Pasadena Car Accident Attorney

Car accidents can vary widely in severity, from minor fender benders to catastrophic collisions causing significant injuries or even fatalities. It is essential to contact the Pasadena car accident attorney from the McNally Law Office today.

Car accidents can happen for various reasons, including:

• Driver error: This includes distracted driving, speeding, reckless driving, running red lights, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Adverse weather conditions: Rain, snow, ice, fog, and other weather-related factors can reduce visibility and traction, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Mechanical failures: Malfunctions in a vehicle’s brakes, tires, steering, or other critical systems can lead to accidents.
• Road conditions: Poorly maintained roads, potholes, and inadequate signage can contribute to accidents.
• Other factors: Fatigue, medical emergencies, and unexpected obstacles on the road can also lead to accidents.

Types of Car Accidents and Injuries

Car accidents can take various forms, including rear-end collisions, head-on collisions, side-impact crashes (T-bone accidents), rollovers, and single-vehicle accidents.

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe injuries such as fractures, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ damage. In some cases, car accidents can be fatal.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

• Call 911 if there are injuries: Immediately call 911 to report any injuries. Ensure medical help is on the way for anyone hurt in the accident.
• Call the police: Remember to notify the police about any accident, even if it’s minor. In some areas, police will respond to all accidents; in others, they may only come for more serious incidents or those on public roads. Always attempt to notify them, especially in the case of hit-and-run accidents, which must be reported within a specified time frame according to most policies.
• Collect driver information: Gather all involved drivers’ names, addresses, phone numbers, and driver’s license numbers. This information is essential for insurance claims or legal actions.
• Record vehicle details: Note all involved vehicles’ license plate numbers and vehicle identification numbers (VIN). Verify this information by checking driver licenses and vehicle registrations to ensure accuracy.
• Collect witness information: Obtain passenger and witness names, addresses, and phone numbers. Their accounts may be vital in determining fault or understanding the accident’s circumstances.
• Document the scene: Use a camera or a cellphone to take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved and the accident scene. Capture details such as traffic signs, signals, road conditions, and any visual obstacles that might have contributed to the accident.
• Leave a note for unattended damaged property: If you damage a vehicle or property and the owner is absent, leave a note with your name, address, contact information, and the other driver(s) involved. This is often required by law and demonstrates responsibility.
• Notify your insurance company: Don’t hesitate to contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible to report the accident. Please provide them with all the collected information and follow their instructions for filing a claim.
• Report to the DMV if required: In case of any injuries or damage to the vehicle that amounts to more than $750, you must report the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within ten days. If you fail, your driver’s license may be suspended. Make sure to review the specific reporting rules at your local DMV.

Car accident injuries and compensation for the injuries

Car accident injuries can vary widely in severity, ranging from minor scrapes and bruises to life-threatening conditions. Compensation for these injuries depends on several factors, including the nature and extent of the injuries, liability (who was at fault), insurance coverage, and the legal process.

Overview of common car accident injuries and how compensation may be pursued:

• Whiplash: Whiplash is a neck injury caused by the sudden back-and-forth motion of the head, often in rear-end collisions. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments, resulting in pain and limited mobility. They are common in car accidents.
• Broken Bones: Fractures of bones such as arms, legs, ribs, and wrists can occur in car accidents, especially in high-impact collisions.
• Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, and other head injuries can result from impacts during an accident, potentially causing long-term cognitive and physical issues.
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the back or spinal cord can lead to paralysis, chronic pain, and loss of mobility.
• Internal Injuries: Organ damage, internal bleeding, and other internal injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
• Psychological and Emotional Trauma: Car accidents can lead to emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety, impacting a person’s well-being and daily life.

Types of Compensation for Car Accident Injuries:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation typically covers medical bills, including hospitalization, surgery, doctor’s visits, prescription medications, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: If you cannot work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages, such as pain, suffering, and emotional distress, may be included in your compensation.
• Property Damage: Compensation can cover repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle.
• Future Medical Costs: If your injuries require ongoing medical care or rehabilitation, compensation may include future medical expenses.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working at the same capacity as before the accident, you may be eligible for compensation for diminished earning potential.
• Punitive Damages: Punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party in cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm.

Schedule a Free Consultation with our Attorney

It’s essential to consult with a Pasadena car accident lawyer from the McNally Law Office to understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation. Our attorneys at the McNally Law Office can help you navigate the legal process and work to secure a fair settlement or award for your injuries and losses.