Car Accident Lawyer in San Bernardino
- Top Rated Trial Firm
- Over $100 Million Recovered For Clients
- No Fees Unless We Win
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Feeling overwhelmed and uncertain after a car accident in San Bernardino? You’re not alone.
Dealing with the aftermath of a crash is tough—physically, emotionally, and financially, but having an experienced San Bernardino car accident lawyer to have your back through it all can greatly alleviate the burden.
Despite having that popular suburban vibe, San Bernardino is a densely populated city with long commutes and irritable drivers. With over 16,000 people either injured or killed in the county back in 2019, this statistic is only increasing year on year owing it to having above-average schooling, good job opportunities and parks for families.
So, whether you’re contending with an at-fault driver, hazardous road conditions, or other factors contributing to accidents, our car accident law firm in San Bernardino understands the complexities you face and is here to offer a guiding hand toward justice and recovery.
Elements Needed for a Valid Car Accident Claim in San Bernardino
If you’ve been in a car accident and are considering filing a claim, it’s important to understand the legal elements required to make your claim valid. The following are the key components:
- Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and follow traffic laws. This includes obeying speed limits, stopping at traffic signals, and avoiding distractions such as texting while driving. In any car accident claim, you must show that the other driver owed you a duty of care.
- Breach of Duty: A breach of duty occurs when the other party fails to act with reasonable care. This can involve reckless actions like speeding, running red lights, or driving under the influence of alcohol. You’ll need to demonstrate that the at-fault driver breached their duty of care, which directly contributed to the accident.
- Causation: Causation links the breach of duty to the accident and your injuries. It’s not enough to show that the other driver was negligent; you must prove that their negligence was the direct cause of the collision and any harm you suffered as a result.
- Damages: Finally, to file a valid claim, you must have suffered actual damages due to the accident. These damages can be economic, such as medical bills and lost wages, or non-economic, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress. Without demonstrable damages, there is no legal basis for a claim.
When all these elements are present, your car accident claim is likely to be valid, allowing you to pursue compensation for your losses.
Potential Damages You Can Claim After a Car Accident
These damages are intended to compensate you for both the financial and emotional toll the accident has taken on your life. Below are the categories of damages you can potentially recover:
1. Economic Damages
These damages cover the measurable financial losses you’ve suffered as a direct result of the accident. Economic damages are typically easier to calculate and may include:
- Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of hospital visits, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care needed as a result of your injuries.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries caused you to miss work, you could claim compensation for the income lost during your recovery period.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle or other personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for repair or replacement costs.
- Future Loss of Earnings: If your injuries affect your ability to work in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for the long-term impact on your earning potential.
2. Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate for the intangible losses that are harder to quantify but can have a significant impact on your quality of life. These may include:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional suffering you experienced as a result of the accident.
- Emotional Distress: Accidents can lead to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These emotional impacts may be factored into your compensation.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities or hobbies you once loved, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss.
- Loss of Consortium: In severe cases, if the accident affects your relationship with your spouse, you may be able to claim damages for loss of companionship or affection.
3. Punitive Damages
In certain cases, the court may award punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate for losses but to punish the at-fault party for particularly reckless or intentional misconduct, such as driving under the influence or extreme negligence. Punitive damages also serve as a deterrent to prevent similar behavior in the future.
How to Get in Touch With a Car Accident Attorney in San Bernardino
f you need legal assistance after a car accident, reaching out is simple, and we offer a free consultation to review your case. Here are the ways to get in touch with us:
Telephone: Call us directly at (866) 646-6676. Our team is available to provide immediate assistance and help you determine if you have a case.
Contact Form: Visit our contact page to fill out our form with your details and a brief description of your case. One of our representatives will get back to you promptly.
We’re committed to fighting for maximum compensation, and there are no fees unless we win. Get the justice you deserve by contacting us today for a free and confidential consultation.
Why Choose Feher Law?
When it comes to selecting legal representation for your car accident case in San Bernardino, it’s essential to choose a firm that truly prioritizes your needs and has the expertise to deliver results.
Here’s why we stand out from other San Bernardino accident lawyers in the area:
- Prioritizing your needs: You aren’t just another case file on a desk. We strive to provide compassionate and personalized legal support tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Strong communication: We also recognize that accidents can happen at any time, which is why we make ourselves available to our clients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether you have questions about your case or need urgent legal assistance, you can count on us to be there for you whenever you need us.
- Exceptional experience: Feher Law has secured over $100 million across various personal injury cases, with some cases reaching seven- and eight-figure results. The total compensation recovered, coupled with the firm’s extensive knowledge, skills, and resources has earned the firm a spot among the top trial law firms in the state.
- Litigation and trial firm: We have the expertise to handle your case from the initial filing of a claim all the way through litigation and trial, if necessary.
- Emotional support: We understand that recovering from a car accident involves more than just physical car accident injuries—it also takes a toll on your emotional well-being. That’s why we strive to take away the pressure and stress of dealing with the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery and moving forward with your life.
When you choose us as car accident lawyers in San Bernardino, you’re in capable hands. We’ll work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case, whether through negotiation or litigation. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Contact us today to schedule a free case consultation and learn more about how we can help you recover the average car accident settlement in California and move forward with confidence.
CASE RESULTS
RESULTS FROM OUR MOST RECENT CASES
Meet Your San Bernardino Car Accident Attorneys
Get to know the dedicated team of car accident lawyers in San Bernardino, CA, who are ready to advocate for your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Clients Think of Us
Here’s a glimpse into what our clients have to say about their experiences with our firm:
How Our San Bernardino Car Accident Law Firm Can Help
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in the city of San Bernardino, our team of dedicated car accident lawyers in San Bernardino is here to provide you with comprehensive support and legal representation.
Here’s how our car accident law firm can help:
- Recovering Lost Wages: We understand that being unable to work due to injuries sustained in a car accident can result in significant financial strain. Our experienced attorneys will work tirelessly to help you recover lost wages and compensation for any income you miss out on due to your injuries.
- Help with Medical Bills: Dealing with medical bills can be overwhelming, especially after a serious car accident. Our team will assist you in managing medical expenses by pursuing compensation for your medical bills as part of your personal injury claim.
- Further Damages: In addition to recovering compensation for medical expenses and lost wages, our firm can help you pursue damages for various other losses resulting from the accident. This includes punitive damages related to road defects or automobile defects that may have contributed to the accident.
- Emotional Recovery: Our compassionate team understands the importance of addressing emotional recovery alongside physical healing. We’ll provide you with the support and guidance you need to cope with the emotional aftermath of the accident, connecting you with resources and professionals who can help you heal.
From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, we’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and be entitled to compensation you deserve. For example, we secured $4.2 million in compensation for Mr. Barboza in Long Beach after he was hit from behind at a stop light and suffered a low back injury requiring surgery.
Additional reading: how much can someone sure for a car accident
Don’t navigate the aftermath of a car accident alone—contact our San Bernardino car accident lawyers today for a free initial consultation and let us help you get back on the road to recovery.
What to Do After a Car Accident in San Bernardino
Knowing what to do after a car accident that is not your fault can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.
Here’s some important initial advice to ensure you protect your rights and maximize your chances of a successful claim:
- Get in Touch with a San Bernardino Accident Lawyer: An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the car accident claim process, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Your lawyer will handle all aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery while they work to secure a favorable outcome on your behalf.
- Get Proper Medical Care: Your health and well-being should be your top priority after an accident. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured in a car crash, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying treatment could worsen your condition.
- Avoid Social Media: In today’s digital age, it’s tempting to share every aspect of our lives on social media. However, after an accident, insurance companies and opposing parties may use your posts against you to undermine your claim.
- Be Careful with Language Used in Communications: When communicating with insurance adjusters, be cautious about the language you use. Avoid admitting fault or providing recorded statements without consulting your attorney first. Insurance companies may try to use your statements against you to minimize their liability.
- Don’t Accept the First Offer: Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for the lowest possible amount. It’s essential to remember that the first offer from the insurance company may not fully compensate you for your losses. Let us guide your negotiations, instead!
Additional reading: should i get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault
Essential Evidence You'll Need
After a car accident, gathering evidence is crucial to building a strong case and maximizing your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and damages. While it may seem overwhelming, collecting certain types of evidence early on can significantly strengthen your claim.
Here’s what you should start to gather as soon as possible:
- Medical Records: Your medical records are key evidence in demonstrating the extent of your injuries and the treatment you’ve received. Be sure to keep copies of all medical documentation related to the accident, including hospital records, doctor’s notes, diagnostic tests, and prescription medications.
- Police Documentation: If law enforcement responded to the scene of the accident, obtaining a copy of the police report is essential. It serves as an official record of the incident and can be invaluable evidence in your case.
- Evidence of Driver Negligence: This may include traffic citations, witness statements describing reckless behavior, or evidence of distracted driving, such as cellphone records or social media posts.
- Eyewitness Statements: Eyewitness statements can provide additional perspectives on how the auto accident occurred and who may be at fault. If possible, gather contact information from any witnesses to the accident and ask them to provide written statements or testify on your behalf.
- Photo/Video Evidence: Visual evidence, such as dashcam footage, CCTV, or photographs or videos taken at the scene of the accident, can be incredibly powerful in demonstrating the severity of the collision and the extent of your injuries. Take photographs of the accident scene, any property damage, visible injuries, and road conditions.
We understand that gathering evidence can be challenging, especially when you’re dealing with the physical and emotional effects of the accident. That’s where finding the right car accident attorney can help.
Our experienced legal team can take the burden of evidence collection off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we handle the hard work. From obtaining crucial documents to conducting thorough investigations, we’ll work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf.
Additional reading: average settlement for broken bone in car accident
Don't Delay in Starting Your Claim!
The California car accident statute of limitations typically allows injured car crash victims to file a personal injury lawsuit within two years from the date of the accident or the discovery of your injuries; whichever is alter.
It’s essential to recognize the significance of these deadlines and the implications of failing to meet them. If you miss the statute of limitations deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages entirely.
By seeking legal representation early on, you can ensure that your claim is filed within the two years and maximize your chances of securing the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney today to discuss your case and protect your rights.
Additional reading: how long does it take to settle a car accident claim in California
What Can I Expect to Pay?
At our personal injury law firm, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any upfront fees or expenses. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for your case, ensuring that we’re fully invested in your success.
Our transparent fee structure ensures you know exactly what to expect, with no hidden costs. This risk-free representation allows you to pursue your legal rights without financial worry.
Rest assured, we’re committed to fighting for your best interests and securing the compensation you deserve.
Services We Offer
Explore the comprehensive range of legal services provided by our team of dedicated professionals. Your assigned San Bernardino personal injury lawyer will have a well-rounded understanding of the major types of personal injury law:
Common Injuries in San Bernardino Car Accidents in Our Experience
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-altering conditions. The severity of your injuries will depend on factors such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the angle of the collision, and whether you were wearing a seatbelt. Below are some of the most common injuries that occur in car accidents in San Bernardino:
- A traumatic brain injury can occur when a sudden impact jolts or strikes the head, causing damage to the brain. Symptoms can range from mild concussions to severe, permanent brain damage, impacting memory, motor skills, and cognitive function. TBI is one of the most serious injuries resulting from car accidents and may require long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
- Spinal Cord Injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the damage. Even less severe spinal injuries can cause chronic pain, limited mobility, and long-term physical challenges. Car accidents that involve high-speed impacts or rollovers often lead to these devastating injuries.
- Broken Bones are a common result of the force generated in a car accident. Fractures can occur in the arms, legs, ribs, and even facial bones. While many fractures heal with time and treatment, severe breaks may require surgery, physical therapy, and months of recovery.
- Whiplash occurs when the neck is suddenly jerked forward and back, which can damage muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck and upper back. Though often considered a “minor” injury, whiplash can lead to long-lasting pain and discomfort, impacting your ability to work or perform daily activities.
- Internal Injuries, such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, or punctured lungs, can be life-threatening and are often not immediately visible. These injuries typically require emergency medical attention and can result from the severe impact of a crash. Common internal injuries include damage to the liver, spleen, or kidneys, as well as abdominal trauma.
- Burn Injuries: In accidents where a vehicle catches fire or an airbag deploys, victims may suffer from burn injuries. Burns can vary in severity, but serious third-degree burns may result in permanent scarring, disfigurement, and require reconstructive surgery or skin grafts.
- Facial and Eye Injuries: The face is particularly vulnerable in car accidents, and facial injuries may include fractures, lacerations, or damage to the eyes. Airbags, shattered glass, and dashboard impacts are common causes of these injuries. Facial injuries can lead to scarring or require extensive reconstructive surgery.
- Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, car accidents can leave lasting emotional scars. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common psychological issues experienced by accident victims, particularly those involved in serious or fatal collisions. These emotional injuries can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.
Other Locations We Serve
In addition to offering our expertise as a car accident attorney in San Bernardino, our California car accident attorneys proudly serve various other cities in the region.
Our commitment to providing top-notch representation knows no bounds, as we cater to clients in locations including but not limited to:
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Local Accident Statistics for San Bernardino
Car accidents are a serious concern in San Bernardino County, which consistently ranks among the highest for traffic-related incidents in California. The area’s growing population, combined with high traffic volume, has contributed to a significant number of accidents each year. Here are some key statistics to highlight the dangers of driving in San Bernardino:
Over 15,000 Injuries and Fatalities Annually: According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were 15,104 victims injured or killed in motor vehicle accidents in San Bernardino County in 2017 alone. This number continues to rise each year due to increasing traffic on local roadways.
High Incidence of Alcohol-Related Crashes: Drunk driving remains a serious issue in the region. In 2017, approximately 1,600 accidents in San Bernardino County were caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol, contributing to a high number of fatalities and severe injuries.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents: In addition to car-on-car collisions, there are also a significant number of accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists. Nearly 700 crashes involving pedestrians were reported in recent years, making pedestrian safety a growing concern in the county.
Dangerous Roadways: Several highways and roads in San Bernardino County are particularly hazardous. For example, the heavily trafficked I-10, I-215, and State 210 freeways see a disproportionate number of accidents each year, especially near high-traffic intersections in cities like San Bernardino and Fontana.
Illegal Street Racing: San Bernardino has also seen a rise in illegal street racing, which has contributed to a growing number of catastrophic and fatal accidents. The California Highway Patrol has ramped up efforts to address this problem, but it remains a significant risk for local drivers.
As these statistics show, the risk of being involved in a car accident in San Bernardino is high. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you are not alone.
Speak to a San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer Today!
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to seek the legal representation you deserve.
Your dedicated and experienced car accident lawyer in San Bernardino, CA is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and take the first step towards justice and recovery, or fill out the form below.
GET A FREE CONSULTATION
Our team is standing by and ready to assist you. Consultations are completely free and confidential. We will help you determine if you have a case.
- Over $100 Million Recovered For Clients
- No Fees Unless We Win
- We Fight for Maximum Compensation
- Get The Justice You Deserve
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FAQs
How Does The Insurance Claim Process Work?
The usual process to claim through insurance is to contact your insurance company first, and they will walk you through the process and get the necessary information from you. However, you have to be careful when doing this in the wording you use with them, which is why hiring an experienced attorney can be invaluable.
Will Hiring A Car Accident Law Firm Make A Difference?
Yes, it most definitely will since in doing so, you immediately tap into years of expertise on how to handle insurance companies and "work" the process, ensuring your rights are protected
What Are The Common Injuries That Are Caused By Car Accidents?
Common car accident injuries are whiplash, bruising, concussions, and bone fractures/breaks. Even if you don't have these injuries, you can file a personal injury claim, even if your injuries are minor.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
The first things to do after a car accident are to call 911 for police, fire, and urgent medical assistance as necessary. You should then also call an experienced car accident lawyer in your location so your legal rights are immediately protected. Also, continue to follow medical treatment you've been given.
How Do Contingency Fees Work?
Contingency fees are the same as "no win, no fee" agreements. Essentially, you don't pay a penny to your lawyer unless they win your legal case. The amount your attorney gets is "contingent" on the amount of the damages you're awarded in court.
The lawyer will take a percentage of these damages. This way, there is no risk to you and you can focus on getting back to health without more worries piling on top of you, especially more financial ones if you are out of work due to the accident.
