Car Accidents

Car accidents can happen at any time and often result in serious injuries, financial losses, and emotional distress. In California, car accidents are a common occurrence, with thousands happening each year. If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident in California, it is important to understand your rights and seek the assistance of an experienced attorney.

At LA Personal Injury Group, we understand the devastating impact a car accident can have on your life. Our team of skilled attorneys is dedicated to guiding you through the legal process and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Whether you were a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or bicyclist, we have the knowledge and experience to handle your case.

Many factors contribute to car accidents, including distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, and driver fatigue. Regardless of the cause, our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the accident to determine who was at fault and build a strong case on your behalf.

We recognize the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take, which is why we are committed to providing personalized attention and aggressive representation. We work tirelessly to ensure that you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

If you have been in a car accident in California, do not hesitate to contact LA Personal Injury Group for a free consultation. We are here to help you every step of the way and will fight for your rights. Let us be your voice in the legal system and help you get the justice you deserve.

Types of Car Accidents

• Rear-end collisions: One of the most common types of car accidents in California, often caused by tailgating or distracted driving.
• Head-on collisions: These accidents are typically the most severe and can result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
• T-bone accidents: Occur when one vehicle strikes another at a perpendicular angle, often at intersections.
• Sideswipe accidents: Happen when two vehicles traveling in the same direction collide due to lane drifting or failure to check blind spots.
• Single-vehicle accidents: Can result from driver error, poor road conditions, or adverse weather.
• Multi-vehicle accidents: These involve several vehicles and can be complex due to multiple parties sharing responsibility.
• Pedestrian accidents: Often occur at intersections or crosswalks and can result in severe injuries or fatalities.
• Bicycle accidents: Happen when a vehicle collides with a cyclist, usually due to driver negligence.

Types of Possible Charges for Car Accidents

In California, car accidents can result in various legal charges depending on the circumstances of the crash. These charges range from minor traffic violations to serious criminal offenses, such as reckless driving, DUI, or vehicular manslaughter. The severity of the charges typically depends on factors like negligence, intent, injuries, and whether drugs or alcohol were involved. Understanding these potential legal consequences is crucial for protecting your rights and navigating the legal system effectively.

Vehicular assault

Vehicular assault involves causing injury to another person with a vehicle due to reckless driving or driving under the influence. In California, vehicular assault is considered a felony and can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and a permanent criminal record.

To be charged with vehicular assault, a driver must have caused serious physical injury while:

• Driving recklessly
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license
• Driving a commercial vehicle without the proper license

Aggravated vehicular assault charges may apply if the driver had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.18 or higher or caused injury while committing another felony.

Vehicular manslaughter

Vehicular manslaughter involves causing someone’s death due to reckless or negligent driving. In California, there are two degrees of vehicular manslaughter:

• Vehicular manslaughter with negligence: A misdemeanor with penalties including up to one year in jail and fines.
• Vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence: A felony punishable by up to six years in prison.

If alcohol or drugs were involved, penalties could increase significantly.

Reckless driving

Reckless driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle in a way that endangers others. This may include excessive speeding, aggressive driving, running red lights, or weaving through traffic. In California, reckless driving is considered a misdemeanor and can result in fines, license suspension, and jail time.

Driving under the influence (DUI)

California law considers a driver legally intoxicated if their BAC is 0.08% or higher. DUI penalties can include:

• Fines and court fees
• License suspension
• Mandatory DUI education programs
• Jail time, depending on prior offenses or aggravating factors

Speeding

Speeding is a common cause of car accidents and can result in significant penalties, including fines, points on a driver’s license, and increased insurance rates. In cases of excessive speeding, criminal charges may apply.

Failure to yield

Drivers are required to yield the right of way in certain situations, such as at intersections or crosswalks. Failure to do so can result in citations, fines, and liability for any resulting accidents.

Distracted driving

California has strict laws against distracted driving, including texting or using a handheld device while driving. If a distracted driver causes an accident, they may face legal consequences, including fines and points on their license.

Hit-and-run

Leaving the scene of an accident without providing contact information or rendering aid is considered a hit-and-run. Hit-and-run offenses can lead to serious criminal charges, especially if injuries or fatalities occur.

What to Do After a Car Accident

If you’ve been in a car accident in California, follow these steps:

1. Check for injuries and call 911 if needed.
2. Move to a safe location if possible.
3. Call the police and file an accident report.
4. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
5. Document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions.
6. Notify your insurance company about the accident.
7. Contact an attorney to understand your rights and potential legal options.

How an Attorney Can Help After an Accident

If you or a loved one has been in a car accident, an attorney can help in several ways:

• Provide legal representation and negotiate with insurance companies
• Conduct an independent investigation to determine fault
• Communicate with all parties on your behalf
• Evaluate damages, including medical bills and lost wages
• Guide you through the legal process to ensure fair compensation

Hiring an attorney ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the financial support you need to recover.

Car Accident Quick Facts

• California has some of the highest car accident rates in the country.
• Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents.
• Alcohol-related crashes account for a significant percentage of traffic fatalities.
• Speeding and reckless driving contribute to severe injuries and fatalities.

Contact LA Personal Injury Group Today

Car accidents can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. At LA Personal Injury Group, we are committed to helping accident victims receive the compensation they deserve. Our experienced attorneys understand California’s complex legal system and will fight to protect your rights.

If you have been involved in a car accident in California, contact LA Personal Injury Group today for a free consultation. We are ready to help you navigate the legal process and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

FAQs on Charges for Car Accidents in California

1. What are the possible criminal charges for a car accident in California?
Car accidents in California can lead to various charges, including reckless driving, driving under the influence (DUI), vehicular manslaughter, hit-and-run, and failure to yield. The severity of the charges depends on factors such as negligence, injuries, and whether drugs or alcohol were involved.

2. Can I be charged with a crime if the car accident was unintentional?
Yes, even if the accident was unintentional, you could still face charges such as reckless driving, vehicular manslaughter, or DUI if negligence or illegal behavior contributed to the crash. In cases of extreme recklessness or intoxication, criminal penalties can be severe.

3. What happens if I leave the scene of a car accident in California?
Leaving the scene of an accident, also known as a hit-and-run, is a serious offense in California. If the accident resulted in property damage, you could face misdemeanor charges. If there were injuries or fatalities, it could be charged as a felony, leading to significant fines and possible jail time.

4. Can I be sued in addition to facing criminal charges for a car accident?
Yes, you can face both criminal charges and a civil lawsuit. Criminal charges are pursued by the state, while accident victims may file a personal injury lawsuit against you to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

5. How can an attorney help if I am facing charges after a car accident?
An experienced attorney can defend your rights, investigate the accident, challenge evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges. They can also help you understand your legal options and represent you in court if necessary.