Surviving a car accident can be a painful and upsetting experience. Not only are you left with physical injuries, but you may be experiencing emotional distress, property damage, and other long-term impacts on your life. An Oceanside car accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation and justice against the at-fault driver.
Why Choose Us
Gonzales Law Offices has over a decade of experience applying knowledge of California’s car accident laws and legal procedures to car accident claims. We have helped thousands of victims recover compensation for their damages by offering a personalized approach to each case, ensuring your unique concerns and details are included in a claim. If you are looking to file a claim, our experienced Oceanside car accident attorneys can guide you throughout the process.
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Unfortunately, car accidents are a constant risk for Oceanside drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. In 2023, 864 crash victims were injured or killed in Oceanside, with over 4,000 fatalities across California. Drivers face a higher risk of an accident around intersections such as I-5 and Vista Way or El Camino Real and Oceanside Blvd. If you were involved in a car accident, an Oceanside car accident lawyer can help you recover your damages.
Compensation in a California Car Accident Claim
Compensation is one of the most important reasons to file a car accident claim. California is an at-fault state for car accidents, which means the at-fault driver can be held liable for damages. A lawyer can create a claim that includes all the losses you have suffered and negotiate for expanded compensation to support your recovery and adjust to life after a car accident. Commonly included in a compensation claim are damages such as:
Medical expenses. Emergency medical services, medications, treatments, and rehabilitation services are all examples of common medical expenses after a car accident. Your medical costs can be included in your compensation.
Property damage. Personal property, such as a vehicle, bicycle, clothing, or personal valuables, can all be damaged during a crash. Your lawyer can include the cost of repairs or replacements for these items in your compensation claim.
Pain and suffering. Injuries often cause physical pain. Additionally, car accidents can be frightening and traumatic, which can lead to emotional pain and distress. Physical and mental pain and suffering can increase the amount of compensation you are awarded.
Lost wages. Despite often being necessary due to physical injuries or receiving medical treatment, taking time off from work can make it difficult to afford everyday costs and provide for those who rely on you. Compensation can make up for lost income to reduce financial hardship that could otherwise occur after a car crash.
Future impact. The ongoing impact of a car accident can impact many areas of your life. Your lawyer can examine your case to determine future costs, such as ongoing medical care, disability, or loss of earning potential, that the car accident may have caused. Compensation can be awarded for these future expenses.
Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
A car accident lawyer is a great resource while filing a car accident claim. Their knowledge of California’s car accident laws is invaluable, as trying to understand these laws without legal assistance can leave you confused about a claim or increase the risk of errors. A lawyer can ensure your claim is filed accurately and swiftly.
A lawyer can identify who is at fault in an accident. While fault may sometimes seem straightforward, there are often instances where multiple parties share fault, or a party, such as an automotive parts manufacturer, also bears liability for damages. A lawyer can analyze evidence to determine who you should file your claim against.
Meet Attorney Mark Gonzales, Esq.
Lead Counsel, Gonzales Law Offices
Since 2007, Mark has represented injured clients across Southern California in car, motorcycle, and truck accidents, traumatic brain injuries, wrongful death, and premises liability. His time in insurance defense gives him inside perspective he uses to help clients take on powerful carriers. He has recovered over a million dollars for clients in difficult cases.
Bar: State Bar of California
Affiliations: CAALA, LACBA
Education: University of La Verne College of Law
Offices: Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, Ontario
Free Consultation No Fees Unless We Win Se Habla Español
Can You File a Claim if You Are Partially at Fault for a Car Accident?
Yes, if you are partially at fault for a car accident, you can still file a claim against the other at-fault driver for your damages. Under California’s pure comparative negligence system, percentages of fault are given to each involved party. Even if you were determined to have partial fault, you can file a claim against the other driver, though the amount of compensation you receive is reduced by the percentage of fault you have.
What Evidence Do You Need to File a Car Accident Claim?
To file a car accident claim in Oceanside, you need sufficient evidence to show who was at fault in the accident and what damages you have suffered. Your lawyer can gather evidence to include in your claim, ensuring you are ready to file. Common types of evidence include:
Police reports
Witness testimonies
Photos and videos from the accident and of your damages
Security camera footage
Medical records and bills
Pay stubs
Personal journals or pain logs
Can You Still File a Claim if the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured?
Yes, you can still file a claim if the at-fault driver is uninsured, though you may need to file through your own insurance provider or against the at-fault driver directly. In the United States, 15.4% of drivers are uninsured. If the at-fault driver does not have insurance or does not have sufficient insurance to cover your damages, you should hire a car accident lawyer to pursue compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage or litigation against the driver.
What Should You Do After a Car Crash?
Immediately after a car crash, ensuring your personal safety should be your priority. Moving to a safe location, contacting the police, and receiving medical care can prevent further damage. To protect your ability to file a claim, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and contact an Oceanside car accident attorney who can explain your next steps.
Speak With an Oceanside Car Accident Attorney
Without experienced legal assistance, filing a claim can be a daunting process. You may feel confused over the legal procedures, unsure about what evidence you need, or you may feel pressured to settle for a settlement that doesn’t cover all of the damages and pain that the accident has caused. At Gonzales Law Offices, we can help you navigate this process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us to learn how we can help you file a claim.
Oceanside Car Accident Lawyer Reviews
★★★★★
“On April 9th 2024, I was in a very severe accident caused by a reckless driver. I had contacted Gonzalez law firm in which Mrs. Marilyn explain the procedures, and helped me through process. They were very responsive and answered any questions that arose. They were very attentive and if I needed any additional help, they were willing to get me the necessary help I needed. They were very helpful and would highly recommend this law firm.” – Carmen Villalobos
★★★★★
“I am extremely pleased with Gonzalez law. Mr. Mark Gonzalez himself is a very well rounded and educated lawyer in his field. He was communicative, concise, and efficient with handling my personal injury case. I am grateful to have him as my lawyer. His staff was informative and helpful with getting through my process and the he decision to choose this firm was the best decision I could have made. Thank you Mr. Gonzalez and your team! Continue to serve the community well. It is very much appreciated!” – Roza Keflom
★★★★★
“Great Experience. Once I entered you can feel they care. They talk with Experience and knowledge. Thankful to be represented by this law firm! Will recommend.” – Edward SerranoWB
I could not be more happy with the help Mark Gonzales provided. He was there for me every step of the way. He explained each step in a way that was easy for me to understand. He was available to me when ever I had a concern. His staff made me feel like I was family. I highly recommend Mark to anyone who needs legal help!
Robert R.
Mark helped me recover all my expenses due to my car accident. The insurance company tried to slow the process and doubted that I was even injured. Mark fought for me and gave me peace of mind. I felt like I had an army on my side since his staff worked tirelessly for me. They got the insurance company off my back and helped me get back on my feet faster than I expected.
April F.
Mark did a fantastic job for me when I slipped in a restaurant. I owner had the nerve to claim it was my heels, when clearly the floor was damaged and caused me to fall. He tried to make himself look like the victim of a scam. Mark put an end to that real fast. He took control of everything for me. He helped me get my medical costs paid as well as compensation for the lost time at work.
Dottie F.
The Law Office of Mark Gonzales was a smooth experience people were great and professional !! I would recommend them to anyone and if I ever need an injury attorney again I will definitely come back. THANK YOU.
Vanessa M.
The people working here are very nice and helped make a bad experience better. They made the process go smoothly and were always willing to help and answer my questions. The attorney was very personable and willing to help. The office makes sure you are comfortable and that you understand the process. I highly recommend them.
Elizabeth R.
I would like to thank the attorney Mark Gonzalez and his staff for the prompt results representing my family with our case, I would highly recommend his office, thank you in advance.
Jose G.
I want to highly recommend the lawyer Mark Gonzalez due to his great work. He took my case and won it even though another lawyer had said it was a lost case. Very friendly environment especially with the secretary at the front desk. Thank you!
Marelena R.
Mr. Gonzales did an amazing job in solving my case. I was feeling helpless and all hope lost, but him and his staff got me through it. I wouldn’t consider any other attorney than Mr. Gonzales himself. 100% recommended!