Car Accident Lawyer
In California's East Bay, commuting is a part of life. Unfortunately, this means a higher rate of traffic collisions and serious injuries.
When you need a car accident lawyer, the legal team at Bennett Johnson, LLP, can help you seek justice against negligent drivers.
An attorney with our Oakland firm can take care of your accident case, from start to finish...
What to Do Immediately after a Collision
Establishing liability for the accident is essential if maximum recovery is to be obtained. When calculating the amount to which you are entitled, our lawyers will consider factors such as:
Avoid Admitting Fault
Following an accident, do not apologize or admit fault. This could be used against you in the future.Contact the Authorities
After an accident, call the police right away so that an officer can be dispatched to the scene. Obtain a copy of the police report.
Get Medical Care
To avoid further injury, undergo a medical assessment and any necessary treatment at the scene. Otherwise, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Speak with Witnesses
Gather the names and contact information of any parties who may have witnessed the accident.
Gather Evidence
Take photos of the cars, injuries, the roadway, and all traffic signals. You can also make a quick written note of your perception of how the accident happened. Be sure to include information about the weather and any other details.
Swap Information
Obtain the insurance information for every other driver involved, including an agent's name and phone number.
Call Our Firm
Time is of the essence, so call an accident attorney at our firm right away to schedule your free consultation.
Involved in An Automobile Accident?
You may be eligible for compensation. Do not settle with your insurance provider until you speak to a lawyer. Call us at (510) 444-5020 to explore your legal options.
Knowing what to do after an accident can make all the difference when it comes to collecting compensation for your injuries and other losses. Attorneys Richard C. Bennett, William Johnson, and Andrew Johnson with Bennett Johnson, LLP in Oakland, CA and Napa, CA, explain exactly what to do - and what not to do - in order to ensure the best outcome. If you have been in a crash, please call us at (530) 413-0245 so we can begin investigating your accident and resulting injuries right away.
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In the days following your accident:
- Keep track of the medical bills and reports, so you can assemble a clear picture of how you were injured and what was required to recover.
- Keep a diary of how you feel every day, and how your injuries prevent you from performing your daily tasks. You can also keep notes regarding your emotional state and how your family is impacted by your injuries.
- If any insurance adjustor or other person representing another motorist contacts you, do not speak to them. Simply tell them to reach out to your lawyer.
It is important to take these steps even if you believe your injuries are minor. A judge and jury will be interested to know every piece of the puzzle. When your attorney deals with the insurance adjuster, having a complete picture of your injuries and expenses helps foster negotiations or determine when the time is right to file a lawsuit.
A personal injury lawyer can ensure that nothing is overlooked in your case.
How a Lawyer Helps Can Help Immediately After an Accident
A personal injury lawyer at our firm can ensure that nothing is overlooked in your case. Your attorney can preserve evidence so that it can be used in your case. Keep in mind that insurance adjusters do not work for you, and will try to resolve the case with as little effort and compensation as possible. On the other hand, we can be your advocate and pursue an amount of compensation that meets your needs. We routinely work with medical experts and accident reconstructionists to find out exactly how the accident happened, and use that information to your benefit.
A Track Record of Success Previous Verdicts and Settlements
Auto Accidents
Medical Malpractice
Truck Accident
Defective Machinery
Proven Results
"Through our attentive, aggressive, and dedicated approach to every single case, we have helped our clients recover over $500 million in compensation." Bennett Johnson, LLP
Motor Vehicle Accidents Too Often Lead to Serious & Fatal Injuries
Tragically, approximately 32,000 lives are lost as a result of auto accidents every year.
*According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Most Common Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Sadly, most motor vehicle accidents are completely preventable through proper care and caution, and can usually be attributed to driver negligence, reckless driver behavior, or manufacturer negligence. The most common driver-related causes include:
Distracted Driving
Whether a driver is texting, talking on the phone, manipulating the radio, or eating, they put others on the road at risk. Distracted driving is extremely dangerous. A driver can be distracted visually, physically, and cognitively, all of which can result in detrimental consequences. A variety of activities can distract a driver enough to cause an accident, including texting, eating, reading, putting on makeup, and talking to a passenger. Some estimates show distracted driving accounts for nearly 25 percent of all fatal auto accidents.
Drunk Driving
When a driver operates a vehicle while impaired, they don't have the cognitive ability to handle various rigors of the road or to react to other drivers appropriately. Additionally, drunk driving can cause an individual to become drowsy, have slowed reaction times, and to lose focus on the road. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health's (NSDUH) 2016 study estimated that 20.7 million people over the age of 16 had driven while intoxicated during the past year. An equally alarming statistic released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that alcohol was involved in 28 percent of all traffic-related deaths.
Speeding
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding was a factor in 30 percent of fatal crashes during the year 2012. Intoxicated drivers were more likely to speed, creating a dangerous combination of causes contributing to serious or even fatal accidents.
Running Red Lights
Running a red light or rolling into the intersection while making a right turn on red can have fatal consequences. According to Slate.com, rolling while turning right at a red light accounts for 6 percent of pedestrian deaths. While drivers are looking left for oncoming cars, they ignore the pedestrians coming down the right-hand sidewalk.
Tailgating
Driving while angry or rushed can easily result in devastating injury. This can often lead to rollovers and other serious crashes. Following another driver too closely makes it difficult to avoid an accident in the event that traffic stops suddenly. This type of reckless driving can lead to rear-end accidents.
Drug Use
According to the NSDUH, 11.8 million drivers drove under the influence of drugs during the year 2016. The most common drug found was marijuana. It is estimated that drivers that have marijuana components in their system are two times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident than sober drivers. Prescription drugs can also lead to accidents. A 2010 study found that 47 percent of drivers with drugs in their system involved in fatal accidents had used a prescription drug. Even common drugs prescribed by your doctor can impair your senses and ability to avoid accidents.
Drowsy Driving
According to studies, driving while drowsy is even more dangerous than driving drunk. A study by the NHTSA found that 23 percent of drivers involved in accidents were classified as fatigued.
Auto Defect
Some accidents can be caused by the equipment of the vehicle itself. Malfunctions can be the result of defective vehicle equipment: when tires are not properly measured and filled, brakes give out, the steering wheel locks up, and more. In these cases, the manufacturer may be responsible. Safety-related auto defects, such as faulty steering components, defective fuel components, bad accelerator controls, and poorly manufactured wheels, can cause devastating accidents. If a poorly designed or manufactured auto part directly led to your accident, you may be eligible for a product liability claim.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Potholes, unkept roads, or other dangerous factors are the responsibility of the transit authority to maintain. If dangerous road conditions led to your accident, you could be eligible for a premises liability lawsuit. We can help you compile evidence that negligence on the part of the transit authority led to your accident.
How the Cause Can Impact Your Case
The cause of your accident will directly determine how we pursue your case. For example, if a negligent driver caused your accident, we can pursue a lawsuit against their insurance provider. However, if your accident was caused by a defective auto part, we may have to file a claim against a large corporation or manufacturer.
Large corporations, such as auto manufacturers and government agencies, will have their own lawyer on their side to protect their own interests, but our lawyers are committed to helping you protect your best interests and receive full financial compensation.
Our firm works with in-house investigators, reconstruction experts, and local authorities to establish causation and determine liability. Because of the impact that the cause of your accident can have on your case, you need a legal team with a proven track record of success on your side.
Because many accidents are caused by negligence or recklessness and could have been avoided, you need a lawyer who can reconstruct the accident, determine the cause, and use the cause to point to the responsible party.
We Can Recommend the Best Course of Action
Most collision cases start with an insurance claim. If the other party's insurance provider is acting in bad faith and not compensating you for the full extent of your damages, our attorneys may file a lawsuit against them.
The Deadline for Filing a Lawsuit Is Two Years
Every state has its own statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In California, you have two years after the date of your injury or the death of a loved one to file a claim. An injury attorney at our law office can help you take swift action to ensure that you do not miss out on any damages you deserve.
Our Lawyers Can Handle Every Aspect of Your Case
Evaluate the Extent of Your Injury
When our firm takes on a personal injury case, we work with medical experts to evaluate your injuries and explain your damages to an adjuster and, if necessary, a jury. We also consult with life care planners to accurately calculate how your injuries will affect you for the rest of your life so that we can secure compensation for years to come, if necessary.
Determine Liability
Most accidents involve both (or multiple) drivers denying liability. In order to get to the bottom of the case, it is important to enlist the help of an experienced personal injury attorney who knows what types of interviews to conduct and what pieces of evidence will shed light on how the accident occurred. Once all of the evidence is gathered, a clear case can be made for liability, and a demand for damages presented.
Negotiate a Diminished Value Claim
Several steps must be taken when presenting a diminished value claim, including obtaining an accurate appraisal of your vehicle for both before and after the accident, requesting reimbursement from the insurance company representing the negligent party, and negotiation of the amount due. Insurance companies do not work for you – they work for their insured clients. This means you will need an advocate by your side, protecting your interests. An attorney can help by establishing liability, working closely with valuation experts to obtain accurate values, enforcing the validity of your claim, and filing a suit, if that is the best course of action.
Ensure an Efficient Resolution
Collecting the best possible settlement or jury award requires legal representation. Let our attorneys handle the legal complexities of your case while you and your family concentrate on healing. We can gather evidence, file paperwork correctly and promptly, and handle any insurance adjustors on your behalf. We are here to protect your best interests and make certain that justice is served.
Recover Maximum Compensation
If another party's negligence caused an accident that cost your loved one his or her life, you deserve maximum compensation. Our firm has collected over $500 million for our clients. Bennett Johnson, LLP, has focused exclusively on personal injury for over 40 years, and we are prepared to help you and your family collect the restitution you are owed.
Understanding Compensatory vs. Punitive Damages
Compensatory Damages
Victims are entitled to compensation to help them heal. In order to help their clients fully recovery, our lawyers can request recovery of damages for lost wages, medical care including therapy and prescriptions, pain and suffering for emotional damage and anguish, and damage to personal property, such as a vehicle or motorcycle.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages extend beyond covering actual physical losses and are intended to “punish” the offender. When the actions of the negligent party are so egregious, like in cases of reckless driving or driving under the influence, courts may consider making an award of punitive damages.
We Represent Clients on a Contingency Fee Basis
If you are the victim of an auto accident, you can afford an advocate.
At Bennett Johnson, LLP, we offer a free consultation and take your case on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe us nothing unless we collect compensation for you.
"Wonderful & Attentive" Personal Injury Lawyers
"I hired William C. Johnson to represent me in a personal injury claim. My car had been rear-ended on the freeway at very high speeds which totaled the car and left me with neck and back injuries. My insurer, Nationwide, tried to impugn my description of the incident by scoffing at it. For several months in meetings, they insinuated that I had caused the accident on purpose...but Mr. Johnson held firm and tough, and eventually the case was awarded a good settlement. Nationwide is NOT on your side, but William C. Johnson is!" Satisfied Client
Information About Accident Injuries
Accident injuries can range from minor to fatal. They may be immediately apparent, or they may take time to present. Attorneys Richard C. Bennett, William Johnson, and Andrew Johnson in Oakland, CA, and Napa, CA invite you to learn more about the injuries that can result from crashes, and why a thorough and accurate assessment of these injuries is essential to collecting the compensation you deserve.
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Our Law Firm Represents Victims of Various Types of Injuries, Including:
Traumatic Brain Injury
Many accidents involve forceful hits to the vehicle, causing those inside to be thrown into windows or against the side walls of the car. When a driver or passenger hits their head suddenly against the inside of the car during an accident, the result can be severe damage to the brain. This may be a concussion or a more serious and lifelong injury.
Spinal Cord and Paralysis
When the spinal column is damaged in an accident, it can result in partial or full paralysis.
Neck and Chest Injuries
The sudden jerking back and forth experienced by many accident victims can cause whiplash, internal organ damage, and internal bleeding.
Neck and Back Pain
This type of injury may not develop until a few days following the accident, but can leave the victim stiff and immobile. Back pain can be one of the most difficult types of pain to treat, and it can also lead to depression or anxiety because some physicians are hesitant to prescribe medication to ease the pain.
Broken Bones
In order to properly heal, a broken bone has to be reset and given time to mend. In some cases, a complicated surgery may be necessary to fix a broken bone, which can be a traumatic event itself.
Soft Tissue Injuries
When muscles, tendons, and ligaments are stretched beyond their limit, a soft tissue injury can result. These types of injuries can mean long-lasting pain for the victim and typically requires daily medication to treat the pain.
Burn Injuries
Burns that occur from a fire during a car wreck might require a skin graft, a painful procedure that could leave permanent scarring. Unsightly scars can cause victims to withdraw from friends and family, leading to social isolation and depression.
Head Injuries
Fractures to the skull, concussions, or having a brain bleed are all forms of brain injuries. These types of injuries typically require surgery and involve a lengthy recovery time, which could include extensive and costly rehabilitative therapy.
Internal Injuries
Internal organ injuries are common in large collisions, and generally require surgery.
Death
Devastatingly, many accidents caused by negligent or reckless actions result in the wrongful death of a loved one. In addition to causing intense pain and suffering, the wrongful death of a loved one can leave your family with funeral expenses, medical bills, and a loss of income.Call Our Law Firm for a Free Case Evaluation
We know that large collisions can be difficult for your entire family. We want to help. Our attentive lawyers have been helping victims pursue personal injury claims since 1981 and can help you, too. We have offices in Oakland and Napa. Call us:
(510) 444-5020
Other Examples of Personal Injuries Caused by Auto Accidents
Some injuries can be catastrophic, costly and life-changing for victims. Other types of injuries include:
- Vision loss or impairment
- Hearing loss
- Knee injuries
- Deep lacerations or cuts
- Deep bruising
If you have been in an accident, you could have injuries that are not immediately apparent. The best course of action is to seek immediate medical care, and allow a personal injury attorney to pursue the compensation you need.
The team at Bennett Johnson, LLP prides itself on helping victims recover from injuries and other losses resulting from third-party negligence.
Determining the Extent of Your Injury
After an auto, trucking, or motorcycle accident, a determination of the full extent of your injuries is essential. The purposes of having a full report documenting every injury include:
Showing that the injuries are directly related to and caused by the accident.
Establishing the injuries are new and do not pre-date the accident.
Establishing a monetary figure that represents your total loss, so you can pursue an accurate amount of compensation.
Proving whether full recovery is possible or if the injury will have lifelong repercussions. Lifelong injuries require additional compensation to cover the ongoing cost of therapy and lost capacity to earn a living, as well as diminished quality of life.
Determining Liability is Necessary to Recover Full and Fair Compensation
Being involved in a motor vehicle accident can result in broken bones, internal injuries, head trauma, and many other minor to severe injuries. Victims are entitled, by law, to be fully compensated for injuries caused by another.
In order to get to the bottom of the case, it is important to enlist the help of an experienced personal injury attorney who knows what types of interviews to conduct and what pieces of evidence will shed light on how the accident occurred.
How Lawyers Determine Liability
Establishing liability for the accident is essential if maximum recovery is to be obtained. When calculating the amount to which you are entitled, our lawyers will consider factors such as:
Lost Wages
Obtaining damages for time off work or lost wages.
Cost of Medical Care
Making sure all injuries are fully treated, or providing ongoing care if the injury cannot be fully treated.
Mental Health Care
Determining whether there are any psychological effects that require treatment through therapy or counseling.
Value of Bodily vs. Property Damage
Differentiating between bodily injuries and property damage injury.
Cost of Ongoing Care
Making sure medication and rehabilitative services are part of the compensation.
Types of Liability in California
Liability for a car wreck in California depends on the circumstances of the incident. If a driver claims that any of the other involved parties were partially at fault, their own liability may be limited. In these situations with comparative negligence, in which multiple drivers are found to be liable for an accident, each driver will bear a percentage of fault.
Liability can also be limited if the owner of the car was not driving at the time of the accident. It is not unusual for people to allow others to drive their vehicle. While the owner will not be completely responsible for a driver's negligence in the event of an accident, they may still be liable for some of the damages.
Ways to Establish Liability in Car, Bicycle, or Motorcycle Accidents
Establishing liability for a crash allows the victim to seek compensation for injuries sustained during the wreck. An experienced attorney can establish liability by:
Interviewing witnesses and documenting their accounts of how the accident happened.
Reviewing the police report and asking the officer on the scene to corroborate the details of the report or give additional data not contained in the report.
Taking the deposition of all parties involved or sending written discovery to get a clear picture of what transpired before, during, and after the accident.
Determining whether extenuating circumstances, such as road construction or distracted driving, played a part in the accident.
Analyzing the laws regarding the rules of the road and making a finding as to whether those rules were followed. Disregard of traffic laws is a good indicator of liability in a crash case.
Victims Are Entitled to Compensation for Their Injuries and Damages
Victims can seek damages including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Accidents can result in a wide range of personal injury and also cause damage to personal property. Depending on the severity of the accident, personal injuries may be immediately treatable or may require long-term care. The damage done to personal property may be a total loss, or could involve extensive repair work.
The lawyers at Bennett Johnson, LLP have over 40 years’ experience seeking complete compensation for all damage inflicted during all types of motor vehicle accidents for clients in Oakland and Napa.
Injuries From Auto Accidents Can be Far Reaching and Extensive
An injury from a motor vehicle accident can be more than just what is visible to the naked eye, or immediately noticed on scene. In many cases, the injuries from a crash are not known right away, and could have an impact on the victim for years to come:
- In the most severe of cases, such as a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury, the victim may be unable to return to work. In those cases, it is appropriate to seek damages for lost wages and opportunity for the duration of the victim's life.
- Physical injuries like broken bones or road rash are easy to identify, but many times an accident can also cause an emotional injury. Victims are entitled to compensation for any emotional and psychological injuries.
- When an accident involves the family breadwinner, the entire family suffers along with the victim. The financial strain a family can feel from a crash involving a high wage earner is very real, and in such cases, compensation is available.
- Relationships between parents and children and between spouses also suffer when someone is hurt in a crash. These types of injuries are not commonly thought of the instant an accident takes place, but they do occur and should be given consideration when computing total damages.
Victims can seek damages in auto accidents including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
A Highly Rated Personal Injury Law Firm
"...A friend of mine's husband was in a really bad auto accident year before last, The lawyer he hired was old and tired and didn't have a clue. I told his wife about (Richard Bennett) and within 6 months his case was settled..." Satisfied Client
A Trusted Law Firm Experienced in All Types of Wrecks
The type of accident you are involved in can directly affect the type of compensation you can collect and the best way to pursue damages. Our team at Bennett Johnson, LLP, in Oakland, CA, can investigate your accident and determine the optimal legal action to take on your behalf. Richard C. Bennett, William Johnson, and Andrew Johnson are hands-on attorneys who handle cases involving a variety of motor vehicle accidents. We have been representing Californians in personal injury suits for over 40 years and have a record of success. Schedule a free case evaluation with our team by contacting us online or calling (510) 444-5020 today.
Whatever type of accident you were involved in, hiring an attorney can help ensure that you are treated fairly by your insurance provider and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Common Types of Collisions
An accident can happen anywhere. The nature of the accident can impact many aspects of your case, including:
- How the insurance company handles your claim
- The amount of compensation you can collect
- Whether you can file a lawsuit
- Who you can sue
At Bennett Johnson, we represent clients affected by all types of motor vehicle accidents. We can help you understand how the type of accident you were in affects your case and ensure that you are treated fairly.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents occur when one car collides with the car in front of it. This type of accident is usually caused by inattention, distracted driving, or tailgating. In most cases, the driver of the vehicle that rear-ends the other car is considered to be at fault, unless the impacted vehicle was in reverse gear at the time. A common injury in rear-end collisions is whiplash. In general, injuries are more severe for occupants of the impacted car.
Side Impacts
Also called a t-bone collision, side-impact accidents take place when the front or back of one car impacts the side of another. These types of accidents often cause severe damage to vehicles and serious occupant injuries. Typically, the occupants on the side where the car was impacted suffer the worst injuries. Left-turn accidents, for example, can often result in side-impact collisions.
Rollovers
When a car flips over and lands on its side or roof, it is considered a vehicle rollover. While any vehicle can flip, sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are more likely to flip due to a higher center of gravity. The most common cause of a rollover is a sharp turn at high speeds. However, other factors, such as road and weather conditions, can also increase the risk of a rollover.
Head-On Collisions
A head-on collision occurs when the front ends of two vehicles hit each other. This type of accident is one of the most dangerous and can often lead to fatalities.
Single vs. Multi-Vehicle Accidents
A single-car collision is handled differently than one involving multiple vehicles. In single-car accidents, a vehicle strikes an object or pedestrian. The cause of these types of collisions is often more apparent. Multi-vehicle accidents tend to take place on highways and freeways and are more difficult to investigate.
Whatever type of crash you were involved in, hiring an attorney can help ensure that you are treated fairly by your insurance company and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys can investigate your accident and determine the best course of action.
After Suffering a Serious Accident, Call Our Law Firm
Our personal injury lawyers are ready to review your case and determine whether you have a personal injury claim. Over the past 40 years, we have achieved some of the highest verdicts and settlements in Oakland and throughout Northern California and will aggressively fight to recover compensation on your behalf. Call us:
(510) 444-5020
Car Accident Statistics
Car accident statistics tell the story of how dangerous it is on roads and highways, and how the slightest degree of negligence can have catastrophic outcomes. Bennett Johnson, LLP encourages all motorists to take the utmost care when driving, but our firm understands that you cannot control the actions of other drivers. Attorneys Richard C. Bennett, William Johnson, and Andrew Johnson in Oakland, CA, are here to help you if third-party negligence results in injury. We invite you to learn more about accident statistics in order to better understand the importance of taking every possible safety measure on the road.
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Other Common Types of Accidents
Single-Car Crashes
Single-car crashes account for a large number of accidents, which may be caused by something other than driver error. Road conditions, weather, and defective auto parts can all play a part in a single-car accident. Rather than dismiss this type of accident as the fault of the driver, it is best to fully examine the facts so the responsible party can be held accountable.
T-Bones & Sideswipes
T-bones and sideswipes occur frequently and can cause catastrophic injuries. The side of a vehicle is less protected than other areas. Not all makes and models include side airbags.
Speeding Crashes
Speeding accidents, from driving either too fast or even too slow.
Poorly Maintained Roadway Accidents
Accidents caused by debris on the roadway, which may be the fault of a trucking company, construction enterprise, or another third party.
The injuries suffered in any type of accident can be life-changing. The party or entity responsible for causing the accident is responsible for paying the costs and expenses associated with the accident.
Traffic Fatalities Increase Each Year
The National Traffic Safety Institute has found that texting and driving is equally hazardous as driving under the influence.
Fatalities on California Roadways
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that in California in 2016, there were more than 3,600 traffic fatalities. More than 1,000 of those fatalities were attributed to driving under the influence of alcohol, and more than 1,000 fatal accidents were attributed to speeding.
Distracted Driving Has Deadly Consequences
Distracted Driving
Today, cell phone use is practically second nature. Unfortunately, the impulse to text, check email, or look up information on a smartphone is one that many motorists entertain while driving. The National Highway Transit Safety Authority found that in 2016, texting while driving resulted in nearly 400,000 injuries. In 2015, texting and driving was found to have caused 3,450 deaths. In fact, the National Traffic Safety Institute has found that texting and driving is equally hazardous as driving under the influence.
Driving Safely
Though the key to safe driving may seem obvious, statistics indicate that you can significantly reduce your risk of causing an accident by:
- Never using your cell phone while driving
- Taking care to never exceed the speed limit
- Using alcohol responsibly by making certain never to drive while under the influence
Of course, there is no guarantee that all drivers will operate their vehicles with responsibility and care. When the negligence of another motorist causes injury and other losses, our attorneys can help you hold the responsible party accountable and collect the restitution you deserve.
A Fatal Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Collect
In 2016, there were 3, 357 fatal car accidents in California, leaving thousands of family members wondering where to turn for help and what to do next. A fatal car accident lawyer with Bennett Johnson, LLP in Oakland, CA, can help recover compensation for your many losses. Attorneys Richard C. Bennett, William Johnson, and Andrew Johnson are prepared to file a wrongful death suit on your behalf. They can illustrate who was at fault and the extent of the losses you now face. With our help, you can collect a settlement or jury award that helps you and your family to cope with an immense loss. To book your free case review, contact us online or call us at (530) 413-0245.
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Requirements for Pursuing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
In order to file a wrongful death suit, certain criteria must be met. In California, you must file suit within two years of the incident and the claim must be made by a:
Surviving Spouse
Parent
Domestic Partner
Child
Person Legally Entitled to Receive Property or Assets of the Deceased
Putative Spouse or Children
In some instances, it may be necessary to set up an estate for the deceased, which is a separate legal undertaking. We can carry out this task on behalf of your family.
Was a Loved One Killed in an Accident?
If a family member was wrongfully killed in a motor vehicle accident, motorcycle accident, or pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our law firm has successfully recovered some of the most substantial verdicts and settlements in all of Northern California. We can help you recover, too. Call us:
(510) 444-5020
Types of Damages in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
The death of a loved one is not only emotionally exhausting, but financially costly, as well. Some of the many losses your attorney will assess include:
- Funeral expenses
- Medical expenses before the death
- Loss of income
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and affection
- Pain and suffering
Some of these expenses can be confirmed simply by checking paperwork. Others are not as simple. An attorney can provide an apt assessment of the financial impact a death has had on your life.
Trust Your Case to a Distracted Driving Accident Attorney
Hit By a Distracted Driver? You Deserve Compensation!
With phones, navigational maps, and other technologies at nearly every person’s fingertips, many people have become extremely distracted while driving. When drivers use their devices or engage in other forms of distraction, they create hazardous road conditions for themselves and other drivers sharing the road.
Our firm has collected over $500 million for our clients.
Unfortunately, this can cause serious injuries. If a distracted driver caused an accident that left you injured, our distracted driver accident attorneys can help you recover maximum compensation for the following:
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses
- Mental & physical pain
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractor visits
Contact our distracted driver accident attorneys at Bennett & Johnson, LLP today.
Common Examples of Driver Distractions
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 3,150 people suffered fatal injuries in car accidents that were caused by distracted drivers in a single year. Some of the most common causes of distraction on the road include:
- Sending or reading a text
- Talking on the phone
- Talking to a passengers
- Changing the radio station
- Watching a video online
- Drinking or eating
The Different Forms of Distracted Driving
Cognitive Distracted Driving
This occurs when a person’s mind is focused on other matters, taking their attention away from the road. A person who is having a conversation via Bluetooth is cognitively distracted. While they may have both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road, they are not focused on driving.
Physical Distracted Driving
This occurs when a person is occupied by a physical distraction that leaves them unable to make necessary maneuvers. A person drinking coffee is considered physically distracted because they don't have both hands on the wheel. This makes it difficult for the driver to maneuver the vehicle.
Visual Distracted Driving
This occurs when a driver participates in any sort of action that removes their eyes from the road. For example, a person who is looking at a map, sending a text message, or adjusting the radio while driving is visually distracted because their eyes are focused on something other than the road.
Were You Hit by a Distracted Driver?
If the negligent or reckless driving of another party led to a collision, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Our firm has been practicing personal injury law exclusively for over 40 years, so we know how to pursue your case. To get started, call us at:
(510) 444-5020
A Texting and Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help You Recover
If you have been injured in an accident due to a texting driver, the Bennett Johnson, LLP team can establish how texting directly contributed to the accident in order to help you collect the maximum compensation possible. Texting and driving accident lawyers Richard C. Bennett, William Johnson, and Andrew Johnson in Oakland, CA, can examine the facts of your case and assesses your losses. To schedule your free case review, please send us a message online or call us at (530) 413-0245.
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Texting and Driving Statistics
The dangers of texting and driving are well documented, and statistics show just how devastating an accident where texting played a role can be. The National Highway Transit Safety Authority reports that in 2016, texting and driving caused 391,000 injuries. In 2015, texting and driving resulted in 3,450 deaths. In fact, the National Traffic Safety Institute considers texting and driving as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
When you are driving 55 miles per hour, taking your eyes off the road for five minutes is the same as driving the length of a football field.
How Texting and Driving Can Cause an Accident
It takes focus to text, as does driving. Texting involves visual, manual, and cognitive attention. Driving a car also involves these same competencies, and the two tasks cannot be performed at once. When a driver diverts their attention from the task of safely operating a car to text, the chance of being in an accident becomes 23 times higher. Consider that when you are driving 55 miles per hour, taking your eyes off the road for five minutes is the same as driving the length of a football field. That is a considerable distance for a driver to spend without paying attention to the road.
How a Lawyer Can Help
The first step to financial recovery in personal injury cases is to establish liability. The team at Bennett Johnson, LLP can determine the cause of an accident in order to help you collect the restitution you are owed. The liable party is responsible for repayment of expenses such as medical bills, lost wages, lost future earnings, and expenses associated with rehabilitation or therapy. Meanwhile, you can be certain that the responsible party will have legal counsel taking every opportunity to prove that their client was only partially responsible for your losses, or not responsible at all. Our attorneys are here to make certain that justice has been served.
A Diminished Value Claim Lawyer Can Help If Your Vehicle Was Undervalued
A diminished value claim lawyer with Bennett Johnson, LLP in Oakland, CA, can help you file a successful claim if you feel that an insurance company has undervalued your car following an accident. Attorneys Richard C. Bennett, William Johnson, and Andrew Johnson understand how important it is for you to collect maximum compensation for every loss after an accident. When the damage is caused by the negligent act of another, you are entitled to the difference in the value of your car prior to the wreck and the value after repairs. To schedule your free case review, send us an online message or call us at (530) 413-0245.
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What is Diminished Value?
There are three types of diminished value to understand when making a claim:
- Immediate diminished value: This figure is the difference in value immediately before the accident and immediately after, prior to any repairs being made.
- Repair-related value: The loss in value resulting from an inability to perform perfect repairs.
- Inherent diminished value: This value is the amount your car is now worth after having been repaired. The best way to think about this diminished value is to consider how much less you can make at resale due to the damage.
When you suffer a loss due to the negligence of another, you are entitled to be made whole again. Legally speaking, this means you should be placed in the same position you were in prior to the accident. In many cases, that requires payment of a diminished value for your property.
These claims can be brought against the negligent party's insurance company, or your own insurance company if you have uninsured motorist insurance.
What is Required for a Diminished Value Claim?
In order to make a diminished value claim, you must:
- Make your claim within three years of the accident date.
- Prove that the damage occurred due to a specific car accident.
- Prove that the damage was not your fault.
- Be able to demonstrate the value of the vehicle prior to the accident.
These claims can be brought against the negligent party's insurance company, or your own insurance company if you have uninsured motorist insurance. It is also important to keep in mind that you can recover both the repair costs and the diminished value figure, which can help to maximize the allowable recovery.
Accident Victims Need a Lawyer Who Understands the Catastrophic Nature of Rollovers
The size and frame of sports utility vehicles (SUVs) and trucks can make them especially susceptible to rollover accidents. Because rollover accidents can eject passengers or cause the roof of the vehicle to collapse, they are dangerous for all drivers, passengers, and pedestrian bystanders and can result in devastating catastrophic injuries. If you or a loved one are involved in a rollover accident, a lawyer can help you determine:
- What caused your accident
- The extent of your injuries
- How much you should be compensated
- Who is liable for paying your compensation
Attorneys Richard C. Bennett, Willam Johnson, and their associates have been representing personal injury victims for over 40 years. Because our firm has earned some of the highest verdicts and settlements in Napa and Oakland, CA, and surrounding areas, we can help you build a strong case and secure the highest compensation possible. Schedule your free consultation by contacting us online or calling us at (805) 438-2952.
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Determining the Cause of a Rollover
There are many scenarios or driver actions that can lead to a rollover accident. These include:
- Sharp or sudden turns
- Inclement weather
- Aggressive driving
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Distracted driving
However, our firm also represents victims of Ford Explorer rollover accidents. These cases are unique because the rollovers were caused by a defective design and are considered product liability cases.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released data that showed that rollover accidents accounted for almost 35 percent of all crash-related deaths in 2010 alone.
Potential Injuries following Your Accident
As with other car accidents, rollover accidents can lead to superficial lacerations, broken bones, and burn injuries. Because the roof of the vehicle can collapse during the accident and passengers may be ejected from the vehicle following a rollover, these accidents can also lead to devastating, life-threatening injuries including spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and even the death of a loved one.
Rollover accidents are the most fatal types of motor vehicle accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released data that showed that rollover accidents accounted for almost 35 percent of all crash-related deaths in 2010 alone.
The Role of an Attorney
In addition to finding out what led to your accident and helping you get the medical care you need, an attorney can help you build your case and determine who is at fault for the accident. The cause of the accident will generally point to the driver or party who is at fault. Attorneys at our firm also provide additional services for clients to help build a stronger case. An attorney can:
- Determine whether a car defect, defective roadway, or improper truck loading or other cause led to your rollover
- Consult with experts to recreate the accident
- Work with life care planners to determine how your injury will affect you for the rest of your life
From the start of your case to the final resolution, our attorneys handle your case firsthand.
Case Evaluation Free of Charge
If you are committed to protecting your rights after a serious auto accident, your first step should be to pick up the phone and seek the help of our personal injury attorneys. You can entrust your case to Bennett Johnson, LLP, with confidence because we have a reputation for excellence and success. We are prepared to help you collect the restitution you are owed for injuries, property damage, and more.
Our attorneys can help you get back on your feet and help with the stress of these challenging legal matters.
Our team is entrenched in the California East Bay lifestyle and culture. Bennett Johnson, LLP was founded in 1981, and we've been serving clients with a high standard of professionalism and effective advocacy ever since. As a team, we have recovered well over $500 million in verdicts, arbitrations, and settlements for our clients.
