San Jose’s busy streets and highways see thousands of vehicles each day, making auto accidents an unfortunate reality for many residents. From the congested lanes of Highway 101 and Interstate 280 to the bustling intersections of Monterey Road, the risk of collisions is ever-present. These accidents can lead to devastating consequences, including serious injuries, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, securing legal representation is critical to recovering the compensation you deserve. Juggling the complexities of insurance claims and legal procedures can be overwhelming, but having a trusted advocate on your side can make all the difference. For a dependable car accident claims lawyer in San Jose, CA, come to Shea & Shea.
At Shea & Shea, we are proud to be a leading personal injury law firm in San Jose, helping accident victims achieve justice and financial recovery. With decades of experience handling car, motorcycle, truck, and pedestrian accident cases, our legal team is dedicated to protecting your rights and maximizing your compensation. Contact Shea & Shea today for a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in San Jose, and let us fight for the justice you deserve.
Common Causes of Auto Accidents
Auto accidents in San Jose occur frequently due to a combination of driver behavior, roadway conditions, and high-traffic environments. Below are some of the most frequent causes, along with the unique challenges posed by San Jose’s roads.
Driver Negligence
- Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of local auto injury, distracted driving accidents in San Jose are often traced to texting, using GPS devices, or eating behind the wheel. In the fast-paced traffic of San Jose, even a momentary distraction can lead to catastrophic collisions.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol and drug impairment significantly impair a driver’s ability to make safe decisions. DUI accidents in San Jose are tragically far from uncommon, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction times and increases the severity of accidents. Highways are notorious for speeding-related crashes, particularly during rush hour or late at night; many speeding accidents in San Jose occur in these specific areas.
- Failure to Obey Traffic Signals: Running red lights or stop signs is another common cause of accidents, particularly at busy intersections like those along Monterey Road.
San Jose-Specific Risks
San Jose’s rapidly growing population and high commuter activity contribute to unique traffic challenges:
- Congestion on Major Highways: Highways such as Highway 101, Interstate 880, and State Route 87 experience significant congestion during peak hours, leading to rear-end collisions and lane-change accidents.
- Busy Urban Intersections: Areas like Downtown San Jose, Almaden Expressway, and Bascom Avenue are high-risk zones for accidents involving pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
- Public Transit Proximity: Accidents frequently occur near VTA light rail crossings and bus stops, where drivers may fail to yield to pedestrians or misjudge the movements of transit vehicles.
- Roadway Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, potholes, and unclear lane markings are hazards that contribute to single-car accidents or collisions involving multiple vehicles.
Environmental Factors and Road Hazards
- Inclement Weather: Rain can make San Jose’s roads slick and treacherous, increasing the likelihood of hydroplaning or skidding accidents.
- Construction Zones: Ongoing roadwork in areas like Berryessa and East San Jose creates dangerous conditions, with narrowed lanes, sudden stops, and unclear detours leading to more than a few road hazard accidents in San Jose.
How Shea & Shea Can Help
If you or a loved one has been involved in a local vehicular crash, contact Shea & Shea for auto accident legal help in San Jose. We are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights every step of the way.
Types of Auto Accident Cases Shea & Shea Handles
At Shea & Shea, we understand that auto accidents can vary greatly in nature, each presenting unique challenges for victims seeking justice. Our experienced team of auto accident lawyers in San Jose handles a wide range of cases, ensuring personalized strategies to secure the best possible outcome for every client. Below are the primary types of auto accident cases we take on:
Car Accidents
Car accidents are among the most common personal injury cases we handle. Whether caused by distracted driving, speeding, DUIs, or road hazards, car accidents can lead to severe injuries and significant financial losses. Our car accident attorneys in San Jose work diligently to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent clients in court when necessary.
Truck Accidents
Accidents involving commercial trucks are particularly dangerous due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Victims often suffer catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Our truck accident attorneys in San Jose have experience navigating the complexities of trucking regulations and investigating potential liability, including the truck driver, trucking company, or vehicle manufacturer.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle riders face unique risks on the road, with limited protection compared to other vehicles. Accidents often result in severe injuries, such as fractures, spinal cord damage, and head trauma. As experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in San Jose, we understand the biases motorcyclists may face and fight aggressively to protect their rights.
Pedestrian Accidents
San Jose’s busy streets and intersections make pedestrian accidents all too common, often resulting in life-altering injuries. Whether the incident occurred in a crosswalk or near a public transit stop, our pedestrian accident lawyers in San Jose are dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable and helping victims recover the compensation they need for medical expenses, lost income, and more.
Hit-and-Run Cases
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be especially distressing, as victims may feel abandoned without immediate assistance or accountability. At Shea & Shea, we investigate hit-and-run cases thoroughly, working to identify the at-fault driver or pursuing compensation through uninsured motorist coverage. Our hit-and-run lawyers in San Jose are committed to achieving justice for victims.
Accidents Involving Rideshare Vehicles
Due to the increasing popularity of rideshare services like Lyft and Uber, road accidents involving these vehicles have become all too common. These cases often involve complex liability issues, as rideshare companies may deny responsibility. Our team is well-versed in handling rideshare car crash injuries in San Jose, ensuring victims receive fair compensation from all liable parties.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents are often caused by distracted driving or sudden stops in heavy traffic. While they may seem minor, these collisions can lead to serious injuries, such as whiplash or herniated discs. Our car accident attorneys in San Jose ensure that victims are not undervalued by insurance companies.
Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Pile-ups and multi-vehicle accidents are common on San Jose’s congested highways. Determining liability in these cases can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. Our team of San Jose personal injury attorneys works to untangle these cases and ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
How Shea & Shea Acts to Protect Your Rights
At Shea & Shea, our San Jose auto accident lawyers bring decades of experience to each case, leveraging deep knowledge of California personal injury law and local traffic conditions. Here’s how we assist clients across all types of auto accident cases:
- Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We carefully review the details of your case to develop the most effective legal strategy.
- Evidence Collection: Our team gathers police reports, medical records, witness statements, and accident reconstruction evidence to build a strong case.
- Insurance Negotiations: We fight against lowball offers from insurance companies, ensuring that our clients receive fair compensation.
- Trial Representation: If a settlement cannot be reached, our experienced personal injury lawyers in San Jose are fully prepared to take your case to court.
If you’ve been involved in any type of auto accident, Shea & Shea is here to help. Contact us today to work with a local auto accident attorney in San Jose dedicated to securing justice and maximum compensation for your injuries.
The Legal Process for Auto Accident Cases
Coping with the legal process after an auto accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance claims. At Shea & Shea, our experienced auto accident lawyers in San Jose guide clients through every step, ensuring their rights are protected and they achieve the compensation they deserve. Below is an overview of the key stages of the legal process for auto accident cases.
1. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
The process begins with a free consultation with one of our car accident claims lawyers in San Jose, where we review the details of your accident and injuries. During this consultation, we evaluate factors such as:
- Liability and negligence
- The extent of your injuries and damages
- Potential sources of compensation, such as insurance policies
This step helps us determine the strength of your case and develop an effective legal strategy.
2. Gathering Evidence
Building a strong case requires gathering and preserving crucial evidence. Our team of car crash attorneys in San Jose will investigate every detail of the accident by:
- Obtaining police reports and accident scene photos
- Collecting witness statements and surveillance footage
- Reviewing medical records to document the extent of injuries
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts to establish liability
This comprehensive approach ensures no detail is overlooked.
3. Filing a Claim and Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Once we’ve gathered sufficient evidence, we file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Insurance negotiations often involve major challenges, such as:
- Lowball settlement offers
- Disputes over liability or the severity of injuries
- Attempts to undervalue non-economic damages like pain and suffering
Our attorneys handle all communication with insurance companies. By leveraging our years of experience in pursuing compensation for auto accidents in San Jose, we’ll push for a settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages.
4. Taking the Case to Trial if Necessary
While many auto accident cases settle out of court, some require litigation to achieve fair compensation. If a settlement cannot be reached, our personal injury lawyers in San Jose will:
- File a lawsuit and represent you in court.
- Present a compelling case supported by evidence, expert testimony, and thorough legal arguments.
- Advocate aggressively to secure a favorable verdict.
Our trial experience sets us apart, giving clients confidence that we can handle even the most complex cases.
How Shea & Shea Supports You at Every Step
At Shea & Shea, we are committed to making the legal process as smooth as possible for our clients. Our role as your San Jose personal injury attorneys includes:
- Providing Guidance: We explain your rights and options clearly, ensuring you feel empowered throughout the process.
- Managing Paperwork: From filing claims to court documents, we handle all the administrative aspects of your case.
- Keeping You Informed: We provide regular updates, so you always know the status of your case.
- Fighting for Maximum Compensation: Whether through settlement or trial, our goal is to secure the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
If you’ve been involved in an accident, don’t try to navigate the legal process alone. Contact Shea & Shea, your trusted auto accident lawyers in San Jose, for personalized support. Let us handle the legal issues while you focus on recovery.
Damages You May Be Entitled To
Auto accidents can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. In California, victims of auto accidents may be entitled to several types of damages to help recover from these losses. At Shea & Shea, our San Jose auto accident lawyers always fight to secure maximum available compensation for our clients.
Economic Damages
Economic damages compensate for financial losses directly related to the accident. These are tangible, measurable costs, including:
- Medical Expenses: This includes past and future medical bills for hospital stays, medications, surgeries, medical devices, physical therapy, and other related expenses. Victims may also be compensated for travel expenses related to medical treatment.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for lost income. This includes wages, bonuses, and other benefits you missed during your recovery.
- Loss of Future Earning Capacity: Severe injuries may result in long-term or permanent disability, preventing you from returning to work or earning at your previous level. Our attorneys work with financial experts to calculate these future losses accurately.
- Property Damage: Compensation for repairs or replacement of your vehicle and any personal items damaged in the accident.
Consult with our economic damages attorneys in San Jose to calculate the full compensation that you qualify for.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages address the intangible consequences of an auto accident. These include:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort caused by your injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Many accident victims experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a traumatic event.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Injuries that prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed may justify additional compensation.
- Loss of Consortium: If your injuries negatively impact your relationship with a spouse or partner, compensation may be available for this loss.
Our non-economic damages lawyers in San Jose can help determine whether you qualify for this type of compensation.
Punitive Damages
In cases of extreme negligence or reckless behavior—such as driving under the influence—California courts can award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the responsible party and deter similar conduct in the future. While this type of compensation is less common, Shea & Shea’s car crash attorneys in San Jose aggressively pursue punitive damages when applicable to hold reckless drivers accountable.
California’s Comparative Negligence Rule
California follows a pure comparative negligence system, which means you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your award will be reduced by 20%. At Shea & Shea, we work to minimize claims of shared fault to maximize your recovery.
How Shea & Shea Maximizes Your Compensation
Our accident injury lawyers in San Jose use a multi-pronged approach to ensure you receive the full amount of compensation you’re entitled to:
- Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We identify all potential sources of compensation, including third-party liability and underinsured motorist coverage.
- Expert Collaboration: Our team works with medical professionals, financial analysts, and accident reconstruction experts to calculate damages accurately.
- Aggressive Negotiation: Insurance companies often offer low settlements. We negotiate tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Preparedness for Trial: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court.
If you’ve been injured in a vehicular accident, let the economic damages attorneys in San Jose at Shea & Shea help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for auto accident legal help in San Jose.
Why Choose Shea & Shea?
When recovering from the physical, emotional, and financial aftermath of an auto accident, you deserve the best car accident lawyers in San Jose on your side. At Shea & Shea, we bring decades of experience, local knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to securing justice for our clients across California. With our results-driven approach and client-centered service, we will fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at (408) 292-2434 for a free consultation—our car accident lawyers in San Jose are here to help you take the first step toward justice.
FAQs
When you’re involved in an auto accident, dealing with the legal process can be daunting. At Shea & Shea, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions our clients ask about severe car accident claims in San Jose. These insights can help you understand your rights and how to pursue compensation with confidence.
How much does an auto accident lawyer cost?
Shea & Shea’s San Jose car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no upfront costs. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. This ensures it’s a simple matter to access quality legal representation for car accidents in San Jose.
How long does it take to resolve a case?
The timeline for resolving a motor vehicle accident case varies depending on factors such as:
- The complexity of the case
- The severity of injuries
- Whether liability is disputed
- The willingness of the insurance company to negotiate
Some cases are resolved in a few months, while others may take over a year, especially if litigation is necessary. At Shea & Shea, we work diligently to expedite the process while ensuring you receive fair injury compensation in San Jose. Our clients can rely on us for careful handling of their personal injury claims.
What if the other driver doesn’t have auto insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still have options for compensation:
- File a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if you have it.
- Pursue compensation through other liable parties, such as a vehicle manufacturer or government entity if road conditions contributed to the accident. Our San Jose personal injury attorneys will explore every possible avenue to secure compensation for you.
Do I need to go to court?
Not all auto accident cases go to court. Many are resolved through negotiations with the insurance company. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, litigation may be necessary. As your San Jose auto accident lawyers, we are fully prepared to represent you in court if needed to achieve the best outcome.
Can I handle an insurance claim without a lawyer?
While it’s possible to handle an insurance claim on your own, it’s not always advisable. Insurance companies often offer low settlements and use tactics to minimize payouts. Hiring an experienced auto accident lawyer in San Jose ensures:
- Your claim is valued accurately.
- Your rights are protected.
- You have someone to advocate for you during negotiations or in court.
What should I do immediately after an auto accident?
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, see a doctor for a thorough evaluation.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident site, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- File a Police Report: A formal report provides crucial evidence for your case.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurer of the accident but avoid making detailed statements without consulting an attorney.
- Contact Shea & Shea: Our car accident attorneys in San Jose can guide you through the next steps and handle communication with insurance companies on your behalf.
What is the statute of limitations for an auto accident case?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing an auto accident claim is generally two years from the date of the incident. If the accident resulted in property damage only, you have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit. In cases involving a government vehicle, you have only six months to file a claim. It’s critically important to act promptly, as missing these deadlines may prevent you from pursuing compensation. Contact our accident injury lawyers in San Jose as soon as possible.