Car Accident Lawyer Protecting Your Rights on the Road
Why Hire Counsel After A Crash
Insurance companies move fast to limit payouts after collisions on I-80, Highway 50 and city streets in Oakland or Berkeley. Proving fault and valuing injuries takes evidence and time. Elizabeth Sears Law manages statements, preserves records and builds the claim while you focus on treatment. Many clients find that early guidance prevents mistakes that slow recovery or reduce compensation.
Common Auto Accident Cases We Handle
Rear-end collisions with neck and back injuries. Intersection crashes with disputed signals or turns. Distracted driving and DUI impacts. Uninsured or underinsured motorist claims after hit-and-run incidents near Lake Tahoe or Walnut Creek. Each case receives careful investigation, medical documentation and negotiation aimed at full and fair resolution under California personal injury law.
What To Do After An Accident
Ensure safety and call 911. Exchange information and photograph vehicles, location and injuries if possible. Seek medical care even for symptoms that seem minor. Notify your insurer and keep receipts and records. Before giving a recorded statement, speak with counsel who can explain rights and next steps in simple terms.
How We Build A Strong Claim
We collect police reports and witness statements, secure scene photos and video when available and track the medical story from ER to follow-up. Damages include treatment costs, lost wages and pain and suffering. When questions arise about timelines or court filings, our
claims process guide explains how a case moves from demand to settlement or suit. If a crash involves a rider, our page on motorcycle accidents outlines issues unique to bikes.
Car Accidents
Answers to common questions
What to do after a car accident in California?
Check for injuries and call 911. Move to a safe spot if you can, exchange information and take photos of the scene, vehicles and visible injuries. See a doctor promptly and keep records. Before speaking with an adjuster, call Elizabeth Sears Law for guidance on next steps.
Do I need a car accident lawyer for a minor crash?
Even smaller collisions on I-80, Highway 50 or city streets in Oakland can bring delayed pain and repair disputes. A short call can prevent mistakes with statements, medical documentation and repair estimates that affect the value of your claim.
How much is my car accident case worth?
Value depends on fault, medical treatment, lost income, pain and suffering and available insurance. We review records from your providers and explain how California personal injury law treats damages so expectations are clear.
Should I give a recorded statement to the insurance company?
Not before you get advice. Adjusters are trained to limit payouts. We handle communications, provide accurate information and protect your claim while you focus on recovery.
What if I am partly at fault?
California uses comparative negligence. You may still recover compensation reduced by your percentage of fault. We gather evidence to fairly allocate responsibility and counter assumptions.
How long do car accident cases take?
Many resolve a few months after treatment ends. Disputed liability, ongoing care or court calendars in Oakland or Martinez can extend the timeline. We keep you updated so decisions are made with good information.
Who pays my medical bills while the case is pending?
Health insurance, MedPay and provider liens can cover treatment during the claim. We coordinate benefits and address reimbursements in the settlement.
What if the other driver has no insurance or leaves the scene?
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage may apply. We review your policy and pursue every available source, including hit and run claims, to make sure nothing is missed.
Can I use the body shop I prefer?
Yes. You choose the repair shop. Keep estimates and photos, and save receipts for towing, rental cars and related costs so they are included in the demand.
When should I call a lawyer?
As soon as possible. Early guidance helps preserve evidence from intersections in Berkeley, traffic cameras near Walnut Creek and witness contacts in Alpine County. Quick steps often lead to stronger results.