To determine if you have a valid personal injury claim in San Mateo, several factors must be met:

1. Negligence: You must prove that the other party acted negligently and failed to exercise reasonable care. For example, if a driver caused an accident by running a red light, their negligence would be a key part of your case.
   
   
2. Causation: You need to establish that this negligence directly caused your injury. The other party’s actions and your accident or injury must be a clear connection.
   
   
3. Damages: To have a valid compensation claim, you must have suffered measurable damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering. These tangible losses are crucial for your claim.
   
   
4. Medical Care: Seek medical treatment right after the accident and avoid gaps in your care. This protects your health and strengthens your case by providing clear evidence of your injury.
   
   

Statute of Limitation: In California, you typically have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. Failing to file within this time frame may result in losing your right to pursue compensation.

After an accident, the first step is to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Your health is the top priority, and a medical professional can identify any hidden injuries.

Next, call the police to report the accident; they will document the scene and create an official report. Gather evidence by taking photos and collecting contact information from witnesses, as this information can be invaluable for your case.

Avoid admitting fault at the scene, as this can complicate your claim when dealing with insurance adjusters. Finally, consult an attorney in San Mateo who can guide you through the process and help protect your rights as a victim of accidents.

Yes, you can still file a claim even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Under California’s comparative negligence rule, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. This means that if you are found to be 30% responsible for the accident, your award would be reduced by that amount, allowing you to still recover damages.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

• Economic damages: These cover tangible costs such as medical bills and lost wages.
• Property damage: If your vehicle was damaged in the accident, the repair or replacement costs would be included.
• Non-economic damages: These compensate for intangible losses like pain and suffering or emotional distress.
• Additional damages: This can include costs related to rehabilitation or ongoing medical treatment.
• Punitive damages: These may be awarded if the responsible party acted with extreme negligence or intent to harm.

Understanding the different types of compensation can help you pursue the financial recovery you deserve.

The length of time it takes to settle a personal injury case can vary significantly based on several factors. Complex cases or those with disputes about liability may take longer to resolve, while straightforward cases can be settled more quickly.

Ultimately, the injured person should focus on obtaining the maximum potential compensation, which may require patience throughout the process.

While waiting for your settlement, there are several ways to cover your medical bills and lost wages. Utilizing your health insurance can significantly reduce medical costs and help alleviate financial burdens during this time.

If you have MedPay coverage, it can assist with immediate medical expenses regardless of fault. Additionally, disability insurance may provide some income if you cannot work due to your injuries. 

Lastly, medical liens may be an option, allowing healthcare providers to wait for payment until your case is settled. Remember, keep detailed records of all expenses related to your injury, as these can support your case and help ensure you receive the deserved compensation.

Having a lawyer when dealing with insurance companies can significantly benefit accident victims. Attorneys with a strong track record in personal injury laws understand the complexities involved in these cases.

They know how to navigate settlement negotiations to ensure you receive maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, and having legal experience can counteract these tactics.

Additionally, a lawyer can help address not only physical injuries but also emotional trauma resulting from the accident. If you need assistance, contact us today to discuss your case.