The Justice You Need After A Serious Car Crash
Crashes happen every day on California’s highways. Sometimes a crash is an accident: Nothing could be done to prevent the collision. Other times, and in most cases, someone either did something or failed to do something, and this is what caused the crash and your injuries.
Many times, a successful negotiation can secure an adequate settlement. However, in these scenarios, detailed preparation is highly important to the outcome of a case. At Greenslade Cronk, LLP, we are on a mission to provide high-quality legal services to California’s communities.
Seeking Help After An Injury
The time right after a car or motorcycle crash is critical for many reasons. In these first minutes and hours, it is crucial for you to seek medical treatment. Why? Because a number of injuries are not evident right after a traumatic event. When we are in a life-or-death moment, our bodies release adrenaline and cortisol. These can mask injury pain for hours or even days. Internal injuries and even serious brain injuries are not always obvious because after an accident, we can also be in shock. Identifying and documenting these injuries means you must get treatment and have evidence of the injury.
Consulting An Attorney After Injury
After a motor vehicle accident, consulting with an attorney can help you recover the full claim you’re entitled to. An attorney can help you gather evidence, seek appropriate medical providers and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Personal injury attorneys often offer free initial consultations to help people learn more about their options. At Greenslade Cronk, LLP, our attorneys aren’t just available for the initial consultation but also will remain your counselor from start to finish. We do not charge a fee to take your case. Instead, cases are taken on a contingency basis. We are paid when we win a settlement or verdict for you. Then we take an agreed-upon percentage of what you are awarded.
There are no upfront fees or costs, and you do not pay us a fee if we are unable to win your case.
Who Are The Most Vulnerable People On The Road?
While most motor vehicle accidents involve two cars, the most devastating accidents involve a car and a more vulnerable vehicle. The most vulnerable people on the roads are:
- Pedestrians
- Motorcycle riders
- Bicyclists
These are people who have little if any general protection from the size and weight of a vehicle. Pedestrians, bikers and bicyclists are likely to receive significant, long-lasting injuries that require extensive treatment.
Common Types Of Injuries After A Crash
There are many types of injuries that can happen in a car or motorcycle crash. Here are some of the more common injuries we see in the cases we represent:
- Serious brain injuries, also called traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries that can involve paralysis
- Whiplash and nerve injuries and neck injuries
- Internal injuries
- Face, eye and mouth injuries, including scarring and disfigurement
- Muscle, tendon, joint strain and tears and bone breaks
- Cuts and lacerations
- Muscle strain and/or sprain
- Injuries that lead to death or fatalities at the scene
Avoid Taking The Blame After A Crash
The first thing you are likely to say after anyone is hurt is “I’m sorry!” While this is human nature, it can also lead to the other driver, the police or the insurance company believing that you did something wrong or caused the crash, even when this is not the case. After a collision, there are things you can do and not do to protect yourself. Here are three things not to do – and what to do instead:
- Do not admit any guilt. Do not apologize as this can be construed as guilt and fault. Instead, make sure the police are called and that everyone gets medical attention.
- Do not say no to the ambulance to the ER. You should get a medical evaluation and treatment immediately after a collision. As you may have a concussion, it is wise not to drive yourself.
- Do not talk to the other insurance company without your own attorney present. Do not talk to the other parties’ insurance company without the benefit of legal counsel. Instead, speak with a personal injury attorney about your case to understand your rights and get guidance.
Insurance companies have the goal of paying out as little as possible. We have the goal of getting you the best medical care and treatment possible. Additionally, we seek to make sure that you do not suffer economic or physical losses or constraints because of the crash. Our attorneys prepare for every injury case with the same commitment and rigor we approach our highest trial cases. Doing so not only helps us be prepared for every contingency but also helps us to achieve easier, higher-paying settlements for our clients.
We have a solid history of successful results for all types of car accidents and injuries; almost all of our clients achieve a policy maximum settlement or better.
Car Accident FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions clients have:
How long do I have to file a claim after an accident in California?
From the date of the accident, you have two years to file a claim. While this can give you plenty of time to prepare for your case, taking action early may yield the best results. Key evidence may be harder to acquire for your case as time goes on. Our lawyers can work with you to begin your case as soon as you are ready.
Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer after an accident?
We believe that the first settlement offer from insurance companies is seldom enough to cover damages. With our help, we can negotiate with insurance companies to help ensure a compensation offer covers medical injuries, vehicle repairs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other financial hardships.
Do you need a police report to file an insurance claim after a car accident?
It may be much harder to obtain compensation for your injuries and losses without a police report. In California, the law says that all car accidents involving injuries or property damage worth more than $1,000 must be reported to the police.
How much can I get for pain and suffering after a California car accident?
It is easier to determine how much victims should recover in economic damages when there are medical bills, vehicle repair bills and other expenses to use as evidence. Pain and suffering are not as easy to calculate, but are generally proportionate to the economic damages you’ve suffered.
What are the most dangerous roads in Los Angeles?
The most dangerous roads in Los Angeles include:
- Sierra Highway
- Interstate 5
- Interstate 405
- Route 74
- Route 118
- State Route 1
Just because these are some of the most dangerous roads in Los Angeles does not mean accidents can happen elsewhere.
What should I do after my car accident?
After a car accident, make a police and medical report and take pictures of the incident. You should then talk to an experienced car accident attorney to discuss your case in full.
Work With A Firm That Sets The Bar For Service And Integrity
Whether you just meet with us, or you move forward and have us take your case, you pay nothing out of pocket. Our fees for motor vehicle crash victims are contingency-based. This means we only take a fee if we win a settlement or a verdict for you. Call us at our Los Angeles office to set up a meeting: 866-605-6149. Or, reach out to us via our inquiry form. We serve car and motorcycle accident clients throughout California.