Car Accident Lawyer in San Mateo

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Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car accidents can be caused by any number of factors. In some instances, there are problematic road conditions. These conditions can be caused primarily by the weather, making the roads slippery or too sunny. If drivers do not compensate for these conditions, accidents may occur. Other accidents may be caused by damage to the road or debris in the road. Cars may hit such obstacles and careen out of control. They may also try to avoid such obstacles and swerve into other traffic. The other main reason for accidents is driver error. Simply put, drivers make mistakes. Sometimes, they get sleepy. Sometimes, they are using their phones. Whatever the case may be, drivers make mistakes on the road that cause accidents.

Common Injuries Caused by Car Accidents

A car accident in San Mateo can lead to any number of injuries. In less serious collisions, whiplash or bruising may result from the seat belt. If the seat belt is not used, victims may be thrown from the car, resulting in head injuries, broken bones, and blunt trauma. Head injuries are also common inside the vehicle if the victim collides with the window, dash or steering wheel. Cuts, abrasions, and internal bleeding are also possible injuries after a car accident.

Pursuing a Car Accident Personal Injury Case

After a car accident, you may want to pursue legal action. You can start a civil claim against another driver through personal injury law. In order to prepare your case for court, you should obtain as much evidence as possible. If you are able, try to take photographs of the scene. This includes damage to your car and damage to other cars. It can be useful to document skid marks as well. In many accidents, the police will be called to the scene. If this is the case, ask for a copy of the police report as well. Talk to as many witnesses as possible, obtaining names and addresses. It is also important to have medical records on hand to substantiate your injury claim.

Proving Your Case in Court

The purpose of gathering so much evidence is to prove to the court that the other party is legally responsible for the accident. It is important to note that this does not mean that the other party acted intentionally. In many cases, you must simply prove that the other party was negligent and that the negligence led to the accident. For example, if someone skidded on the ice and hit your car, you must be able to prove that the other driver did not maintain a proper following distance or did not slow down fast enough when other people were clearly able to do so. You should provide evidence that the other party was under the influence of alcohol, speeding, swerving and more. Learn more on our Common Car Accident Questions page.

Taking the Next Step

If you have been injured in a car accident, you deserve compensation. Car accidents are expensive, and ongoing recovery can easily exhaust your insurance coverage. If you pursue your case in court, you can receive the compensation you need to deal with your medical bills. Such compensation can also be used to cover any lost wages you may have incurred. If you are not sure about whether or not your case qualifies, talk to a San Jose Personal Injury Attorney today. Our legal team is fully equipped to help you with your case, and we have ample experience in car accident cases. Contact us today to talk to a San Mateo car accident lawyer right now. Call us today for a free consultation. (408) 217-1778