Who Can File a Car Accident Claim After a Crash?
If your accident was caused by someone else’s careless or reckless behavior, you may be able to pursue a claim for compensation. Common causes of accidents include distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, or failing to follow traffic laws, but any sort of mistake can justify a claim in certain scenarios. Even if you believe you may have contributed to the crash through a mistake of your own, California’s comparative negligence law could still allow you to recover compensation, though it may be reduced in proportion to your share of fault.
Because every case is different, it’s important to talk with an experienced attorney from our firm about the details of your situation. We can evaluate whether you have a valid claim and explain your options moving forward.
Types of Compensation Available After a Car Accident
The aftermath of a collision can bring a wide range of financial and personal challenges. The point of a car accident claim is to try to get you as much compensation as possible to undo your losses and overcome those challenges.
A successful car accident claim may provide compensation for:
- Medical expenses for emergency treatment, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
- Lost wages if you miss work while recovering, as well as reduced future earning capacity if your injuries limit your ability to work long-term.
- Pain and suffering, including the physical pain, emotional distress, and overall impact on your quality of life.
- Property damage to repair or replace your vehicle and personal items damaged in the crash.
Dealing with Auto Insurance Companies
After a car accident, auto insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by disputing fault, undervaluing injuries, or pressuring you into a quick settlement. Facing these tactics on your own can put your recovery at risk, especially if you are busy with other things in your life.
At Kuvara Law Firm, we take on this burden for you. Because Attorney Neal Kuvara once worked as an insurance claims adjuster, we know how these companies operate and how to interrupt their strategies. We are here to handle all communications and attempted negotiations with insurers so that you can focus on healing, not fighting over paperwork and phone calls.
Preparing for Your Free Initial Consultation
When you schedule a free consultation with us, it helps to bring any information you’ve already gathered about your accident and injuries.
Useful items may include:
- Police report or accident number
- Photos or videos from the accident scene
- Medical records, treatment notes, and related bills
- Your insurance policy and any letters or emails from insurance companies
- Contact information for witnesses, if available
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything, though. We can still get started with minimal information. It is just usually better to see more information early on, so we can start to think about what else we need to strengthen your case.
Don’t settle for less. Fight for full compensation.
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$2,000,000 Truck Accident
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$1,850,000 Pedestrian Accident
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$1,800,000 Motorcycle Accident
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$1,750,000 Motor Vehicle Accident
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$1,495,000 Premises Liability
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$1,410,000 Premises Liability
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$1,300,000 Pedestrian Accident
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$1,000,000 Rollover Accident
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"They held my hand thru the whole thing, answering my silly calls with questions and showing great patience."
I found the Kuvara Law Firm when I did a search for personal injury attorneys. I scanned down the possibilities but their name jumped out at me. I called, sure I didn't have a claim because I've never done this before, but on reviewing my case Mr. Kuvara said I DO have a case and assigned me to the appropriate person to get things started. They were always very friendly and encouraging whenever I contacted them. Colby is an absolute doll! Then when I had my fall and concussion Mr. Kovara referred me to a colleague at another firm that specializes in that type of case. They, too, were good and helpful and full of information I'd never think of! Everything was perfect, they really knew their jobs at both firms and took great care of me. I can't recommend them highly enough and will keep their contact information in my wallet ready to share with all who may ask! Thanks so much, Colby!
- Lynne D.B. -
"They really are a best in class firm who will fight for you."
I would highly recommend Kuvara Law Firm to anyone who has been in an accident. Colby Kuvara was an excellent attorney who went above and beyond in guiding me through the legal process and really advocating for me in a time that was extremely stressful. Her team was very responsive and thorough through the duration of the case.
- Jessica B. -
"Mr. Kuvara and his team are truly amazing! He is the most kind hearted and will do everything he can to win your case."
They are very prompt with responses and follow up. The entire process was stress free (especially going through this during the middle of the pandemic) and seamless! He heard, understood my pain and had the most sincerest empathy for me. This review has been LONG overdue. He took care of me in 2020 and has left an everlasting impression in my life. I recommend everyone to Mr. Kuvara and his outstanding team! Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!
- Kay M. -
"Simply the best."
Neal and Colby Kuvara worked tirelessly to achieve a result I am happy with. They did not promise me anything they did not deliver. Along with this, they are decent people, not something you may associate with Lawyers. They proceeded at a pace that allowed me to heal and kept me informed of all developments in a timely manner. I could not recommend them more highly.- Jason D.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims in California
How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation altogether.
Do I have to go to court?
Not always. Many car accident cases settle through negotiations. However, if the insurance company refuses to treat you fairly, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options through your own insurance policy, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. We can review your policy and advise you.
How much does it cost to hire a Napa car accident lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay us anything upfront, and we only collect a fee if we recover compensation for you.
Take the Next Step Toward Recovery
Get a trusted legal ally on your side to get your car accident claim moving. For more than 50 years, Kuvara Law Firm has been standing up for injury victims in Napa and across California. We bring the knowledge, compassion, and determination required to handle your case from start to finish.
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, contact us today at (415) 479-7070 for a free consultation. Let us put our experience to work for you while you focus on healing.
Napa faqs
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How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in California?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is 2 years. With a few exceptions, this means that you have just 2 years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. If you don’t file a lawsuit in this time period, then your claim will likely be tossed out of court.
Because of this time limit, it is important to reach out to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after you are hurt in an accident. In Napa Valley and the surrounding areas, call the Kuvara Law Firm to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team.
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How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?
If you have been hurt in an accident, then you may be able to recover financial compensation for all of your losses, such as medical bills, property damage, lost wages, scarring, disfigurement, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. The total value of your case depends on things such as how much insurance the at-fault party has, whether you will fully recover, and how bad your injuries were. For example, if you were paralyzed in a pedestrian accident, you will likely recover more money than if you suffered soft tissue injuries in a slip and fall.
During a free consultation, a Napa personal injury lawyer will explain your legal rights and give you an estimate of how much your case is worth. Your attorney will then work to help you get the money that you need to cover your losses and move forward with your life. Contact a highly-qualified personal injury attorney at the Kuvara Law Firm to learn more.
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How Can I Afford to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee, which means that they only get paid if you do. This type of arrangement allows you to hire an attorney even if you don’t have the cash to pay anything upfront. It also aligns your interests with your lawyer’s, as you both want the case to be resolved for as much money as possible as quickly as possible.
If you have been hurt in an accident, don’t let your fear of huge legal bills hold you back. When you hire the Kuvara Law Firm, you won’t pay us a dime unless we get money for you. Give our law office a call today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal rights.
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Car Accident LawsuitsIncluding truck and motorcycle wrecks
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Premises Liability ClaimsIncluding slip and falls and dog bites
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Defective ProductsIncluding defective cars, trucks, and SUVs
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Work Accident InjuriesWorkers’ compensation and third party personal injury claims
