Burbank Car Accident Lawyer

If you have been affected by a car accident, our hearts go out to you during this challenging time. It’s crucial to understand your rights and the options available to seek compensation for the pain and suffering you may be experiencing. Teaming up with an experienced Burbank car accident lawyer can help you achieve the justice you deserve.

How Much You Can Get in a Car Accident Claim in Burbank?

The damage you may sustain in a car accident can hit you in several ways. It can cause damage to your car, to your body, and your mind—not to mention the consequences to the passengers in your vehicle. A skilled Burbank car accident lawyer can help you pursue the financial relief you need, including:

• Loss of Paycheck: Compensation for time taken off work due to injuries.
• Loss of Earning Potential or Future Wages: If your injuries impact your ability to work in the future.
• Cost of Damage to Your Car: Repair or replacement costs associated with your vehicle.
• Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital stays, physical therapy, doctor visits, and rehabilitation.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the impact on your quality of life, such as limitations on recreational activities.
• Pain and Suffering: Financial recovery for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.

Every case that comes to us starts in the same way. You have been in an accident and then you call us and schedule a consultation. And then we handle the rest of the case so that you can get expert help and peace of mind as you focus on getting better.

Here are some of the results our car accident lawyers have obtained for our clients to compensate them for their damages:

• $850,000 settlement for a client who had neck and foot injuries in a rear-end motor vehicle collision
• $250,000 settlement for a client who suffered neck and back injuries in a t-bone crash
• $115,000 settlement for a client who sustained neck and back injuries in a motor vehicle accident

The Cost of Hiring a Burbank Car Accident Lawyer

Our law firms works on a percentage basis called a "contingency." You don't have to worry about how much it costs: You won't have to pay us anything unless we win. This takes all the pressure off of you so that you can focus on healing.

If you don't win, we don't get paid. It's that simple. That's how much we believe in the quality of the services we can provide to you.

Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer?

If you have been hurt in a car crash in Burbank, you should hire a legal professional as quickly as possible. California has a 2 year limit to file a claim. It seems like a long time, but it's not. The more you wait the higher the chance important evidence will be lost.

You also may think you can go it alone. But this would be a mistake. Insurance company use trained negotiators to try to minimize the amount of money you get for your claim. They handle hundreds of claims at a time. You simply cannot compete with them and expect to win.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Burbank

Car accidents in Burbank can result from many factors, ranging from driver behavior to environmental conditions. Understanding these causes is important for both prevention and the effective handling of accident claims. By being aware of common causes such as distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, bad weather, and reckless driving, individuals and personal injury lawyers can address liability and ensure accident victims receive fair compensation.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving remains a significant factor in auto accidents, involving activities like texting or adjusting the radio while driving. In fact, over 3,100 fatalities in 2019 were linked to such distractions. California's strict laws against using cell phones without hands-free devices aim to reduce these incidents, highlighting the importance of maintaining focus on the road.

Speeding

Speeding increases the likelihood of severe injuries in accidents due to reduced reaction times. Despite established speed limits, speeding is a leading cause of accidents in California. Adhering to these limits is essential for maintaining safety and preventing potentially severe collisions.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence is a critical issue, with severe legal consequences including heavy fines and jail time. Such behavior is a major contributor to accidents, especially in metropolitan areas. DUI-related accidents emphasize the need for victims to establish fault to secure compensation for medical expenses and other damages.

Weather Conditions

Adverse weather conditions, including rain and fog, lead to visibility issues and hazardous driving situations. Wet or icy road surfaces further increase accident risks. Drivers must exercise extra caution during poor weather to minimize the chances of collisions, underlining the importance of adapting driving behavior to environmental conditions.

Reckless or Aggressive Driving: Key Behaviors to Avoid

Reckless driving encompasses a variety of dangerous behaviors that significantly increase the risk of accidents, including:

• Excessive Speeding: Driving above speed limits or too fast for road conditions.
• Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely, reducing reaction time for both drivers.
• Lane Changes Without Signaling: Changing lanes abruptly without using turn signals can surprise other drivers, leading to collisions.
• Cutting Off Other Drivers: Merging into another vehicle's lane without sufficient space or warning.
• Intoxicated Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and reaction times.
• Road Rage: Engaging in hostile behavior toward other drivers, which can lead to aggressive confrontations and accidents.
• Ignoring Traffic Signals and Signs: Running red lights or disregarding stop signs creates dangerous situations for all road users.
• Street Racing: Competing in speed contests on public roads puts not just participants but also innocent bystanders at risk.
• Frequent Lane Switching: Rapidly changing lanes without reason increases unpredictability for other drivers.

Types of Car Accidents

Car accidents can occur in various ways, each with unique implications for the drivers and passengers involved. Understanding the different types of accidents is essential in identifying the potential hazards and determining fault. Key types include rear-end collisions, T-bone accidents, single-vehicle accidents, and multi-vehicle pileups, each carrying its own risks and consequences.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents, typically resulting from tailgating or driver inattention. These collisions often lead to injuries like whiplash, which require immediate medical evaluation. An experienced accident lawyer can significantly assist in securing adequate compensation for the injured party.

T-Bone Accidents

T-bone accidents happen primarily at intersections when a driver fails to yield the right of way, leading to a side-impact collision. These accidents can be extremely serious, often resulting in severe injuries due to the direction of the impact. Investigating these collisions is essential to establish negligence and fault. Eye-witness testimony and video are often the deciding factor in these kinds of case, making investigation as soon as possible after the accident absolutely essential.

Single-Vehicle Accidents

Single-vehicle accidents can occur due to a variety of factors, including driver error, adverse weather conditions, or mechanical failures. It's important to note that even when a driver is partially at fault, California’s comparative fault rule enables victims to pursue compensation for their injuries. This makes the expertise of personal injury attorneys invaluable in navigating the complexities of these cases. Their guidance can help ensure that victims receive fair compensation, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups

Multi-vehicle pileups are complex accidents that can lead to extensive injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries and fractures. The chaotic aftermath often necessitates immediate medical attention and can cause significant emotional trauma to those involved. Determining liability requires a thorough analysis, and seeking guidance from experienced lawyers can help navigate the complexities of filing claims and negotiating with insurance companies.

Potential Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, each varying in severity and long-term impact. It's essential for accident victims to understand the types of injuries they might sustain to seek appropriate medical treatment and legal assistance. Below are some of the common injuries associated with car accidents.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries are a frequent outcome of car accidents, affecting muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These injuries typically manifest as sprains, strains, or whiplash, leading to discomfort and restricted movement. Despite being considered less severe, they can significantly impair a person's mobility and quality of life. Recovery often involves rehabilitation, with some individuals experiencing prolonged pain and complications.

Broken Bones

Broken bones are prevalent in car crashes and often require surgical intervention for proper healing. Fractures can be caused by blunt force or crushing injuries from the accident. Treatment might involve using nails, screws, or pins to ensure the bones reset correctly. The recovery process can be lengthy, with significant pain and mobility limitations impacting daily activities.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur due to blunt force trauma during a car accident, leading to serious health issues. Commonly, concussions result from sudden head blows, while severe TBIs might cause bleeding and swelling in the skull. Such injuries can have long-lasting cognitive effects, necessitating years of treatment. Early medical evaluation is crucial, even in minor accidents, to prevent life-altering outcomes.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries from car accidents can have detrimental effects on the body's functionality. These injuries may lead to paralysis or chronic pain, significantly affecting an individual's mobility and quality of life. Classifying the injury as incomplete or complete helps determine the potential for recovery. Injuries often result from violent twisting or bending of the spine, leading to long-term changes in motor and sensory functions.

Psychological Impact

The psychological impact of car accidents can be as debilitating as physical injuries. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, or PTSD, affecting your overall mental health. Emotional trauma can persistent, often complicating recovery and affecting the ability to engage in normal activities. Addressing these issues is essential, as chronic psychological pain can hinder return to work and daily functioning, underscoring the importance of seeking legal and emotional support.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming. Knowing the steps to take can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive the necessary support and compensation.

Ensuring Safety First

The first priority after a car accident is safety. Move to a safe location and check for injuries. Call 911 immediately to request medical assistance and a police presence. Document the scene by taking photos or videos of vehicle positions and visible injuries, which are crucial for your personal injury claim.

Contacting Authorities

Contacting authorities after an accident is essential. By calling 911, you alert law enforcement, which will conduct a preliminary investigation and prepare a police report. This report is vital for insurance claims and can aid in any legal actions. It's important not to skip this step, despite any persuasion from the other driver, as it can complicate your claim process.

Gathering Evidence

Gathering thorough evidence at the accident scene is critical. Take photos of the crash site, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses who can provide statements supporting your claim. Pro top: Text them at the scene to make sure the number they gave you is accurate. If the other driver admits fault, ask them if you can record their confession by video using your phone. This evidence helps auto accident lawyers establish liability and advocate for your rights.

Documenting Injuries and Damages

Documenting injuries and damages comprehensively is key. Keep a detailed log of all medical treatments, hospital visits, and therapy sessions. Gather eyewitness testimonies and capture visual evidence of vehicle damage and injuries. Maintaining thorough records strengthens your personal injury claim by verifying the extent of damages and medical expenses. It shows the insurance company that you a real person with real injuries.

Reporting to Insurance Companies

Notify your insurance company of the accident immediately, providing factual information without admitting fault. Consult with a lawyer before giving detailed statements to avoid weakening your claim. An experienced Burbank car accident attorney can help navigate disputes with the insurance company, ensuring a fair settlement.

Understanding Liability in Car Accidents

Car accidents can lead to significant legal challenges, particularly when it comes to determining fault. In California, the fault-based system places the responsibility for damages on the driver deemed at fault. This system requires victims to prove who is liable to seek compensation for losses such as medical expenses, property damage, and emotional trauma. Understanding the basics of liability and how it is determined is helpful for accident victims looking to pursue a personal injury claim.

Definition of Liability

Liability in car accidents is primarily determined by identifying the at-fault driver, who is responsible for covering all resulting damages. Establishing liability involves demonstrating negligence, which might include speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence. Evidence such as cell phone records and traffic camera footage can help support claims of negligence. Furthermore, liability can sometimes extend beyond the driver to other parties, such as vehicle manufacturers in cases of defects.

Comparative Negligence in California

California follows a pure comparative fault rule, allowing individuals to claim damages even if they are partially responsible for the accident. Under this system, compensation is adjusted based on the claimant's percentage of fault. For instance, if a driver is found to be 25% at fault, they can recover 75% of the total damages. This approach enables victims to pursue fair settlements that reflect the degree of fault attributed to each party involved in the accident.

Identifying Responsible Parties

In Burbank, determining who is responsible for a car accident is often the first step in a legal claim. This process involves gathering evidence such as cell phone records, video, and collaborating with law enforcement to establish fault. After a car accident, video footage can be the key to proving who was at fault. If you don’t have a dashcam or Tesla, there’s still hope. In most cities, you can request footage from public cameras. But not all cities make it easy. Luckily, in Burbank, if there's a camera at the accident scene, you can request the video from the Department of Public Works. Pay a small fee, and you’ll usually get it in about a week. Video evidence can be the difference between winning or losing your case. Common causes of accidents, like distracted driving, require detailed investigations. In cases of hit-and-run, identifying the responsible party is crucial, although alternative compensation routes exist if the liable driver is not found. California's pure comparative fault law ensures that victims can still seek compensation even if they share part of the blame.

Why You Need a Car Accident Lawyer

After a car accident, many individuals might be unsure whether they actually need legal representation. Here are several reasons why hiring a Burbank car accident lawyer can be beneficial:

1. Local Knowledge: Hiring a local attorney who knows the roads and courts in Burbank can benefit you significantly. This specialized knowledge can you help you obtain the legal result you deserve.
2. Expertise in California Law: Car accident laws can be complex and often vary by state. A seasoned lawyer will understand the nuances of California's laws, ensuring that your case is handled appropriately.
3. Investigation and Evidence Collection: A lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, gathering evidence, witness statements, and police reports that can substantiate your claim.
4. Negotiation Skills: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. An experienced attorney knows how to negotiate effectively to obtain fair settlements without compromising your claim.
5. Litigation Support: If a settlement cannot be reached, having an attorney who is prepared to take your case to court can significantly strengthen your position.

Understanding the Claims Process

The claims process can often feel scary and overwhelming, but understanding its stages can help alleviate some of the stress:

1. Report the Accident

Immediately after an accident, it's important to report it to the authorities. Providing them with accurate information will help create an official record of the incident.

2. Notify the Insurance Company

Following the accident, you’ll need to notify the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This should be done promptly, as delays can complicate your claims process.

3. Claim Evaluation

After filing your claim, the insurance company will evaluate it and determine whether to approve or deny it. If your claim is denied, your car accident lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process or consider filing a personal injury lawsuit.

4. Negotiations

Negotiations typically follow the initial claims approval or denial. Your attorney will communicate with the insurance company, including making demand letters and counteroffers to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

Types of Insurance Coverage to Consider

In California, drivers are required to have specific insurance coverage types, including:

• Bodily Injury Liability: This covers damages if you are at fault in an accident that causes injury to other parties.
• Property Damage Liability: This addresses damages to other people's property.

Despite the mandatory minimums, it's prudent to consider additional coverage options such as:

• Uninsured Motorist Insurance: Given that California has a high number of uninsured drivers, this coverage can protect you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance.
• Underinsured Motorist Insurance: This provides additional coverage in the event the at-fault driver has insufficient coverage to pay for your damages.

The Importance of Medical and Legal Advice

After an accident, seeking medical advice is critical not only for your health but also for documenting injuries that could impact your claim. Before accepting any settlement offers from insurance companies, consulting with a personal injury attorney is essential to make sure your rights are protected.

Schedule a Free Car Accident Case Evaluation Today! It's On Us.

Our Burbank car accident lawyers have the experience to help you recover the money you deserve. We do not advise handling the personal injury claim alone, especially if you have suffered severe injuries. A dedicated Burbank car accident lawyer provides the expertise, support, and negotiation skills necessary to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. It’s essential to understand the insurance process, seek appropriate coverage, and consult with legal professionals to navigate your recovery effectively. Remember, your health and financial well-being are paramount, so take the necessary steps to safeguard them today.

Contact us if you are struggling after a car accident. At the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti, we will make sure you get the help you need to move on with your life as normally as possible.

During your free consultation, our team can answer any questions you may have about your claim, our credentials, our track record, and client testimonials.