San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer

San Bernardino Car Accident Attorney

When you experience a car accident, you could suffer serious injuries and face medical expenses while losing income and contending with insurance companies that belittle your claim. You can pursue compensation if another driver’s negligence resulted in your accident. A skilled San Bernardino car accident lawyer at Perry Personal Injury Lawyers advocates for victims who suffered injuries in rear-end collisions, T-bone crashes, hit-and-runs, and freeway accidents.

Our team can manage all elements of your case, from evidence collection to insurance negotiations, whether you sustained minor or life-altering injuries. Contact a San Bernardino personal injury lawyer today to discuss your free case review!

Common Causes of Car Accidents in San Bernardino

San Bernardino’s busy highways, including I-10, I-215, and Route 66, see frequent crashes. Many accidents stem from driver negligence, hazardous road conditions, and preventable errors.

• Speeding – Shortens a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
• Distracted Driving – Texting, GPS use, or other distractions take attention off the road.
• Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving – Impairs judgment, reflexes, and coordination.
• Reckless Lane Changing – Aggressive weaving or failing to check blind spots causes collisions.
• Poor Road Conditions – Potholes, debris, or inadequate signage can lead to accidents.
• Aggressive Driving – Tailgating, road rage, and hostile driving behaviors escalate crash risks.
• Vehicle Malfunctions – Tire blowouts, brake failures, and other defects cause sudden crashes.
• Driver Error – Simple mistakes, like failing to yield, can result in serious outcomes.

San Bernardino personal injury lawyers conduct crash investigations and evidence collection to ensure responsible drivers pay for their actions. Identifying the fundamental cause of the accident will enhance your legal claim while boosting your likelihood of receiving complete compensation.

San Bernardino Car Accident Statistics

In 2022, San Bernardino County reported 1,370 victims killed or injured in motor vehicle accidents, ranking 15th out of 61 counties in California for overall crash severity. Alcohol played a role in 117 of these cases, while younger drivers under 21 accounted for 5 alcohol-related incidents and drivers aged 21–34 accounted for 35. Motorcycle accidents resulted in 80 victims, placing the county 8th statewide in this category. Pedestrian safety remains a concern as well, with 137 victims reported, including 5 children under 15 and 17 seniors aged 65 or older. Bicycle accidents accounted for 38 victims, with 3 involving children under 15.

These figures highlight the ongoing risks on San Bernardino’s roads, underscoring the need for vigilance, safe driving practices, and strong legal support for those injured in crashes. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a collision, speak with an experienced San Bernardino car accident lawyer today to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Car Accident in San Bernardino

Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming, but knowing the right steps can help protect your health, rights, and financial future. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911 – Immediately assess yourself and others for injuries, then call 911 to request medical assistance and report the accident.
2. Request a Police Report – Ask the responding officers to create an official accident report, which will serve as crucial evidence later on.
3. Exchange Information – Share names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plates, and insurance details with the other driver. Avoid admitting fault or apologizing, as this may be used against you.
4. Document the Accident Scene – Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. Make sure to also note the time, weather, and exact location of the crash.
5. Collect Witness Information – If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact details. Their statements can support your version of events.
6. Seek Medical Attention – Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor. Medical records can document hidden or long-term issues that might arise later.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident to your insurance company promptly, sticking only to the facts. Avoid giving recorded statements without first speaking to an attorney.
8. Speak to a San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer – Before dealing with insurance adjusters, consult with an experienced San Bernardino car accident lawyer. An attorney can protect your rights, guide you through the claims process, and help you pursue fair compensation.

Understanding California’s Comparative Fault Rule

Under California’s pure comparative negligence system, accident victims maintain the ability to receive damages despite being partly responsible for the accident. The compensation they receive decreases according to their percentage of fault. Under pure comparative negligence rules, a fault determination of 30% responsibility will result in a 30% deduction from your settlement amount.

Insurance firms attempt to place responsibility on victims to minimize their payouts, which demonstrates why strong legal representation becomes crucial. A San Bernardino car accident attorney collects evidence and disputes invalid fault determinations to help clients obtain the highest possible compensation. Your ability to recover compensation for medical bills and lost wages stays intact even when you bear partial fault for the accident.

How Car Accident Settlements Are Calculated

California car accident settlements account for both economic damages and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover expenses for medical treatment, lost income, property repair costs, and rehabilitation services.

In San Bernardino, non-economic damages account for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life. Future medical costs and potential lost income may be included in severe cases.

Victims deserve full compensation because insurance companies frequently offer low settlement amounts. Attorneys use medical records, expert testimony, and financial statements to evaluate your claim value and pursue the right settlement or court decision. Contact us today to see how a San Bernardino car accident lawyer can help you secure the compensation you deserve.

FAQs

What Happens if the Other Guy Doesn’t Have Insurance?

Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage enables you to get compensation if the at-fault driver lacks insurance or their insurance coverage is inadequate. The state of California does not mandate UM/UIM coverage, yet your insurer is obligated to help with medical expenses and lost wages if you have this coverage.

Without UM/UIM coverage, a San Bernardino personal injury lawyer can help you file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver responsible for the accident.

What If I Was Injured in a Hit-and-Run Accident?

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident in San Diego can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do right away can protect your health, strengthen your claim, and improve your chances of recovering compensation. Follow these steps after a hit-and-run:

1. Call 911: Report the crash and request medical help.
2. Gather Information: Record the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate if possible.
3. Find Witnesses: Collect names and contact info of anyone who saw the accident.
4. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident site, damage, and injuries.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the hit-and-run promptly.
6. File a Claim: Use MedPay (if you purchased it) for medical bills and UM/UIM coverage for additional damages.
7. Consult an Attorney: A San Bernardino car accident lawyer can guide you through the claims process and help maximize your recovery.

Can I Sue for a Car Accident If My Injuries Worsened a Pre-Existing Condition?

A person may file a legal claim after a car accident if the collision intensified an existing health issue like back injuries or arthritis. According to California law, the “eggshell plaintiff” rule holds negligent parties accountable for all damages when victims have pre-existing vulnerabilities.

A San Bernardino car accident lawyer needs to present medical evidence and expert testimony because insurance companies might claim that your injuries are unrelated to the accident.

Should I Accept the Insurance Company’s First Settlement Offer?

It’s usually not a good idea to take the first settlement an insurance company offers. These initial offers are often lower than what your claim is truly worth and may fail to cover ongoing expenses such as medical treatment, lost income, or pain and suffering. Before agreeing to anything, make sure you fully understand the extent of your damages, collect supporting evidence, and think about speaking with a San Bernardino car accident lawyer to help you pursue fair compensation.

Contact a San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer

People who have sustained injuries from car accidents are entitled to skilled legal advocacy to secure the compensation they require. Our dedicated San Bernardino car accident attorneys at Perry Personal Injury Lawyers handle every stage of your case, including crash investigation and negotiations with insurers, while pursuing legal action when needed.

Our team works vigorously to make certain you obtain full reimbursement for medical expenses along with lost income and pain and suffering. Protect your rights by letting us fight against insurance companies that try to reduce your claim amount. Reach out to Perry Personal Injury Lawyers now for an initial consultation to begin your journey towards receiving justice.

San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer Reviews

San Bernardino Car Accident Resources:

• What Are the Steps of a Car Accident Investigation in California?
• 5 Steps You Should Follow if You Are Involved in a Car Accident in California
• 3 Determining Causes of Car Accidents in California