In California, it is essential to find a lawyer who specializes in personal injury law, especially when dealing with accidents that may result in injuries.
We have compiled a list of California’s top 20 personal injury attorneys who have demonstrated their expertise in handling various cases, including car accidents, slip and fall incidents, and workplace injuries.
These legal professionals have a proven track record of fighting for their client’s rights and securing the compensation they deserve. Whether you live in a bustling city or enjoy an active lifestyle, these lawyers are well-equipped to help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law.
Alan A. Ahdoot
Personal Injury Attorney in Los Angeles, CA
Licensed for 17 Years
State: Los Angeles, CA
Phone Number: (424)383-8243
Associations
- Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles
Address
Languages Spoken
- Spanish
- Farsi
- English
Work Experience
- 2010 – Present
- Partner
- Adamson Ahdoot LLP
Alan Ahdoot earned a law degree from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles in 2005 and has been working as a lawyer ever since. He focuses on personal injury and consumer law matters, such as vehicle accidents, lemon law, severe injuries, and wrongful death.
Alan is passionate about assisting clients and is a skilled negotiator and litigator.
Alan has a sociology degree from UCLA and a law degree from Loyola Law School. He holds a licence to practice law in all California courts as well as the U.S. District.
David Minh Duc Do
Personal Injury Attorney at Garden Grove, CA
Licensed for 14 Years
Associations
- American Bankruptcy Institute
- California Lawyers Association
- Orange County Trial Lawyers Association
- Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles
Phone Number
- (714) 942-5016
- (844) 989-6868
- (714) 942-5016
State: Garden Grove, CA
Address
Languages Spoken
- Vietnamese
- English
Work Experience
Managing Attorney
- DO LAW INC.
- 2021 – Present
Litigation Counsel
- LOTP
- 2012 – Present
Associate
- West Themis Law, PC.
- 2010 – 2012
In Garden Grove, California, David Minh Duc Do has 14 years of experience as a Personal Injury Attorney. Customers may easily obtain David’s services due to his handy office location at 12912 Brookhurst Street, Suite 405 in Toronto. He is a committed member of prestigious legal organizations, such as the American Bankruptcy Institute, California Lawyers Association, and Orange County Trial Lawyers Association.
David can communicate effectively with people of various backgrounds because he is fluent in both Vietnamese and English. His vast professional background includes positions as Managing Attorney at DO LAW INC. since 2021, Litigation Counsel at LOTP since 2012, and Associate at West Themis Law, PC. from 2010 to 2012. David is here to offer top-notch legal aid in personal injury matters because of his passion for justice and depth of experience..
Ali Razavi
Personal Injury Attorney at Santa Ana, NV
Licensed for 07 Years
Associations
- Orange County Bar Association
- Consumer Attorney Association of Los Angeles
- California Employment Lawyers Association
Phone Number: (949) 799-1642
State: Santa Ana, CA
Address
Languages Spoken
- English
- Spanish
- Persian
Work Experience
Managing Partner
Razavi Law Group
2016 – Present
Ali Razavi is a committed Personal Injury Lawyer in Santa Ana, California, with seven years of worthwhile experience. Ali’s office is conveniently situated at 2601 Oswell St, Suite 206, Bakersfield, CA, 93306 and can be reached at (949) 799-1642.
Ali is an active member of a number of prestigious legal organisations, including the Orange County Bar Association, Consumer Attorney Association of Los Angeles, California Employment Lawyers Association, and Orange County Trial Lawyers Association. Ali is a qualified attorney in Santa Ana, California.
Ali provides excellent connection with clients from various backgrounds because to his multilingual language skills, which include Persian, Spanish, and English.
Phone Number: 6195671782
State: CA
Address
Languages Spoken
English
Work Experience
- Owner
- The Law Offices of Keith J. Stone
- 1992 – Present
- Associate
- Lober, Grady, Fa
In San Diego, California, Keith Jordan Stone practises personal injury law and has an incredible 36 years of experience. Keith may be reached at 619-567-1782, and you can find his office easily at 555 W Beech St Ste 210, San Diego, CA, 92101.
In addition to being a longtime member of major legal organizations including the State Bar of California, the Consumer Attorneys of California, and the American Association for Justice, Keith is a qualified lawyer in the state of California. His decades-long involvement with these groups demonstrates his commitment to the legal profession. Keith makes sure to communicate with his clients clearly because he is fluent in English.
Michael Joseph Cefali
Personal Injury Attorney at San Juan Capistrano, CA
Licensed for 6 Years
Work Experience
- Partner
- Cefali & Cefali
- 2019 – Present
- Attorney
- Higbee & Associates
- 2017 – 2017
Phone Number: (855) 925-1267
State: San Juan Capistrano, CA
Address
Associations
- Consumer Attorneys of California
- Member
- 2019 – Present
- Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles
- Member
- 2019 – Present
- Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- Member
- 2018 – Present
- American Association for Justice
- Member
- 2018 – Present
- Orange County Bar Association
- Member
- 2017 – Present
- State Bar of California
- Member
- 2017 – Present
- American Bar Association
- Member
- 2017 – Present
- Mission Preservation Society
- Member
- 2014 – Present
Languages Spoken
English
With six years of significant legal expertise, San Juan Capistrano, California-based Personal Injury Attorney Michael Joseph Cefali is committed to his clients. The ideal location for Michael’s workplace is at 27130 Paseo Espada, Building B, Suite #521, San Juan Capistrano, CA, 92675.
He participates actively in a number of prestigious legal organizations, such as the Consumer Attorneys of California, Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles, Million Dollar Advocates Forum, American Association for Justice, Orange County Bar Association, State Bar of California, American Bar Association, and Mission Preservation Society.
Michael makes sure to communicate with his clients in clear and effective English. He is your go-to lawyer in San Juan Capistrano, California for personal injury cases as a Partner at Cefali & Cefali since 2019 and has experience as an Attorney at Higbee & Associates and Bergener Mirejovsky, APC.
Walter Tretheway Clark
Personal Injury Attorney at Rancho Mirage, CA
Licensed for 50 Years
Work Experience
- Deputy District Attorney
- RIverside County District Attorney
- 1973 – 1976
Phone Number
- (877) 721-2656 Office
- (760) 862-1121 Fax
State: Rancho Mirage, CA
Address
Associations
- American Board of Trial Advocates
- Associate Member
- 2007 – Present
- Consumer Attorneys of California
- Member of Board of Directors
- 2006 – Present
- National Board of Trial Advocacy
- Certified in Civil Trial Advocacy
- 1997 – Present
- Martindale Hubbel
- Highest rating
- 1978 – Present
- Desert Bar Association
- President
- 1979 – 1979
- Riverside County Deputy District Attorneys Association
- Vice President
- 1975 – 1975
Languages Spoken
- English
- Spanish
In Rancho Mirage, California, Walter Tretheway Clark has practised law for 50 years and is a highly skilled personal injury attorney. His office may be found at 71-861 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA, 92270.
For efficient client contact, he is bilingual in both English and Spanish. Walter Tretheway Clark is your go-to pick for personal injury cases in Rancho Mirage, California, thanks to his illustrious career, which includes serving as vice president of the Riverside County Deputy District Attorneys Association in 1975 and president of the Desert Bar Association in 1979.
Michael Joseph Cefali
Personal Injury Attorney at San Juan Capistrano, CA
Licensed for 6 Years
Work Experience
Partner
- Cefali & Cefali
- 2019 – Present
Attorney
- Higbee & Associates
- 2017 – 2017
Phone Number
State: CA
Address
Associations
- Consumer Attorneys of California
- Member
- 2019 – Present
- Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles
- Member
- 2019 – Present
- Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- Member
- 2018 – Present
- American Association for Justice
- Member
- 2018 – Present
- Orange County Bar Association
- Member
- 2017 – Present
- 2017 – Present
- State Bar of California
- Member
- American Bar Association
- Member
- 2017 – Present
- Mission Preservation Society
- Member
- 2014 – Present
Languages Spoken
- English
Meet Michael Joseph Cefali, a committed personal injury lawyer in San Juan Capistrano, California, with six years of experience. Located in San Juan Capistrano, California, 92675, at 27130 Paseo Espada, Building B, Suite #521.
Michael belongs to several eminent legal organisations, including the Consumer Attorneys of California and the Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles. He is a competent legal supporter for personal injury claims and is fluent in English. He has been a Partner at Cefali & Cefali since 2019.
S. David Rosenthal
Personal Injury Attorney at Roseville, CA
Licensed for 30 Years
Work Experience
- Partner
- Rosenthal & Kreeger
- 2014 – Present
- Owner
- Rosenthal Law
- 2012 – Present
Phone Number: (916) 459-2003
State: CA
Address
Associations
- Sacramento County Superior Court
- Judge Pro Tem
- 2000 – Present
- El Dorado County superior Court
- Judge Pro Tem
- 2000 – Present
- Association of Trial Lawyers of America
- Member
- 1995 – Present
- Consumer Attorneys of California
- Member
- 1995 – Present
- Capital City Trial Lawyers Association
- Board of Directors, Problem Solving Clinic Chair
- 1995 – Present
Languages Spoken
- English
Meet S. David Rosenthal, a qualified Roseville, California, personal injury lawyer with 30 years of legal experience. Call David at (916) 459-2003 or stop by his office at 2251 Douglas Boulevard #120, Roseville, California, 95661 to speak with him. He has been Sacramento and El Dorado County’s Judge Pro Tem since 2000 and is actively involved in a number of legal organisations. David can assist you with personal injury concerns in Roseville, California because he speaks English fluently and has a plethora of knowledge.
Arsen Sarapinian
Personal Injury Attorney at Beverly Hills, CA
Licensed for 9 Years
Work Experience
- Founder/Lead Attorney
- Law Offices of Arsen Sarapinian, P.C.
- 2020 – Present
- Attorney
- The Dolan Law Firm
- 2018 – 2019
Phone Number: (213) 348-1578
State: CA
Address
Associations
- Litigation Bar Association
- Board Member
- 2019 – Present
- Brain So Cal
- Member
- 2019 – Present
- The National Trial Lawyers
- Member – Top 40 Under 40
- 2019 – Present
- Consumer Attorneys of California
- Member
- 2018 – Present
- California Attorneys Association of Los Angeles
- Member
- 2018 – Present
- Armenian Bar Association
- Member – Young Lawyer’s Committee
- 2010 – Present
- Alpha Signa Nu (National Jesuit Honor Society)
- Member
- 2007 – Present
- Hastings Law Journal – Alumni
- Senior Notes Editor
- 2010 – 2013
Languages Spoken
- Russian
- Armenian
- Spanish
Arsen Sarapinian is a tenacious personal injury lawyer in Beverly Hills, California, with nine years of experience. Arsen’s office is easily accessible and can be found at 9350 Wilshire Boulevard, Ste. 203, Beverly Hills, CA, 90212.
He is knowledgeable about the law and actively engages in a number of bar associations, such as the Litigation Bar Association and Brain So Cal, which prepares him for cases involving personal injuries.
He participates actively in groups including Consumer Attorneys of California, California Attorneys Association of Los Angeles, and the Armenian Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Committee. Not only that, but he is a member of The National Trial Lawyers’ Top 40 Under 40. Arsen makes sure that clients from all backgrounds may be comfortable speaking with her because she is fluent in Russian, Armenian, and Spanish.
Haleh Shekarchian
Personal Injury Attorney at Beverly Hills, CA
Licensed for 31 Years
State: CA
Work Experience
- Partner
- Law Offices of Haleh Shekarchian
- 1993 – Present
Phone Number
- Offices (310) 789-2192
Address
Associations
- Beverly Hills Bar Association
- Member
- 1992 – Present
- Los Angeles County Bar Association
- Member
- 1992 – Present
- American Bar Association
- Member
- 1992 – Present
- Martindale-Hubbell
- Member
- 1992 – Present
- U.S. District Court of California
- Member
- 1992 – Present
- Supreme Court of the State of California
- Member
- 1992 – Present
- Court of Appeals
- Member
- 1992 – Present
Languages Spoken
- English
- Farsi
- Spanish
Haleh Shekarchian, a qualified Personal Injury Lawyer in Beverly Hills, California, with 31 years of legal experience. At 9440 Santa Monica Boulevard, Suite 707, Beverly Hills, California, 90210, she has a handy location for her workplace.
As a member of famous legal organisations,
Haleh is a California-licensed attorney. She ensures good communication with a variety of clients because she is fluent in English, Farsi, and Spanish. As a Partner at the Law Offices of Haleh Shekarchian since 1993, she’s your trusted advocate for personal injury matters in Beverly Hills, CA.
Gerald Lee Marcus
Personal Injury Attorney at Palmdale, CA
Licensed for 36 Years
Work Experience
- President
- Professional Accident Injury Network, Inc.
- 1987 – Present
- Owner
- The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus
- 1987 – Present
Phone Number
- Office (866) 596-9342
State:CA
Address
Associations
- Public Justice Foundation
- Member
- 2012 – Present
- Los Angeles Trial Lawyers Charities
- Honroary Board of Governors
- 2009 – Present
- Beverly Hills Bar Foundation
- Distinguished Member
- 2008 – Present
Languages Spoken
- Spanish
- English
Gerald Lee Marcus is a seasoned personal injury lawyer in Palmdale, California, with an astounding 36 years of experience. 1543 E. Palmdale Blvd., Palmdale, CA, 93550 is the address of Gerald’s office.
He has a California law license and is a current participant in several prestigious legal organizations, such as the Public Justice Foundation (since 2012), the Los Angeles Trial Lawyers Charities (since 2009), and the Beverly Hills Bar Foundation (since 2008).
Gerald, who is fluent in both Spanish and English, guarantees good client communication. He has owned The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus since 1987 and serves as the organization’s president. In Palmdale, California, Gerald Lee Marcus is your go-to lawyer for issues involving personal injuries.
John Gary Jahrmarkt
Personal Injury Attorney at Los Angeles, CA
Licensed for 31 Years
Associations
- Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles
- Member
- 2010 – Present
- Amercian Bar Association
- Member
- 2007 – Present
Phone Number
- Office (310) 907-8450
- (310) 226-7677
State: CA
Address
Languages Spoken
- Spanish
- English
Work Experience
- Owner and Manageing Partner
- Injury Lawyers Group, APC
- 1995 – Present
- Partner
- Jahrmarkt & Associates
- 1998 – 2011
- Associate
- Kramer & Kaslow
- 1995 – 1997
- Associate
- Kramer & McShane
- 1993 – 1995
- Associate
- Gold & Wachtel
- 1991 – 1993
- Legal Intern
- Graham & James
- 1988 – 1989
- Legal Intern
- Finley Kumble Wagner Heine Underberg & Casey
- 1986 – 1987
Personal injury lawyer John Gary Jahrmarkt has 31 years of legal expertise and is well-known in Los Angeles, California. John’s workplace is located in 2049 Century Park East, Suite 3850, Los Angeles, California 90067.
The Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles, the American Bar Association, the Los Angeles County Bar Association, and the State Bar of California are just a few of John’s active memberships in major legal organizations. He also holds a California law license.
John ensures efficient connection with his clients because to his fluency in both Spanish and English. Since 1995, he has served as the owner and managing partner of Injury Lawyers Group, APC, serving as your trusted representative for personal injury cases in Los Angeles, California.
Lowell Hale Steiger
Personal Injury Attorney at Sherman Oaks, CA
Licensed for 25 Years
Work Experience
- Attorney
- Law Office of Lowell Steiger
- 2000 – Present
- Attorney
- Law Office of Gregory Chudacoff
- 1998 – 2000
Phone Number:
- Office (323) 431-9610
- Office (323) 431-9610
- Fax (323) 852-1033
State: CA
Address
Associations
- Capital City Lawyers Association
- Member
- 2012 – Present
- Orange County Trial Lawyers Association
- Member
- 2012 – Present
- San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association
- Member
- 2011 – Present
- Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles
- Member
- 1998 – Present
- The State Bar of California
- Associate Member
- 1998 – Present
Languages Spoken
- English
- Spanish
Lowell Hale Steiger is a committed Sherman Oaks, California, personal injury lawyer with 25 years of legal expertise. The address of Lowell’s office is 5900 Sepulveda Boulevard #250, Sherman Oaks, California, 91411.
Lowell holds a California law license and is an active participant in a number of prestigious legal organizations, such as the Capital City Lawyers Association, Orange County Trial Lawyers Association, San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association, Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles, and The State Bar of California as an Associate Member.
As a native Spanish and English speaker, Lowell promotes efficient client communication. Since joining the Law Office of Lowell Steiger in 2000, he has proven his dedication to providing Sherman Oaks, California, clients with specialized legal advice and support for personal injury cases.
Types Of Personal Injury Claims in Los Angeles, CA
There are multiple personal injury lawsuits that individuals can pursue in Los Angeles, CA, and other areas if they have been injured due to another person’s negligence or intentional misconduct.
Following are a few of the typical personal injury claims in Los Angeles:
1. Car Accidents
These are among the most common personal injury claims. They can result from various factors, including distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, and more.
2. Motorcycle Accidents
These involve collisions or accidents specifically involving motorcycles. They often result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection compared to other vehicles.
3. Truck Accidents
These can be particularly severe due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. They often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
4. Bicycle Accidents
In a city like Los Angeles, where cycling is popular, accidents involving bicycles and vehicles are unfortunately common.
5. Pedestrian Accidents
These occur when a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle. They can result in severe injuries or fatalities, especially in high-traffic areas.
6. Slip and Fall Accidents (Premises Liability)
These occur when someone slips, trips, or falls due to a hazardous condition on another person’s property. This can happen in various settings, like stores, restaurants, or public spaces.
7. Dog Bites/Animal Attacks
When a person is bitten or attacked by a dog or other domestic animal, the owner can be held responsible for the injuries.
8. Medical Malpractice
This includes cases where a healthcare professional’s negligence or error leads to harm or injury to a patient.
9. Product Liability
This type of claim arises when a defective or dangerous product causes injury or harm to a consumer. This can involve anything from faulty electronics to pharmaceutical drugs.
10. Wrongful Death
This claim is brought by the surviving family members of a person who has died due to the negligence or misconduct of another party.
11. Assault and Battery
These are intentional torts where one person intentionally causes harm to another person.
12. Workplace Accidents (Workers’ Compensation)
While these generally fall under the workers’ compensation system, there are instances where third-party liability claims can be pursued if a party other than the employer contributed to the injury.
13. Construction Accidents
These can involve various types of accidents on construction sites, such as falls, equipment malfunctions, or other safety-related incidents.
What Should You Do After Suffering a Personal Injury?
For any legal concerns or specific advice, it’s always best to consult with a qualified attorney.
1. Seek Medical Attention
Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Get medical help immediately, even if you don’t think your injuries are severe. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Document the Incident
If possible, gather as much information about the incident as you can. This includes taking photos of the scene, your injuries, and any other relevant details. Write down what happened while it’s still fresh in your memory.
3. Report the Incident
Depending on the situation, you might need to report the incident to the appropriate authorities. For example, if it’s a car accident, you’ll likely need to contact the police.
4. Gather Evidence
Collect any evidence related to the incident. This can include witness statements, photographs, medical records, and any other relevant documents.
5. Keep a Record
Document all interactions related to the incident. This includes keeping track of medical appointments, conversations with insurance companies, and any expenses you incur as a result of the injury.
6. Contact an Attorney
It’s generally advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney. They can provide you with specific legal advice based on the details of your case. They can also guide you through the process of filing a claim or pursuing legal action.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
If the incident involves insurance coverage, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. They will provide guidance on how to proceed.
8. Avoid Discussing the Case
Be cautious about discussing the incident on social media or with anyone other than your attorney or medical professionals. Anything you say or write could potentially be used against you.
9. Follow Medical Advice
Attend all recommended medical appointments and follow your healthcare provider’s advice for recovery. This not only helps your health but also strengthens your case.
10. Be Patient
Personal injury cases can take time to resolve. Trust the process and communicate regularly with your attorney for updates.
Remember, this is general advice and not a substitute for professional legal counsel. It’s important to consult with a qualified attorney for advice tailored to your specific situation.
How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer can vary depending on several factors, including the lawyer’s experience, location, and the complexity of your case.
Here are some common fee structures for personal injury lawyers:
- Contingency Fee: This is the most common fee arrangement for personal injury cases. The lawyer will only be paid if they win the case. Typically, they will take a percentage (usually around 33-40%) of the final settlement or court award. If the case is not successful, you do not owe the lawyer any fees, but you may still be responsible for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
- Hourly Rate: Some lawyers may charge an hourly rate for personal injury cases, although this is less common. You would be billed for the time the lawyer spends working on your case, regardless of the outcome. This can be costly and is usually reserved for cases where it’s difficult to establish liability.
- Flat Fee: In certain straightforward cases, a lawyer might charge a flat fee. This is more common for services like drafting a demand letter or handling a small claims case.
- Retainer Fee: This is an upfront fee paid to secure the lawyer’s services. It’s not common in personal injury cases, as most clients prefer not to pay fees unless they win.
- Expenses: In addition to the lawyer’s fees, you may be responsible for certain expenses related to your case. This can include filing fees, expert witness fees, medical record retrieval, and other costs. Some lawyers will cover these upfront and deduct them from your settlement or award if you win.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with any potential lawyer during your initial consultation. They should be transparent about their fee structure and any potential additional costs. Additionally, make sure to get a written agreement that outlines the fee arrangement.
What Does a Personal Injury Lawyers Do?
Legal Consultation
They offer initial consultations to evaluate the potential case. During this meeting, they assess the circumstances, gather information, and advise the client on whether they have a valid claim.
Investigation
They conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, gathering evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, medical records, and any other relevant documents.
Legal Research and Analysis
They research applicable laws and precedents related to the case. This helps them build a strong legal argument in favor of their client.
Negotiation
Personal injury attorneys often engage in negotiations with insurance companies, opposing counsel, or other parties involved in the case. They aim to reach a settlement that is fair and just for their client.
Filing Legal Documents
They prepare and file legal documents, including complaints, motions, and other court filings. They ensure all paperwork is submitted correctly and within the required deadlines.
Representation in Court
If a settlement cannot be reached, the attorney will represent their client in court. They present evidence, question witnesses, and argue on behalf of their client’s interests.
Client Advocacy
They act as an advocate for their client, ensuring that their rights are protected and that they receive the appropriate compensation for their injuries and losses.
Evaluation of Damages
They assess the extent of the damages suffered by the client, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and more.
Expert Witnesses
They may consult and hire experts, such as medical professionals or accident reconstruction specialists, to provide testimony that supports the client’s case.
Communication and Updates
They keep their clients informed about the progress of their cases, advise them on important decisions, and answer any questions or concerns.
Contingency Fees
Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only charge a fee if they win the case. This fee is typically a percentage of the final settlement.
California Negligence Laws
California, like many other states in the United States, follows the legal principle of negligence. Negligence is a fundamental concept in tort law, which deals with civil wrongs and the compensation of individuals who have suffered harm due to the actions or omissions of others.
Here are some key aspects of negligence laws in California:
Duty of Care
In California, as in most places, individuals and entities have a legal duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid causing harm to others. This duty can vary depending on the circumstances and the relationship between the parties.
Breach of Duty
If someone fails to meet the standard of care expected in a given situation, they may be considered in breach of their duty of care. This breach could be an action they took or something they failed to do.
Causation
There must be a direct causal connection between the breach of duty and the harm suffered. In other words, it must be shown that the negligent act was a substantial factor in causing the injury.
Proximate Cause
This refers to whether it was reasonably foreseeable that the negligent act could cause the harm that resulted. If the harm was not reasonably foreseeable, it may not be considered the proximate cause.
Damages
To successfully claim negligence, the plaintiff must have suffered some form of harm, whether physical, emotional, or financial. These are referred to as damages.
Comparative Negligence
California follows a system of comparative negligence. This means that if the plaintiff is also partially at fault for the incident, their damages may be reduced in proportion to their degree of fault.
Statute of Limitations
There is a specific time frame within which a negligence lawsuit must be filed in California. This time limit varies depending on the type of case and the nature of the injuries.
Immunities and Special Rules
Certain entities and individuals, like government agencies or employees, may have special rules or immunities that affect how negligence claims are pursued against them.
Professional Negligence (Malpractice)
Professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and accountants are held to higher standards of care within their respective fields. Claims of professional negligence, or malpractice, involve proving that a professional’s actions fell below the standard expected of their profession.