Walnut Creek Car Accident Lawyers
When you’re in an accident in the Bay Area, we can help
Car accidents often cause serious injuries. In an instant, you or a loved one can sustain an injury that severely affects every part of your life – your health, your job, your finances and your well-being. A long-term or permanent injury, like a brain injury, can change your life forever. A car accident attorney can help.
Knowing what to do in such situations can be overwhelming. Even knowing what your rights are as a car accident victim in California might not be clear. That's why it's critical that you talk to a California car accident lawyer as soon as possible to fully understand all your legal options.
Clancy & Diaz, LLP, can help you every step of the way. We know how the legal system works in Contra Costa County and other nearby areas, including Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Clayton, Pleasant Hill, and surrounding communities. That's because we have successfully resolved many complicated car accident claims for clients.
Answers from the lawyers you can trust
Below are some frequently asked questions. Finding out more about your car accident claim is important if you were injured in an accident caused by negligence. We also invite you to contact our offices for a free consultation with a lawyer. Call Clancy & Diaz, LLP, at (925) 835-7500.
“I was fortunate enough to be directed to Clancy and Diaz through a legal service. He and his staff were very professional and explained the legal process in a way that was easy to understand. During a time of uncertainty and fear he and his staff really made the difference in the outcome of my case.I would recommend him to my friends and family and that’s the highest complement I can give.” – Lori C., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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FAQs About Walnut Creek Car Accidents
- How do I know if I have a car accident lawsuit?
- How much is my car accident claim worth?
- Will my car accident case have to go to trial?
- How long after a car accident can I file a claim?
- Should I accept a settlement offer?
- Do I need a car accident lawyer?
- What can you expect as our client?
- What if my car accident in Walnut Creek was caused by another driver’s recklessness?
- What are the different types of car accidents?
- What are the common causes of car accidents?
- What are common car accident injuries?
- What if I lost a loved one in a car accident?
- What should I do after a car accident?
How do I know if I have a car accident lawsuit?
If you were seriously injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be able to pursue a car accident lawsuit against the at-fault party to recover compensation for your damages. It depends on who was at fault for the accident and how significant your damages were. An attorney can review the circumstances of your accident and advise as to whether you have a viable case.
How much is my car accident claim worth?
The value of your claim will depend on the extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, replacement services, and property damage. Your case could be worth hundreds, thousands, or maybe even millions. To get a better idea of how much your car accident claim might be worth, you need to review your case with an experienced attorney.
Will my car accident case have to go to trial?
Most personal injury claims involving car accidents settle out of court before going to trial, but if a settlement can’t be reached, the case can go to trial.
How long after a car accident can I file a claim?
The statute of limitations (legal deadline) to pursue legal action after a car accident in California is two years after the date of the accident. While there are rare exceptions, in almost all cases, if you try to file a claim after this deadline, your case will most likely be dismissed.
Should I accept a settlement offer?
Always be careful taking an insurance company’s first settlement offer. In many cases, the insurance company will offer you less than what you’re entitled to. Remember that you can negotiate compensation with the insurance company, but once you agree to a settlement, you likely won’t be able to get anything more for your accident-related expenses. An experienced car accident lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and help you get fair compensation for your damages.
Do I need a car accident lawyer?
You are not legally required to hire an attorney after a car accident, but it's always a good idea to speak with a lawyer if you’ve been seriously injured in a crash caused by someone else. Statistics show that those who hire a lawyer get more on average in compensation than those who do not. An attorney will answer your questions, discuss your legal options, and give you advice on the best way to move your claim forward.
What can you expect as our client?
- Award-winning representation from a lawyer who was named a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by The National Trial Lawyers.
- Results-oriented legal counsel from an attorney who has earned lifetime membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum®.
- Cost-conscious advocacy - request a free case evaluation at no risk or obligation to you.
- Step-by-step legal guidance throughout every stage of your case development, including negotiations with insurance companies or opposing parties.
Following a preventable car accident, you will likely feel frightened, isolated and completely overwhelmed by the situation. Car accident claims are difficult and complex. Without the proper amount of support and guidance, you can find that you will be left unsure of where to turn. For this reason, it's important that you do not hesitate to seek out the guidance of a knowledgeable injury lawyer who will truly be able to help you fight for your desired result.
What if my car accident in Walnut Creek was caused by another driver’s recklessness?
Car accidents happen often throughout the Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Lafayette, Clayton, and Antioch areas, and sadly, many of these crashes could have been prevented. When crashes are caused by the negligent or reckless actions of a driver, the victims can pursue car accident compensation for their injuries through the civil justice system.
If you or someone you love has been hurt by the actions of another driver, our law firm can help determine who is liable for the accident, assess the extent of your injuries and losses, and provide powerful legal advocacy every step of the way. Learn more about your rights and options as a car accident victim. Talk to an attorney at our Walnut Creek law firm today.
What are the different types of car accidents?
Our attorneys represent victims of all types of motor vehicle accidents, including cases that involve:
- Head-On Collisions
- Rear-End Collisions
- T-Bone/Broadside Crashes
- Uninsured Motorists
- Intersection Accidents
Whatever type of accident you're dealing with, no matter how complicated or straightforward it might seem, we want to help you every step of the way.
What are the common causes of car accidents?
Car accidents happen for many different reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving Accidents
- Drunk Driver Accidents
- Asleep at the Wheel Accidents
- Speeding Accidents
There are many others reasons why car accidents happen in California, and in each case, our attorneys will find the facts you need to receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.
What are common car accident injuries?
Any car accident can leave drivers and passengers with painful, lasting injuries. Some injuries are immediately obvious, while others may take hours or even days to develop. That’s why it’s important to seek medical attention after a crash. Some of the most common injuries people suffer in car accidents include:
- Whiplash: A soft tissue injury caused by the sudden back-and-forth movement of the neck, often seen in rear-end collisions. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and limited range of motion.
- Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These severe head injuries can occur when the head hits a hard surface or is violently shaken. Symptoms range from mild confusion and dizziness to loss of consciousness, memory issues, and long-term cognitive problems.
- Broken Bones: Fractures commonly affect the arms, legs, ribs, and hips during high-impact car crashes. Recovery time varies depending on the severity and location of the break, and some may require surgery.
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Herniated discs, nerve damage, and spinal cord injuries can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, or even paralysis. These injuries often require long-term treatment or rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma from a seatbelt, steering wheel, or airbag can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs. These are serious, potentially life-threatening injuries that may not show symptoms right away.
- Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, torn metal, or unsecured objects inside the vehicle can cause deep cuts or puncture wounds, which may require stitches or lead to infection if untreated.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: This includes strains, sprains, and bruises that can affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments. While they may seem minor, they can cause significant discomfort and limit daily activities during recovery.
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, no matter how mild or severe your injuries may seem, it’s important to seek medical treatment, document your symptoms, and speak with a car accident attorney who understands the long-term impact of crash-related trauma.
What if I lost a loved one in a car accident?
If you lost a loved one in a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed with grief, confusion, and a deep sense of injustice, especially if the crash was caused by another driver’s negligence. While no amount of legal action can undo the pain of your loss, pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide some measure of justice and financial stability during this difficult time.
In California, certain family members – such as a spouse, domestic partner, personal representative, child, or other eligible dependents – have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault party. These claims can help cover funeral and burial expenses, loss of income and financial support, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one. Our law firm understands how delicate and personal these cases can be for family members. We’re here to help guide you through this complex legal process with care and compassion.
What should I do after a car accident?
There are important steps you can take in the time immediately following a car accident. Taking these steps can help ensure you properly handle the situation and positively influence your ability to recover money that will help with your medical bills, damage to your car and possibly much more:
- Remain at the scene of the accident
- Call 911 to report the incident, making sure to inform the operator if someone is injured
- Exchange information with the other driver or drivers involved
- Take pictures of the scene, your vehicle, the other driver's vehicle and your injuries (if possible)
- Get the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident happen
- Report the accident to your insurance company
- As soon as you can, contact a California car accident attorney
There are also important things you should avoid doing, such as admitting liability to law enforcement officers on the scene and giving a statement to the other driver's insurance adjuster, who may attempt to contact you. In either of these situations, providing information or a statement may negatively impact your ability to win your case, as it may be used to limit the other driver's liability. Don't delay - contact a lawyer at our firm. Not only is your initial consultation free, but you pay nothing for our legal services unless we win your case.
How we can help you
Our attorneys are committed to helping victims of car accidents pursue the generous settlements they deserve and need to pick up the pieces of their lives. Regardless of the circumstances of your accident, we are confident in our ability to provide the knowledgeable and experienced counsel you need.
We understand that these cases can be complicated, particularly when the cause of the accident is in question. By applying our legal knowledge, we can thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident to help determine the best approach for your case. We can also work with accident reconstruction professionals to evaluate the accident itself and determine how to prove who was at fault. That's how we work. That's why we win.
Our goal for every client’s claim is to protect their rights throughout the process and to recover the highest amount of financial compensation possible, allowing you to rebuild your life and begin moving on. To speak with us about your case, contact Clancy & Diaz, LLP at (925) 835-7500 and schedule your free case evaluation at our office in Walnut Creek, Antioch, Pittsburg, or Benicia.