Stockton Car Accident Lawyers

Why Car Accidents Are a Major Concern in Stockton

Road incidents are an unfortunate part of life in Stockton, from rear-end collisions during commuting hours on I-5 and SR-99 to left-turn accidents downtown. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, San Joaquin County regularly reports high numbers of serious and fatal traffic collisions. In Stockton, heavy commuter traffic and congestion in dense areas contribute to many roadway collisions and injuries. With so many vehicles moving through the city, even a seemingly minor collision can cause long-lasting injuries and financial burdens.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Understanding what led to a crash is key to pursuing fair compensation.

A Stockton car accident attorney can investigate each case to determine the cause, which may include:

• Distracted driving. Using a phone, eating, or adjusting in-car systems pulls attention away from the road. Even a few seconds of distraction can cause a serious crash.
• Speeding or reckless driving. Traveling too fast reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic. Aggressive maneuvers such as tailgating or weaving between lanes make accidents more likely.
• Driving under the influence. Alcohol or drug use slows reaction times and impairs judgment. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, impaired driving remains a leading factor in serious crashes across the state.
• Failing to yield. Many collisions occur at intersections when drivers ignore traffic signals, roll through stop signs, or fail to yield to pedestrians.
• Unsafe lane changes. Failing to check blind spots or signal before switching lanes often results in sideswipe or multi-vehicle accidents.
• Fatigued driving. Drowsy drivers can be as impaired as those under the influence. Falling asleep at the wheel or having slower reaction times puts everyone on the road at risk.
• Poorly maintained roads or hazardous conditions. Potholes, debris, or malfunctioning traffic signals can contribute to crashes. In some cases, government entities may be responsible for failing to maintain safe roads.
• Defective vehicle parts. Brake failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical issues can lead to accidents. Liability may extend to manufacturers if a defect caused the collision.

Each of these scenarios requires careful review of evidence—such as police reports, witness accounts, and accident reconstruction—to determine what happened and who is responsible.

Typical Injuries in Car Accidents

Car accident injuries can range from mild to life-altering.

Some common examples include:

• Whiplash and soft tissue damage;
• Broken bones and fractures;
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs);
• Back and spinal cord injuries;
• Internal organ damage and bleeding; and
• Cuts, bruises, and disfigurement.

Even injuries that seem minor at first can worsen over time. A car accident lawyer in Stockton helps document all damages, both physical and emotional, and can advocate for you to recover the just compensation for the harm you’ve suffered.

California Laws That May Affect Your Claim

Several state laws shape how car accident claims are handled in California.

Comparative Negligence

Under California law, you may recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. However, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you are found 20% responsible for the crash and your damages total $100,000, you may still recover $80,000. Even if you were 90% responsible for the collision, you could still recover 10% of your damages.

Statute of Limitations

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline usually means losing your right to recover damages. There are limited exceptions (such as cases involving government entities) where the filing deadline may be much shorter, so acting promptly is critical.

Insurance Requirements

California requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, including $15,000 for injury to one person, $30,000 for injury to multiple people, and $5,000 for property damage.

Unfortunately, many collisions involve uninsured or underinsured motorists, which complicates the claims process. In these situations, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may provide essential protection.

A knowledgeable Stockton accident lawyer can explain how these rules apply to your situation and help you meet all legal requirements.

What Damages Can You Recover?

A successful car accident claim may allow you to recover compensation for:

• Medical bills, including emergency treatment and long-term care;
• Lost wages and reduced earning ability;
• Rehabilitation and therapy;
• Pain and suffering;
• Emotional distress;
• Loss of enjoyment of life; and
• Property damage.

Each case is different. A Stockton car accident law firm like Silva Injury Law carefully calculates both current and future losses to make sure nothing is overlooked.

How Liability Is Determined in California Car Accidents

Assigning fault is often one of the most contested issues in a car accident claim. Insurance companies may try to shift blame to reduce their part of the payout.

To counter this, our attorneys:

• Review police reports and traffic citations,
• Interview witnesses and collect sworn statements,
• Examine medical records to link injuries to the crash, and
• Work with accident reconstruction experts when necessary.

This thorough approach aims to uncover the facts of the incident and present your claim with strong supporting evidence.

Why Hire a Stockton Car Accident Attorney?

Handling a car accident claim on your own can be overwhelming. Insurance adjusters may pressure you to accept a quick settlement that falls short of your needs.

By working with Silva Injury Law, you benefit from:

• Compassionate support throughout the legal process;
• Experience with complex California personal injury law;
• Informed legal strategies to maximize your recovery, whether in settlement or court; and
• Direct communication with your lawyer.

We believe every client deserves personalized attention, no matter the size of their case.

How Silva Injury Law Helps Clients Heal

Our mission goes beyond winning compensation. We promote healing by connecting clients with trusted doctors, managing stressful paperwork, and guiding families through each step of recovery. We prepare every case as if it could go to trial, which often leads to stronger settlements.

Silva Injury Law accepts cases regardless of policy limits because every injured person deserves advocacy. We are proud to serve the Stockton community with integrity, compassion, and determination.

Contact a Stockton Car Accident Lawyer Today

A collision can disrupt your life, but you do not have to face the challenges alone. With deep roots in California’s Central Valley, Silva Injury Law is committed to helping neighbors find justice and healing after serious crashes.

Contact us online or call (209) 600-4389 today for a free consultation with a Stockton car accident lawyer. Let us help you protect your rights and pursue the recovery you deserve.

FAQs

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in California?

Most car accident cases must be filed within two years of the date of the crash. However, if a government entity is involved—e.g., the collision was caused by a city vehicle or poor road maintenance—you may have as little as six months to file a claim.

What If the Other Driver Does Not Have Insurance?

California law requires drivers to carry insurance, but many do not. If you are hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you may still recover damages through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. A Stockton car accident law firm can help navigate these claims and explore all possible sources of compensation.

Should I Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?

You should avoid giving detailed statements to the other driver’s insurer without first consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters often look for ways to minimize payouts, and what you say may be used against you. A Stockton auto accident attorney can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf to protect your claim.