Fontana Car Accident Attorney

Fontana Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents are a major cause of personal injury and death for individuals of all ages, from young children to older adults. In 2021, there were over 39 vehicles involved in fatal car accidents in the City of Fontana. Many motor vehicle collisions are preventable, often occurring due to another party’s negligence or wrongdoing. If you’ve been injured in a car crash, or have lost a loved one in a traffic collision, it’s crucial to reach out to a Fontana accident lawyer who can assist you in seeking compensation for your losses.

Types of Fontana Car Accident Claims We Handle

At Heidari Law Group, P.C., we represent clients in many types of car accident cases, such as:

• Rear-end collisions;
• Head-on collisions;
• Side-swipe accidents;
• T-bone or side-impact crashes;
• Rollover accidents;
• Single-vehicle crashes;
• Red light accidents;
• Drunk driving crashes;
• Distracted driving accidents; and
• Aggressive driving collisions.

Damages in a Car Accident Case in Fontana

Many people injured in car accidents initiate the process of seeking compensation by filing an auto insurance claim. This can lead to a settlement from the insurance company. However, in many cases, an insurance settlement is insufficient to cover losses, prompting the injured party to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party or parties.

In a lawsuit, the injured person may be eligible for compensatory damages. There are two types of compensatory damages, each designed to compensate the plaintiff for different kinds of losses. Under California law, these include:

1. Economic damages, which refer to “objectively verifiable monetary losses including medical expenses, loss of earnings, burial costs, loss of use of property, costs of repair or replacement, costs of obtaining substitute domestic services, loss of employment, and loss of business or employment opportunities”; and
2. Non-economic damages, which refer to “subjective, non-monetary losses including, but not limited to, pain, suffering, inconvenience, mental suffering, emotional distress, loss of society and companionship, loss of consortium, injury to reputation, and humiliation.”

Fontana Car Accident Statute of Limitations

Most car accident lawsuits in California must be filed within two years from the date of the accident, in accordance with state law. It is crucial to remember that this statute of limitations applies to the lawsuit’s timeframe, not to the auto insurance claim. Even if the insurance claim takes considerable time, the lawsuit must be filed before the statute of limitations expires. Notably, filing an insurance claim does not pause the statute of limitations.

If there is a possibility that a government claim may need to be filed—such as a claim against a government employee who caused the accident while on duty, or against a city or municipality for failing to maintain the road safely—the time window may be significantly shorter. In such cases, a claim may need to be filed within six months to one year from the date of the accident. It is advisable to consult a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure enough time to file a claim and seek compensation for losses.

Getting Financial Relief After a Car Accident in Fontana

In the state of California, individuals impacted by car accidents have the legal right to seek monetary compensation for the full spectrum of their losses. This includes tangible expenses as well as less quantifiable damages. However, obtaining complete and fair financial restitution following an automobile collision can be a complex process. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. Our experienced car accident lawyers in Fontana, CA, are committed to assisting those injured in maximizing their financial recovery, whether through settlements or court verdicts. As a victim, you may be eligible for compensation covering:

• Automotive repairs or vehicle replacement; 
• Emergency medical treatment; 
• Hospital bills and other health care bills; 
• Lost wages and loss of earning power; 
• Pain and suffering; 
• Scarring/disability; and
• Wrongful death

Understanding Compensatory Damages in Car Accident Lawsuits

Compensatory damages play a crucial role in car accident lawsuits, aiming to make the injured party “whole” again. Economic damages cover all out-of-pocket expenses linked to the accident, including past, present, and estimated future medical bills, lost wages due to an inability to work, and costs related to any permanent disability or disfigurement. Non-economic damages, while more subjective, assign a monetary value to the pain and suffering experienced since the accident. They address psychological impacts such as depression, loss of enjoyment of life, and relationship strain due to injury. Calculating these damages requires a comprehensive understanding of both immediate impacts and longer-term consequences, often necessitating the testimony of medical experts and life care planners.

Role of Evidence in Building a Strong Car Accident Claim

The strength of a car accident claim largely depends on the quality and amount of evidence presented. Immediately after an accident, collecting accurate information from the scene—such as photos, videos, and witness accounts—can significantly influence the outcome. Documentation of injuries and treatment records further establish the claim. Additionally, employment records and expert testimonies can support claims for lost wages and future earnings. Continually collecting and preserving evidence as the case progresses is crucial, as delays or missing information can weaken a claim. Experienced attorneys understand these dynamics and work meticulously to build robust arguments that accurately reflect the harm suffered and the compensation required.

Common Asked Car Accident Questions

What types of car accident claims can an attorney handle in Fontana, California?

An attorney in Fontana can manage a variety of car accident claims, including rear-end collisions, head-on collisions, side-swipe accidents, T-bone or side-impact crashes, rollover accidents, single-vehicle crashes, red light accidents, drunk driving crashes, distracted driving accidents, and aggressive driving collisions. Each type of accident requires a specific approach to effectively establish liability and pursue compensation.

How is compensation determined in a car accident case in Fontana?

Compensation in a car accident case can include economic damages, such as medical expenses, lost earnings, and repair costs, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering, inconvenience, and emotional distress. The goal is to cover all objectively verifiable monetary losses and compensate for subjective, non-monetary losses, ensuring that the injured parties’ financial and emotional harms are addressed.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the accident. It is critical to act within this period to ensure your legal rights to compensation are preserved. Special circumstances, such as accidents involving government vehicles or poor road conditions, may require a claim to be filed in a shorter timeframe, possibly within six months to a year.

What should one do immediately following a car accident in Fontana to preserve their rights?

Immediately following a car accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention, document the accident scene with photos or videos, obtain contact information from witnesses, and report the accident to the police. After receiving medical care and documenting the scene, contacting a skilled car accident attorney is essential to navigate the legal steps and efficiently handle insurance claims or litigation.

How do car accident attorneys in Fontana help in maximizing financial recovery after an accident?

Car accident attorneys in Fontana help maximize financial recovery by thoroughly investigating the accident, understanding all facets of the client’s damages, negotiating assertively with insurance companies, and preparing compelling cases for trial if necessary. Their expertise ensures that all potential avenues for compensation are explored, from immediate medical costs to long-term care and emotional distress.

Can you explain the difference between economic and non-economic damages in car accident cases?

Economic damages refer to direct monetary losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. These are quantifiable and can be calculated based on bills and other financial records. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, cover subjective impacts like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life’s pleasure. These damages are compensated based on the severity and lasting impact of the psychological and physical injuries.

What is the importance of contacting an attorney early in the process of a car accident claim in Fontana?

Contacting an attorney early is crucial because they can help protect your legal rights, provide guidance on dealing with insurance companies, and ensure that critical evidence is preserved. Early legal intervention is also vital for adhering to the statute of limitations and enhancing the strength of your case by collecting fresh evidence and witness testimonies.

How do attorneys deal with insurance companies after a car accident in Fontana?

Attorneys handle negotiations with insurance companies to ensure their clients receive the maximum possible settlement. They scrutinize the insurance policies for applicable coverage, counter lowball offers, and, if necessary, challenge denials of claims. Their negotiation tactics are backed by a thorough understanding of state insurance laws and personal injury litigation.

What type of support can one expect from a Fontana car accident attorney throughout the legal process?

From the initial consultation through to settlement negotiations or court proceedings, clients can expect their attorney to provide comprehensive support. This includes legal advice, handling all paperwork, systematically gathering evidence, representing the client in all legal settings, and providing constant updates about the progress of the case.

What are some steps taken by attorneys to prepare a car accident case for trial if it does not settle?

If a car accident case goes to trial, attorneys prepare by gathering detailed evidence, including accident reports, medical records, and expert testimony. They also conduct depositions to question witnesses and involved parties under oath. Preparing visual aids to illustrate the accident scenario and impacts of injuries to the jury, alongside constructing a strong narrative around the case, are additional critical steps.

Why Choose Our Fontana Car Accident Attorneys

Car accidents can be especially challenging, particularly when insurance companies are involved. At Heidari Law Group, P.C., we specialize in providing personalized legal services to our clients. We are dedicated to proactive, results-driven services for every case, and we’re prepared to offer comprehensive support throughout the entire process, including for those in Fontana:

• Taking time to understand what happened, and answering all of your questions;
• Investigating the available evidence regarding the accident;
• Handling the legal paperwork and settlement negotiations; and
• Taking appropriate action to get you the best settlement possible.

If you’ve been involved in a road accident, securing the representation you deserve is essential. The right legal support can protect your rights and ensure fair compensation. Heidari Law Group offers expert guidance to navigate the legal process, including a free consultation to evaluate your case and understand your needs. Don’t hesitate to contact Heidari Law Group today for the support you need.