Our Rialto Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You
Rialto is a city in San Bernardino County, California, United States. According to Census Bureau estimates, the city had a population of 99,171 in 2010. The city is home to four major regional distribution centers: Staples, Inc., Toys “R” Us, FedEx, and Target. If you or your loved one has been involved in a car wreck in Rialto, California, speak with a Rialto car accident lawyer immediately. Having an aggressive lawyer on your side that will fight for you no matter the case is crucial to receiving the settlement you deserve. If you have been involved in a car accident, it is important to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner you get legal representation, the better your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
Understanding the Role of Shared Fault Laws in Car Accident Settlements
In California, car accident cases are governed by shared fault laws, which are based on the principle of “pure comparative negligence”. Under this system, individuals involved in an accident can recover compensation for their injuries regardless of their level of fault, even if they are found to be up to 99% at fault for the incident. This is in contrast to some other states that follow a modified comparative negligence system, where individuals may be barred from recovering compensation if they are 50% or 51% or more responsible for the incident and their injuries.
The pure comparative negligence system in California operates as follows:
- Percentage of Fault: If you are involved in a car accident and share some degree of fault, your total amount of compensation will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.
- Compensation Reduction: For instance, if you were involved in an accident and the jury finds you 30% responsible due to some equipment failure in your vehicle, your compensation would be reduced by 30%. So, if your total damages were $1 million, you would receive $700,000 after accounting for your share of the fault.
- No Bar on Recovery: The pure comparative negligence system allows you to seek compensation even if you were predominantly at fault for the accident. For example, if the jury determines that you were 70% responsible because you failed to yield the right of way, you would still be eligible to receive 30% of the total damages.
It’s important to note that under the comparative fault system in California, each party’s degree of responsibility is carefully considered in determining the final compensation amount. The defendant must prove that the plaintiff was negligent and that the plaintiff’s negligence was a substantial factor in causing their harm. Once established, the plaintiff’s damages are reduced based on their percentage of responsibility. The actual reduction is calculated by the court or jury. It is essential to work with a skilled Rialto car accident lawyer who can help navigate the complexities of shared fault laws and protect your rights while pursuing fair compensation after a car accident in California
Benefits of Hiring a Rialto Car Accident Lawyer
Hiring an attorney for a car accident case can be beneficial for various reasons:
- Legal Expertise: Car accident cases can be complex, involving various legal principles and intricacies. Attorneys specializing in personal injury and car accident cases have the knowledge and expertise to navigate through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected and your case is properly handled.
- Understanding Your Rights: After a car accident, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options. An experienced attorney can explain your rights in detail, providing you with clarity on the potential compensation you may be entitled to for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Proving Liability: To win a personal injury lawsuit, you must establish that the other party is liable for your injuries. An attorney can help gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case to prove negligence or fault on the part of the responsible party.
- Handling Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when they try to minimize their payouts. Attorneys have experience negotiating with insurance adjusters and can protect your interests to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Maximizing Compensation: A car accident lawyer can help you pursue the full amount of compensation you deserve. They understand the various types of damages you may be entitled to, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future financial needs, and will work to maximize your settlement offer.
- Handling Complex Cases: Car accidents involving serious injuries, disputed liability, multiple parties, or insurance issues can be complex. A skilled attorney has the experience and resources to handle these complexities and represent your interests effectively.
- Navigating Statute of Limitations: Each state has a statute of limitations that sets a time limit for filing a personal injury claim. Failing to file within the specified timeframe may result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. An attorney can ensure that your claim is filed within the appropriate time limits.
- Contingency Fees: Many car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t have to pay attorney fees unless they help you recover money for your losses. This fee structure allows you to access legal representation without upfront costs.
- Negotiating Settlements: Attorneys are skilled negotiators and can handle settlement discussions with insurance companies or at-fault parties. They will work to secure a fair settlement on your behalf, saving you from the stress of handling negotiations on your own.
- Peace of Mind: Engaging a law firm for your car accident case provides peace of mind, knowing that you have a legal advocate who will fight for your rights and handle the legal complexities of your case while you focus on your recovery and well-being.
Talk to our Rialto Car Accident Lawyer
Hiring an experienced Rialto car accident lawyer can provide the closure and guidance you need to pursue justice. They understand the necessary legal steps for making a legal case against those responsible and will work to ensure you and your family are properly compensated for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. Pacific Attorney promises to deliver top-notch legal service to our clients, here is why:
- Our attorney has the knowledge and experience to help you navigate the legal system
- We can help you get the maximum compensation you deserve
- We will protect your interests
Call the Pacific Attorney Group today at 1-800-358-9617 and schedule your free consultation now.