your daily life, including physical aches, mental distress, inconvenience, and the loss of enjoyment of activities you once loved. For example, if you can no longer play with your children or experience anxiety and nightmares when driving, those are essential elements of your suffering.

California personal injury law does not cap personal injury damages unless it is a medical malpractice claim. Our attorneys know how to present a compelling case to ensure you receive a fair amount.

Emotional Distress and Mental Anguish

Accidents can cause serious psychological effects, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, or grief. These mental injuries are compensable as part of pain and suffering, but they are often highlighted separately when they are significant.

For instance, if you now fear driving or experience flashbacks of the crash, that emotional trauma deserves compensation. We may use evaluations from mental health experts to support these damages and strengthen your claim.

Permanent Disfigurement or Disability

If the accident caused scarring, disfigurement, or a permanent disability, you should be compensated for the profound impact on your life. For example, facial scars or the loss of a limb can result in not only medical expenses but also emotional pain and potential future costs, such as prosthetics or cosmetic surgery.

Similarly, if you are a wheelchair user or suffer from chronic pain, your compensation should reflect the permanent change in your quality of life. It should also account for any ongoing expenses, such as modifications to your home or vehicle.

Loss of Consortium

In some cases, the injured person’s spouse or domestic partner can claim damages for loss of consortium, which refers to the loss of companionship, affection, intimacy, and support due to the injuries.

For example, if serious injuries have strained your marriage or prevented normal spousal relations, these damages may apply. Loss of consortium is a type of non-economic damage that acknowledges the accident’s impact on personal relationships.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are not available in most car accident cases. However, they may be awarded if the at-fault driver’s behavior was particularly egregious, such as driving drunk at excessive speeds or intentionally causing a crash.

Punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. In California, punitive damages require proving that the defendant acted with malice, oppression, or a willful disregard for others’ safety.

While these damages are rare, Los Angeles car accident lawyers will explore their possibility if the facts of your case warrant it, such as in cases involving repeat drunk drivers who caused serious injuries.

Maximizing Your Compensation

California law gives injured parties the right to recover compensation for their losses after a motor vehicle accident, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and more.

Our trial attorneys will ensure that every aspect of your claim is thoroughly documented and pursued aggressively. This frees you up to focus on rebuilding your life.

Every case is unique, and the types of damages you can claim depend on your specific losses. 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.

Claims,  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.

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. The vast majority of car accident lawsuits settle before trial, but initiating a lawsuit is sometimes a necessary step to show you mean business.

Time Limits

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 (e.g., if 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 a Los Angeles auto accident attorney early so we can ensure all filings happen on time. Bottom line: we won’t let the clock run out on your claim. Our personal injury attorneys will keep your case on track.

Proving Negligence

To win a car accident case, we need to prove that the other driver was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. Negligence means the driver failed to act with reasonable care, like breaking a traffic law or not paying attention while driving.

As your attorneys, we’ll gather and present evidence to prove four key elements:

1. Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to drive safely and follow traffic laws.
2. Breach of Duty: We’ll show how the other driver failed to meet this duty—for example, by speeding, running a red light, or driving while distracted or drunk.
3. Causation: We’ll prove that the driver’s actions directly caused the crash.
4. Damages: Finally, we’ll detail the injuries, financial losses, and other harm you suffered as a result of the accident.

To build a strong case, we’ll use evidence such as:

• Police reports
• Video footage (e.g., traffic or dash cams)
• Witness statements
• Cell phone records (to show distraction)
• Vehicle black box data
• Accident reconstruction reports
• Medical records that document your injuries

Our job is to collect and present all the necessary evidence to clearly establish that the other driver was at fault, ensuring you have the strongest possible case for compensation.

Comparative Fault in California

You might be wondering, “Can I still recover compensation if I was partially to blame?” In California, the answer is yes. California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means each party is responsible for their percentage of fault. Even if you were partly at fault, you can still recover damages. For example:

• If you were 20% at fault and the other driver was 80% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages.
• Even if you were 99% at fault, you could still recover 1% of your damages.

While it might not always make sense to pursue a claim if you were mostly at fault, you shouldn’t assume that you can’t recover anything. Fault can be complicated, and insurance companies often try to exaggerate your responsibility to reduce their payout.

Our Los Angeles car accident injury lawyers fight back against unfair blame-shifting tactics. We’ll gather evidence to minimize your percentage of fault and maximize your compensation. This can include police reports, witness statements, video footage, and accident reconstruction.

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.

Contact Our Los Angeles Car Accident Law Firm Today

Let the experienced team at J&Y Law help you get back on track. We have successfully represented countless car accident victims throughout California, and we’re ready to fight for you, too.

Worried about cost? Don’t be. We never charge a fee unless we win for you. Your 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. 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. Your priority should be getting better; let us handle the rest.