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San Juan Capistrano Car Accident Lawyer
Every day, car accidents in California cause severe injuries and even fatalities. According to the California Highway Patrol Integrated Traffic Records System, each year there are approximately 180,000 collisions injuring nearly 250,000 people. Additionally, there are about 3,500 fatalities on California roads annually.
Injured victims of car accidents may suffer long-term financial and physical difficulties after the accident. If you were injured in a car accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, a San Juan Capistrano car accident lawyer could seek compensation on your behalf. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney could help you fight for your right to a fair recovery.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents can occur because of different reasons or a combination of reasons. Often, the reasons for car crashes are because drivers made poor decisions or participated in risky behaviors. Unfortunately, injured individuals often pay for the negligence of other drivers. Common causes of car accidents include:
- Unsafe speeds
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Improper turning
- Failure to obey traffic signs or signals
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Distracted driving
The Purpose of Filing a Civil Claim
After a car accident, victims often face financial difficulties, pain, and suffering, or even experience temporary or permanent disability because of their injuries. The purpose of a civil claim after a car accident is therefore to seek compensation for these losses, also known as damages. Other damages that can be sought may include emotional and mental anguish, lost wages, lost future earning capacity, loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, legal and travel expenses, and medical bills.
The compensation a victim receives should, as much as possible, make them whole again, as they were prior to the accident. Some or all of these damages may be considered in settlement negotiations or by a jury to determine the amount of compensation a plaintiff should receive.
What is the Deadline to File an Injury Claim?
Car accident victims should understand that time is of the essence when filing a civil lawsuit. Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, plaintiffs in a car accident case have two years from the date of the accident to file their claim. This deadline is often referred to as the statute of limitations. Consulting with a qualified car accident lawyer in San Juan Capistrano may help ensure that a plaintiff can file their case in time.
Once this deadline passes, a plaintiff will lose their right to recover compensation for their damages. They may still file a claim; however, the judge will likely honor any motions filed by the defendant to dismiss it.
Contacting a San Juan Capistrano Car Accident Attorney
Though you cannot go back and change the past, you can take control of your future by exercising your legal rights and making informed decisions. A well-versed San Juan Capistrano car accident lawyer could advise you of your rights and options under the law.
If your claim has merit and you decide to move forward, we could craft a demand letter to the defendant with the goal of obtaining a fair settlement for your damages. If this is not successful, we can prepare to take your case to trial. To learn more, call the experienced legal team today.