SAN DIEGO PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS

What This Page Covers:

• Critical Steps After an Accident: The aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming; critical actions like taking photographs, avoiding discussions with insurance companies, particularly recorded statements, and being cautious of surveillance are pivotal to protecting your rights.
• Legal Timeframes in San Diego: Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial; typically, you have two years to file a personal injury claim in California, but exceptions exist, making timely consultation with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney imperative.
• Establishing Liability: Successfully proving negligence involves demonstrating duty of care, breach of that duty, and direct causation of injuries. 
• Jassim Law: With over 20 years of experience, Jassim Law offers unparalleled legal representation for personal injury cases in San Diego. They prioritize client well-being and tirelessly pursue justice on their behalf.

Nobody expects to be injured in a sudden accident, and victims are typically unprepared to contend with the aftermath. Frequently, accident victims suffer life-altering injuries that take a physical, emotional, and financial toll on their lives. These issues are even more challenging if someone else’s negligent actions caused your accident. If you suffered a personal injury in San Diego, California, an experienced personal injury attorney in San Diego can help you pursue the justice you are entitled to.

At Jassim Law, our injury attorneys have over 20 years of experience helping personal injury victims in San Diego fight for justice and hold negligent parties accountable for the harm they have caused. Attorney Jassim offers exceptional legal representation and will take the stress of complex legal process and professional insurance adjusters off your shoulders as you heal and recover. When you retain our services, you can rest assured that your case is in the caring hands of a dedicated legal professional, with a proven track record of success. Just read our reviews from real recent clients.

Steps to Take to Protect Your Rights After a Personal Injury Accident in San Diego

While the moments and days after an accident can be confusing and overwhelming, the actions you take during this critical time can significantly impact the outcome of your case. To protect your rights, interests, and the total value of your claim, it is essential to take the following steps:

Take Photographs

Photos taken at the accident scene can serve as critical evidence and may help establish liability for your accident. If you are injured in a car accident, take pictures of the scene, any damaged property (such as your or the other parties’ vehicles), and the injuries you or your loved ones sustained.

Avoid Talking About Your Case or Signing Paperwork

Shortly after your accident, you may be contacted by the insurance company to give a recorded statement or sign a settlement offer. You are under no obligation to give a recorded statement to any insurance company, including your own. 

However, insurance companies use these tactics to deny and devalue claims, mischaracterize and distort your statements to use against you later. Remember, insurance companies want to protect their money. 

Often, insurance companies attempt to offer victims the lowest amount possible for their injuries, before you have the opportunity to hire a San Diego personal injury lawyer, and even innocent remarks will be used and distorted against you. Before speaking with the insurance company, make sure you have a personal injury attorney in San Diego on your side.

Be Aware of Surveillance

Insurance companies will typically hire a private investigator to manipulate video and photos in an attempt to mischaracterize your injuries as less severe than you claim. 

While not everyone is observed by a private investigator, they may be watching you without your knowledge. With this in mind, it is safe to assume you may be watched. While this does not mean you need to live in fear and stay inside, it is vital to your safety and your claim not to overextend yourself and to follow your doctor’s orders.

Close or Privatize Your Social Media

These days, our lives are publicly displayed on sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, and the like. Following an accident, the insurance company will likely investigate your social media accounts as part of your case. They will attempt to “friend” you innocuously, it is best to close down or privatize social media, do not post about your accident, injuries, or treatments. 

Photos, posts, comments, events, and places you’ve visited or plan to visit will all be scrutinized and used against you to distort the truth and tell a misleading and false story. For example, the insurance company may claim that you were able to go to the movies, and dinner – therefore, you are not very injured and your life is normal, even though these activities were painful, and uncomfortable for you. 

Be careful never to post about your case online, and avoid accepting friend or follow requests from people you do not know. In many cases, closing or privatizing your account may be the best option to protect your rights.

Determining Fault in a Personal Injury Case

If you have been hurt in an accident through no fault of your own, it can be challenging to know whose negligence caused your injuries. Motor vehicle accidents, slip-and-falls, and other incidents often happen quickly, and you may not remember or know how it happened. 

Fortunately, our skilled lawyers at Jassim Law conduct a thorough investigation to identify a liable party and hold them accountable for their carelessness.

Burden of Proof

When filing a personal injury claim, you are responsible for proving negligence. This is called the burden of proof, and it involves presenting evidence that proves the following elements:

• Duty of Care: This is the legal duty the liable party owes to you to act with reasonable care and avoid causing injury. For example, drivers owe a duty of care to other motorists on California roads.
• Breach of Duty: The liable party breached their duty of care by acting negligently. For instance, if a driver is texting while driving and rear-ends you, they breach their duty of care by taking their attention away from the road and looking down at their phone.
• Causation: This negligence directly caused the accident and your injuries. While this is a straightforward point in many personal injury claims, it can be more complex if you have a pre-existing condition.
• Damages: Your injuries from the accident the liable party caused resulted in physical, emotional, and financial damages, such as medical bills, lost wages from missed work, and pain and suffering.

We understand it can seem challenging to prove these points, but our attentive lawyers consider every detail, build a strong claim, and work hard to take your legal burdens off your shoulders. 

Evidence

To fulfill your burden of proof as a personal injury victim, we collect and analyze evidence that helps us identify whose negligence caused your injuries. Depending on the type of accident you were involved in and the unique details of your claim, we may utilize the following information to build a strong case:

• Traffic collision reports
• Medical documentation
• Photographic evidence
• Video footage 
• Witness statements/testimony
• 911 dispatch records
• Police body cam footage
• Expert testimony
• Cell phone records
• Dashcam and surveillance camera footage
• Vehicle Event Data Recorder (“black box”) data

Even if you feel fine after suffering injuries due to another party’s negligence, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Doing so allows you to prioritize your recovery, identify any underlying conditions, and create a record of your injuries to prove their existence. Your medical records hold vital information about the severity of your injuries and their potential causes. The police report, which is an official record of the accident, also provides insight into who may be liable for the accident, which our lawyers use to strengthen your case.

With our experience, knowledge, and resources, you can trust us to interview witnesses, consult with experts, present a solid case to insurance adjusters, and give you the best chance of securing the fair settlement you deserve. If insurance companies are unwilling to offer you just compensation or both sides cannot agree on liability, Jassim Law is fully prepared to take your claim to court.

Comparative Fault

In many personal injury cases, multiple parties share responsibility for an accident. Who is at fault and percentages of fault are ultimately an issue for a jury to decide. They are not decided by the insurance company, the police, or even your lawyer! Often, the parties and their attorneys disagree on who is at fault and percentages of comparative fault. Do NOT allow an insurance company to tell you who is at fault or make this determination – it is NOT legally binding. 

In these cases, California uses a pure comparative negligence system. This rule assigns each party involved in your claim a percentage of fault, which gets deducted from their respective damages. 

For example, if you are 20% responsible for a car accident, and your claim is worth $100,000, your compensation will be reduced by 20%, and you will receive $80,000. Even if someone is 99% at fault for an accident, they can still recover damages. Based on the severity of your injuries and details of your claim, you may recover the following damages despite sharing a portion of the fault:

• Non-Economic harms (Pain and suffering)
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Physical Impairment
  • Mental suffering
  • Disfigurement
  • Emotional distress
  • Pain
  • Anxiety/Grief
  • Inconvenience
• Medical expenses (past and for the future)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation expenses
• Cost of prescription medication
• Lost wages or income (past and for the future)
• Loss of companionship
• Damages for the injury to a spouse or registered domestic partner (Loss of Consortium)
• Wrongful death damages
• Punitive damages

While this system is beneficial if you are partially responsible for an accident, insurance adjusters often use it to place an unfair portion of the blame onto victims. Our experienced lawyers at Jassim Law understand insurance adjusters’ tactics to undermine your claim and offer you a lowball settlement. We take the time to listen to your story to develop an innovative, personalized strategy to determine the liable party, prove their negligence, and hold them accountable for your injuries.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

The most significant step you can take following an accident is retaining the services of a dependable San Diego personal injury lawyer. Your lawyer should handle all aspects of your case, while you focus on your medical treatment and healing.

You should be contacting an attorney as soon as you are well enough to pick up the phone and discuss your situation, or have a loved one or family member do it. Your personal injury lawyer will speak and advocate on your behalf, will help you negotiate with insurance companies, establish liability, and guide you through the complex legal process. 

If you need help getting medical care or dealing with health insurance and medical providers, at Jassim Law, we are always proud about being dedicated to helping our clients get the best medical care – no matter whether or what type of health insurance our clients may have. At Jassim Law, our first-class personal injury attorneys are committed to fighting on your behalf so you can focus your energy on your healing and recovery. When we take your case, you can trust us to advocate aggressively for your rights and interests.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in San Diego?

When you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, time is of the essence in seeking justice. In San Diego, California, there is a specific timeframe, known as the statute of limitations, within which you must file a personal injury claim. This legal deadline varies depending on the type of accident and the injuries sustained. In California, generally, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.

However, there are exceptions to this rule, and certain circumstances may extend or shorten this timeframe. Consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney as soon as possible to make sure you are able to meet all deadlines and protect your right to compensation. Delaying action could jeopardize your ability to recover damages for your injuries and other losses.

Proving Negligence Through a Personal Injury Claim

All personal injury claims in California must meet specific requirements to establish liability successfully. To prove the other party’s negligence and pursue damages for your losses, your San Diego personal injury lawyer must demonstrate the following elements:

• The Defendant Owed You a Duty of Care: Individuals (and their employers if they are on the job when an accident occurs) in San Diego have a legal obligation to act reasonably and responsibly to prevent harm to themselves and others, known as the duty of care.
• The Defendant Breached the Duty of Care: Although the law requires individuals to act with care, it often does not stop them from behaving negligently. Common examples of negligence include disregarding traffic laws or failing to address hazards on your property.
• The Breach Caused Your Injuries and Other Damages: Finally, your attorney must prove that the defendant’s negligence directly caused your losses. Typically, accident victims suffer losses like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Establishing liability in a personal injury claim can be complex and may seem impossible to face alone after a severe accident. Believe it or not, even in the most obvious cases that should be a “slam dunk,” the insurance company or at-fault party often denies fault simply to make it more difficult for the injured person to get a fair recovery.

At Jassim Law, our San Diego personal injury attorneys are ready to take the stress of the legal process, litigation, and trial off your plate – so you can focus on getting back on your feet. We want you to sleep at night, knowing that we are awake and working on your case!

Our attorneys are committed to leaving no stone unturned as we investigate your claim and pursue the maximum compensation available on your behalf.

How Long Will It Take for My Claim to Settle or Go to Trial?

After an accident, victims are often grappling with physical, emotional, and financial challenges that leave them understandably impatient for a resolution. Understanding the timeline for settling or trying personal injury claims can provide some clarity and relief during this difficult time.

Here’s what may factor into how long your case takes to settle:

Legal Complexity and Timing

Personal injury claims vary significantly in complexity and are influenced by numerous factors, including the severity of injuries, medical treatment, liability issues, and insurance company tactics. While some cases may settle relatively quickly through negotiations, others may require more extensive investigation and even litigation and trial. We always do what is best for each particular client and case. 

Medical Treatment and Recovery

The duration of your medical treatment and recovery process will significantly impact the timeline for settling your claim. It’s imperative to prioritize your health and well-being, allowing ample time for thorough medical assessments, appropriate treatments, and ensuring all current and future medical expenses are accounted for in your claim.

Negotiations and Settlement Offers

Your attorney will negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance company to reach a fair settlement. This process can take time as both parties exchange offers and counteroffers to resolve the claim. Your attorney will advocate for your best interests and work to recover the compensation you deserve. If a fair settlement is not possible, we are always prepared to take your case to trial and let a jury decide. 

Litigation and Trial

If negotiations fail to yield a satisfactory settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit and pursuing your case in court. While litigation can prolong the process, it may be necessary to secure full compensation for your damages. Your attorney will guide you through each step of the legal process and fight tirelessly on your behalf.

What is Personal Injury Law? 

Personal injury law, also known as tort law, is a legal field that allows individuals who have been harmed by the negligence or wrongful conduct of others to seek compensation for their injuries and losses. This area of law covers a wide range of incidents, including car accidents, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, and product liability cases. The primary goal of personal injury law is to provide financial relief to the injured party to help them recover from the accident and return to their pre-accident condition as much as possible.

In a personal injury case, the injured party (plaintiff) must prove that the defendant (the party being sued) was negligent or otherwise at fault for causing the injury. This involves establishing that the defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff, breached that duty, and directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries as a result. Compensation in personal injury cases can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to navigating the complexities of these cases and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Types of Cases Our San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys Handle

Our law firm is dedicated to providing trusted and knowledgeable legal assistance to our clients as they navigate the legal system after being injured in an accident caused by another negligent party. At Jassim Law, we are proud to be able to help clients who have been involved in various types of personal injury accidents. 

Some of the personal injury cases our San Diego attorneys handle include the following:

Bicycle Accidents

Bicycling is a great way to get exercise while traveling to and from your various destinations. However, bicycle accidents are more common than one would hope and may leave victims with serious injuries due to the lack of protection offered to cyclists compared to the motor vehicles that struck them. If you were harmed in a bicycle accident, our team of San Diego personal injury attorneys can help you through each phase of the legal process while you recover from your injuries.

Bus Accidents

Eighty-eight million passenger trips are carried out by San Diego public buses each year. While you should be safe while riding a bus, there is still the chance an accident may occur. If you have suffered injuries due to a bus accident in San Diego, California, you have the right to pursue compensation. Contact our personal injury attorneys today for more information on your legal options.

Car Accidents

In the city of San Diego, it has been reported that there are nearly 20,000 car accidents that result in injury or death. Even if you are an experienced driver who follows all the road rules and regulations, you may still fall victim to a crash if another negligent party is sharing the roads with you. If you have been harmed in a car accident in San Diego, California, you have the right to pursue justice by filing a personal injury claim with the help of our trusted attorneys.

Construction Accidents

While personal injury accidents may occur virtually anywhere, there are certain situations or places where the inherent risk of an accident may be higher. One place where there is significant risk for an accident to occur is at a construction site. However, the increased risk of the potential for an accident does not eliminate one’s right to pursue justice for the injuries and losses they have suffered. Whether you are a construction worker, independent contractor, or just a passerby who was harmed at a construction site, you can get the fair compensation you are owed when you work with our team of San Diego personal injury attorneys.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Drivers must always remain focused and alert while driving a motor vehicle. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. If you were harmed due to a distracted driver in San Diego, you have the right to file a personal injury claim and pursue the justice you deserve.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Not only is it dangerous to drive while under the influence of alcohol, it is also illegal. However, despite the laws in place to prevent drivers from operating a motor vehicle while drunk, there are many more drunk driving accidents than would hope. If you were harmed due to a drunk driver in San Diego, our team of personal injury lawyers can help you get justice by filing a strong claim that will allow you to recover the damages you are owed. 

E-Bike Injuries

E-bikes have become an increasingly popular mode of transportation for commuters in California’s many cities like San Diego. Despite their popularity, there is also the risk of being injured in e-bike accidents. If you were injured in an e-bike accident, our San Diego personal injury lawyers can help you file a strong claim.

Hit-And-Run Accidents

When a person is harmed in a hit-and-run accident, they often feel helpless as they try to understand what legal options are available to them. While you may be feeling like there are no options available to you, if you were harmed in a hit-and-run in San Diego, our personal injury lawyers are able to help you build a strong claim as you pursue the fair compensation you are owed for your losses. 

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can be catastrophic for victims due to the lack of protection motorcyclists have compared to those in the cars or trucks that hit them. If you were harmed in a motorcycle accident, you may be facing serious injuries and a long road to recovery. That is why it is crucial you work with our team of San Diego personal injury lawyers to ensure you are able to get the justice you deserve.

While these are only a few of the many personal injury cases our team of experienced San Diego attorneys handle, we are prepared to help you get the justice you deserve. Contact our San Diego personal injury law firm today to learn more about how we can help with your case.

What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Do? 

A personal injury lawyer provides essential legal assistance to individuals who have been injured due to the negligence or wrongful conduct of others. Here’s how a personal injury lawyer can help you:

• Case Evaluation: Your lawyer will evaluate the details of your case to determine if you have a valid claim. They will review evidence, medical records, and other relevant information.
• Legal Advice: Personal injury lawyers provide legal advice on the best course of action, helping you understand your rights and the potential value of your claim.
• Investigation: They conduct thorough investigations to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case to prove liability and damages.
• Negotiation: Lawyers negotiate with insurance companies and the opposing party to reach a fair settlement. They aim to maximize your compensation without going to trial.
• Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your personal injury lawyer will represent you in court, presenting your case to a judge or jury to seek the compensation you deserve.
• Paperwork and Deadlines: Handling the legal paperwork and ensuring all deadlines are met can be overwhelming. Your lawyer takes care of these details so you can focus on recovery.
• Advocacy: Your lawyer acts as your advocate, fighting for your best interests at every stage of the legal process.

Hiring a personal injury lawyer can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation and alleviate the stress associated with legal proceedings.

San Diego Personal Injury FAQ 

What Should I Do Immediately After an Accident?

Immediately after an accident, prioritize your health and safety. Seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel injured. Report the accident to the authorities and gather evidence, such as photographs and witness contact information. Avoid discussing the details of the accident or admitting fault. Contact a San Diego personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in San Diego?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, exceptions may apply, which can extend or shorten this timeframe. It’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to ensure you meet all deadlines and protect your right to compensation.

What Types of Compensation Can I Receive?

Victims of personal injury may be entitled to various types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and, in some cases, punitive damages. Your attorney will help you determine the full extent of your losses and pursue appropriate compensation.

How is Negligence Proven in a Personal Injury Case?

To prove negligence, you must demonstrate that the defendant owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and directly caused your injuries as a result. This often involves gathering evidence, such as accident reports, medical records, and expert testimony, to build a strong case.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Personal Injury Claim?

While it’s possible to handle a personal injury claim on your own, having an experienced attorney significantly increases your chances of receiving fair compensation. Personal injury lawyers understand the complexities of personal injury law and can navigate negotiations and litigation effectively.

How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?

Most personal injury lawyers, including those at Jassim Law, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront fees, and your lawyer only gets paid if you win your case. This arrangement allows you to pursue justice without worrying about legal costs.

What Should I Bring to My Initial Consultation?

Bring any relevant documents to your initial consultation, such as accident reports, medical records, insurance information, and any correspondence with the insurance company. This information will help your attorney assess your case and provide accurate legal advice.

What Sets Our Attorneys Apart 

At Jassim Law, we distinguish ourselves through our commitment to excellence and client-centered approach. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Experience and Expertise: With over 20 years of experience, our attorneys have handled a wide range of personal injury cases, securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients.
• Personalized Attention: We take the time to get to know our clients and understand the unique circumstances of their cases. This personalized approach allows us to tailor our legal strategies to meet each client’s specific needs.
• Aggressive Advocacy: We are relentless in our pursuit of justice for our clients. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or litigating in court, we fight tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation for our clients.
• Compassionate Support: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can take. Our team provides compassionate support, guiding clients through the legal process and helping them focus on recovery.
• Proven Track Record: Our success speaks for itself. We have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients, as evidenced by our numerous positive reviews and testimonials.
• Client Communication: We believe in transparent and open communication. Our San Diego personal injury attorneys keep clients informed at every stage of their case, ensuring they are never left in the dark.

Your San Diego Personal Injury Legal Team 

At Jassim Law, our legal team is dedicated to providing exceptional representation for personal injury victims in San Diego. Our attorneys bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of personal injury law to every case. Led by Attorney Jassim, our team is committed to fighting for justice and securing the best possible outcomes for our clients.

We work collaboratively, leveraging our collective knowledge and skills to develop effective legal strategies. Our team takes a hands-on approach, thoroughly investigating each case and advocating aggressively on behalf of our clients. We understand the challenges injury victims face, and we are here to provide the support and guidance they need to navigate the legal process.

When you choose Jassim Law, you are choosing a team that will stand by you every step of the way, ensuring your rights are protected, and your voice is heard.

Call us now at (619) 752-2217 for a free case evaluation. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and financial relief. With Jassim Law on your side, you can trust that your case is in capable hands.

Get Your FREE Case Evaluation by San Diego’s Leading Personal Injury Attorneys

At Jassim Law, we offer a free case evaluation to help you understand your legal options and determine the best course of action. Our skilled attorneys will review the details of your case, provide legal advice, and outline the steps we will take to pursue your claim.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. We are committed to providing top-notch legal representation and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your personal injury case with confidence.

Cities We Serve

Jassim Law proudly serves clients throughout San Diego and the surrounding areas. Our extensive knowledge of local laws and regulations allows us to provide effective legal representation to injury victims in various cities, including:

• San Diego
• Chula Vista
• Oceanside
• Escondido
• Carlsbad
• El Cajon
• Vista
• Encinitas
• National City
• La Mesa

No matter where you are located in San Diego County, our team is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you.

Our Office

Our office is conveniently located in the heart of San Diego, making it easy for clients to access our services. We provide a welcoming and comfortable environment where you can discuss your case with our experienced attorneys. Our office is equipped with the latest technology to ensure we can handle your case efficiently and effectively.

We also offer virtual consultations for your convenience. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.

Discuss Your Case With a Proven, Successful Personal Injury Attorney at Jassim Law

The San Diego personal injury attorneys at Jassim Law have 20 years of experience helping personal injury navigate the aftermath of their accident. We have helped countless accident victims in San Diego, California, recover the maximum compensation available for their injuries and other losses. We take the time and care to get to know our clients and the unique details of their cases so we can tailor our approach to their specific needs. 

To schedule a free consultation with a member of our unparalleled legal team, call us today at (619) 639-4844 or complete our contact form.