Riverside Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one have been injured in a serious car accident in town, you need the top-notch legal expertise of our award-winning Riverside car accident lawyer at The Reeves Law Group. Hailed as one of Newsweek’s Top 10 Best Personal Injury Attorneys in the United States, The Reeves Law Group is committed to fighting for the compensation you need and deserve.
Since 1980, Derek Pakiz and The Reeves Law Group has been an aggressive advocate for thousands of auto accident victims in Riverside, successfully recovering over $250,000,000 in verdicts and settlements. We recognize how overwhelming it is for our clients to deal with insurance companies, managing medical bills and navigating legal processes.
With us by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we deal with the legal battle. Contact our Riverside office today at (951) 324-5174 for a consultation – absolutely free of charge.
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Why Choose The Reeves Law Group
If you’ve been involved in a severe car accident in Riverside, finding a legal advocate who understands its devastating impact on your life is critical.
The Reeves Law Group stands out in this field, under the fierce leadership of one of Newsweek’s Top 10 Trial Attorneys Derek Pakiz who has earned a success rate of 98% from representing thousands of injury victims across Southern California.
With a Superb Avvo rating of 10.0 under our belt, we measure our success through the positive outcomes we achieve for our car accident victim clients and the tangible difference we make in their lives.
Our client-centric approach is evidenced by our No Fees, Unless We Win policy which means you don’t have to add upfront charges or hidden fees to your worries.
- $250,000,000+ Recovered for Clients
- Newsweek’s 10 Best Personal Injury Attorneys
- No Fee Guarantee – No Legal Fees Unless We Win
A Review of The Reeves Law Group
I went on the internet to find The Reeves Law Group after my auto accident in Riverside. They were always there when I called and had fast service. Definitely exceeded expectations. I really liked the assistant Eliza in the office. The attorney pushed the limits and got more for me than he originally told me. Greatness.
Sergio Saens via Facebook
Review Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Date Published: 09-09-2021
Where else can I find reviews of local car accident lawyers? – Avvo and the State Bar website are good resources, as are Google maps.
How Can We Help in A Car Accident in Riverside?
The Reeves Law Group possess the expertise and experience to handle even the most complex of auto accident cases — whether it be hit-and-run cases, rear-end crashes, head-on collisions, multiple car incidents, speeding accidents, or drunk and distracted driving.
Our team employs a client-centric approach, beginning with a comprehensive investigation to gather facts and evidence about your case. We meticulously examine and assess police reports, witness statements, and any available video or photographic evidence which are integral in not only understanding the dynamics of your accident but also to help establish liability.
The Reeves Law Group also works closely with medical professionals to assess the full extent of the injuries suffered by their clients. This ensures that the compensation sought reflects not just the immediate medical costs but also any long-term care, rehabilitation, or loss of income that might arise from the injuries sustained.
More importantly, our team of legal experts conducts the negotiations with auto insurance companies and providers to secure a fair settlement. In case a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, our firm is prepared to take the case to court.
With The Reeves Law Group as your legal partner, you can rest assured that you will not navigate the ordeal that comes after a car accident alone.
About Car Accidents in Riverside
Unfortunately, cities in Southern California, such as Corona and Riverside, with substantial commuter traffic are also notorious for their clogged roads and freeways. Congested roadways, including the 91, 15, 215, and 10 freeways, not only result in more lost time, but also in an increase in automobile accidents.
During the past few years, hundreds of fatalities have occurred on routes with normally heavier traffic congestion around the airport and in downtown Riverside, including streets along Arlington and Jurupa Avenue. The most recent year for which this information is available is 2017, which is used as a point of reference below.
The largest city in California’s Inland Empire metro area, Riverside, witnesses a staggering number of motor vehicle accidents annually, totaling to almost 15,359 individuals who have either been injured or lost their lives in auto collisions in just a single year.
Fatalities
In 2011, Riverside accounted for 7% of all California car accident fatalities. It was also responsible for 4.6% of all car accident injuries, including traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury. Unfortunately, Riverside was the site of nearly 14% of the state’s fatal alcohol- and drug-related crashes, as well as 7% of all drunk- or impaired-driving-related injuries. Driving a car while drunk or high is the height of irresponsible behavior, resulting in countless incidents, including property damage and wrongful death.
Riverside Areas You May Have Been Injured In
Certain locales in Riverside are particularly prone to traffic incidents. For instance, intersections in downtown Riverside, areas near the University of California, Riverside, and along major highways like the 91 and the I-215 are known hotspots for vehicular mishaps. These locations often experience high traffic volumes, making them susceptible to accidents.
One instance is a recent incident on one of Riverside’s busiest roads involving multiple vehicles. The multi-vehicle collision, which unfortunately happened due to a driver’s failure to adhere to speed limits, resulted in numerous injuries.
When you’re dealing with a car accident in Riverside, understanding the statute of limitations in California is integral. The statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit in the civil court system. This means that individuals have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit against those at fault. This time frame dictates the window within which legal action can be initiated to seek compensation for injuries and damages incurred.
Note: if you’ve been involved in an Uber or Lyft rideshare accident, click here, we can help!
If a lawsuit is not filed within this two-year period, the injured party may lose the right to legal recourse and compensation. It’s important for victims of car accidents in Riverside, and throughout California, to be aware of this timeframe to ensure they do not forfeit their opportunity for justice and recovery.
Where Do Car Accidents Occur?
Here’s a list of typical places where car crashes and accidents frequently occur based on our experience in the 951 and 909 areas:
Intersections: Accidents often happen at intersections due to running red lights, failing to stop at stop signs, or misjudging the timing of traffic signals.
Highways: High-speed roads and highways are common sites for collisions, including rear-end crashes, lane switching accidents, and multi-vehicle pile-ups, often exacerbated by high speeds and close following distances.
Parking Lots: Though usually occurring at lower speeds, parking lot accidents are common and involve backing up collisions, parking space misjudgments, and pedestrians being hit.
Rural Roads: These roads can be dangerous due to limited visibility, unfamiliar terrain, and sometimes a lack of proper road signage or lighting, leading to wrecks.
School Zones: Areas near schools are prone to accidents, especially during morning and afternoon hours, due to heavy pedestrian traffic, stopped school buses, and active children.
Work Zones: Construction and maintenance areas on roads can create confusion for drivers, leading to accidents due to shifting lanes, uneven road surfaces, and the presence of workers and equipment.
Areas Near Stop Signs: Failure to come to a complete stop or misjudging other vehicles’ intentions can lead to car crashes near stop signs.
Busy Urban Streets: High-traffic urban areas with a mix of vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians can increase the risk of collisions, especially when there’s a lot of stopping and starting.
How Do Car Accidents Occur?
Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents locally and throughout California:
Distracted Driving: This is one of the leading causes of car accidents, often involving drivers who are not fully attentive to the road. Distractions can include using a cellphone, eating, using a navigation system, or any activity that diverts the driver’s attention away from driving.
Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in the road environment, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction times, significantly raising the risk of accidents.
Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving behaviors, such as changing lanes abruptly, tailgating, and ignoring traffic signals, can lead to dangerous situations on the road.
Weather Conditions: Poor weather conditions, including rain, snow, fog, and ice, can affect visibility and road traction, leading to accidents.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disobeying traffic signals and signs can cause collisions, especially at intersections.
Driver Fatigue: Tired drivers are less alert and have slower reaction times, which can lead to mistakes on the road.
Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven road surfaces, inadequate signage, and lack of proper road maintenance can contribute to car accidents.
Vehicle Defects: Malfunctions or failures in a vehicle’s components, such as brakes, tires, or steering systems, can lead to accidents.
Car Accidents Can Result From Various Negligent Acts
Negligent behavior is a significant factor contributing to car accidents, with both federal and state-specific rules designed to curb such actions on the roadways. When drivers ignore these legal standards, their behavior is deemed negligent, creating risky situations that can lead to serious accidents.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) sets forth federal guidelines aimed at diminishing distracted and impaired driving, advocating for seat belt usage, and upholding commercial vehicle safety.
In California, the state has enacted laws to specifically target and reduce instances of negligent driving to protect road users. For instance, California Vehicle Code 23123.5 is a regulation that bans the use of handheld electronic devices while driving, addressing the issue of distracted driving head-on.
Regarding impaired driving, California Vehicle Code Section 23152 is a critical regulation. It prohibits operating a vehicle if the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs and has a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, emphasizing the state’s zero-tolerance stance on DUI.
Speeding, a common form of negligent driving, is also rigorously controlled. Various sections within the California Vehicle Code, like Section 22350, the Basic Speed Law, dictate that driving speeds should align with the current conditions of traffic, weather, and roadway environment, ensuring that speeds are kept to safe levels.
These laws and regulations are fundamental in promoting responsible driving and reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by negligent behavior on the roads.
Role of a Specialized Attorney
Imagine having to deal with the overwhelming impact of a devastating motor vehicle accident. Navigating the process of legal claims and understanding the nuances of negligence can be daunting for anyone. This is where the expertise of a specialized attorney becomes invaluable.
A specialized attorney not only provides legal representation but also has a profound understanding of the elements of negligence that are crucial in car accident cases. Here are key elements of negligence that only a specialized attorney would typically have the expertise to handle effectively:
- Duty of Care and Breach: A specialized attorney can expertly identify how a duty of care was owed and breached, crucial steps in proving negligence.
- Causation and Damages: They are adept at establishing the link between the breach of duty and the resultant damages, ensuring that the harm suffered is directly tied to negligence.
- Negotiating with Insurers: Skilled in negotiations, these attorneys can effectively communicate with insurance companies to secure a settlement that truly reflects the extent of the losses incurred.
Client Representation
Having a lawyer to represent you in car accident cases is crucial. Here are the reasons why:
Navigating Legal Complexities
A specialized attorney possesses the expertise to navigate the intricate legal landscape that governs car accident cases. They understand the procedural rules, court protocols, and can interpret complex legal statutes and case law, ensuring that your case is handled competently and efficiently.
Ensuring Fair Compensation
An experienced attorney will assess all the damages you have incurred, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, to ensure you receive fair compensation. They are skilled in calculating both economic and non-economic damages, advocating for your rights against insurance companies and defendants.
Protecting Your Rights
From the moment you engage a specialized attorney, they act as your advocate and protector, ensuring that your rights are not infringed upon throughout the legal process. They provide a shield against aggressive insurance adjusters and opposing counsel, ensuring that you are treated fairly.
Strategic Legal Advice
A specialized attorney offers strategic legal advice tailored to the specifics of your case. They can guide you on the best course of action, whether it’s negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial, based on their deep understanding of the law and extensive experience.
Handling Documentation and Filings
Legal cases involve a significant amount of paperwork, documentation, and strict filing deadlines. Your attorney will handle all these aspects, ensuring that documents are filed correctly and on time, which is crucial for the success of your case.
Offering Peace of Mind
Knowing that a knowledgeable professional is handling your case can provide immense peace of mind during a challenging time. Your attorney will handle the complexities of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery and well-being.
COMPENSATION for injury CASES Caused By Car Accidents
If you were in a car wreck or hit by a car that was entirely or partially the fault of someone else, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit, which a lawyer can assist you with. To be compensated, you must demonstrate that the defendant caused your injuries by failing to exercise “reasonable care.”
In some cases, this is quite simple (especially in pedestrian and motorcycle accidents where the injured party is clearly more vulnerable), but in some car and truck accidents (or a combination thereof), it’s not always so simple, especially if no witnesses were present. During your consultation, an experienced injury law firm will be able to provide you with valuable insight.
Seeking the help of a attorney that specialized in PI is your best bet for surviving these collisions and receiving the compensation you deserve. A qualified car accident attorney will assist you in properly filing an insurance claim, which entitles you to recover damages such as pain and suffering caused by the accident, medical expenses incurred, and lost wages.
Schedule A Call With A Riverside Car Accident Attorney Now
Contact a Riverside auto accident lawyer with a proven track record, and with thousands of cases won and $250,000,000 in verdicts and settlements, which stands as a testament to our dedication in maximizing your claim’s value. We are devoted to providing comprehensive legal guidance and support throughout your recovery journey.
At The Reeves Law Group, our reputation in the realm of personal injury law, particularly as one of Riverside’s leading car accident law firms, is one that you can trust. With Derek Pakiz at the helm, our team has proven its excellence in pursuing justice for our injury clients.
For a FREE in-person consultation, please fill out our secure and confidential online form or call us at (800) 644-8000. Our team is prepared to assist you, and for those unable to visit, we offer home and hospital visits to accommodate your needs and ensure you receive the legal support you require.