Surviving a car accident can be painful and scary. In the aftermath of an accident, dealing with personal injuries and legal matters may seem complex and too challenging. However, filing a claim with the help of a Santa Barbara car accident lawyer is one of the wisest things you can do to recover compensation for the losses you face during a crash.
Why Work With Gonzales Law Offices
For over a decade, Gonzales Law Offices has been helping Californians file claims and receive compensation for their damages. Our lawyers are passionate about reaching an outcome that awards you the full compensation you deserve according to your damages and car accident laws. We know how difficult recovery can be, which is why we seek to make filing a claim easier by guiding you through each step of the process and answering your questions at any time.
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In 2023, 492 crash victims were killed or injured in Santa Barbara, with over 4,000 traffic fatalities across California. While there is always a risk of an accident, Santa Barbara drivers face a higher risk at intersections such as De La Guerra Street and Santa Barbara Street or US 101 and North Milpas Street. No matter where an accident occurred, a Santa Barbara car accident lawyer can help you file a claim against the at-fault driver.
Many damages occur during a car accident, ranging from minor expenses to severe and debilitating injuries. If you hire a car accident lawyer, they can create a comprehensive list of damages that the at-fault driver can be liable for, such as:
Physical injuries and the cost of medical treatments
Property damage to a vehicle and other personal belongings
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Determining Liability in a Car Accident Claim
California is an at-fault state for car accidents, meaning the person who is responsible for causing an accident can be held liable for the damages a victim suffered. To determine who caused an accident, your lawyer can examine evidence such as:
The police report
Photos and videos from the scene of the accident
Photos of vehicle damage
Dashcam or surveillance camera footage
Witness testimonies
California has a pure comparative negligence system, where percentages of fault are assigned to both parties after analyzing the evidence. In some cases, the at-fault driver will have 100% of the fault, and has sole liability for your damages. It is possible to share fault, where both you and the other at-fault driver have liability.
If you are determined to have partial fault for an accident, it is still possible to file a claim against the other driver. However, the amount of compensation you receive can be decreased by the percentage of fault you have. For example, if you are 40% at fault for an accident, your compensation can be reduced by 40%.
Gathering and analyzing evidence. A lawyer can collect evidence from law enforcement, the scene of the accident, and throughout your recovery. They can include evidence during a claim to prove who was at fault and what damages you faced.
Understanding and explaining car accident laws. California’s comparative negligence system and claim procedures can be difficult to understand. A lawyer can explain the relevant laws in your claim and ensure your claim meets legal requirements.
Negotiating for increased compensation. Insurance companies often try to dismiss damages or pressure victims into settlements that don’t fully reflect the losses they have. A lawyer can challenge this and instead negotiate for maximum compensation to set you on a road to recovery.
Reducing your stress. After an accident, you should be able to focus on recovery, but simultaneously filing a claim without skilled legal representation can inhibit your recovery by adding stress and anxiety over this process. A lawyer can manage the legal procedures and ease your mind about your claim.
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
What Factors Determine Compensation in a Car Accident Claim?
Compensation is largely determined by the types of damages you have suffered and their severity. A car crash lawyer can calculate your losses by examining medical records and bills, pain logs or personal journals, pay stubs, witness testimonies, and other evidence about your damages. Compensation reflects your unique damages, so more severe or long-lasting damages may lead to an increased amount of compensation.
What if the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Does Not Cover All of Your Damages?
If the at-fault driver’s insurance does not cover all of your damages, a lawyer can help you file a claim through your own insurance provider. Over one in six drivers is underinsured, and even if they carry California’s minimum coverage, your damages still may exceed this amount. Filing a claim through your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage can close the gap between what the at-fault driver can pay and your damages.
What Should You Do After a Car Accident?
After a car accident in Santa Barbara, there are some steps you can take to protect your personal safety and prepare to file a claim. Moving to a safer position at the scene of the accident, contacting the police, and receiving medical care can all prevent further damage. Exchange information with the driver and hire a car accident lawyer to prepare to file a car accident claim. If you can, taking photos of the scene and gathering witness information can provide valuable evidence.
Can Emotional Distress Be Included in a Car Accident Claim?
Yes, emotional distress can be included in a car accident claim and can increase the amount of compensation you may receive. Extreme stress, fear, and psychological disorders are common damages as a result of the traumatic crash and recovery process. A lawyer can use evidence such as journals, witness statements, and medical records to support this claim and negotiate for higher compensation based on an accident’s impact on your mental health.
Contact a Santa Barbara Car Accident Attorney
A car accident can be one of the most life-altering experiences, leaving you worried about what the future will bring. Contact Gonzales Law Offices to learn how a Santa Barbara car crash lawyer can support your recovery by pursuing compensation after a crash.
Santa Barbara 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!
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