Nobody gets behind the wheel of a vehicle in Turlock expecting to be in any type of accident, but especially not a wrong way accident. However, these types of accidents are some of the most common–and devastating–that you or a loved one will have to deal with.
If you have experienced this extremely unfortunate situation, our Turlock car accident lawyers at Maison Law can help. We understand how the claims process works and what you need to do to make sure you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to set up a free consultation to get the process started.
Do You Need a Turlock Car Accident Lawyer?
Any car accident in Turlock is going to be stressful. However, a wrong-way accident is unique in terms of the damage and usual results. Most of the time, these types of accidents result in:
- Head-on collisions, which are typically much more impactful relating to injuries and damage to your vehicle
In straightforward terms, working with our experienced team can improve your chances of securing a more substantial claim after a wrong-way accident. We have extensive experience in handling these claims, including negotiating with insurance companies and other legal teams.
Here’s how we can help in a wrong way car accident claim:
- Legal experience and guidance – Our lawyers have a deep understanding of California’s personal injury laws, navigating the legal process, and putting together a strong case on your behalf.
- Damage assessment – A key to your claim is the extent of your damages. We have the ability to evaluate the entirety of your losses, making sure you pursue fair compensation.
- Negotiations – Our team is skilled in effective negotiations with insurance companies, aiming to maximize the value of your claim.
- Legal representation – In case it becomes necessary, we will represent you in court, diligently working to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
While hiring a lawyer isn’t required, our expertise can be invaluable in pursuing a more substantial settlement. We are here to guide you through the legal process, safeguard your rights, and simply make the process easier on you.
Determining Liability in Wrong Way Accidents in Turlock
In many instances, wrong way accidents in Turlock result from driver negligence. If you can show that the other driver is responsible for the accident due to their failure to exercise reasonable care while driving, you’ll be able to establish their liability.
Similar to any other car accident, liability hinges on showing negligence. Negligence, in general terms, encompasses four key elements that must be satisfied:
- The other driver’s duty of care.
- A breach of that duty by the other driver.
- You or another driver suffering an injury.
- Providing evidence that the other driver’s breach of duty was the direct cause of the injury (referred to as the “proximate cause”).
Even if you can prove that the other driver was at fault for the wrong-way accident due to their negligence, California’s legal framework sets specific conditions for the compensation you can receive. In California, the state follows a “comparative negligence” system, where the amount of compensation you can recover is reduced based on your degree of fault in the accident.
In simple terms, if it’s determined that you were 20% at fault in the accident, your potential compensation will be reduced by that same percentage. However, this ultimately rests on the available evidence.
What Evidence Can You Use in a Turlock Wrong Way Accident Claim?
Depending on the circumstances, there will be a variety of different types of evidence available in your Turlock wrong way accident. This will include reports of the incident, records, and other important things available that you can use to strengthen your claim:
- Eyewitness accounts – Statements from witnesses who saw the accident occur can be invaluable. They can provide an objective account of what transpired.
- Photographs and videos – Visual evidence such as photographs and videos of the accident scene can help establish the conditions at the time of the crash. This can include damage to vehicles, skid marks, road signs, and traffic conditions.
- Medical records – If you or anyone involved in the accident suffered injuries, medical records documenting those injuries and the treatment received are critical. They demonstrate the extent of harm caused by the accident.
- Accident reconstruction – Sometimes, accident reconstruction experts are employed to recreate the accident scenario based on available evidence. This can help establish fault and liability.
- Vehicle maintenance and inspection records – If a vehicle’s mechanical failure contributed to the accident, maintenance and inspection records can be used as evidence.
- Traffic violations – If the wrong-way driver was found to be in violation of traffic laws, records of these violations can support your claim.
- Witness testimonies – Statements from people who can testify to the at-fault party’s negligent or reckless behavior, such as driving under the influence, speeding, or distracted driving, can be crucial.
- Phone records – If there was any relevant communication, such as phone records or text messages, it may be used to establish the state of mind or actions of the parties involved.
- Expert opinions – Expert witnesses, such as medical professionals or accident reconstruction specialists, can provide their opinions on the case, which can be influential in court.
- Your own testimony – Your own account of the accident is also important. Be sure to provide a clear and consistent statement of what you experienced.
- Insurance and financial records – Documentation of insurance policies, claims, and financial losses resulting from the accident can help calculate the damages you are entitled to.
No matter what evidence is available, our team can help you in gathering it and then presenting it to either an insurance company in a claim or to a judge and jury in a personal injury lawsuit. Both options allow you to seek “damages,” which is the main way you can recover compensation from the responsible party.
Damages in a Turlock Wrong Way Accident Claim
Wrong way accidents can result from a wide range of causes, but their severity is undeniable. Thus, when you file your claim, you can potentially recover the following damages:
- Past and future medical expenses as a result of the accident.
- Past and future income losses linked to the accident.
- Compensation for any permanent disfigurement, disability, or a combination of both.
- Damages for pain and suffering arising from the accident and injuries.
- Reimbursement for the loss of the ability to enjoy a normal life.
- Coverage for funeral and burial costs, along with other significant damages in cases of wrongful death.
Under certain circumstances, punitive damages may be permitted, particularly if the accident and injuries were caused by a driver who was excessively negligent.
Skilled Turlock Wrong Way Accident Lawyers Can Help You
If you’ve been hurt in a head-on collision or another accident caused by a driver going the wrong way on a road or street in Turlock, reach out to Maison Law as soon as possible. During your first free meeting, we will listen to your concerns and give you honest answers.
Moreover, if you decide to hire us to represent you or your family, we are committed to seeking the highest possible compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact us today to set up your free consultation.
