California Car Accident LawyerGet Maximum Compensation

In California, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1). Claims against a government entity may require notice in as little as 6 months (Gov. Tort Claims Act). Missing the deadline can permanently bar your claim, so consult a licensed California car accident lawyer immediately.

California is an at-fault state. The driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying damages, and you file a claim against their liability insurance (none (minimum liability 15/30/5)). You can also file a third-party lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver.

Recoverable damages in California typically include past and future medical expenses, lost wages and reduced earning capacity, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases of gross negligence (e.g. drunk driving), punitive damages may also be available.

California follows pure comparative negligence. You can recover damages even if you were mostly at fault — your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Most California car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing upfront and owe no attorney fees unless they win your case. Contingency fees typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or verdict. Initial consultations are free.

You are not legally required to hire an attorney, but studies consistently show that represented accident victims recover significantly more than unrepresented claimants — even after fees. A California car accident lawyer is especially valuable for injuries, disputed liability, uninsured drivers, or claims involving government vehicles (short 6 months (Gov. Tort Claims Act) notice deadlines).