San Bernardino County is considered to be one of the largest in the United States, even bigger than Switzerland. San Bernardino, located just a short commute from Los Angeles, is a thriving suburban community rich in culture and history, but also a hotspot for serious traffic accidents.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a car accident in San Bernardino County, resulting in related injuries and damages, you may qualify to pursue compensation.
Serious car accidents can lead to lasting consequences for both you and your family. Having a knowledgeable San Bernardino car accident attorney by your side is crucial for navigating the legal process and obtaining damages.
San Bernardino, California, OTS Car Accident Crash Rankings (Up to Date: 2021)
The 2021 OTS crash rankings reveal that San Bernardino is dangerous for pedestrians, bikers, and motorists alike. With 1,999,837 daily vehicle kilometers traveled, the city ranks high in alcohol-related traffic accidents. The same holds true for hit-and-run accidents.
Trip, a nationwide transportation research organization, has analyzed driving conditions in Riverside and San Bernardino.
The group’s findings are informative.
Deteriorated roadways. Rough roads increase drivers’ operating expenses by an estimated $2,675 per year. The group claims that 75% of the area’s key roadways are in poor or average condition.
Dangerous bridges. Bridges are also regarded as problematic. Of the 2,503 bridges, 142 have been identified as “structurally deficient.”
Fatalities. When assessing fatal auto accidents, experts point out that roadway features are among the contributing factors.
Total fatality and injury – 1433.
Alcohol Involved – 182
The group proposes that road upgrades could lessen the severity of traffic accidents. Traffic signal installations, shoulder paving, and the reorganization of problematic intersections are examples of such enhancements.
Risky highways, streets, and intersections in San Bernardino County.
While any city, county, or region can provide a risk, certain regions appear to be major issue spots for drivers in San Bernardino County. Serious car accidents and fatalities are frequently reported on these roads and at these intersections:
Routes: State Route 138, Interstate 40, and Interstate 15
These places are heavily traveled, which increases the odds of an accident. If you were in a car accident while traveling on one of these San Bernardino County highways, you may be eligible to claim compensation for your injuries.
What to do following a car accident?
Because of the nature of California’s roads, you are certain to be involved in an accident at some point in your lifetime. If you were wounded in a San Bernardino vehicle accident, there are a few things to remember.
We suggest you to do the following:
First, ensure that there are any injuries . If you need medical assistance, dial 911.
If the vehicles are still operable, relocate them to a safer location. It may be useful to take a few photographs before relocating them so that you have a clear picture of the accident scene later.
Take photos of your car, the street, debris, injuries, the date and time of day, and any other information you’ll need later.
Share details with the other driver. Obtain their name, insurance details, and contact information.
A police officer should be on the site to submit a police report, but if not, you can file one after the accident to keep it on file. Request a copy of the report.
To begin the claims procedure, notify your car’s insurance provider that an accident has occurred.
Contact a San Bernardino accident lawyer to seek maximum compensation.
Attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you will not pay unless they win your case. Furthermore, some law firm will prioritize your unique interests and can negotiate the terms required to recover damages from your injury.
Role of San Bernardino Car Accident Attorneys
Even the best drivers sometimes get themselves into risky circumstances. Hit-and-run drivers, reckless speeders, and drunk drivers can all put injured automobile accident victims in tough and sad situations.
If you or a loved one was severely injured or died in a car accident in San Bernardino County, you should be aware that in order to maximize your compensation, you must prove the other party’s negligence.
Working with an car accident lawyers can assist ensure you have the proof to maximize your compensation, as insurance companies frequently offer very low settlements to accident victims.
An expert San Bernardino personal injury attorneys will thoroughly research your case, gather evidence, and seek ways of maximizing the compensation you receive for your injuries.
They collaborate closely with a team of medical professionals throughout San Bernardino County, Los Angeles, and California to guarantee that you or your loved one receives the best medical care for a quick and healthy recovery while they handle the legal paperwork and negotiate with insurance companies.
An accident lawyer can also give the following services:
Offer crucial legal advice and representation in court to vehicle accident victims.
If no police were present at the scene of an accident, they will assist in filing a police report.
Negotiate the terms required to recover damages from a car accident. This may include medical expenses, lost pay, pain and suffering, lifelong disability or disfigurement, property damage, and so on.
Handle insurance company discussions effectively and efficiently so that accident victims receive correct reimbursements.
Investigate every detail of the incident carefully and thoroughly in order to develop a strong case against those who caused the injury.
Different types of Car accidents
Car accidents can take several forms depending on the cause and circumstances.
Some of the most prevalent types of automobile accidents are:
- Rear-end collisions
- Rollover accidents.
- Hit-and-run accidents.
- T-bone accidents.
- Head-on collisions
Distracted drivers, such as those who talk on their cellphones or text while driving, frequently cause rear-end collisions because they fail to recognize when traffic has stopped or slowed in front of them. They can also cause side-on collisions by disregarding stop signs and red lights.
Front-end and rollover accidents may be caused by:
- Reckless Driving
- Slick roads.
- Automobile product liability
- Tired driving.
- And a lot more.
Any of these can result in a hit-and-run if the person who is accountable drives away without exchanging insurance or contact details.
What are the most primary causes of car accidents?
Car accidents are typically caused by one or more drivers acting negligently or recklessly. In this scenario, it goes without saying that an innocent victim has every right to seek recompense.
The three leading causes of car accidents and traffic accidents in San Bernardino are:
- Risky driving behaviors include
- speeding,
- drinking,
- Late-night driving.
In San Bernardino County, the following are some of the leading causes of car accidents:
- Distracted driving.
- Cellphone use
- Weather Conditions
- Traffic Pedestrians
- Driving under the influence.
- aggressive or emotional driving.
- Tailgating
Car accident injuries, which can range from seat belt injuries and whiplash to catastrophic injuries, can have long-term consequences for both the victim’s quality of life and their financial situation. Any economic or noneconomic damages incurred by an automobile accident victim should be compensated by their insurance or that of the responsible party.
Distracted drivers
Distracted driving is likely the leading cause of car crashes. Texting and chatting on a cell phone without a hands-free device are outlawed in California, but people continue to be negligent in this area, resulting in accidents.
Distractions can also come from
- Eating.
- Adjusting the Stereo
- Or even speaking to a passenger.
Other reasons of car accidents include driving under the influence, defective products, poor road conditions, and weary drivers. If you need to file a personal injury claim for an accident caused by carelessness or recklessness, contact an attorney right away.
What are typical types of injuries from car accidents?
Even minor car accidents might have long-term consequences for the injured victim. Low-speed rear-end collisions can nevertheless result in serious whiplash. High-speed collisions can lead to fractured bones or catastrophic brain injury.
Some of the most common vehicle accident injuries are:
- Airbag injuries
- Spinal cord damage.
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Whiplash
- Neck/back injuries.
- Head injuries.
- Seatbelt injuries
- Broken bones.
What should you do if you’ve been injured in a car accident?
If you were hit by someone else, they ought to compensate for your injuries. A Car accident lawyer in San Bernardino can assist you in filing a car accident claim and pursuing full compensation for your car accident damages.
You ought to be compensated for
- Medical bills.
- Doctor visits
- Pain and Suffering
- Property repair/replacement
Don’t wait another day to consult with an attorney about your car accident claim.
What evidence should be collected during a car accident investigation?
Collecting enough evidence following your car accident is critical for obtaining compensation. The sooner you acquire evidence, the more credible it will seem in court.
Incident reports
An incident report will summarize what occurred from the perspective of law enforcement and first responders.
Accident photographs
When photographing the incident, get images of the damaged automobiles, road signage, the point of impact, number plates, and vehicle location on the road.
Driver’s contact information
At the very least, you should have the other driver’s name and phone number. You might also request the person’s driver’s license number and insurance company details.
Medical bills.
Keep track of all medical treatment you receive as a result of the accident. Document each bill and update your medical history as appropriate.
Witness Statements
Gather witness accounts from everyone who may have noticed what happened. This testimony could help to substantiate your version of events in court.
How does a car accident attorney defend their client?
You may already be aware that a car accident lawyer can assist you with the claims process following an accident. You may wonder how they represent your interests. Car accident lawyers may assist you in obtaining financial compensation by taking the following steps:
- Determining if negligence has occurred and who has legal responsibility for the accident
- Identifying additional parties, such as an employer or manufacturer, who could be liable
- Handling all communication with the insurance company.
- Begin your legal claim with formal documentation.
- Understanding the civil process code that you must use to pursue your claim
- Using legal methods to acquire information and narrow the issues in dispute
- Reviewing damages and compiling evidence of their value
- Proving all parts of the case, such as breach of duty, causation, and damages.
- Identifying insurance plans and other means to receive compensation
- Responding to defenses raised by other parties.
- Negotiating a fair settlement or presenting your case at trial
- Collecting your judgment and ensuring that it meets your needs.
- Explaining the legal process and your options at every level of the case.
Car Accident Lawsuit FAQs
What if the opposing party claims I am at fault?
Do not panic if the other driver or the insurance company claims you are at blame for the collision. That may not be true. If you were involved in the circumstances leading up to the accident, the compensation you receive may be decreased. However, even if a victim is 99% at fault, California law does not prohibit them from seeking compensation.
What should you do if you’re involved in an accident while driving an organization’s vehicle?
A car accident in a work vehicle is much more complicated than one in a personal vehicle. Your company will most likely wish to conduct their own inquiry into the accident. San Bernardino car accident attorneys will look at all possibilities to give you the best opportunity of obtaining damages.
How long does the insurance company have to react to my claim?
Your insurance provider must react to your report within 15 days. When you submit your last proof of loss form, they have 40 days to make a decision on your claim. They must pay the accepted claim within 30 days.
Will my car accident claim pay out above or below average?
A car accident claim is based on the real damages suffered by the victim. The amount reflects the victim’s real losses. Compensation increases in proportion to the severity of the injuries and damages.
The intensity and clarity of each element determine whether your situation is above or below average. Lawyers may provide you with a personalized estimate of the value of your case.
Is it necessary to hire a lawyer for a minor collision?
If you do not have any physical injuries and the insurance company agrees to pay for your damages, you may not need a lawyer for a fender collision. Any time you sustain a bodily injury, you should consult with a car accident lawyer for more information.
How are back injuries compensated in car accidents?
Back injuries are compensated for the financial expenditures involved as well as the impact they have on your life. For example, if the nature of the accident results in serious pain, you should be reimbursed for it. You may need to consult with qualified experts to understand how your injuries cause pain and physical limits.
Is whiplash a car accident related injury?
Whiplash is a form of injury that can be claimed after a car collision. It is a bodily injury that qualifies for compensation. However, demonstrating the damage and its impact on your life can be difficult. Lawyers can assist you in documenting your injuries and proving the right amount of compensation.
What could I expect in terms of pain and suffering compensation following a car accident?
There is no calculator that can accurately predict how much pain and suffering compensation you will receive. When injuries are minimal and heal fast, the victim receives less compensation than if they are severe. Pain and suffering may make a significant portion of car accident compensation, so do not underestimate the amount you could receive.
What defines a wrongful death car accident claim?
When a person dies in an automobile accident, the victim’s remaining family and estate may seek compensation. Damages differ from other types of personal injury lawsuits in that the compensation must reflect the family’s financial and emotional distress as a result of losing a loved one. Attorneys might handle wrongful death car accident cases.
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