Legal Help After a Car Accident in Los Angeles County
Djougourian Law Corp represents people injured in Los Angeles County car accidents. From the firm’s Burbank office, trial attorney Arthur Djougourian helps clients address questions about fault, insurance and the effects of an injury on their lives. The firm’s reported car accident results include settlements of $5.5 million and $800,000. Arthur earned his law degree at Pepperdine University School of Law and was selected to Super Lawyers Rising Stars in 2022.
Past results do not guarantee, warrant or predict the outcome of your case.
What to Bring to a Case Evaluation
Bring the collision report or report number, photographs, witness information, insurance correspondence and any available treatment or wage-loss records. You do not need to have every document before asking for help. A case evaluation can identify missing information and the questions that need attention first.
Request a free car accident consultation or call 818-530-0000.
🚨 Car Accident Risks in Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County has some of the busiest roads in California, and the behaviors behind the most serious crashes are well documented:
- How the county compares: The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) crash rankings, built from Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) data, compare Los Angeles County with other California counties, and each city with similar-sized cities, for injury, alcohol-involved, speed-related, pedestrian and hit-and-run crashes.
- Pedestrians at risk: People on foot are among the most vulnerable road users in Los Angeles. See our page on pedestrian collisions in LA County.
- Leading causes: Nationally, speeding was a factor in 29% of traffic deaths in 2024 (NHTSA). Speeding, distracted driving and impaired driving continue to cause serious harm on Los Angeles roads.
Most Common Accident Types in Los Angeles County
- Rear-end crashes: frequently caused by traffic congestion
- Head-on and T-bone collisions: often catastrophic at intersections
- Multi-vehicle pileups: common on major freeways such as the 405, 10 and 101 during peak hours
- Hit-and-run and uninsured driver crashes: a rising concern for accident victims
- Impaired or distracted-driving crashes: a primary focus of LA County’s Vision Zero plan
🚦 California Laws Protecting Car Accident Victims
California provides strong legal protections for accident victims through its vehicle and insurance codes:
- At-fault system: California uses a fault-based system: the driver whose negligence causes a crash (and that driver’s insurer) is responsible for the resulting damages (Cal. Civil Code §1714). This allows injured people to seek full compensation from negligent drivers.
- Minimum insurance requirements: California Vehicle Code §16056 requires drivers to carry at least $30,000 for injury or death of one person, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage (30/60/15). See the California DMV’s insurance requirements. These are required minimums, not a limit on what a claim may be worth.
- Pure comparative negligence: Even if you share part of the fault, you can recover compensation from any other at-fault party, regardless of the degree of your own fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
- Statute of limitations: Many California personal injury lawsuits, including car accident cases, must be filed within two years of the injury (Code of Civil Procedure §335.1), but exceptions can change that deadline. The California Courts deadline guide explains the general rules.
- Claims against government entities: If a city, county or other public agency may be responsible, a written administrative claim generally must be presented to the correct entity within six months (Government Code §911.2). That claim is different from filing a lawsuit. See our article on the six-month deadline for claims against cities, buses and schools.
- Mandatory accident reporting: Drivers must report any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 to the DMV within 10 days using Form SR-1.
- Uninsured motorist protection: California Insurance Code §11580.2 requires auto policies to include uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage unless the policyholder waives it in writing.
- No damage caps: California does not cap damages in personal injury or car accident cases, so victims can recover full compensation for all losses.
Why Car Accident Victims Need Legal Representation
Insurance companies use sophisticated tactics to minimize payouts, which makes experienced legal representation essential:
- Complex liability determination: Proving fault requires police reports, witness statements, accident scene photos, surveillance footage, expert accident reconstruction, and medical records linking injuries to the crash. We handle this investigation.
- Insurance company tactics: Insurers try to deny claims outright, offer quick lowball settlements before full damages are known, dispute injury severity, blame pre-existing conditions, and delay in the hope that victims will accept less. We counter these strategies aggressively.
- Maximizing compensation: We make sure every category of damages is accounted for, including all medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, future treatment), lost wages and earning capacity, property damage and vehicle replacement, pain and suffering, emotional distress, permanent disability, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Multiple party liability: Many accidents involve more than one negligent party, including distracted, speeding or drunk drivers, commercial vehicle companies, vehicle manufacturers, and government entities responsible for road maintenance. We identify all sources of compensation.
- Dealing with uninsured drivers: Despite mandatory insurance laws, many California drivers lack coverage. We pursue compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage, third-party liability claims, and direct lawsuits against at-fault parties.
How DJ Law Corp Helps Car Accident Victims
- Free case evaluation: We take the time to understand your accident, assess the severity and impact of your injuries, evaluate liability and insurance coverage, explain your legal rights clearly, and answer your questions without pressure or cost.
- Immediate investigation: Time is critical. We secure police reports and DMV filings, interview witnesses before memories fade, photograph accident scenes and vehicle damage, obtain surveillance footage, consult accident reconstruction experts, and identify every potentially liable party and insurance policy. Where crash records are needed, we request official SWITRS/TIMS data.
- Medical care coordination: Your health comes first. We connect you with medical specialists throughout LA County, arrange treatment on a lien basis when needed to avoid upfront costs, make sure injuries are fully documented, and coordinate with providers.
- Comprehensive damage calculation: California law allows victims to recover economic and non-economic damages (Cal. Civil Code §3333). We account for all economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, future care needs) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, permanent disability).
- Demand and negotiation: We handle all insurance communications, prepare a demand package that presents the full value of your claim, present compelling evidence of negligence and liability, refuse inadequate offers, and protect you from insurance company manipulation.
- Trial-ready litigation: Insurance companies offer fair settlements when they know we’re prepared for trial. We prepare every case for court, retain expert witnesses, depose relevant parties, and present powerful jury arguments when necessary.
Benefits of Choosing DJ Law Corp
- Contingency fees: With a contingency fee, there is no attorney fee unless there is a recovery. The written fee agreement explains the percentage and how case expenses are handled.
- Personalized service: Limited caseloads mean your case receives focused attention. You’re never just a number.
- Local expertise: As Los Angeles County attorneys, we understand local courts, judges and procedures, and we know the dangerous intersections, roadways and accident patterns throughout the region.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents cause a wide range of injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (concussions, skull fractures, permanent cognitive impairment), spinal cord injuries (herniated discs, paralysis, permanent disability), broken bones and fractures (requiring surgery and long-term rehabilitation), internal injuries (organ damage, internal bleeding), soft tissue injuries (whiplash, muscle tears, chronic pain), severe lacerations and scarring (requiring plastic surgery), psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression), and wrongful death.
Compensation Available to Victims
Under California law, personal injury victims may recover both economic damages (such as medical bills and lost earnings) and non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering) (Cal. Civil Code §1431.2). Economic damages cover medical treatment and hospitalization, surgery and rehabilitation, medications and medical equipment, lost wages and future earning capacity, property damage and vehicle replacement, home and vehicle modifications, and in-home care. Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress and mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, permanent disability or disfigurement, and loss of consortium. California does not cap these damages, allowing full recovery for all losses.
Client Testimonials
Researching for the best lawyer for my injury was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. I did the work for you, look no further. Arthur and Jacqui will work hard and advocate for you all the way to get you the maximum settlement. I was even more confident if my case would have went to trial.
I was in a car wreck when a cement truck decided to run a red light causing me to swerve into oncoming traffic. I reached out to different firms but many either didn’t respond back or didn’t want to take the case. Arthur took me on as a client without hesitation and was nothing but respectful and communicated with me every step of the way. I am appreciative of him and his team and I highly recommend him if you’re looking for someone to help you with a personal injury!
this guy helped me battle and win a case after an accident i’d been involved in.
I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Arthur for a year, and in that time, I’ve been continually impressed by his professionalism and dedication. As an attorney, he brings not only a deep understanding of the law but also a genuine commitment to his clients’ best interests. Arthur’s sharp legal mind, clear communication, and integrity make him an outstanding advocate. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending him to those in need of a great attorney!
I was in a car accident about a year ago, and I’m so grateful I hired Arthur to represent me. He helped me get the maximum settlement possible, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome. From the start, he was kind, knowledgeable, and incredibly patient. He always made time to answer my questions and walked me through the process step by step.
When I was rear ended, my car was messed up and so was I. If you need someone to represent you that is professional, caring and will really fight for you, call Arthur Djougourian. He now my go to Lawyer. Thank you so much for helping me settle my case
Arthur Djougourian and his paralegal made everything so easy. They are genuinely friendly and personable, and, I feel confident they got every penny they could for me! Thank you, Arthur Djougourian!
My personal injury lawyer was Arthur Djougourian, accompanied with his paralegal team the helped me with my Uber lawsuit. They were very patient, communicative with walking me through the steps I can take to win a settlement. I honestly am so grateful and appreciative and really can’t thank them enough. If there is a injury attorney I could recommend, it would be Arthur Djougourian
Arthur is an exceptional lawyer. As my attorney, he ensured that all my medical needs were met and that I was properly compensated for my losses. He is very professional and goes above and beyond for his clients. If you find yourself in need of legal representation, Arthur is the attorney to turn to.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a car accident in LA County?
Seek medical care promptly, even if symptoms seem minor. Then contact DJ Law Corp before any legal deadlines pass.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Many personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the accident (Cal. Code of Civil Procedure §335.1), and property damage claims generally have three years, but exceptions can change those deadlines. If a government entity is involved, a written claim is generally due within six months under Government Code §911.2. Have your dates reviewed promptly rather than assuming the general rule applies.
What if I was partially at fault?
California’s pure comparative negligence rule allows you to recover compensation regardless of your degree of fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of responsibility, but you can still receive compensation.
What if the other driver has no insurance?
You can file a claim through your uninsured motorist coverage under California Insurance Code §11580.2. We can also pursue the at-fault driver personally and identify other potentially liable parties.
Do I need to report the accident to the DMV?
Yes. Drivers must report accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage over $1,000 to the DMV within 10 days.
Will I have to talk to insurance adjusters myself?
No. We handle all insurer dealings, paperwork and negotiations so you can focus on recovery.
How long do cases take?
Timing depends on the injuries, how long treatment lasts, whether fault or coverage is disputed, and whether a lawsuit or trial becomes necessary.
How much is my case worth?
Value depends on injury severity, medical treatment costs, lost income, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, liability strength, and available insurance coverage. A result obtained in another matter is not a prediction or guarantee for yours. We provide honest case evaluations.
Take Action Now
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, time is critical. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and insurance companies begin building their defense immediately. Don’t accept lowball insurance offers, and don’t risk your family’s financial future by trying to navigate complex litigation without experienced guidance.
Contact DJ Law Corp today for your free case evaluation.
We serve car accident victims throughout Los Angeles County, including La Mirada, Whittier, Norwalk, Downey, Santa Fe Springs, Pico Rivera, Cerritos, Buena Park, Fullerton and surrounding communities.
📍 300 E Magnolia Blvd, Suite 506, Burbank, CA 91502
📧 arthur@djlawcorp.com
🌐 djlawcorp.com
📞 818-530-0000
Your recovery is our priority. Your justice is our mission. Let DJ Law Corp fight for the compensation you deserve.
