Stockton Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents can happen anywhere, but some places are more dangerous than others. Stockton is one of the cities in California that has a high rate of traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Whether you’re driving in the busy downtown area, the major highways, or the residential zones, you need to be careful and attentive to avoid collisions.

If you’ve been impacted by a car accident in Stockton, you have a right to seek fair compensation and justice. Car accidents can bring about not just physical harm but also emotional and financial burdens. At Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, we offer a no-cost consultation to review your situation and provide guidance on the best steps forward. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us – we’re here to stand with you.

Stockton Car Accident Statistics

The convenience of driving in Stockton is shadowed by the potential risks on its busy roads. Recent data from 2021 shows Stockton witnessed 57 fatal accidents resulting in 60 deaths, indicating some incidents had multiple fatalities. Additionally, the city saw 4,139 injury accidents, causing 6,036 injuries. These statistics, representing a notable portion of California’s traffic incidents, highlight the importance of cautious and responsible driving in Stockton to reduce the likelihood of accidents and ensure road safety for all.

Total Injuries & Fatalities

• 2019: 1472
• 2020: 1,123
• 2021: 1,160
• 2022: 1,396
• 2023: 1,274

Statistics on Fatal and Injury Causing Collisions in Stockton

Stockton has seen fluctuations in the total number of injuries and fatalities resulting from accidents over the past five years. Analyzing the data from 2019 to 2023, we found that there’s been a decrease of 13% in such incidents. Despite this overall decline, there were still over 1,200 accidents reported last year. These statistics underscore the ongoing importance of promoting road safety measures and implementing effective traffic management strategies to further mitigate the risk of injuries and fatalities in the community.

Primary Collision Factor

• Unsafe Speed: 380
• Traffic Signals/Signs: 365
• Right-of-Way: 314
• Improper Turning: 57
• DUI: 50
• All Other Factors: 91

Statistics on Common Causes of Collisions in Stockton

In the latest year, unsafe speeds emerged as the primary collision factor contributing to accidents in Stockton. This concerning trend emphasizes the critical need for targeted interventions to address speeding behaviors among motorists. Efforts to enhance enforcement of speed limits, implement traffic calming measures, and raise public awareness about the dangers of speeding are paramount. By prioritizing initiatives focused on curbing unsafe driving practices, Stockton can strive towards creating safer roadways for all its residents.

Which Roads and Intersections in Stockton Are the Most Dangerous?

Car accidents in Stockton can happen in various locales, with some areas more prone to incidents than others. These include:

Busy Intersections and Downtown Areas

Some of the most dangerous intersections in Stockton are located in the downtown area, such as Main Street and Hinkley Avenue, Pershing Avenue and Brookside Road, and El Dorado Street and Harding Way. These intersections have high rates of collisions, injuries, and fatalities, often involving pedestrians and bicyclists. Drivers should exercise caution and follow traffic signals and signs when navigating these areas.

Major Highways

Stockton is connected to several major highways, such as Interstate 5, State Route 99, and State Route 4. These highways are often congested with commuters, travelers, and commercial vehicles, creating a high potential for accidents. Some of the common causes of highway accidents are speeding, tailgating, lane changing, and driving under the influence. Drivers should maintain a safe distance, use turn signals, and avoid distractions when driving on these roads.

Residential Zones

Residential zones in Stockton are not free from traffic hazards, especially in areas where there are schools, parks, or shopping centers. Some of the residential streets where accidents have occurred are West Lane, Hammer Lane, and March Lane. These streets have a mix of residential and commercial properties, which can create confusion and conflict among drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Drivers should be aware of the speed limits, parking rules, and crosswalks when driving in these zones.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Stockton?

If you are involved in a car accident in Stockton, you may feel shocked and stressed. However, it is important to act quickly and wisely to protect your well-being and your legal rights. Here are some tips on what you should do after a crash:

Keep Records

One of the most important things to do after a car accident in Stockton is to keep track of all your medical bills and treatments. Don’t throw away any receipts, prescriptions, notes, or other documents related to your health care. They serve two purposes. First, they show how serious your injuries are and how hard you’re working to recover. Second, they help your legal case if you decide to seek compensation, as they prove how the accident affected your life and finances.

Follow Medical Advice

Your health should be your top priority after an accident. Follow the instructions and advice of your healthcare provider carefully. If you ignore medical advice or skip treatments, it could look like your injuries are not that bad, which could hurt your claim for compensation. Make sure you go to all your medical appointments and stick to your prescribed treatments.

Notify Your Insurance

Tell your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Most insurance policies require you to do this as part of their terms. If you delay this notification, you could risk losing your coverage. Give them only the basic facts of the incident, and don’t give them too much information or agree to anything until you talk to a legal professional.

Preserve Evidence

Solid evidence is key for a successful car accident claim. Don’t fix your vehicle or get rid of any items that were damaged in the crash until they have been documented. Take pictures of the accident scene, your vehicle, and your injuries. Also, collect contact information and statements from witnesses. The more evidence you have, the better your case.

Call a Lawyer

After a car accident in Stockton, you need a skilled lawyer on your side. Text Kevin Accident Attorneys is a great choice. We have a proven record of getting results for our clients, including millions of dollars in settlements and awards. We have also earned many honors, such as the Super Lawyers 2021 and the Clients’ Choice Award from Avvo. We know how to deal with insurance companies and are ready to go to court if needed. With Text Kevin Accident Attorneys’s help, you can handle your car accident in Stockton with confidence.

We’ll Fight to Recover Compensation for All of Your Car Accident Injuries

Injuries from car accidents can range from minor to life-changing, including:

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Whiplash and neck injuries are common consequences of car accidents, especially in rear-end collisions. When a vehicle is hit from behind on Stockton’s busy roads or highways, the force can abruptly cause the head and neck to move back and forth. This action can stretch and tear the neck’s muscles and ligaments, resulting in whiplash. Symptoms often include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and sometimes dizziness or blurred vision. Stockton residents should seek medical attention after a car accident, even if neck discomfort initially seems minor. Treatment usually consists of pain relief measures and physical therapy. While many people recover within weeks, some experience prolonged discomfort, requiring extended care.

Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Concussions and TBIs are serious concerns in Stockton car accidents. These injuries happen when the brain moves inside the skull due to the impact of a collision. A concussion, a milder form of TBI, can disrupt brain functions temporarily, causing headaches, confusion, and memory problems. More severe TBIs can lead to more critical conditions, including prolonged unconsciousness or permanent brain damage. The impact of these injuries on cognitive, emotional, and physical abilities can be significant. Treatments range from rest and medication for mild concussions to intensive rehabilitation for severe TBIs.

Broken Bones and Fractures

In Stockton car accidents, it’s common for victims to suffer from broken bones and fractures. The collision’s impact can cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, hips, and pelvis. The severity of these injuries can vary; simple fractures might need a cast and heal in weeks, while more complex ones, like hip fractures, might need surgery and take months to heal. Broken bones can also lead to long-term issues like arthritis or physical disabilities. Treatment typically involves immobilizing the affected area and physical therapy.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe outcomes of car accidents in Stockton. These injuries result from damage to the spinal cord, potentially leading to loss of function, such as mobility or sensation, below the injury site. Severity can vary, with some injuries causing temporary symptoms and others leading to permanent disabilities like paralysis. Treatment often includes surgery and extensive physical therapy. Severe spinal cord injuries may require long-term care and adaptive equipment, significantly impacting not only the injured person but also their families and caregivers.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries are a serious concern in Stockton car accidents. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening. They occur when the force of a collision causes damage to internal organs, such as the lungs, liver, spleen, or kidneys. Symptoms might include abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and internal bleeding. Due to their hidden nature, it’s wise for anyone involved in a Stockton car accident to seek medical evaluation, even if no external injuries are evident. Treatment for internal injuries can range from non-invasive monitoring to emergency surgery, depending on the severity.

Psychological Trauma

The psychological impact of car accidents in Stockton is often as significant as physical injuries. Victims may suffer from mental and emotional distress, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and phobias, particularly related to driving or traveling in vehicles. These conditions can affect daily functioning and quality of life.

Burn Injuries

Burn injuries can occur in Stockton car accidents, especially in collisions that lead to fires or explosions. These injuries range from minor surface burns to severe third-degree burns covering large body areas. Burn injuries require immediate medical attention due to the risk of infection and the potential for long-term scarring and disfigurement. Treatment may involve pain management, skin grafts, and long-term rehabilitation.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

If you’re questioning the expense involved in securing a car accident lawyer in Stockton following a collision, such concern is justified given the potential financial impact of car accidents. Victims often face hefty bills for vehicle repairs, lost wages due to missed work, and significant healthcare costs. At Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, we alleviate this worry by handling cases on a contingency fee arrangement. This means you can engage our legal services without any initial financial burden, and our payment is contingent upon winning your case. Should we not achieve a settlement or court victory on your behalf, you will not be responsible for any legal fees.

Can I Recover Compensation if I Share Some of the Blame for a Car Accident in Stockton?

It’s a common question whether compensation is attainable for those who hold some blame in their accident, a scenario that’s not as rare as one might assume. Consider being involved in a collision where another individual was driving on the incorrect side, yet your lack of headlights at night contributed to the mishap, placing part of the fault on you. In line with California’s legislation, even if you bear a portion of the responsibility for the accident, entitlement to compensation remains. However, the compensation amount is adjusted to reflect your fault share. For instance, bearing 2 percent of the fault means you’re eligible to claim 98 percent of the calculated damages.

What Causes Car Accidents in Stockton, CA?

In California, individuals injured in car accidents due to another’s negligence, including those in Stockton, are entitled to seek compensation. This includes several forms of negligent behavior:

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a significant issue in Stockton, mirroring the wider problem across California. Any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from driving is considered distracted driving. This often includes using a cell phone for talking or texting while driving, which is illegal under California Vehicle Code Section 23123. Furthermore, texting while driving is specifically addressed in California Vehicle Code Section 23123.5. These laws aim to reduce accidents resulting from drivers not fully focusing on the road.

Speeding

Speeding is a common factor in traffic accidents in Stockton. According to California Vehicle Code Section 22350, it’s illegal to drive at a speed considered unsafe for current conditions, which may sometimes mean driving slower than the posted speed limit. Drivers who cause accidents due to speeding or driving too fast for conditions can be held liable for resulting damages, as this behavior breaches the standard of care required by law.

Failure to Yield

Failure to yield the right of way is a frequent form of road negligence in Stockton. This is particularly common in congested intersections and pedestrian-dense areas, like near major attractions or city landmarks. Per California Vehicle Code Section 21801, drivers must yield the right of way in several situations, including during left turns or when pedestrians are in crosswalks. Accidents in Stockton often occur when drivers neglect these rules, leading to collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians. In such cases, the driver who failed to yield is generally found at fault and responsible for any injuries and damages incurred.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a major cause of car accidents in Stockton, as it is across California. Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. This includes prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs if they impair driving ability. DUI offenses are taken very seriously due to their high risk of causing accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Drivers found to be driving under the influence in Stockton can face serious legal consequences, and if they cause an accident, they are likely to be held liable for damages and injuries.

Further Reading

• To Minimize the Risk of an Accident, What Should You Do if Your Group Plans To Consume Alcohol?
• Accidents Involving Alcohol: Drunk Pedestrian Hit by Car, Who Is at Fault?

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents, where a driver leaves the scene without providing contact information or aiding the injured, are a significant legal issue in Stockton. California Vehicle Code Section 20001 outlines the legal obligations of drivers involved in an accident, especially when there are injuries or fatalities. Failing to stop and fulfill these obligations can result in felony charges. Victims of hit-and-run accidents in Stockton may face challenges in seeking compensation, but legal avenues are available, and the responsible party can face severe penalties.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

California law, including its application in Stockton, requires that all drivers have minimum liability insurance under California Vehicle Code Section 16029. However, not all drivers comply, leading to complications when accidents involve uninsured or underinsured motorists. Victims in such scenarios may need to rely on their own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

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Contact Our Stockton Car Accident Attorneys Today for Legal Help

Don’t let a car accident in Stockton ruin your life. Get in touch with Text Kevin Accident Attorneys for a free consultation with a qualified Stockton car accident lawyer. You can trust us to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. You have nothing to lose – we only get paid when you win.

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