Car Accident
Schedule a Free ConsultationBeing involved in an auto accident can be one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. Between dealing with injuries, property damage, and insurance companies, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to face this alone. You could be entitled to financial compensation for your crash-related losses — and a car accident attorney in Los Angeles can help you get it.
That’s where The Shamsi Law Firm, APC comes in. Sean Shamsi prides himself on delivering personalized attention to each client, recognizing that every case has unique needs and circumstances. With his tailored solutions and compassionate approach, Sean has recovered tens of millions for those he represents and is ready to help you, too.
Contact The Shamsi Law Firm, APC today for your free consultation to learn how a Los Angeles car accident lawyer can help.
What Are the Different Types of Car Accidents?
No two car accidents are exactly alike, but many of them fall into the following common categories:
- Head-On Collisions – In a head-on collision, the front ends of two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide.
- Rear-End Accidents – In a rear-end accident, one vehicle crashes into the back of another.
- Sideswipe Accidents – A sideswipe accident happens when the sides of two parallel vehicles collide.
- T-Bone Collisions – Also called a “broadside” accident, a T-bone collision occurs when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents – This is when a driver leaves the accident scene without providing their personal information or stopping to help those who are injured.
What Are Common Injuries from Car Accidents?
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which are not immediately apparent after the collision. The severity and type of injury often depend on factors like the speed of the vehicles, the point of impact, and the use of safety features. Common car crash injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Concussion
- Fractured bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Cuts, scrapes, and bruises
- Burn injuries
- Dislocations
- Internal bleeding
- Crush injuries
- Joint injuries
- Nerve damage
- Abdominal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Eye injuries
- Dental injuries
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Los Angeles?
The immediate aftermath of an auto wreck is often a blur of emotion and adrenaline, and it’s common to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what happens next. But the steps you take in the following days and weeks can significantly affect your recovery and legal rights. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek immediate medical attention to have your injuries diagnosed, treated, and documented.
- Make sure you attend all medical appointments and follow your treatment recommendations.
- Notify your auto insurance company about the accident.
- Preserve all evidence related to the accident, such as medical records and repair estimates.
- Create a written account of the accident, including any interactions you had with other parties.
- Take photographs of the damage to your vehicle and any visible crash injuries you sustained.
- Obtain the accident report from the appropriate law enforcement agency.
- Consult with your lawyer before making any statements to insurance adjusters.
- Keep a detailed record of all expenses and income losses related to the accident.
- Avoid discussing the accident or posting about your well-being on social media before you settle.
- Consult with your lawyer before accepting any settlement offer to ensure it is a fair payout.
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Mr. Sean Shamsi is the principal and founder of The Shamsi Law Firm, APC. He received his Juris Doctorate from the New England School of Law in 1998.
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What Are the Leading Causes of Car Accidents in Los Angeles?
A motor vehicle accident can happen for a multitude of reasons, ranging from human error to environmental factors. Here are some common examples of contributing factors:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Reckless driving
- Tailgating
- Drowsy driving
- Aggressive driving
- Poor road conditions
- Vehicle defects
- Failure to yield
- Inexperienced drivers
- Improper turns
- Failure to signal
- Driving on the wrong side of the road
- Sudden stops
- Inadequate following distance
- Uber/Lyft/rideshare accidents
Who Can Be Held at Fault in a Car Accident?
In a car accident injury case, identifying the parties responsible for the wreck is a critical step in securing fair compensation for your losses. Depending on the circumstances, any of the following parties could be at fault:
- The Other Driver – The other driver could be liable if their actions, such as speeding, drunk driving, or distracted driving, contributed to the accident.
- The Vehicle Owner – If the driver does not own the vehicle involved in the accident, the owner could be liable, especially if they knowingly allowed an unqualified driver to operate the vehicle.
- An Employer – If the driver was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident, the employer could be vicariously liable for the employee’s actions.
- An Auto Manufacturer – If a vehicle defect contributed to the accident, the auto manufacturer could be liable for producing a faulty product.
- Local Authorities – Local or state government bodies could be liable if poor road conditions, inadequate signage, or other roadway issues contributed to the accident.
What If I Am Partially at Fault for the Car Accident?
California has a “pure comparative negligence” system, which means you can still recover compensation from another party even if you’re partly to blame for an accident. However, if you are partially at fault, the amount of compensation available to you will decrease based on your percentage of fault.
For example, let’s say the court determines your total losses amount to $100,000, and you’re 30 percent at fault for the accident. In that case, the most you could recover would be $70,000, or $100,000 minus 30 percent. This means accurately establishing fault in an accident case is essential, as your degree of responsibility directly affects how much money you can claim.
Even if you’re partially to blame for an accident, an adept Los Angeles car accident attorney can help you maximize your potential settlement. Your attorney can thoroughly investigate the accident to gather evidence and work to minimize your degree of fault. This might include obtaining surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, or consulting accident reconstruction experts. Furthermore, a lawyer can negotiate with insurance adjusters and advocate for you in court, if necessary, to demand a fair settlement.
What Compensation Can I Recover in a Car Accident Lawsuit?
The types and amounts of compensation you can recover for a car accident lawsuit vary depending on numerous factors, including the severity of your injuries and the distribution of fault. With a successful car accident injury case, you could receive compensation for the following:
- Past and future medical bills and expenses resulting from the accident
- Incidental, out-of-pocket costs, such as medical travel expenses
- Lost income from any time you miss at work during your recovery
- Losses in your lifetime earning capacity due to permanent impairments
- Subjective losses like pain, suffering, and diminished quality of life
- Repair or replacement costs for accident-related property damage
How Long Does It Take for a Car Accident Claim to Settle?
The time it takes for a car accident claim to settle can vary depending on factors like the complexity of the case and the severity of your injuries. While you might be eager for a quick settlement, remember that rushing the process is rarely in your best interest. A premature settlement might not adequately cover your losses, potentially leaving you with out-of-pocket expenses in the future.
A car accident lawyer in Los Angeles will understand the true value of your claim and aim for a settlement that adequately compensates you for the full extent of your losses.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in California?
In California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file most personal injury claims. Missing this filing deadline could result in the court refusing to hear your case, eliminating your opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries and other losses.
Consulting a qualified auto wreck injury lawyer as soon as possible after your accident is the best way to ensure you meet all applicable filing deadlines. Your lawyer can identify any exceptions that apply to your situation and handle the process of preparing a timely case on your behalf.
How a Los Angeles Lawyer Can Help with Car Accident Claims
The aftermath of an auto collision can be a complex and emotionally draining time, especially when you’re dealing with a painful recovery. As a reputable Los Angeles car accident lawyer, Sean Shamsi knows how to make this challenging time more manageable by:
- Investigating the car accident to identify liable parties and gather supporting evidence
- Communicating with other parties, insurance companies, and lawyers on your behalf
- Offering legal advice tailored to your specific case and circumstances
- Handling the process of filing insurance claims and ensuring they meet all requirements
- Analyzing medical records and other documents to accurately assess the value of your claim
- Coordinating with healthcare providers to obtain crucial medical evidence and records
- Consulting with experts like accident reconstructionists to support your car accident case
- Representing you in settlement negotiations and demanding fair compensation on your behalf
- Advising you on whether to accept a settlement offer or take your case to trial
- Filing a lawsuit on your behalf and representing you in court if a settlement cannot be reached
When you hire The Shamsi Law Firm, APC, you pay no upfront attorney’s fees. Sean is only paid if and when he succeeds in securing compensation in your case. You have nothing to lose and plenty to gain by contacting Sean today.
No Fee Unless You Win
Questions or Schedule An Appointment? Call Us: (818) 764-7640
Questions or Schedule An Appointment? Call Us:
(818) 764-7640
Contact a Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney Today
Don’t let the consequences of a car accident overwhelm you. The road to recovery begins with taking action, and The Shamsi Law Firm, APC can help.
Sean Shamsi’s mission is to be the strong voice that auto accident victims need to stand up to insurance companies that stand in the way of financial recovery. Reach out to him today to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation and case review.
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How a Personal Injury Lawyer in North Hollywood
Can Help if You Were Hurt in an Accident
Sean Shamsi will take the time to listen to you, provide free advice about your best legal options, and give an honest assessment of whether you have a valid case.
He will thoroughly and independently investigate your accident, work with noted experts to build a strong case, and handle all communications with the insurers on your behalf.
Sean will make your case a priority, give it the care and attention to detail it deserves, and take it to court if that’s what it takes to get you the compensation you deserve.
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Count on The Shamsi Law Firm, APC to Fight for Every Penny
For Sean, a personal injury lawsuit should never be “just another case.” It’s an opportunity for a client’s voice to be heard. With a proven track record of results for North Hollywood accident victims, Sean knows how to demand and deliver justice.
No Fee Unless You Win
Questions or Schedule An Appointment? Call Us: (818) 764-7640
Questions or Schedule An Appointment? Call Us:
(818) 764-7640
Our FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident in North Hollywood, California
What should I do immediately after a car accident in North Hollywood, California?
California law requires you to stop and exchange information with the other involved parties, including your name, address, driver’s license number, vehicle registration, and insurance details. You should also report the accident to the local police or California Highway Patrol (CHP) if there are injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. Document the scene by taking photographs and collecting witness statements if possible. Seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries seem minor, as some symptoms may appear later.
Should I hire a car accident lawyer in North Hollywood for help with my claim?
Hiring a car accident lawyer in North Hollywood can significantly benefit your insurance claim process for the following reasons:
- Severe Injuries or Long-Term Impact: If you have sustained serious injuries or the accident has affected your ability to work or enjoy life, a lawyer can help you seek full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
- Disputed Liability: When fault is contested, a lawyer can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to establish a clear picture of what happened.
- Complex Insurance Issues: If your case involves multiple parties, uninsured motorists, or complex insurance policies, a lawyer can navigate these intricacies, with an understanding of California’s insurance laws.
- Pursuing Fair & Appropriate Compensation: A lawyer will identify all potential sources of compensation, including less obvious damages that you might overlook. They can negotiate with insurance companies with a focus on seeking the maximum settlement to cover all your losses.
- Stress Reduction: The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. Hiring a lawyer allows you to focus on recovery while they handle the legal complexities, paperwork, and communications with insurance adjusters.
- Contingency Fee Basis: The majority of car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case. This arrangement makes legal assistance accessible without upfront costs.
What insurance requirements must California drivers meet?
California law mandates drivers to carry minimum auto insurance coverage, including $15,000 for injury or death to one person, $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage — commonly referred to as 15/30/5 liability limits. While these are the minimum requirements, considering additional coverage options, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, to offer more comprehensive financial protection in case of an accident is advisable.
How does fault affect car accident claims in California?
California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. It’s important to document your losses thoroughly and consult a legal professional to pursue all applicable damages and fair compensation.
What types of damages can I pursue after a car crash in North Hollywood, California?
After a car crash in North Hollywood, California, you can pursue various types of damages to compensate for your losses. These are generally categorized into economic and non-economic damages:
- Economic Damages: tangible financial losses due to the accident. Examples include:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and future medical care related to the injuries.
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to time off work for recovery, as well as potential future earnings if the injury affects your ability to work long-term.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the crash.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: These can include transportation costs to medical appointments or costs for services you can no longer perform due to your injuries.
- Non-Economic Damages: compensate for intangible losses that are not easily quantified. Examples include:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress experienced due to the accident.
- Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD from the crash.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact on a personal relationship, typically spousal, due to the injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation if the accident affects your ability to enjoy daily activities or hobbies.
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