Auto accidents occur every day on our area roadways. Distracted or aggressive drivers are prevalent throughout our community and their negligence often results in traffic accidents. Even though these collisions occur with surprising frequency, the consequences on the lives of its victims are severe. Car crash victims can be severely injured, face permanent disability, or even death. Often those involved are left with mounting medical bills and lost bills, not to mention the pain and suffering they experience. Car accident injuries often involve lengthy recovery processes, including extensive physical therapy or surgery.

According to the National Traffic Safety Administration, there has been a significant decline in car accident fatalities in recent years. In fact, the numbers of motor vehicle accident fatalities have hit record lows, more similar to reported numbers in the early 1960s. The decline in car accident fatalities is likely due to several factors, including seat belt laws, safer car designs, and increased use of public transportation and cycling, typically in urban areas. In 2009, more than 5.5 million police-reported motor vehicle crashes occurred in the United States. Twenty-eight percent of those crashes (1.52 million) resulted in an injury. Less than 1 percent (30,979) resulted in a death. Collision with another motor vehicle was the most common occurrence. Thirty-two percent of all fatal crashes involved alcohol-impaired driving.

The overall decline in car accidents, fatal or otherwise, is good news for anyone who drives, walks, or takes public transportation in California. Setting large-scale statistics aside, however, the personal injury attorneys Walton Law Firm understand that being involved in a car accident can have serious emotional, physical, and financial consequences for victims and their families.

Statute of Limitations.

Under California law, car accident injury claims usually must be filed two years from the date of the accident. That means if the claim is not resolved—for example, via a settlement with an insurance company and/or the other driver—or a lawsuit is not filed within the two-year period, the claimant will be forever barred from seeking money damages for personal injuries resulting from the accident. Therefore, it is essential that injured parties who believe they have a claim seek out professional assistance as soon as possible after the accident in order to best protect their rights.

Accidents involving a public entity (e.g. city, state, school district) have specific claims-filing requirements that are distinct from the general two-year filing requirements for personal injuries. Under most circumstances, a claim must be filed with the governmental entity within six months of the date of harm. So, it is important to consult with a lawyer before the six-month period ends in any cases in which a public entity may be a defendant. Otherwise, a victim’s claims could be barred.

Walton Law Firm can help.

Whether the accident causes a minor injury or a fatality, the car accident lawyers at the Walton Law Firm have successfully represented individuals and families who have been victims of car accidents for more than 15 years.  We pride ourselves on the personal service we provide, and the aggressive manner in which we pursue your case.  As one recent client testified, at Walton Law Firm, "it wasn't just a job, just a business...they cared."

If you are in need of a free consultation with a lawyer to discuss a car accident, please get in touch with our office to see how we can help.  We will give you an honest appraisal of your case, and let you know if you even need a lawyer.  Or, you can submit a confidential question online. We can be reached at (866) 607-1325 or locally at (760) 571-5500.