Finding the right legal support is the key to your recovery and compensation. As a premier Five-Star Rated Personal Injury Law Firm in Southern California, we stand by our commitment to exclusively handle car accidents, ensuring our clients receive focused and effective legal assistance.
We take pride in our accomplishments, which include:
- More than $6 million was recovered in car accident cases.
- Recognition with over 30 prestigious awards and honors, such as Lawyers Of Distinction 2020, The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, and Super Lawyers 2021.
Kevin Crockett, a proud Southern Californian and an alumnus of the University of California, Irvine, has dedicated his career to personal injury law. His goal is to make sure that each client benefits from personal and assertive legal representation.
Pomona Car Accident Statistics
The state of California reports a higher incidence of car accidents compared to the national average. In 2022, there were over 216,366 traffic collisions, resulting in 3,854 fatalities and 165,978 injuries. This equates to an alarming daily average of roughly 520 people affected by car accidents across the state.Total Injuries & Fatalities
- 2018: 715
- 2019: 683
- 2020: 557
- 2021: 616
- 2022: 661
Statistics on Fatal and Injury Causing Collisions in Pomona
Statistics on Fatal and Injury Causing Collisions in Pomona show a noteworthy trend over the past five years. From 2018 to 2022, there has been a decline in accidents resulting in injuries and fatalities, dropping by 7% from 715 incidents in 2018 to 661 in 2022. Despite this positive trajectory, it’s imperative to address the remaining challenges to further enhance road safety within the city.- Primary Collision Factor
- Right-of-Way: 208
- Unsafe Speed: 124
- Traffic Signals/Signs: 115
- Improper Turning: 114
- DUI: 36
- All Other Factors: 64
Statistics on Common Causes of Collisions in Pomona
In 2023, an alarming trend emerged in Pomona’s collision statistics, with drivers failing to yield the right of way emerging as the primary collision factor. This concerning finding underscores the critical need for proactive measures to address this issue and enhance road safety. To tackle this problem effectively, targeted educational campaigns can be launched to raise awareness among drivers about the importance of yielding the right of way in various traffic scenarios.What Are the High-Risk Roads and Intersections in Pomona?
Certain roads and intersections in Pomona pose significant risks to drivers, including:- Garey Avenue & Holt Avenue
- Indian Hill Boulevard & Philadelphia Street
- Mission Boulevard & Reservoir Street
- Towne Avenue & Arrow Highway
- Rio Rancho Road & Auto Center Drive
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Pomona?
Document the Accident
Thoroughly document the scene of the accident. Note the exact time, date, and location and pay attention to weather conditions and relevant traffic signs or signals. If possible, take extensive photographs or videos of the scene, including the positions of all vehicles involved, any visible damage, skid marks, and overall conditions. Gather contact information from all drivers and passengers and obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident occur.Keep Records
Maintain meticulous records of everything related to the accident and its aftermath. This includes obtaining a copy of the official police report and collecting and organizing all your medical records detailing your injuries. Keep receipts for any accident-related expenses (such as medical bills, medication costs, transportation to appointments, and repair estimates). If you’ve missed work due to your injuries, carefully document those lost wages as well.Follow Medical Advice
Prioritize your health and recovery. Strictly follow your doctor’s instructions. Attend all recommended appointments and take any prescribed medications as directed. Don’t miss any physical therapy or rehabilitation sessions. Demonstrating your commitment to your treatment plan strengthens your case by highlighting the seriousness of your injuries. Failing to follow medical advice could give the insurance company a reason to downplay your injuries.Notify Your Insurance
Contact your insurance company promptly to report the accident. However, proceed with caution when providing information. Stick to the basic facts of the accident and avoid admitting fault or giving extensive statements about your injuries. Insurance companies may try to use your words against you to minimize your claim, so it’s often wise to consult with a lawyer before providing a detailed recorded statement.Preserve Evidence
It’s crucial to preserve evidence that supports your claim. Avoid repairing your vehicle immediately, as the insurance company needs to inspect the damage. Keep any damaged clothing or other personal items from the accident. Take photographs to document your injuries over time, as visible signs of trauma can be powerful evidence.Call a Lawyer
Seek guidance from an experienced Pomona car accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer will navigate the complex insurance claims process, protect your rights, and fight to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. They can assess the strength of your case and advise you on whether to pursue a settlement or take your case to court. Legal representation is particularly important if there are disputes about fault or if your injuries are severe.We’ll Fight to Recover Compensation for All of Your Car Accident Injuries
Whiplash and Neck Injuries
Rear-end collisions are a frequent cause of whiplash and related neck injuries in Pomona. The sudden, violent jolt sends your head and neck out of alignment, straining delicate muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Initial symptoms like stiffness and pain could be just the start. Don’t ignore them, as whiplash can worsen over time. Seek medical evaluation right away for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term issues. Treatment might include pain medication, physical therapy, and potentially a supportive collar.Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Even minor-seeming fender benders in Pomona can cause serious brain injuries. The force can violently shake your brain inside your skull, damaging brain tissue. A concussion is one type of TBI. Symptoms vary greatly – from headaches and confusion to severe problems like seizures or lasting changes in personality. Never brush off any head injury after a crash – get checked by a doctor! Treatment plans are individualized and may involve rest, medication, and various therapies.Broken Bones and Fractures
The impact of a car crash can easily break bones, especially in your arms, legs, and ribs. Breaks range from simple (where the bone cracks but stays aligned) to the dramatic compound fractures where the bone pierces the skin. Expect intense pain, swelling, and likely the inability to use the affected body part. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the break. Options include casts, pins to hold the bone in place, or even surgery. Healing time varies significantly.Spinal Cord Injuries
These are among the most devastating consequences of a car accident, potentially leading to lifelong disability. Your spinal cord is the central communication pathway for your body. Damage to it, often caused by the impact fracturing or shifting vertebrae, can disrupt signals between your brain and the rest of you. This can cause loss of sensation, weakness, or even paralysis. Care starts with stabilizing the spine to prevent further injury, followed by treatments to reduce inflammation and maximize potential recovery.How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
After a Pomona car accident, the financial aftermath can be overwhelming, and you might hesitate to hire an attorney due to worries about costs. Understandably, you’re already facing medical bills, vehicle repair expenses, and possibly lost wages while you recover. At Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, we understand your situation. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t pay any upfront legal fees. Our payment is contingent on winning your case – if we secure a settlement or award for you, our fees come from that. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.Can I Recover Compensation if I Share Some of the Blame for a Car Accident in Pomona?
Understanding fault in a car accident can be complex. It’s common to question whether you can still get compensation if you partially contributed to the accident in Pomona. Situations like this are more frequent than you might realize. For instance, imagine getting sideswiped at an intersection after making a turn without fully checking for oncoming traffic. While another driver might bear primary fault, you might also share some responsibility. California follows a “comparative negligence” system. This means that even if you made a mistake, you may still be eligible to recover compensation. However, the amount you receive will be reduced proportionally to your percentage of fault. For example, if a court determines you were 15% at fault, you could still recover 85% of your total damages.What Causes Car Accidents in Pomona, CA?
Car accidents in California stem from several factors, including:- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Aggressive driving behavior
- Fatigue
- Traffic congestion
- Poorly designed roads
- Inadequate maintenance
- Adverse weather conditions
- Vehicle malfunctions
Why Choose a Pomona Car Accident Attorney at Crockett Law Group?
Opting for our legal team means you’ll benefit from:- Comprehensive investigations to pinpoint fault and liability.
- Skilled negotiations with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation.
- Access to our vast network of accident reconstruction experts and medical professionals.
- A commitment to securing the maximum compensation for your losses.
Determining Liability for Your Accident
Establishing who is responsible for a car accident requires understanding the principle of negligence, which can involve multiple parties, such as other drivers, employers, manufacturers, government entities, and property owners. The complexity of proving fault underscores the importance of seeking knowledgeable legal guidance.What if I’m Hit By an Uninsured Driver?
If you are hit by an uninsured driver in California, you may face some challenges in getting compensation for your damages and injuries. Here are some steps you can take:- Call the police and report the accident. A police report can help you prove the other driver’s fault and lack of insurance.
- Exchange information with the other driver, such as name, address, phone number, and license plate number. You can also take photos of the scene, the vehicles, and any injuries.
- Seek medical attention for your injuries as soon as possible. Keep records of your medical bills, treatments, and diagnoses.
- Contact your own insurance company and inform them of the accident. If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurer to cover your losses. This type of coverage is optional in California but highly recommended, as it can protect you from drivers who have no insurance or not enough insurance.
- Consult a car accident lawyer in California who can help you pursue other legal options, such as suing the uninsured driver personally or seeking compensation from other sources, such as the driver’s employer, if the driver was working at the time of the accident. A lawyer can also help you negotiate with your own insurer if they offer you a low settlement or deny your claim.
Further Reading
- What Happens if the Person at Fault in an Accident Has No Insurance?
- Implications of a Car Accident with No License or Insurance
What Are the Available Damages in Car Accident Cases?
In car accident cases, victims have the right to seek different forms of compensation to cover the losses and harm they have suffered due to someone else’s negligence or intentional actions. Here’s an expanded look at the available damages in car accident cases:Economic Damages
Economic damages are intended to compensate for the financial losses a victim incurs as a direct result of the accident. These are quantifiable costs that can be documented and verified through bills, receipts, and financial statements. They include:- Medical Expenses: This encompasses all healthcare costs related to the accident, including emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, medical equipment, and ongoing treatments like physical therapy. Future medical costs expected due to the injury are also covered.
- Lost Income: Compensation for lost wages accounts for the income the victim has lost due to their inability to work while recovering. It also includes loss of earning capacity if the victim’s injuries prevent them from returning to their previous job or working at the same earning potential in the future.
- Property Damage: Victims are entitled to the cost of repairing or replacing their vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: These are additional costs incurred because of the accident, such as transportation to medical appointments, hiring home assistance, and other necessary services that wouldn’t have been required if not for the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages provide compensation for the intangible losses that don’t have a direct financial cost associated with them but significantly impact the victim’s life. These damages are more subjective and can vary greatly among individuals. They include:- Pain and Suffering: This covers the physical pain and discomfort experienced both immediately after the accident and in the future, as well as chronic pain resulting from the injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Compensation for the psychological impact of the accident, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other emotional and mental health issues.
- Loss of Consortium: Granted to the injured person’s spouse or family members for the loss of companionship, affection, marital relations, and support resulting from the injuries.
- Loss of Quality of Life: This addresses the diminished ability to enjoy life’s pleasures and participate in activities and hobbies the victim enjoyed before the accident.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are less common and not directly related to the compensation of the victim’s losses. Instead, they are awarded to punish the defendant for particularly reckless, egregious, or intentional misconduct and to deter similar behavior in the future. Examples where punitive damages might be awarded include accidents caused by drunk driving or deliberate harm.Calculating Damages
The calculation of economic damages involves totaling all verifiable financial losses. Non-economic damages, however, are assessed based on the severity and impact of the injuries on the victim’s life. Factors such as the victim’s age, the nature of the injuries, and their effect on the victim’s daily life and future prospects are considered. Punitive damages are determined by the court based on the egregiousness of the defendant’s actions. Due to the complicated nature of assessing and proving these damages, victims are strongly encouraged to seek legal representation. An experienced car accident lawyer can help accurately calculate the full extent of damages, negotiate with insurance companies, and present a compelling case in court to ensure that victims receive the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.What Is My Car Accident Case Worth?
The value of your case depends on the specifics of your injuries, damages, the fault of the other driver, and the strength of your evidence. While there is no straightforward formula, consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer is vital for accurately assessing and maximizing your compensation.Our Commitment to Pomona Car Accident Victims
We handle all types of car accident cases, including head-on collisions, rear-end accidents, rollovers, and incidents involving rideshare vehicles, striving to recover full compensation for all your injuries.Steps to Take Following a Car Accident in Pomona
- Stay at the scene, ensuring safety and legality.
- Move to safety if necessary.
- Call the police for a formal report.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Avoid admitting fault at the scene.
- Decline premature settlement offers.
- Consult with a lawyer before engaging in further discussions.
How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
We offer our services on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.What Are the Filing Deadlines in California?
In California, the statute of limitations sets a foundational deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including those arising from car accidents, at two years from the date of the accident. However, there are notable exceptions to this rule that can extend or alter this timeframe, providing flexibility under specific circumstances. Understanding these exceptions is important as they can significantly impact your ability to seek legal recourse and compensation for your injuries.Exceptions to the Two-Year Statute of Limitations
- Minor Plaintiffs: If the victim of the car accident is a minor (under the age of 18), the statute of limitations does not begin until the victim reaches the age of majority. This means a minor has until their 20th birthday to file a lawsuit for injuries sustained in an accident that occurred while they were under 18.
- Mental Incapacity: If the victim is suffering from a mental incapacity that prevents them from understanding their legal rights or initiating a lawsuit, the clock on the statute of limitations may be paused. Once the incapacity is resolved or the individual regains the ability to make legal decisions, the statute of limitations begins to run.
- Defendant’s Absence from California: If the party responsible for the accident (the defendant) leaves the state of California for a period after the accident occurs, the time they are out of state may not be counted against the two-year statute of limitations. This exception ensures that defendants cannot evade legal action simply by leaving the state.
- Discovery Rule: In some cases, the injuries or the extent of the injuries may not be immediately apparent following the accident. The discovery rule allows the statute of limitations to start from the date the injury was discovered (or should have reasonably been discovered), rather than the date of the accident itself. This is particularly relevant for injuries that manifest symptoms sometime after the accident or for cases involving medical malpractice.
- Claims Against Government Entities: If your injury claim is against a government entity in California (such as a city, county, or state department responsible for road maintenance), you have a shorter timeframe to act. You must file an administrative claim with the appropriate government office within six months of the accident. The government entity then has 45 days to respond. If your claim is denied, you have an additional six months from the date of the denial to file a lawsuit in court.
Pomona Accident FAQs
Here’s some guidance on frequently asked questions related to car accident claims in Pomona, California.
The duration of a whiplash claim can vary significantly based on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the clarity of fault in the accident, and the insurance companies involved. Minor whiplash claims can sometimes be settled in a few months, but more severe cases requiring extensive medical treatment may take longer, potentially extending to a year or more, especially if the claim is contested and goes to trial.
Compensation for depression following a car accident falls under non-economic damages for pain and suffering. The amount depends on how significantly the depression affects your life, the cost of psychiatric treatment, and the expected duration of your symptoms. Each case is unique, and compensation can vary widely. Documentation from mental health professionals and evidence of how the depression impacts your daily activities will be crucial in valuing this aspect of your claim.
An MRI can potentially increase a settlement if it provides clear, objective evidence of injuries that are not visible through X-rays or other tests. This imaging can reveal soft tissue injuries, herniated discs, and other conditions that might otherwise be difficult to prove. By substantiating the extent and severity of your injuries, an MRI can strengthen your claim, making it easier to negotiate a higher settlement to cover medical expenses and related losses.
The value of a claim involving a herniated disc from a car accident varies based on factors such as the severity of the injury, the impact on the individual’s ability to work and enjoy life, and the amount of medical treatment required. Settlements and awards can range from tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dollars, depending on these and other factors, including whether surgery is needed and the degree of ongoing pain and disability.
Yes, you can file a police report after leaving the scene of the accident, but it’s best to do so as soon as possible. California law requires that any accident resulting in injuries or death be reported immediately to the California Highway Patrol or local police department. For accidents that only involve property damage, you must report the incident to the DMV within 10 days if the damage exceeds $1,000. While late reporting is better than not reporting at all, promptly filing a report can provide a more accurate and timely account of the accident, which is beneficial for any subsequent claims.
Contact Our Pomona Car Accident Attorneys Today for Legal Help
If you or someone close to you has been involved in a car accident in Pomona, reach out to the Crockett Law Group for a free consultation. Let us demonstrate how we can support your recovery and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (888) 965-3827.Pomona FAQs
Pomona is a city located in eastern Los Angeles County, California. It’s part of the Inland Empire region of Southern California.
Cal Poly Pomona (California State Polytechnic University, Pomona) is known for its “learn by doing” philosophy. It has strong programs in engineering, agriculture, business, and hospitality management.
Pomona College is a highly selective liberal arts college. It’s one of the Claremont Colleges and is known for its academic rigor, small class sizes, and emphasis on undergraduate research.
The distance between Pomona and Downtown Los Angeles is approximately 30-35 miles. Driving time can range from 40 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic conditions.
Pomona offers a variety of things to do. You can explore the historic Downtown Pomona Arts Colony, attend a drag race at the Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, enjoy outdoor activities at the Fairplex, catch a concert at the Fox Theater, or visit the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum.
Pomona Points of Interest
A multipurpose facility hosting events, fairs, concerts, and the L.A. County Fair.
Location: 1101 W McKinley Ave, Pomona, CA 91768
Website: fairplex.com
A renowned drag racing venue and part of the Fairplex complex.
Location: 2780 Fairplex Dr, Pomona, CA 91768
Website: nhra.com
Showcases contemporary and historical ceramics.
Location: 399 N Garey Ave, Pomona, CA 91767
Website: amoca.org
A vibrant arts district with galleries, studios, and cultural events.
Location: 100 W 2nd St, Pomona, CA 91766
Website: pomonaartscolony.com
A historic Victorian mansion offering tours and events.
Location: 2640 Pomona Blvd, Pomona, CA 91768
Website: pomonahistorical.org
Features rotating exhibits of contemporary art.
Location: 120 W Bonita Ave, Claremont, CA 91711
Website: pomona.edu
Pomona Auto Body Shops
Location: 2542 N Towne Ave, Pomona, CA 91767
Website: caliber.com
Location: 793 W Holt Ave, Pomona, CA 91768
Website: maaco.com
Location: 10946 Kadota Ave, Pomona, CA 91766
Website: pomonabodypaint.com
Location: 1282 W 1st St, Pomona, CA 91766
Website: yelp.com
Location: 890 W 1st St, Pomona, CA 91766
Website: google.com
Location: 849 E 2nd St, Pomona, CA 91766
Website: yelp.com
Pomona Neighborhoods We Serve
- North Pomona
- Phillips Ranch
- Spadra
