San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyer
San Bernardino Car Accident Attorney
Car accidents happen every day in San Bernardino and throughout the state, sometimes with life-changing effects for those involved. Car accidents are one of the most reported causes of accidental injuries and deaths in the United States each year. Each state has its own laws governing auto insurance and liability for car accident damages, and every victim will experience a unique recovery process. A San Bernardino car accident lawyer can help.
If you or a loved one recently experienced a car accident in the San Bernardino area, the first things you must do to recover as fully as possible are to identify the party responsible and find legal counsel you can trust.
Experienced Legal Representation for San Bernardino, CA, Car Accident Claims
The attorneys at Easton & Easton provide client-focused legal counsel to victims of personal injuries in San Bernardino and surrounding communities. Our firm is dedicated to providing support and peace of mind to those who need it most.
The aftermath of any car accident can be very difficult to navigate without an experienced attorney on your side, and we are prepared to develop a tailored legal strategy to pursue full compensation for your losses.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in San Bernardino
Every driver has a responsibility to operate their vehicle safely and heed traffic signals, speed limits, and all applicable traffic laws. Safe driving requires understanding the vehicle’s controls and the physical act of driving, but also the ability to anticipate other drivers’ actions. Defensive and attentive driving can significantly reduce your chances of causing an accident, but it isn’t possible for any driver to accurately predict the actions of others around them 100% of the time.
Accidents happen for many reasons, but if another driver is clearly at fault for your recent collision, you have the right to seek accountability. Some of the most common causes of accidents that lead to civil claims in San Bernardino include:
- Distracted driving, the leading cause of all motor vehicle accidents in the United States. A few seconds of inattentive driving is more than enough to cause a devastating accident. Likewise, cell phone use while driving, cognitive distractions, and anything that diverts the driver from safe operation of their vehicle can easily cause a serious accident. Tragically, 3,275 people lost their lives in 2023 due to distracted driving.
- Speeding, which not only increases the chances of an accident happening but also the severity of the resulting damage. Speeding is a major contributing factor to fatal car accidents throughout the country, and many victims who survive high-speed crashes suffer catastrophic injuries.
- Moving violations, or any failure to acknowledge posted traffic signals, warning signs, or failing to navigate traffic patterns correctly. Stop signs, traffic lights, turning lane indicators, and many other signs exist to help drivers anticipate the actions of nearby drivers and maintain a steady, safe flow of traffic.
- Vehicle malfunctions and defects, which may implicate manufacturers under California’s product liability laws. If an unreasonably dangerous and/or defective product causes a personal injury, the victim has the right to seek accountability from the manufacturer.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will lead to criminal prosecution of the defendant alongside the victim’s civil claim for damages. Penalties for DUI typically include fines, jail time, and driver’s license suspension.
No matter how your recent car accident happened, the first step in recovering compensation is proving fault. This is easier in some cases than others, and it is possible for more than one party, including the plaintiff, to share fault for an accident.
Proving Liability for a Car Accident
California upholds a fault rule when it comes to resolving car accidents and their resulting damages. Proving fault is essential for all the recovery efforts you are likely to pursue after your accident in San Bernardino, specifically your auto insurance claim against the other driver and your personal injury claim if insurance alone can’t cover your losses.
Most car accident claims in San Bernardino involve negligence. If this applies in your case, you must prove the at-fault driver owed you a duty of care, failed to uphold that duty of care, and directly caused the accident in question.
Intentional Misconduct
When a car accident results from intentional misconduct like DUI, the at-fault driver will likely be taken into police custody, and the victim is likely to have many pressing legal questions about their situation. An experienced San Bernardino car accident attorney can provide valuable guidance concerning how the defendant’s illegal misconduct could influence your final recovery.
For example, the judge who handles the defendant’s sentencing in criminal court may include restitution to the victim as part of the defendant’s other penalties, and a civil court judge could award a personal injury plaintiff punitive damages to reflect the severity of the defendant’s misconduct.
Pure Comparative Negligence
One important variable to consider if you are planning to file any civil claim for damages is the state’s pure comparative negligence law. This law allows a plaintiff to recover compensation for their damages even if they are partially at fault for causing them.
For example, if you are found 10% at fault in a $200,000 claim, you would lose 10% of the final case award or $20,000 to reflect your comparative fault. Therefore, your San Bernardino car accident attorney will be a crucial asset if the defendant in your claim attempts to assert comparative fault to protect themselves.
The attorneys at Easton & Easton have the resources you need on your side to establish liability for the damage another driver caused. We can consult witnesses, such as medical doctors or even accident reconstruction consultants, if necessary, to establish fault for your damages. In addition, our firm can streamline your initial insurance claim before you proceed with a personal injury action, so you can achieve a more robust recovery for your losses.
What to Do Following a Car Accident
Collisions in San Bernardino are more common than you may think. In 2023, 15,118 people were injured or killed in automobile collisions. The aftermath of a car crash in Del Rosa, Arrowhead Farms, Kendall Hills, and other areas of San Bernardino can be chaotic. Your first priority should be to call 911 so police and EMS can respond to the scene of the collision, assist anyone who is injured, and document the scene.
Even if you believe that you are not seriously hurt, allow paramedics to examine you for injuries.
Take photos of the collision scene and, if possible, gather contact information from potential eyewitnesses. These and other forms of evidence can prove crucial for establishing fault and liability.
If you do not require urgent medical attention at St. Bernardine Medical Center, Community Hospital of San Bernardino, or another hospital, schedule a full medical examination as soon as possible. Seeking prompt treatment can both protect your health and document the harm you suffered. Once you are safely recovering, consider speaking with a lawyer who can review your options for securing fair compensation from the negligent driver.
How Can I Be Compensated?
Injuries that result from another person’s negligence or misconduct may be eligible for an injury claim that seeks compensation from that at-fault party. A settlement can help injured victims recover the compensation they need to pay for medical bills and other damages.
Many injury claims focus on the at-fault party’s insurance carrier. After a collision, the injured party may file a claim with the driver’s liability insurer. A successful claim could cover medical costs, lost income, and other related losses. Insurance companies often review medical records, police reports, and other evidence before deciding whether to offer a settlement.
If an insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, the injured party may file a civil claim in court. Civil claims are often resolved through negotiated settlements, though some cases may ultimately go before a judge or jury to determine liability and award damages when negotiations fail.
Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
Attempting to secure compensation from a driver or insurance carrier without legal representation could lead to unfavorable outcomes. Insurance companies are in the business of making profits, and they may try to downplay your injury or offer you far less than what you are owed. When you hire a car accident lawyer, you gain the support of a legal advocate who cares about the outcome of your claim.
Your San Bernardino car accident attorney can manage your car accident by gathering compelling evidence that builds a strong claim to compensation. Injury lawyers understand California’s car accident laws and how to meet the burden of proof that is needed to show that the other party caused the collision and, therefore, is liable for the harm they cause.
Attorneys are skilled litigators and seasoned negotiators who can initiate direct talks with the at-fault party’s insurer or file a claim in court seeking full compensation for the harm you endured. If the defendant disputes liability, your attorney can take decisive action to remind the insurance carrier or court who is really at fault by focusing on the evidence and facts of the case.
Client Testimonials
Our firm has an average rating of 4.9 stars. Here are actual testimonials by our former clients.
After my own car accident, I experienced firsthand the care, dedication, and professionalism my husband, Aaron Sinfield, brings to every case at Easton & Easton. From the very beginning, he was attentive and knowledgeable, guiding me through each step with clarity and confidence.
Linda S.
I appreciate the services of Easton & Easton because they were timely in returning my calls and emails, they were truthful, and they followed through with each and every task. I was able to trust my case in their expert hands.
Lisa L.
As a past client of this firm, I can attest that they are AMAZING!! Travis Easton was able to settle with the other driver and then get me additional money through my own Underinsured Motorist Coverage. I am so grateful for the work they did for me!
*Client testimonials reflect individual experiences and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Filing Your Auto Insurance Claim in San Bernardino
Every driver must have auto insurance that includes at least $15,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person, with a minimum of $30,000 in total bodily injury liability coverage for all persons injured in an accident. In addition, minimum coverage policies must provide at least $5,000 in property damage liability coverage to cover vehicle repair costs.
When a driver causes an accident, the injured driver has the right to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy. The insurance company is legally required to investigate the claim in good faith and honor the terms of its policies. Unfortunately, many car accident victims in San Bernardino and throughout the state experienced unexpected problems with their car insurance claims, including unreasonable delays, lowball settlement offers, and unfair rejections.
Damages You Can Include in Your Personal Injury Claim
If you have Easton & Easton represent your recovery efforts after a car accident in San Bernardino, our team will help you draft your initial demand letter to the insurance company, making sure they respond appropriately to your claim. If any disputes arise, we will handle these issues on your behalf until you receive a suitable settlement offer.
It’s important to remember that even if you have a relatively easy time securing an insurance claim payout, there is no guarantee the settlement will completely cover your damage. In this situation, you may proceed with a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.
California law provides broad flexibility to personal injury plaintiffs regarding the damages they may recover in their civil claims. You can seek full compensation for all economic losses you and your family have sustained due to the defendant’s actions. For example, most car accident claims filed in San Bernardino seek compensation for economic damage, such as:
- Medical treatment costs. Many car accidents result in traumatic injuries that demand immediate medical attention. Spinal injuries, internal organ damage, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and many other injuries are all possible in a serious accident, and many victims sustain multiple serious injuries. The defendant is responsible for all medical expenses you incur as a result of the accident they caused.
- Long-term health care expenses. Unfortunately, many car accidents cause permanent damage to those involved. When a victim requires extensive ongoing medical care after their initial recovery, the defendant is responsible for these expenses as well. Rehabilitation, ongoing physical and/or occupational therapy, required medical devices, prescription costs, and any other ongoing medical treatment costs are the defendant’s responsibility.
- Property damage, such as vehicle repair costs and any property inside the victim’s vehicle that was destroyed in the accident. The defendant’s insurance may cover some of this damage, and all outstanding property losses can be included in the plaintiff’s personal injury action.
- Lost income. A car accident could leave the victim unable to work while their injuries heal. The defendant is liable for the victim’s lost wages during this time, including reimbursement for the value of any paid time off the victim was compelled to use during their initial recovery. For example, if your injuries were severe enough that you were unable to work for two months and you were forced to take a medical leave of absence, a good attorney can potentially help you secure two months’ worth of lost wages from the defendant who caused your injuries.
- Lost future income. Some catastrophic injuries leave victims completely unable to work and support themselves. If you are left permanently disabled by your accident, your San Bernardino car accident attorney can help you calculate the income you would have reasonably expected to earn until retirement and hold the defendant responsible for your lost earning potential.
Engage an Attorney
Once you have an experienced San Bernardino car accident attorney working on your case, you will be far more likely to accurately calculate all your claimable immediate and long-term economic damage. However, this will not be the end of your recovery when you have the right attorney handling your case.
State law enables the plaintiff in a personal injury action to claim pain and suffering compensation for the physical pain and mental anguish caused by the defendant’s actions. Your San Bernardino car accident attorney can help you determine a suitable figure based on the severity of your condition following the accident.
There is no limit to the amount of pain and suffering compensation a plaintiff can claim from a defendant as long as they can make a compelling case that their desired compensation is justifiable in light of their condition.
What to Expect From a San Bernardino Car Accident Attorney
It can be incredibly daunting to face the aftermath of a car accident. Painful injuries and vehicle repair costs compound with lost income and extended recovery time to create a very challenging financial situation for the victim and their family.
This desperation compels many car accident victims to accept lowball insurance claim settlement offers, essentially giving up substantial compensation they are legally allowed to recover. Some victims of car accidents mistakenly believe that legal representation is unaffordable or that taking legal action wouldn’t yield results worth the cost of pursuing their claim.
Choose Our Team
When you choose Easton & Easton to represent you after another driver has injured you in a car accident, we’ll begin building your case by reviewing the details of how your accident happened and who is responsible.
Regardless of the clarity of liability for the accident, our firm is fully equipped to gather any evidence you need to prove the truth of your experience. We can secure traffic camera records, vehicle computer records, the defendant’s cell phone data, eyewitness statements, and various other forms of evidence to support your case.
Our goal in every personal injury claim we represent is to help our client recover as fully as state law allows. We know you are likely to have many questions regarding your impending recovery efforts, and we want to help you approach this difficult situation with peace of mind. The sooner you secure reliable legal counsel to assist you with your claim, the more likely you are to secure the results you want for your accident.
Car Accident Lawyer FAQs
Do I Really Need to Hire a San Bernardino Car Accident Attorney?
There is no legal requirement to hire legal counsel to assist in your recovery efforts after a car accident. However, your recovery is likely to entail an auto insurance claim and a legal claim if you sustain serious losses. While it may technically be possible to manage your own recovery efforts after your accident, you always have the strongest chance of achieving favorable results with reliable legal counsel on your side.
How Much Compensation Can I Receive for a Car Accident Claim?
State law enables you to seek full repayment of all the economic damage the at-fault driver caused. You can secure some initial recovery through a claim against their auto insurance policy, but if this isn’t enough to cover the full amount of your losses, you can proceed with a personal injury claim to recover the rest.
Your San Bernardino car accident attorney can provide an estimate of the total compensation you could receive if you succeed with your recovery efforts, and the right attorney handling your claim will significantly increase your chances of success.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a San Bernardino Car Accident Attorney?
If you are concerned about the potential cost of hiring an attorney when you are already struggling with the economic impact of your accident, legal counsel you can trust may be more accessible and affordable than you initially assumed. The attorneys at Easton & Easton accept personal injury cases on a contingency basis.
Therefore, there are no upfront legal fees, and there is no cost for our representation if we do not secure compensation on your behalf. The contingency fee is a percentage of the final case award.
Can a Driver Go to Jail for Causing a Car Accident Injury?
If a driver causes an accident through an honest mistake or simple negligence, it would be unlikely for them to face prosecution unless they caused extreme or fatal injuries. However, if the defendant acted intentionally, if their behavior exceeded the scope of typical negligence, or if they were directly involved in illegal misconduct at the time of the crash, they could face a wide range of criminal charges.
For example, if a drunk driver caused your accident, they would face a DUI charge from the state and your civil claim for damages.
How Soon Should I Hire a San Bernardino Car Accident Attorney?
It is always smart to secure legal counsel you can trust as soon as possible after your accident. You have a very limited time to file an auto insurance claim after an accident, and working with a reliable attorney will significantly increase your chances of reaching a suitable response to your claim. Additionally, if you must file a personal injury claim, it is always a good idea to start building your case as soon as possible.
Contact a Trusted Car Accident Attorney Today
Easton & Easton has the experience necessary to handle the toughest car accident claims in San Bernardino. Whether you know another driver is definitely to blame for your recent crash, or you have concerns about bearing partial liability, our firm can provide the individualized legal counsel you need to have the strongest chance of success with your recovery efforts.
To explore your options for legal recourse with the help of an experienced and compassionate San Bernardino car accident attorney, contact Easton & Easton. Schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist in your recovery.
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The superior client service Easton & Easton provides has earned the firm an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Easton & Easton is honored to have been chosen anew each year since 2014 by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers as one of the "Best Law Firms" for the Southern California Metro Area.
Easton & Easton is honored to have been chosen by OC Register Voters as "The Best Law Firm in Orange County” each year since voting began in 2022.
Doug, Brian, and Matt Easton have all been selected as Top 100 Trial Lawyers for California by the National Trial Lawyers — a membership organization limited to less than 1% of attorneys.
Doug, Brian, Matt, Travis and Gabe have each been selected to "Best Lawyers" for Plaintiff's Personal Injury Litigation. Best Lawyers selects the Top 5% of attorneys based on peer voting and client reviews.
We were recently honored for our efforts in securing a $32,000,000 settlement for our client, which was selected as the #1 Bicycle Accident Settlement in California in 2024 by TopVerdict.com.
Doug, Brian, and Matt Easton have each been selected by Super Lawyers, an honor given to less than 5% of attorneys. Travis, Gabe and Brenda have all been selected among Super Lawyers’ Rising Stars in Southern California.
Easton & Easton was recently honored for securing a $26,000,000 settlement for our client, which was selected as a Top 10 Personal Injury Settlement in California in 2023 by TopVerdict.com.
Easton & Easton received the “People Love Us On Yelp” award in 2016 due to the exceptional client satisfaction reviews given by our clients over the years.
Easton & Easton was recently honored for securing a $32,000,000 settlement for our client, which was selected as one of the Top 20 Personal Injury Settlements in the entire United States in 2024 by TopVerdict.com.
Brian, Matt, and Travis Easton have each earned lifetime appointment to the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum — The Top Trial Lawyers in America™ through the results achieved for their clients (an honor given to less than 1% of attorneys in the United States).
Doug Easton has held the “AV Preeminent” Rating for over 30 years and Matt Easton received this prestigious distinction in 2015. The "AV Preeminent" rating is the highest possible rating for both legal ability and ethical standards, and is based on the legal profession’s oldest peer review rating system, dating back to 1887.
We were recently honored for securing a $26,000,000 settlement for our client, which was selected as a the #1 Personal Injury Settlement in Los Angeles County in 2023 by TopVerdict.com.
Brian Easton was selected to the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) in 2015. ABOTA is one of the most premier associations of trial attorneys and judges, requiring a certain number of jury trials as lead counsel and approval by a majority vote of the ABOTA board.
Matt, Travis, Gabe and Brenda have all been selected at some point as one of the Top 40 Trial Lawyers Under 40 for California by The National Trial Lawyers — an honor given to less than 1% of attorneys.
Easton & Easton was honored for securing a $20,000,000 settlement for our client, which was selected as one of the Top 10 Personal Injury Settlements in the entire United States in 2019 by TopVerdict.com.
Both Doug and Matt Easton have been selected as Top Personal Injury Attorneys by Avvo with scores of 10 out of 10 based on their skill, experience, results, peer evaluations, and client reviews.
Easton & Easton was honored to have been chosen by the LA Times Reader's Choice Poll as "The Best Personal Injury Law Firm in Orange County" for 2018-2020 (each year the voting took place).
We were recently honored for our efforts in securing a $1,850,000 verdict for a client, which was selected as one of the Top 50 Personal Injury Verdicts in California in 2016 by TopVerdict.com.
Awards/recognitions noted are from organizations recognized within the legal profession as bona fide.
No purchase was required for selection. Selection methodologies available upon request.
“We look for the human story behind every injury or wrongful death. We prepare our cases for trial; reaching out to the jury with the most compelling evidence possible for the best verdict possible. Insurance companies know this and come to the table prepared to negotiate in good faith. Call us to see how we can turn your story into fair compensation.”
Partner W. Douglas Easton
What Our Clients Say
“Client testimonials reflect individual experiences; results vary. No guarantee of outcome.”
Coming out of my first auto accident as an adult, a very difficult and scary time to navigate and understand, I was so incredibly thankful to have been put in contact with Easton & Easton. I honestly was lost with how to handle paperwork, doctors, medical costs and what next steps were, and from the moment I spoke with Travis Easton and my case manager Katie, my mind was put at ease. They have made the entire process stress free for me as I recovered, and I am so grateful for them and their genuine care for my case. Communication from the start has been fantastic, especially making clear what my expectations for the entire process would look like, and I truly believe they have my best interest at heart. 100% I would recommend their firm for anyone that is needing representation! Read more…
My experience with Easton & Easton has been amazing! Gabriel Mendoza and my case manager Katie have been so helpful and taken so much stress off my plate. They’ve been super informative and honest and given me very clear expectations. They’ve taken such a terrible experience (my accident) and eased my mind about the outcome. I can’t thank them enough!! Read more…
Ive used them twice and never been disappointed. Read more…
The Easton & Easton Law Firm is amazing! The entire team is very helpful and caring. They were always there to answer all my questions. They directed me through the entire process and stayed with me every step of the way. This team is outstanding and were wonderful to work with. Because of the tremendous effort they put on my case they were able to win my difficult personal injury case. I couldn’t have asked for a better law firm to handle my case. They are the Best! Thank you for your patience, professionalism, & guidance! I definitely recommend this firm to handle your case. They go out of their way to fight for your rights. THANK YOU… Read more…
I could not be more pleased with the services provided by the Law Offices of W. Douglas Easton. The senior partner Mr. Easton took the time to meet with me and my wife while I was still in the hospital, where he gave my family hope that there was light at the end of a very long, and very dark tunnel. Matt Easton then worked my case, and because of his dedication, experience and expertise I received a settlement that was larger than I EVER thought possible. It was truly astounding! Matt and the entire team at Easton & Easton looked out for me throughout my recovery, and in the end they gave me my life back. Five stars is not enough. Thanks Matt! Thanks Easton & Easton! Read more…
Brian and everyone at Easton and Easton are simply the BEST at what they do. Brian is thorough, easy to talk to, and truly cares about his clients. If you want a family of attorneys with perseverance and determination to fight for you, give Easton and Easton a call. I am glad I did. Read more…
What an amazing law firm, talk about going above and beyond to make such a painful experience go so well. I have referred a co-worker and a family member to them as well and everyone had such a great experience as I had. Read more…
I can’t say enough amazing things about my experience with Travis Easton at Easton & Easton. Travis and his entire team (Katie, Amy, Dee, Michelle, & Araceli) are phenomenal. It provided me a lot of comfort to know I was being so well taken care of. I was especially impressed that every document for the case was perfectly written and specific to me. Nothing was generic, which shows the level of care and attention they put into each individual case. I had such a great experience and would highly recommend Travis Easton and his firm to anyone going through a personal injury. Travis took a bad situation and made the best of it for me. Thank you again, I’m forever grateful!!
-Allee
Retaining Easton and Easton was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! From the initial consultation to our final meeting, they were nothing short of exceptional. I was forced to retain their services after firing my previous attorney for not handling the case properly. I dealt with Gabriel and Brian (partner) exclusively throughout the case. They did as promised and were great communicators throughout the entire process. I will recommend them to anyone I know going through a personal injury case. They were ultimately able to untangle the mess caused by my previous lawyer and get a result that I was extremely happy with. Their staff is exceptional as well and provided top notch customer service. Amera was also extremely helpful and easy to deal with as well.
I was in a pretty bad car accident and decided to have Easton & Easton represent me, Travis Easton to be specific. Travis Easton and his paralegal made the whole process effortless. They were so understanding and helpful! The entire thing was a gigantic mess, yet Travis managed to make it run like clockwork. I would HIGHLY recommend Easton & Easton! If you are ever in need of a personal defense attorney Easton & Easton is the firm to represent you!
They are the best law firm in Orange County period. Choosing them to represent me was the best decision of my life.
My life changed in a matter of seconds after a catastrophic spinal cord injury that left me disabled. Brian Easton and his team worked on my case non stop for 3 years and provided me the justice I deserved. I couldn’t have been more content.
I was treated with utmost respect and I felt like I was being represented by a close family member. The responses to my questions were quick and clear. What E & E has done for me is phenomenal.
My sincere thanks to Brian, Matt, Travis, Doug, Gabriel and Amera. They are what they are because of their dedication to provide high quality and professional service to their clients.
Brian Easton and his team, Gabe Mendoza and Amera Hajali, helped me during a very difficult time in my life. I had a significant injury from a car accident, and wound up seeking out Easton & Easton when I was having difficulties getting help from my doctors. The Easton team took a lot of stress off of me while acting as my advocates to help me get the care I needed, and saw my case all the way through to a healthy settlement.
They are the BEST!
I have nothing but good things to say about Easton and Easton. Brian handled my case professionally and communicated with me effectively throughout the process. He made sure that the process was effortless and as hands free as possible. This was super important for my busy schedule. I highly recommend Easton and Easton if you are ever found in a situation that you need an attorney.
I would highly recommend Easton & Easton.
I was rear ended on my home and pushed into a semi-truck. I was not sure how to go about even using an attorney.
Brian, Gab and Amera were so good about helping me thru the process and representing me.
I was able to concentrate on getting myself better knowing they had my back, taking care of the details and keeping me informed along the way
The best Law firm by far. I would highly recommend Easton & Easton, LLP and ask for Gabriel Mendoza and staff. He and his colleagues did and exceptional service. Thank you for everything. Job well done!
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