If you have been injured in a car accident in Victorville, California, you may be facing medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. At Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel, our dedicated Victorville car accident lawyers are committed to helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. We have extensive experience handling car accident claims, ensuring our clients receive strong legal representation in their time of need.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Victorville?

Your steps after an accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, follow these guidelines:

Call 911: Reporting the accident to the authorities ensures a police report is filed, which can be crucial evidence for your claim.

Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, even if you feel fine. A medical evaluation will document your condition and link it to the accident.

Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.

Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Let the investigation determine liability.

Contact a Lawyer: A skilled Ontario motor vehicle accident lawyer can guide you through the claims process and protect your legal rights.

What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents?

Motor vehicle accidents in Victorville occur for various reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car technology can distract a driver from the road.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and coordination.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, running red lights, and unsafe lane changes contribute to accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Rain and fog can create hazardous driving conditions, leading to collisions.
• Defective Vehicle Parts: Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and mechanical failures can result in serious crashes.

Who Is Liable for a Car Accident in California?

California follows a fault-based system, meaning that the party responsible for causing the accident is liable for damages. Determining liability may involve:

• Reviewing the police report.
• Examining accident scene evidence.
• Gathering witness statements.
• Analyzing surveillance or dashcam footage.
• Consulting accident reconstruction experts.

In some cases, multiple parties may share liability. For example, if a driver was speeding but another driver ran a red light, both parties may be partially at fault. Under California’s comparative negligence law, an injured party can still recover damages, but their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.

What Damages Can I Recover After a Motor Vehicle Accident?

Victims of car accidents in Victorville may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, medications, and future medical care.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for missed work due to injuries and loss of future earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace a damaged vehicle.
• Wrongful Death: If a loved one was killed in an accident, surviving family members may seek damages for funeral expenses and loss of companionship.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in California?

Under California’s statute of limitations, car accident victims generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. If the claim involves property damage only, the deadline is three years. Missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to seek compensation. However, certain exceptions may apply, such as accidents involving government vehicles, which may have a shorter filing window.

How Can a Lawyer Help with My Car Accident Claim?

Navigating a car accident claim can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies that prioritize their profits over your recovery. An experienced Victorville motor vehicle accident lawyer can:

• Investigate the accident and gather evidence.
• Handle all communications with insurance companies.
• Negotiate for a fair settlement.
• File a lawsuit if necessary and represent you in court.
• Help you understand your legal rights and options.

At Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel, we fight to maximize your compensation so you can focus on healing.

Contact Our Dedicated Victorville Car Accident Lawyers at Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you do not have to face the legal process alone. The experienced Victorville car accident lawyers at Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us at 909-889-1131 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Ontario and Victorville, California, we serve clients in San Bernardino County, Ontario, Victorville, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Colton, and Riverside County.