Car Accidents

Wear Trial Law represents people injured in car collisions throughout Marin, Sonoma, San Francisco, Alameda, and Solano Counties. Most claims must be filed within two years, and claims involving a public entity carry far shorter deadlines. Consultations are free and there is no attorney’s fee unless there is a recovery.

What to do after a collision

1. Get medical attention, even if you feel able to walk away. Adrenaline masks injury, and a gap in treatment is the first thing an insurer will use.
2. Report the collision and obtain the report number.
3. Photograph everything — vehicle positions, damage, the roadway, skid marks, signage, and your injuries.
4. Get names and numbers of witnesses. They disperse within minutes and are almost impossible to find later.
5. Notify your own insurer, and say only what is factually required.
6. Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer before speaking with an attorney.

Insurance issues that decide these cases

Underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage. California’s minimum liability limits are low relative to the cost of a serious injury. Your own UM/UIM coverage frequently matters more than the at-fault driver’s policy, and there are notice requirements that can forfeit it if missed.

Medical payments coverage can cover early treatment regardless of fault.

Liens. Health insurers, Medi-Cal, Medicare, and hospitals may assert reimbursement rights against a recovery. Handling liens properly is often the difference between a good gross settlement and a disappointing net.

What we look for on liability

Traffic collision reports and any supplemental investigation. Scene and vehicle photographs. Event data recorder downloads where available. Cell phone records where distraction is suspected. Nearby business and residential camera footage — which is typically overwritten within days. Roadway design or maintenance records where a public entity’s condition may have contributed.

Call 415-233-9688 for a free consultation.