Getting into a car accident is stressful enough on its own, let alone when you have to start the process of filing a legal claim. At Compass Law Group, LLP, we strive to make the legal process as smooth as possible so you can put this behind you and move forward. Our Long Beach car accident attorneys are committed to helping car accident victims earn the compensation they deserve after a traumatic accident. Proper legal representation can be the difference between maximum compensation and settling for a lowball offer. Our team of car accident lawyers has years of experience working in the California legal system, and we know every trick in the book to make sure our clients get the best results. If you’re looking for a car accident attorney in Long Beach, you’ve come to the right place. Get in touch with us today to schedule a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win.
Why You Need a Long Beach Car Accident Attorney
Many car accident victims believe they can handle their legal claims on their own. However, navigating California’s legal system can feel like walking through a maze with no compass to point north. California is a comparative negligence state, meaning you can still earn partial compensation if you’re found partially responsible for the accident.
Not only that, but insurance companies won’t go down without a fight. They will not hesitate to play dirty to try and reduce or deny your claim, and they may try to pressure or intimidate you into settling for a lower amount than you deserve.
Our attorneys won’t stand for this. We’ll fight back and make sure you get the justice you deserve. We know how to counter these nasty tricks and hold insurance companies accountable for the damages.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Long Beach
If you’ve found yourself in a car accident in the Long Beach area, take a deep breath. It’s important to keep a level head to help you make the right choices and keep yourself and others safe. Follow these steps after a car accident to protect yourself and make sure you earn the proper compensation:
Step 1: Ensure Your Safety & Call 911
Before anything else, make sure you’re safe. Move your car out of the way of traffic if you can, and check to see if you have any serious injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and have them send over the police and emergency medical services.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
Once you know you’re safe, collect as much evidence as you can. Take photos of the scene and your car, record any witness testimonies, and exchange contact information with the other drivers. You’ll also need to grab a copy of the formal police report from the accident. We will use all of this to build your case later on.
Step 3: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
No matter how minor your injuries, have a medical professional look you over regardless. There could be hidden injuries that might pop up later if left untreated, and you’ll need medical documentation of your injuries for your case.
Step 4: Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
Get in touch with a Long Beach car accident attorney as soon as possible to start building your case and help you through the legal process.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Long Beach
The more congested the roads, the greater the risk of getting into an accident. While there’s a risk every time you step into a car, certain driving behaviors can increase your risk of getting hurt. Common factors that can lead to a serious car accident in the Long Beach area include:
- Distracted Driving, Such as Texting or Eating
- Speeding
- Reckless Driving
- Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substances
- Road Hazards
- Poor Weather Conditions
- Failing to Yield at an Intersection
- Running a Red Light
- Driving Through High-Traffic Intersections in Long Beach
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle
No two car accidents are the same. The extent of the damage and severity of the injuries can vary depending on a variety of circumstances, and every accident needs special care and attention to detail. Our team of lawyers knows how to handle a wide range of car accidents with the respect and care you deserve. No matter the circumstances, we’re here to help you.
Our Long Beach car accident attorneys can take care of:
- Rear-End Collisions
- Head-on Collisions
- T-Bone Accidents
- Multi-Vehicle Pileups
- Hit-and-Run Accidents
- Drunk Driving Accidents
- Rideshare Accidents
- Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Claims
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Even a small fender bender puts drivers at risk of serious personal injuries that can lead to long-term complications. Some of the most common injuries that can come from a car accident include:
- Whiplash
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Broken Bones
- Joint Dislocations
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Neck and Shoulder Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Internal Injuries
- Partial or Complete Paralysis
- PTSD and Emotional Trauma
Understanding Your Legal Rights & Compensation
California law states that car accident victims have the right to financial compensation for the damages accrued in the incident. These damages are divided into three main categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages.
- Economic Damages: These are damages with exact monetary values, such as medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
- Non-Economic Damages: These are damages that don’t have a physical value, such as emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: If reckless or malicious behaviors caused the accident, punitive damages are additional fees added to your compensation meant to punish the individual for their behaviors.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
The state of California has a deadline by which you can file a legal claim after a car accident. You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file your claim and receive compensation. The longer you wait, the more difficult the filing process will be, so it’s best to file as soon as you’re able to for the best results.
There are a handful of instances where you may have longer than 2 years to file. If the claim is being filed for a minor involved in the accident, that 2-year countdown starts when they turn 18. If the accident involved a government-owned vehicle, you may also have a different timeline to file a claim.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
At the end of the day, insurance companies are businesses that don’t want to lose money. They will try every trick in the book to reduce your compensation or deny it entirely. If the other party’s insurance company wants to talk to you individually after an accident, you have the right to say no. They may try to pressure you, but you have no obligation to meet with them.
Contact a car accident attorney in Long Beach and communicate with insurance companies through them. Our team knows how to counter these tactics, and we’ll fight by your side to make sure you get the maximum compensation available.
How Our Long Beach Car Accident Attorneys Can Help
When you work with Compass Law Group, LLP, you have a teammate fighting at your side. Our team will help investigate the accident and work to collect evidence to build a strong case. We’ll work with medical professionals and accident reconstruction specialists to gather high-quality testimonies that will strengthen your case even further.
Our attorneys will walk with you every step of the way. We’ll handle all negotiations with insurance companies and formally file your lawsuit. If your case goes to court, we’ll follow you there and continue the fight. Trust that we’ll be there no matter what, fighting for your justice.
Client Testimonials
“This was the first time I ever hired a law group, and I gotta say that Compass Law Group was the best decision I’ve ever made. They were recommended to me by a friend and I am extremely grateful to them. I had made my peace with feeling back pain for the rest of my life after my accident, but they got me the treatment I needed and the representation to not have to pay for my treatment. I am extremely pleased with my experience with Compass Law Group and my attorney Simon. Thank you for everything.” – Eduardo T.
“Compass Law Group is an amazing team. They helped out my wife and me when we got into a car collision. I cannot say enough positive things about them. They are very professional and attentive about everything. The staff answered all my questions with great clarity and patience and kept me informed every step of the way. Definitely recommend them!!” – Billy D.
“The overall process was great. They were able to walk me through each step and they were very kind and helpful. They had great communication, sending my updates via text every other week or at least monthly. Everyone was very concerned about my issue and fought for me to get the compensation that I deserve. I highly recommend Compass Law Group.” – Julia G.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a car accident lawyer cost?
The cost to hire a car accident lawyer varies depending on where you live and the specifics of your case. If your attorney works on a contingency fee basis, this means they will take a percentage of your compensation when we win your case.
What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
If the other driver doesn’t have the insurance to cover the damages, you have other options. You may be able to file a claim under your uninsured or underinsured motorist policy.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes! California is a comparative negligence state, meaning you can earn partial compensation for an accident if you’re found partially at fault.
How long does a car accident claim take to settle?
Settling a claim can take a while, and it all depends on the cooperation of every party involved. If the other insurance company puts up a fight, it may take longer to settle your claim.
Will my case go to trial?
It depends. Most cases are settled outside of court. However, if negotiations come to a standstill or things just aren’t progressing, your case may go to trial to help get things moving again.
Contact a Long Beach Car Accident Attorney Today
No matter the circumstances, our attorneys at Compass Law Group, LLP are ready to join the fight. You’re more than just another case, you’re a human being who deserves justice after a traumatic car accident. We’ll handle your case with the respect you deserve, and we’ll make sure you get the maximum compensation available.
Our team is available 24/7 to answer any questions, and you don’t pay us unless we win. Contact Compass Law Group today to get on the road to a better future.
