Have your car accident injuries taken over your life? Are you having trouble covering your costs while you recuperate? If so, you are not alone. By working with a compassionate and highly experienced Santa Monica car accident lawyer from Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, you can hold the at-fault party accountable and demand fair compensation for your damages. Contact a personal injury lawyer at our firm to request a free consultation today and learn more about how car accident insurance claims work, what your case could be worth, and what to expect as you navigate the claims process.
Santa Monica Car Accident Statistics
Santa Monica has seen a considerable number of motor vehicle wrecks and injuries in recent years. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety OTS Crash Rankings Results for 2021, Santa Monica has a population of 91,739. There were a total of 499 injuries and fatalities related to car accidents that year. There were:
- 124 DUI arrests
- 54 car accidents involving alcohol
- 29 motorcycle accidents
- 70 pedestrian accidents
- 47 bicycle accidents
- 62 speeding accidents
- 44 collisions that occurred between 9:00 PM and 2:59 AM
- 56 hit and run accidents
Which Roads and Intersections in Santa Monica Are the Most Dangerous?
Certain Santa Monica intersections have higher critical and fatal injury rates than others. According to the City of Santa Monica, these intersections and roadways include:
- Hollister & Neilson
- Ocean Park & Lincoln
- Olympic & 14th
- Olympic & 26th
- Pico & 4th
- Santa Monica & Cloverfield
- Wilshire & 18th
- Wilshire & 16th
- Wilshire & 21st
- Wilshire & 25th
These intersections were identified not only by the number of collisions but the number of bicyclists and the amount of pedestrian activity as well. The city is taking steps to address difficult crossing conditions, trouble navigating intersections that are offset, and taking action to reduce instances of illegal parking which inhibits visibility. Other concerns reported by residents at these intersections and roadways include speeding issues, crossing difficulties, and vehicles failing to yield to bicyclists and pedestrians.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Santa Monica?
You should not panic after being involved in a car accident. Although the experience will likely be traumatic, you should muster everything you have in you to remain calm during the chaos. There are certain steps you could take to protect yourself and ensure viable parties are held accountable for their negligence. These steps include:
- Moving your vehicle to the side of the road
- Contacting the Santa Monica police and emergency responders
- Collecting evidence at the accident scene, including photographing injuries and visible damages, such as skid marks or vehicle positioning
- Speaking with witnesses and requesting their contact information
- Exchanging information with other involved parties, including names, phone numbers, and insurance details
- Contacting a car accident attorney in Santa Monica for help
- Obtaining a medical evaluation and treatment for any injuries you sustained
In the days and weeks following the accident, stay organized. Keep all relevant documents that relate to your injuries, the collision, and your financial losses. Now is the time to gather copies of your pay stubs, organize your medical records, and preserve these details so they can support your claim with the insurance company and your personal injury lawsuit.
We’ll Fight to Recover Compensation for All of Your Car Accident Injuries
It is not uncommon for car accident victims in Santa Monica to worry that their injuries are not serious enough for a lawsuit. However, if you are stuck dealing with considerable financial losses, impactful injuries, or debilitating mental anguish, you may have the right to compensation for your damages.
Any type of injury has the potential to have a devastating impact on your life. Some of the most common types of injuries our car accident clients have endured include:
- Neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Whiplash
- Lacerations
- Concussion
- Septic shock
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Paralysis
- Broken bones
- Compound fractures
- Contusion and abrasions
- Third-degree burns
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Treatment options will vary widely depending on the type of injury you sustained. Examples of potential treatment options could include:
- Pain management treatment
- Rest
- Physical therapy
- Rehabilitation
- Use of a cervical collar
- Surgical intervention
- Casting or splinting
- Prescription medication
Although many car accidents and injury victims will regain most of their mobility and functionality after the collision, those enduring the most severe injuries and damage may suffer permanent disability. This could permanently alter the course of your life and require you to secure 24/7 home healthcare.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
Attorneys fees can vary considerably depending on the complexity of your case. The good news is that you will not need to put any of your own money on the line to file a car accident lawsuit or insurance claim. This is because our car accident attorneys at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys work for you on contingency in accordance with Rule 1.5 Fees for Legal Services by the State Bar of California.
You never have to put down a retainer fee or cover the expenses that come with pursuing your case. Such costs might include:
- Costs of expert witnesses
- Court filing fees
- Deposition costs
- Administrative expenses
- Investigative costs
If we do not win your case, we do not get paid. You are not putting your personal finances at risk by getting help from an experienced car accident attorney. If we win, a percentage of your settlement will cover our attorney’s fees.
Can I Recover Compensation if I Share Some of the Blame for a Car Accident in Santa Monica?
Accusations of shared liability are far more common than you might have expected. California does not prohibit injury victims from recovering compensation when they are partially at fault. However, because your settlement will be reduced by your portion of the blame, you can expect the defense to accuse you of causing the accident.
The state’s pure comparative negligence laws under California Civil Code 1714 could significantly impact the amount of compensation you recover. For example, the drunk driver who hit you might accuse you of being partially at fault if you were not wearing your seat belt. If the judge agrees, they might say you are 5% liable. This means your settlement would be reduced by 5%, leaving you with just 95% of your payout.
What Causes Car Accidents in Santa Monica, CA?
One of our top priorities will be to review the cause of your accident so we can identify the liable party. In many motor vehicle accident claims, irresponsible drivers cause collisions. This might be because they were:
- Drunk
- Distracted
- Drowsy
- Aggressive
- Drugged
- Negligent
However, car accidents can also be caused by reckless dram shops, dangerous road conditions, failure to drive safely in inclement weather, and defective or malfunctioning parts. You can rely on our team to conduct an intensive investigation and uncover the truth.
Santa Monica Car Accident FAQs
No, you are not legally required to have a lawyer handling your car accident case. However, the advantages of having an experienced legal advocate on your side cannot be disputed. While you heal from your injuries, your car accident attorney can investigate the cause of the accident, identify the at-fault party, and build a powerful case against them.
The exact amount you can expect to spend on your car accident attorney will vary widely depending on the complexity of your case. Text Kevin Accident Attorneys generally charge a fee of approximately 33% of whatever you are awarded based on the terms of our contingency agreement. However, depending on the circumstances of your claim, the percentage ranges from 20% to 40%.
There is no specific average car accident settlement. Every person’s case is different. Some injury victims endure damages that reach well into the millions of dollars. Other accident survivors are awarded settlements that reach tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. You can find out how much you can expect to be awarded when you contact our legal team for a free consultation.
You generally have two years from the date of your collision to file your lawsuit. Your car accident claim must be filed before the statute of limitations expires. According to California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, if your claim is not filed before time runs out, you will no longer have the right to pursue your case at trial. For this reason, it is imperative that you get a skilled legal representative working on your case as soon as possible after the accident. Otherwise, you may jeopardize your opportunity to maximize your financial compensation.
You can seek full recovery of your compensatory damages. These include both tangible economic damages and intangible non-economic damages. Some examples of these potentially recoverable bosses include:
- Loss of income
- Diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Medical bills
- Car repair expenses
- Rental car costs
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of household services
- Disfigurement and permanent disability
- Diminished value of your vehicle
- Skin scarring
- Emotional distress
Unless you are in violation of the California Vehicle Code, you can operate a vehicle that has crashed as long as you can do so safely. However, you should not attempt to drive the vehicle anywhere other than your home or auto repair shop.
Contact Our Santa Monica Car Accident Attorneys Today for Legal Help
Pursuing a personal injury claim and dealing with an profit-driven insurance company may be the last thing you want to do after enduring a catastrophic injury. However, the sooner you take action on your claim the stronger your case will be.
Put our trial-proven Santa Monica car accident lawyers to work for you. Contact Text Kevin Accident Attorneys to request a no-cost, risk-free consultation today by phone or through our confidential contact form. When you have access to the financial compensation you need to rebuild your life and put the trauma of this experience behind you, you will be glad you did.
Santa Monica FAQs
Santa Monica, California is located along California’s south coast in Santa Monica Bay. It is a city located in Los Angeles County.
In Santa Monica, California, there is something to do for the whole family. Spend the afternoon at Santa Monica Pier or visit the Bergamot Station Arts Center. You could also check out the Museum of Flying or enjoy a sunny day at Santa Monica State Beach.
Santa Monica is located approximately 30.5 miles north of Long Beach, California. It will take you approximately 30 minutes to get there if you take I-405 N.
Santa Monica is located 16.4 miles west of Los Angeles. If you take I–10 W, it will take you approximately 20 minutes to get to Santa Monica from Los Angeles.
There are many safe parking options for truckers traveling through Santa Monica, California. Here are some of the most popular truck stops and parking spots:
Santa Monica is located 16.4 miles west of Los Angeles. If you take I–10 W, it will take you approximately 20 minutes to get to Santa Monica from Los Angeles.
Santa Monica Point Of Interest
An iconic destination offering amusement park rides, shops, and eateries, famous for its picturesque views and vibrant atmosphere.
Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
Website: santamonicapier.org
Stunning ocean views along its grassy, tree-lined bluffs, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and watching sunsets.
Location: Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
Website: smgov.net
A brightly lit gateway to the pier and Pacific Park, offering a welcoming entrance to this popular tourist spot.
Location: 81-99 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
Website: pacpark.com
Features innovative design and landscaping, with walking paths, play areas, and garden spaces that offer a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
Location: 1615 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
Website: tongvapark.smgov.net
It is famed for its outdoor gymnastics equipment and as a historic hot spot for fitness enthusiasts.
Location: Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
Website: santamonica.com
An artistic landmark, symbolizing the city’s vibrant culture and history as a coastal community.
Location: California 1 Palisades Park, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
Website: publicartinpublicplaces.info
Santa Monica Auto Body Shops
Location: 1665 11th St, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States
Website: caliber.com
Location: 1101 Olympic Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States
Website: yelp.com
Location: 3110 Lincoln Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405, United States
Website: msbodyshop.com
Location: 1546 14th St, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States
Website: autobody-review.com
Location: 2319 Michigan Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States
Website: bonvoyageautobody.com
Location: 1827 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States
Website: hermansautobody.com
Santa Monica Neighborhood We Serve
- Downtown
- Ocean Park
- Wilshire Montana (also known as North of Wilshire)
- Mid-City
- Sunset Park
- Pico District
- Santa Monica Canyon
- North of Montana
- Main Street District
