Lafayette Car Accident Lawyer
Looking for a car accident attorney in Lafayette? Golden Gate Legal can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for expert assistance.
Car accidents can be incredibly tough, both physically and emotionally. If you're looking for representation in the Lafayette area, contact us with the number below.
Golden Gate Legal is a personal injury law firm with extensive experience in handling car accident cases in Lafayette. In this article, we'll provide direction on what to do when you're in a car accident, offer an overview of the legal process, and address any questions you might have.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Lafayette
If you’ve just been in a crash, follow these steps:
Make Sure You're Safe
First, check yourself and others for any injuries. If you're in Lafayette and it's safe to do so, move to a secure spot away from traffic to avoid further danger.
Call 911 and Get Medical Attention
If there are injuries or significant damage, call 911 right away. Even if you think you're unhurt, see a doctor because some injuries might not be immediately noticeable; early medical records can safeguard your health and any future legal claims.
Document the Accident Scene
Before you go, snap pictures of the cars, road conditions, any visible injuries, and other important details. Gather names and contact info from witnesses and swap driver details like licenses, insurance, and vehicle information.
Don’t Admit Fault, Post Online, or Sign Anything
After a car accident, avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault, even if you think you're just being polite. Refrain from posting about the incident on social media and do not sign any documents or talk to insurance companies without first consulting a lawyer.
Contact Golden Gate Legal for Help
If you’ve been in a car accident in Lafayette, Golden Gate Legal is here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Our dedicated team provides expert guidance and compassionate support to ensure your rights are protected.
Why Choose Golden Gate Legal Law Firm
Golden Gate Legal has had years of experience handling car accident cases among many other personal injury proceedings. Here are a few reasons why to choose us in Lafayette:
- We Will Get You Max Compensation: Our team is dedicated to ensuring you receive the highest possible compensation for your injuries.
- We Will Protect You at All Costs: We are committed to safeguarding your rights and interests throughout the legal process.
- No Legal Fees Upfront: You won't pay any legal fees until we win or settle your case.
- We Are Available at All Times: Our team is always here to support you, no matter the time or day.
Check out our Client Testimonials.
Legal Process Overview
We handle every step of the legal process in Lafayette so you can focus on what matters most, your healing. Here’s how the process works:
- Free Consultation & Case Evaluation: At Golden Gate Legal, we listen to your story, answer your questions, and assess the strength of your case, all at no cost to you.
- Evidence Collection & Claim Filing: We will gather vital documents such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements, then file claims and contact the insurance companies on your behalf.
- Medical Treatment Coordination: While you focus on healing, we will help coordinate care when needed and monitor your treatment progress to ensure your case reflects your true injuries.
- Demand Letter & Negotiation: Once your treatment is complete, we submit a detailed demand letter to the insurance company and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
- Litigation (if necessary): If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we at Golden Gate Legal are fully prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial.
- You Get Paid: After your case resolves, we handle all the paperwork and ensure you receive your compensation quickly and clearly.
What Types of Compensation Can You Claim After a Car Accident?
California law allows individuals injured in car accidents to seek compensation for damages from the at-fault driver. Compensatory damages for car accidents in California may include the following:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Vehicle repair
- Future medical care and treatment
- Pain and suffering
Insurance companies frequently try to undervalue claims to protect their profits, which makes it important to have experienced California personal injury attorneys like Golden Gate Legal handling your case.
Types of Injuries Handled
While not an exhaustive list, here are typically the types of injuries handled:
Whiplash & Soft
Tissue Damage
Whiplash and soft tissue injuries from car accidents can lead to neck and muscle pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving.
Broken Bones & Fractures
Broken bones and fractures are frequent outcomes of car accidents, often necessitating surgery, the use of casts or braces, and extended recovery times, which can lead to long-term mobility issues or persistent pain.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Serious injuries to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, impacting a person's ability to move, live independently, and enjoy a good quality of life.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Brain injuries from car accidents can lead to memory problems, confusion, trouble thinking clearly, and mood swings.
Internal Organ Damage
Internal organ damage from car accidents can harm organs such as the lungs, liver, or spleen, often necessitating urgent surgery and intensive medical care.
PTSD & Emotional Trauma
Emotional trauma from car accidents can lead to issues like anxiety, flashbacks, depression, or trouble sleeping, often requiring therapy for recovery.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Below are some major causes for car accidents in Lafayette:
Speeding or Reckless Driving
Driving at high speeds or recklessly can drastically cut down your reaction time and significantly raise the chances of severe accidents, particularly in crowded urban areas.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can slow your reaction time, impair your judgment, and significantly increase the likelihood of serious accidents.
Running Red Lights
Ignoring traffic lights or failing to yield can lead to serious accidents at intersections or harm pedestrians.
Rear-End Collisions
Often resulting from following too closely or abrupt braking, rear-end collisions can lead to whiplash and significant neck or back injuries.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Sudden lane changes or failing to check blind spots can cause sideswipes or force other drivers to make quick, dangerous moves on the highway.
Hit-and-Run Incidents
When drivers leave the scene of an accident, they abandon victims without assistance or responsibility, making insurance claims and recovery more difficult.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will a Personal Injury Attorney Cost?
At Golden Gate Legal, you won’t have to worry about paying any upfront legal fees for personal injury cases in Lafayette. We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if we win or settle your case. This way, there’s no financial risk to you.
How do I prove the other driver was at fault?
Proving the other driver was at fault in an accident involves several steps and may require a detailed investigation specific to the incident. If you believe the other driver caused the collision, we can assist in demonstrating their liability.
However, if you are found to share some fault, your compensation might be reduced according to your level of responsibility. Understanding these factors is crucial for accurately determining the compensation you may be entitled to. This is particularly important in a city like Lafayette, where traffic conditions can be intricate.
How long do I have to take legal action after my accident?
If you’ve been hurt in an accident in California, you generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you delay and miss this deadline, you might lose your chance to get compensation.
In California, how long does an insurance company have to settle a claim?
In California, insurance companies must acknowledge your claim and begin their investigation within 15 days of being notified. They are then required to decide whether to accept or deny the claim within 40 days of receiving your completed proof-of-claim.
If the claim is approved, they must issue payment within 30 days. This means the entire process should be completed within 85 days according to the state's Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations.
How long does a car accident stay on your record in California?
In Lafayette, California, a car accident typically remains on your driving record for three years. However, if the accident involved a commercial vehicle or hazardous materials, it could stay on your record for up to ten years. The retention period starts from the date of the accident.
How will Golden Gate Legal actually help me?
At Golden Gate Legal, we prioritize getting to know you and your unique situation, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process. Located in Lafayette, we start by evaluating the extent of your injuries, which might involve connecting you with specialized medical professionals for the best possible care.
While you concentrate on healing, we take care of the legal aspects to obtain the compensation you deserve. This includes seeking damages for your pain, suffering, and overall recovery.
Contact Golden Gate Legal for legal support
Golden Gate Legal has helped countless personal injury victims get back on their feet. Let’s do the same for you.
Call us now at (310) 445-3425 or click below for your free consultation.
Protecting your rights when you need it most
We believe in doing what’s right: you focus on your recovery, and we’ll handle the legal process from start to finish.
Fighting for your full compensation
We are available at all times
No legal fees paid upfront
We will protect you at all costs
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When dealing with the aftermath of an accident, you need strong support by your side to help you make the right decisions.