El Centro Car Accident Lawyer with More Than 20 Years of Experience
Car, motorcycle and truck accidents happen every day throughout El Centro, Imperial County and the surrounding Southern California communities. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, your injuries could result in major hospital bills, lost time from work, rehabilitation therapy and costly medicines or equipment. The uncertainty of how you are going to make ends meet after an accident can be stressful. Many injuries are substantially life-changing. Insurance companies often try to minimize the extent of your injuries, so it is important to work with an experienced attorney who knows how to negotiate — and litigate when necessary — to get the maximum compensation for your injuries, medical bills and pain and suffering.
You do not have to face these insurance companies or negligent drivers alone. Here at the Law Offices of Chris Yturralde, I have been practicing personal injury law for my clients for more than 20 years. In those years, I have come to learn what it takes to negotiate with big insurance companies for your behalf. Schedule a free initial consultation with me today.
What Causes Most Car Accidents In Imperial County?
Understanding why crashes happen can help you protect your rights after an accident. The most common causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting, eating or adjusting controls)
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Running red lights and stop signs
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Encountering poor road conditions and inadequate signage
You need a lawyer who can assist you, whatever the cause of the accident may be.
Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents I Handle
No matter what type of collision you’ve been involved in, I fight to protect your rights and recover full compensation. My firm handles:
- Car-on-car collisions
- Rear-end and head-on crashes
- Motorcycle accidents
- Truck and 18-wheeler accidents
- Hit-and-run accidents
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist accidents
Do not hesitate to call my office to discuss your situation with me.
What A Car Accident Can Cost You
A serious car accident can turn your life upside down in seconds. Beyond the initial shock and pain, you may face:
- Permanent nerve damage
- Loss of vision
- Loss of limb
- Loss of motor skills or other bodily function
- Death
Any of these injuries can cost you dearly in terms of hospital bills, physical therapy, prescription costs, loss of income, and even the pain and suffering you experienced.
Despite everything an accident can cost you, the at-fault driver’s insurer is not likely to just offer you a settlement to match that loss. Like any business, insurance companies are out to make money, which means that they will try to pay you as little as possible. I’m prepared to negotiate for your best possible compensation and take your case to court if they will not offer you fair compensation.
California Law Sets A Strict Deadline To File
California generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against private parties. However, if a public or government entity is involved, you must present a formal administrative claim within six months.
Frequently Asked Questions
After a car accident, you likely have questions about your rights and options. Here are answers to some of the most common concerns I hear from clients in El Centro and Imperial County:
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. Even if you share some blame for the accident, you can still recover damages. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your total damages.
What if the other driver was uninsured?
You still have options. If you carry uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy, you can file a claim through your insurance. I help clients navigate these claims and fight to make sure their own insurance company treats them fairly.
Schedule A Free Consultation With A Car Accident Attorney Today
After an accident, it is common for a victim to be told that they can settle things without an attorney. Insurers say this to get away with paying you less than you deserve for your injuries. I can help you hold those responsible accountable for their actions and make sure that you receive the best possible compensation for your injuries.
When you need a compassionate California attorney to represent you, contact my office today. Call me at 760-235-4480 to schedule your free initial consultation with an attorney you can trust to fight for your needs when you need it most. Se Habla Espanol.