Hurt in an accident?
You’re more than a case number.

Yes. California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, so you can still recover compensation even if you were partly responsible. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% responsible, your recovery would generally be reduced by 20%. Insurance companies often try to shift more blame onto injured people, which is why it helps to have someone review the facts before you accept fault or an offer.

We handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, so there are no upfront attorney’s fees, hourly fees or retainers. Our fee is a percentage of any recovery we obtain for you through a settlement or verdict. If there is no recovery, you will not owe attorney’s fees; however, you may remain responsible for certain costs advanced in connection with your matter. We’ll explain exactly how the fee agreement and case costs work during your consultation.

Every case is different, so there isn’t a standard timeline. Some claims resolve within a few months, while others take a year or longer, particularly if liability is disputed or the injuries are serious. It’s often best to understand the full extent of your injuries before settling, so future medical needs are considered.

In California you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1). Claims against government entities usually require a government claim within six months (Government Code § 911.2), so those deadlines are much shorter. Speaking with an attorney early also helps preserve evidence like photos, witness statements and video.

There isn’t a fixed formula. Value depends on medical expenses, lost income, future treatment, loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering, along with available insurance coverage and the strength of the evidence. Insurers often make early offers before the full extent of an injury is known, so it’s worth understanding your claim before accepting one.

You have the right to handle your own claim. Many people choose an attorney because the process gets complicated, especially when liability is disputed or injuries are serious. An attorney can gather evidence, deal with the insurance company, calculate damages, negotiate and, if necessary, file a lawsuit and represent you in court, while you focus on recovering.