by: adminOn: October 15, 2025
California is infamous for its traffic congestion. Besides the non-negotiable time penalty that commuters have to bear, there’s always the looming threat of car accidents. Being aware of car accident laws can prove to be useful in personal injury cases.
California car accident laws permit compensation for victims, subject to terms and conditions. Knowing your rights can help you tackle the aftermath of the incident with control and consideration.
Let’s find out more about laws for car accidents and their victims in today’s article.
California traffic accident laws are layered. Governed by the overarching state and personal injury mandates, California accident laws have provisions for more than one party to acquire compensation. This can be for economic and non-economic damages.
That said, it’s not as simple as filing for a claim for negligence and getting compensated for damages.
What’s the premise of the accident laws?
California is an at-fault state. Here, ascertaining the liability of the individual involved in causing the accident is of critical importance. That’s because the legal responsibility of the “at-fault” individual determines the rights to compensation of the parties involved in the mishap.
However, the law about car accidents follows a comparative fault system. The implication of that rule in the car accident law affects the percentage of compensation you receive.
How?
The amount of compensation you receive is related to the percentage of your contribution (or fault) in the accident. You will still get paid for the damages but not 100%.
This comparative fault system of vehicle accident law applies to drivers causing the accident, too. When more than one party is involved in the accident, each is liable to pay compensation to you per their comparative fault.
Law about car accidents calls for an independent investigation to be conducted. Some of the key factors taken into consideration include traffic laws, the condition of those involved in the accident, the state of the motor vehicle, etc. In most cases, insurance companies conduct this investigation.
According to California car accident law, you are eligible to receive compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. You must follow the legal requirements and adhere to the timelines to be eligible for compensation.
Per California law’s personal injury statute of limitations, you have a two-year window to file a lawsuit. Two exceptions to the rule exist:
1. The timeline for filing a lawsuit is six months from the date of the accident if a government motor vehicle is involved
2. If the accident involves a minor, the two-year window commences from the day they turn 18 years of age
You must submit a duly filled SR-1 Form to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 10 days if it has led to:
– injury,
– fatality,
– or over $1,000 in property damage.
Either you or someone representing you, like an attorney or an insurance agent, must submit this form on time. If the accident took place between two motor vehicles, failing to do so may result in the suspension of your driving privileges.
Hire a car accident attorney in Glendale to help you handle the aftermath of accidents. Don’t forget, sometimes California car accident laws can be unforgiving.
A number of reasons can cause car accidents in the sunny state. Poor traffic conditions, inclement weather, tailgating, impaired or distracted driving — it could be anything. At times, multiple factors can be at play.
That is why California traffic accident laws are strict. To improve your chances of getting compensation under the accident laws, you should take the following measures:
1. Assess yourself for injuries and seek immediate medical attention when needed.
2. Call 911 for assistance. Request a preliminary police report. Having an official report will help you fight for compensation or a settlement later.
3. If you’re comparatively unharmed and able to move around, gather evidence. Take photos, talk to witnesses, and if possible, gather their contact information.
4. Notify your insurance company of the accident. However, do not admit anything.
5. Do not admit to any claims on the scene of the accident. California traffic accident laws are stringent. Anything you say or claim can be used against you in the court of law.
Be as proactive as the situation permits. The car accident evidence you gather can determine your eligibility, especially if three or more cars are involved.
There are different types of car accident compensation, depending on the damages you’ve incurred:
1. Medical expenses due to injuries, present or future
2. Lost wages and/or reduced earning capacity
3. Property damage (towards your motor vehicle repair or replacement)
4. Emotional and physical suffering, mental trauma, and distress
5. Wrongful death, applicable to the family of members involved in a fatality
Personal injury lawyers in Glendale can help you understand which types of compensation you may be entitled to.
Car accidents can cause physical injuries that lead to unforeseen medical expenses. You may even need to take time off work to fully recover, resulting in lost wages. Beyond the physical impact, many victims experience emotional distress or mental trauma after an accident. Further, property damage and related repair costs cannot be overlooked.
Filing for an insurance claim while coping with your injuries can easily overwhelm you. Given the intricacies of car accident laws, you may be better off with some professional help.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you decide when to settle or go to trial. At Pogosyan Law Firm, we handle car accident cases with utmost caution, care, and dedication. We specialize in complicated cases involving distracted driving, drunk driving, and multi-vehicle pileups.
If you’re looking for a Glendale law firm, contact us for a free case evaluation today.