Car Accident Lawyer Santa Monica, CA

Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm – Protecting Your Rights After a Car Accident

Getting into a car crash, whether it’s a rear-end fender-bender or a serious multi-car pile-up along the California Incline, can change your life. Devastating injuries, the expense of repairing or replacing a vehicle when you can’t afford to, or even being unable to work for months all take a toll on your life. If you were hurt in a car crash you didn’t cause, then you have the right to demand compensation from the driver who did cause it. But, getting the settlement you deserve from their insurance company may prove harder than you think. Our Santa Monica, CA car accident lawyer can help you negotiate a better settlement from the insurer and stand up for your rights.

If you are worried about what happens in the aftermath of a car accident, you’re not alone. Many people need guidance to protect their rights and help with the at-fault party’s insurance company. We can help you. At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we handle complex car accident claims every day. We understand the issues that cause many victims to stumble, and we’re ready to bring our considerable legal resources to bear on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?

Simply swapping ID and insurance information with the other driver may not be enough to protect you. After a car wreck, no matter if it seems minor, it’s important to call the police. They create a report that indicates how the wreck happened and who was likely responsible. You have the right to seek compensation for your medical needs and other losses, like lost wages, if you missed time at work. You’re also entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering from your injuries and the emotional trauma of getting into a serious collision. The insurance company isn’t going to give you any money for non-material losses. Our attorneys can help you get compensation for the full value of your losses, material and non-material.

When you work with us, you can rest easy and focus on your recovery, knowing that your legal claim is in good hands. We have extensive resources, like expert accident reconstructionists and medical experts, who can attest to how the accident was caused and help prove that your injuries stemmed from it. The only thing we seek is everything you’re entitled to—nothing less.

Compensation Available After a Car Wreck

California is an at-fault state for car accidents, which means that the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying for the damages the victim (plaintiff) suffers. However, you must prove that the other driver—not you—caused the wreck. A lawyer can help with this.

Following a car wreck, you are entitled to both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are your actual out-of-pocket expenses, like medical bills, missed work time, property damage, and other expenses, like transportation to a specialist appointment or renting a car while yours is in the shop.

Non-economic damages consist of the intangible losses you suffer. These aren’t as easily quantified as medical bills, but they do have value, and you are entitled to claim monetary compensation for the pain and suffering you experience from your injuries, the emotional trauma you experience, and a diminished quality of life. We can help you get it.

Hurt in a Wreck? We’re Here to Help.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a car wreck, turn to the team at Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm. We offer a free consultation with our skilled Santa Monica car accident lawyer, so please call us today.

Why You Should Always See a Doctor After a Car Crash

Car accidents, even minor ones, can lead to serious injuries. In the aftermath of a collision, your adrenaline may be high, and pain or discomfort may not show up right away. However, seeking medical attention after a car crash is essential for your health, well-being, and even your legal case if you plan to pursue a claim. Our Santa Monica, car accident lawyer at Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm recommends seeing a doctor after a crash, regardless of if you sustained visible injuries.

Injuries May Not Be Immediately Apparent

In many car accidents, injuries do not show up right away. Soft tissue injuries such as whiplash, muscle strains, and ligament damage can take hours or even days to cause noticeable symptoms. Conditions like concussions or internal injuries can also develop over time without showing any immediate signs. Seeing a doctor soon after the crash allows for early detection of these injuries, preventing them from worsening.

Documenting Injuries for Legal Purposes

If you decide to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party, having a medical record is crucial. A doctor’s evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment history provide valuable documentation of the injuries you sustained in the crash. This documentation will strengthen your case by showing the extent of your injuries and how they were caused by the accident.

Without prompt medical attention, it may be harder to prove that your injuries are directly related to the crash, which can complicate your ability to receive compensation.

Preventing Long-Term Health Problems

Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, some injuries, such as spinal misalignments, traumatic brain injuries, or internal damage, can worsen over time if left untreated. Early intervention can help prevent complications that might lead to chronic pain, long-term disability, or permanent impairment. Your doctor will conduct a thorough examination to identify any injuries and provide a treatment plan that helps you recover more effectively and completely.

Protection Against Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are notorious for downplaying the severity of injuries in an attempt to minimize their payout. If you wait too long to see a doctor after the crash, the insurance company may argue that your injuries were not as serious as you claim, or that they were caused by something other than the accident. Our Santa Monica car accident lawyer will leverage your doctor’s report linking your injuries to the crash to ensure that your medical needs are taken seriously and that your trauma is taken into account when negotiating compensation.

Getting the Proper Treatment

A doctor can recommend the best course of treatment based on the specific injuries you sustained. Whether it’s physical therapy, medication, or even surgery in extreme cases, getting the right treatment early can speed up recovery and reduce the risk of chronic pain. Not seeking medical care could also lead to unnecessary complications, as certain conditions may worsen without proper care.

Your Health Should Be Your Priority

Above all else, your health and safety should come first. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Seeing a doctor will give you peace of mind, knowing that you’ve addressed any potential injuries and have a professional assessment of your condition.

Regardless of how you feel immediately after a car crash, seeing a doctor is a critical step in protecting both your health and your legal rights. Not only will you receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, but you’ll also have the medical documentation you need to support a potential personal injury claim. For legal assistance after a crash contact Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm. Our Santa Monica car accident lawyer has over 30 years of experience handling personal injury claims. Call now to schedule a free 30-minute consultation and let us show how we can help you.