Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
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As of 2023, San Bernardino County has a population of over 2 million residents, contributing to California’s diverse demographic landscape. Known for its stunning natural beauty, including vast deserts, mountain ranges, and the famous Joshua Tree National Park, San Bernardino is a prime location for outdoor adventures and recreation. Its expansive landscape makes it unique among California’s counties, offering residents and visitors alike a blend of urban and rural environments.
Major cities like San Bernardino, Fontana, and Rancho Cucamonga contribute to the area’s economy through tourism, manufacturing, and logistics, creating a bustling community with a mix of urban and suburban lifestyles. However, the county’s high population density and extensive road network also lead to a notable number of accidents and personal injuries.
Whether it’s a car accident on a busy freeway, a fall in a public space, or another form of injury, San Bernardino residents often face challenges in handling the aftermath. If you or a loved one has been injured in a personal injury accident, it’s important to understand your rights and explore your options for seeking justice. Our team of personal injury lawyers are dedicated to fighting for the rights of accident victims, ensuring they receive the compensation and support they need. Consulting with an experienced accident attorney can make a significant difference in navigating the complexities of your case.
Our law offices provide the support, experience, and legal expertise necessary to guide you through the personal injury claim process. With extensive knowledge and years working in personal injury law, you’ll be in the best care with RMD Law.
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RMD Law has earned the trust of San Bernardino residents navigating personal injury claims by providing the services of an experienced personal injury lawyer. Our knowledgeable attorneys use a client-focused approach to secure the outcomes clients deserve. With over $200 million in settlements won statewide, we’re your dedicated partner in handling claims across California.
Here’s a look at the statistics highlighting the frequency and nature of personal injury cases in San Bernardino County, particularly involving car accidents, a significant cause of serious injuries in the region.
The gap in victimization rates between the most and least affected groups was 6.3, with Black individuals having the highest rate of injury.
Knowing the different types of personal injury claims that may apply to your situation is essential. Here are common injury claims in San Bernardino:
Car accidents are a leading cause of injuries in San Bernardino County and across the U.S. Causes range from reckless driving to traffic signal violations, resulting in everything from minor incidents to severe crashes. Personal injury lawyers frequently see these claims and understand the legalities of such cases. If you are involved in such an incident, consulting a car accident attorney can be crucial.
San Bernardino’s significant logistics sector means that truck accidents are common and can lead to severe injuries. Liability may include the truck driver, company, or manufacturers if mechanical issues contributed to the accident. Consulting a truck accident attorney can help determine the responsible parties and seek compensation.
Motorcycling is popular in San Bernardino, but high speeds and distracted drivers often lead to serious accidents. Unsafe speeds and improper lane changes are frequent causes. These incidents can result in serious injury, leading to long-term physical, emotional, or financial repercussions for accident victims, including substantial medical bills. Consulting a motorcycle accident attorney can help navigate these challenges.
As the county continues to promote cycling as an eco-friendly and healthy mode of transportation, bike accidents have unfortunately been on the rise. These accidents often result from driver negligence, such as failing to see cyclists, dooring incidents, or equipment failure that can lead to loss of control. If you find yourself in such a situation, consulting a bicycle accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process.
Pedestrian accidents occur with alarming frequency due to distracted driving, failure to yield, and drivers not adhering to speed limits. Drivers have a duty of care to exercise caution around pedestrians, especially in school zones and densely populated areas. If you or a loved one has been involved in such an incident, consulting a pedestrian accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process.
With a large and complex public transportation network, accidents involving buses, trains, and other public transit vehicles are not uncommon. Navigating claims against public entities can be complex. These cases often require a thorough understanding of governmental liability laws, which is why consulting a public transportation accident attorney is crucial.
Slip-and-fall incidents can occur in any public or private setting, from grocery stores to office buildings. Common causes include uneven walkways, poor lighting, wet floors, and lack of maintenance are frequent causes. These accidents can lead to serious injuries like fractures or head injuries, making it essential to understand premises liability laws. Consulting a slip and fall attorney can help you navigate these legal complexities.
In San Bernardino, dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries their pets cause, regardless of the dog’s history or the owner’s knowledge of its behavior. Understanding your rights can help you pursue a valid compensation claim for medical expenses and emotional trauma. However, a dog bite attorney can help guide you through this case.
Injuries to the spinal cord and brain are often severe and life-altering, frequently resulting from high-speed accidents, falls, or violent incidents. These injuries can lead to paralysis, cognitive issues, and long-term disability, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Consulting a brain injury attorney can help victims navigate the legal complexities and secure the compensation they deserve.
If negligence results in the death of a loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim may be appropriate. Such wrongful death personal injury cases require strong evidence of the liable party’s role and can help families seek justice and financial relief for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional distress. Consulting a wrongful death attorney can provide the necessary expertise to navigate these challenging claims.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of common accident types in San Bernardino:
Rear-end accidents happen when a vehicle crashes into the back of the car in front. These are often caused by tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops in heavy traffic, which San Bernardino frequently experiences on busy roads like the I-10 and I-215 freeways. Rear-end collisions can cause significant injuries and can be fatal.
This type of accident involves two vehicles colliding front-to-front, often due to a driver crossing over into oncoming traffic, impaired driving, or confusion on undivided rural roads. Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous and frequently result in life-threatening injuries or fatalities.
Rollovers occur when a vehicle tips onto its side or roof. These crashes are more common in high-profile vehicles like SUVs and trucks, especially if the driver loses control while speeding, swerving, or taking sharp turns. San Bernardino’s mountainous and rural roads, along with freeway interchanges, can sometimes increase rollover risks in certain areas.
These accidents occur when one vehicle strikes the side of another, often at intersections or stop signs. Common causes include running red lights, failure to yield, and distracted driving. Busy intersections like those along E Street and Highland Avenue in San Bernardino are common sites for such collisions.
Sideswipe incidents happen when two vehicles traveling parallel to each other make contact, often during lane changes or merges. These accidents frequently occur when drivers are not paying attention, fail to check blind spots, or don’t signal their lane changes properly. On highways and multilane roads in San Bernardino County, like the I-10 and I-215, sideswipes are common, especially in congested traffic.
This type of accident involves a vehicle crashing into a fixed object, like a tree, guardrail, or utility pole, often due to driver error or adverse road conditions. Single-vehicle accidents tend to happen more frequently in areas with winding roads or limited lighting, such as near San Bernardino National Forest.
Pedestrian accidents happen when a vehicle collides with someone walking or crossing the street. These incidents often occur in busy pedestrian areas, near crosswalks, or along major streets without adequate pedestrian crossings. San Bernardino County sees these accidents at higher rates in commercial and residential areas, especially in locations like downtown San Bernardino or near schools, where pedestrian traffic is high.
Multi-vehicle accidents, also known as chain-reaction crashes, involve multiple vehicles in a series of collisions. These often happen during high traffic or poor weather conditions, where one initial accident triggers additional impacts. Such accidents can be very complex, with multiple parties involved and heightened risks of injuries and vehicle damage.
Each of these accident types presents unique risks, and understanding them can help residents of San Bernardino be more aware of how and where these accidents are likely to happen.
Car crashes in San Bernardino occur for various reasons, including:
Driving at excessive speeds is a significant cause of accidents. Speeding reduces reaction time, makes vehicle control harder, and leads to more severe crashes. This is particularly concerning on San Bernardino’s busy highways and rural roads.
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, slows reactions, and reduces coordination, making it a top factor in serious accidents. The nightlife and social scene in San Bernardino County can contribute to the prevalence of impaired driving incidents.
Following too closely behind another vehicle gives drivers little time to respond to sudden stops or obstacles, often resulting in rear-end collisions. This aggressive driving behavior is common in congested traffic conditions, especially during rush hours.
Not yielding the right of way is a frequent cause of collisions, especially at busy intersections and merging lanes throughout San Bernardino County. This can occur when drivers are impatient or unfamiliar with local traffic rules.
Running stop signs and red lights greatly increases the risk of side-impact or T-bone accidents, especially if drivers don’t yield at intersections. In San Bernardino, busy intersections and high pedestrian traffic areas are particularly prone to this type of negligence.
Distractions like texting, phone calls, eating, and even filming videos while driving pull attention from the road, raising the likelihood of accidents. With the rise of smartphones, distracted driving has become a growing concern, contributing to numerous accidents.
Aggressive driving due to anger or frustration can lead to unsafe actions like tailgating, speeding, and intentional collisions, endangering others on the road. This behavior is often exacerbated by the stress of heavy traffic and long commutes common in the San Bernardino County area.
Injured due to someone’s negligence? Here are the main types of compensation available:
Covers treatments, surgeries, and medications related to injuries, including rehabilitation, physical therapy, and necessary medical equipment or home modifications. Compensation ensures financial barriers don’t impede access to essential medical care.
Compensates for lost earnings and future income affected by recovery or permanent disability. It considers time away from work and long-term earning impacts, possibly including vocational training for new employment roles.
Covers repair or replacement costs for vehicles and personal items damaged in the incident. Accurate assessment and documentation are vital for fair compensation, including rental car or alternative transportation costs.
Addresses physical and emotional distress, such as chronic pain and reduced quality of life. Calculating this involves considering the severity and duration of discomfort and its impact on daily life and relationships.
Awarded when recklessness or malice is involved, serving as a deterrent. These damages punish egregious behavior and require a higher burden of proof, emphasizing the need for strong evidence.
To file a personal injury claim in San Bernardino successfully, it’s crucial to gather strong evidence. Here are the essential documents you should prepare:
Capture the scene and any visible injuries. These images provide a clear visual record of the conditions at the time. High-quality photos can be instrumental in demonstrating the severity of the accident and the immediate consequences.
If available, obtain video footage from nearby cameras, such as security or dash cams. This can be vital evidence in reconstructing the event. Video evidence can often provide an unbiased account of the incident, showing exactly what happened and who was at fault.
Collect statements and contact information from any witnesses present at the scene. Their accounts can provide additional insights into the accident’s cause. Witnesses can offer a third-party perspective, potentially strengthening your case.
Statements from others involved in the incident can add context and help establish fault. These statements can clarify the sequence of events and the behavior of those involved, which may be crucial in determining liability.
If law enforcement responded to the incident, get a copy of the police report. This report provides an objective overview and is often used to help determine liability. Police reports can include valuable details such as the officer’s observations and initial assessments of fault.
Document all medical treatments related to the injury, including ongoing care. This is essential for establishing the impact on your health. Keeping a detailed treatment journal can also track your recovery progress and any complications, which can be important for calculating compensation.
Preserve any physical items that may be relevant, such as damaged property or personal belongings. Physical evidence can corroborate your account of the accident and demonstrate the extent of the damage or injury.
Keep details from both your and the other party’s insurance. This helps with communication and claims processing. Accurate insurance information is crucial for negotiating settlements and ensuring that all parties are aware of their responsibilities.
If your injury impacts your work, keep records of lost wages, missed hours, or any long-term effects on your income. These records can substantiate claims for lost income and future earning potential, which are significant components of compensation.
Save all receipts for medical treatments, repairs, and other expenses related to the incident for accurate compensation calculations. Detailed financial records ensure that all costs are accounted for and can be reimbursed through your claim.
Filing an insurance claim after an injury in San Bernardino can be challenging. Here’s a summary of the key steps to ensure the process goes smoothly:
Report the accident or incident as soon as possible to initiate the claims process. Timely notification is crucial as it sets the stage for your claim and ensures that your insurance company is aware of the incident.
Document details about the accident, collect contact information for other parties involved and gather witness statements. Comprehensive documentation can significantly strengthen your claim by providing a clear picture of the incident and supporting your version of events.
Take detailed photos of the accident scene and any injuries to build a solid visual record. Photographic evidence can be compelling, helping to demonstrate the severity of the accident and the resulting injuries, which can be pivotal in negotiations with the insurance company.
Even if injuries seem minor, consult a doctor. Medical reports play a crucial role in your injury claim. Prompt medical attention not only ensures your health and safety but also creates a medical record that links your injuries directly to the accident.
Familiarize yourself with your policy’s coverage and terms. This helps you understand the scope of your claim. Knowing your policy details can empower you to advocate for your rights and ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to under your coverage.
If the process feels overwhelming, consider speaking with a personal injury attorney who can guide you through the process and handle insurance negotiations on your behalf. An experienced personal injury lawyer can provide invaluable assistance, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
In San Bernardino, personal injury attorneys typically operate on a contingency fee basis, which means clients pay no legal fees until their case is successfully resolved and compensation is awarded. These fees usually range from 33% to 40% of the total award, depending on the case’s complexity. This arrangement allows accident victims to pursue justice without the burden of upfront legal costs, making legal services accessible to those who might be unable to afford them.
Initial consultations with our personal injury law firm are free, providing an opportunity to discuss your case with a personal injury attorney and understand the potential outcomes without financial commitment. This model aligns the interests of the client and the personal injury lawyer, ensuring that the attorney is motivated to achieve the best possible outcome.
Choosing an experienced personal injury attorney in San Bernardino can significantly impact the success of your case. Our professionals are well-versed in the nuances of local personal injury law and adept at negotiating with major insurance companies to secure fair settlements. By choosing a personal injury lawyer who offers a contingency fee basis, injury victims can focus on their recovery, confident that their legal representation is handling the complexities of their personal injury claim.
Read these testimonials from some of the clients we’ve assisted in seeking justice for personal injuries from vehicular accidents, negligence, wrongful death, and more.
Although not required, having a personal injury lawyer on your side can be highly beneficial. Personal injury attorneys are experienced in handling legal complexities, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and securing the best possible outcome for your case.
Typically, you have two years from the injury date to file a personal injury claim in California. If the injury wasn’t immediately apparent, you may have up to one year from its discovery. Acting promptly is crucial to ensure your case remains eligible. However, always consult a personal injury attorney to confirm how long you have to file, as personal injury law varies from state to state.
After seeking medical attention, document the incident by taking photos, gathering witness information, and notifying law enforcement if applicable. Then, consult a personal injury attorney to protect your rights and handle insurance and legal proceedings on your behalf. Avoid signing any statements with insurers without legal guidance.
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Knowing where to seek help after an injury is key. Here are some essential resources:
Immediate evaluation by medical professionals ensures proper diagnosis and treatment, aiding both recovery and injury documentation for your personal injury claim.
Reporting incidents, especially car accidents, is crucial for documentation. Contact your local San Bernardino police department for assistance, either before or after you file a personal injury claim.
Our team’s extensive experience with the legal system and personal injury cases in San Bernardino gives us a distinct advantage in managing local cases. We’ve helped countless Californians secure rightful compensation and are here to provide the support you need during your injury claim process.
Connect with us today for a free case evaluation with a personal injury attorney.
RMD Law is a California Personal Injury law firm. We help victims who have been injured in accidents due to someone else’s negligence. RMD Law offers free no-obligation case evaluations for our clients.
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