California Personal Injury – Frequently Asked Questions
Straightforward answers to the most common questions California accident victims ask us.
Common Questions About California Personal Injury Cases
How much does it cost to hire your law firm?
Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee — you pay nothing unless we win.
What is a contingency fee?
Our fee is a percentage of your recovery. No hourly billing, no retainer, no upfront fees.
Do I need to come into your office to sign up?
No. We sign up clients statewide remotely via phone, email, text, or e-signature.
What if the insurance company already offered me money?
Insurers offer low amounts hoping you’ll settle quickly. Never accept without speaking to a lawyer.
How long do I have to file a personal injury case in California?
Most cases must be filed within 2 years, but there are exceptions. Contact us ASAP.
Will you help me get medical treatment?
Yes. We secure medical care even if you have no insurance, often at no upfront cost.
What should I do immediately after an accident?
Get medical care, document the scene, call police, and contact us immediately.
How long will my case take?
Many cases settle in 3–9 months, though serious injury cases may take longer.
How much is my case worth?
It depends on injuries, medical care, liability, lost wages, and long-term effects.
Should I speak to the insurance company?
No. They will use your statements against you. Contact us instead.
Can I recover lost wages?
Yes — including past losses and future loss of earning capacity.
What if I was partly at fault?
California allows recovery under comparative negligence even if you were partly responsible.
What if the driver who hit me has no insurance?
You may still recover under uninsured motorist coverage or other sources.
What if the driver fled the scene?
Hit-and-run victims can often recover through UM coverage or other legal options.
Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
Yes — including emotional distress, anxiety, and reduced quality of life.
Do you handle motorcycle accident cases?
Yes — we have handled thousands statewide over nearly 30 years.
Do you handle Uber and Lyft accident cases?
Yes — rideshare cases require specialized knowledge of insurance rules.
Do I need a lawyer for a minor accident?
Yes. Injuries often worsen over time, and insurers exploit unrepresented clients.
Can I file a claim if my injuries appeared days later?
Yes — delayed symptoms are extremely common and legally valid.
Can I still bring a case if I didn’t get the other driver’s information?
Yes — we can investigate using police reports, witnesses, and surveillance.
What types of cases do you handle?
Car, motorcycle, truck, pedestrian, slip & fall, dog bites, wrongful death, and more.
What if I don’t have medical insurance?
We work with doctors who treat you immediately and wait for payment until settlement.
How much does medical treatment cost upfront?
Typically nothing. Many doctors treat on a lien, meaning no upfront payments.
How long do I have to seek medical care?
Seek treatment immediately. Delays hurt your health and your case.
What if I’m undocumented?
Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation.
Can I recover for emotional distress?
Yes — including fear, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma.
What if the police report says I was at fault?
Police reports can be wrong. We independently investigate the accident.
Can my spouse or family recover damages?
Possibly — such as loss of consortium or wrongful death claims.
What if the other party denies liability?
We gather evidence, video, witnesses, and expert analysis to prove fault.
What is included in a settlement?
Medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain & suffering, and future damages.
What if I didn’t feel injured at the scene?
Delayed pain is common. You should still get evaluated right away.
What if the insurance company denies my claim?
We fight the denial and can file a lawsuit if necessary.
What if the accident aggravated a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover — the law protects victims with prior conditions.
What if the person who hit me was drunk?
You may be entitled to enhanced compensation, including punitive damages.
Do I need to give the insurance company a recorded statement?
No. Never give a statement without legal representation.
What if I was a passenger in the at-fault car?
You can still recover — even from the driver of the car you were in.
Do you handle slip and fall cases?
Yes — including stores, apartments, homes, and commercial properties.
Can I switch attorneys and hire you?
Yes. You can change lawyers anytime. You do not pay two attorney fees.
What if I don’t know who caused the accident?
We investigate through evidence, surveillance videos, and experts.
When should I call an attorney?
Immediately. The sooner we handle your case, the stronger it becomes.
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