Long Beach Personal Injury Attorney

Long Beach Personal Injury Lawyer

Being involved in any kind of accident can be overwhelming in Long Beach, CA, especially if you were injured as a result. Unfortunately, there are many cases where both accidents and injuries could have been prevented and only occurred due to someone else’s negligence. If you suffered harm due to the careless actions of another individual, group, or business, it’s essential that you find an experienced Long Beach Personal Injury Attorney who can assist you with filing a personal injury claim.

McLachlan Law, APC Is Your Long Beach Personal Injury Law Firm

At McLachlan Law, APC, we understand how stressful personal injury cases can be. That’s why we are committed to offering thorough, calculated legal assistance and support for individuals who were injured because of someone else’s carelessness. We have over two decades of experience in personal injury law, and we are dedicated to fighting for the compensation that our clients deserve. If you are looking to file a personal injury claim here in Long Beach, don’t hesitate to see how McLachlan Law, APC can help you.

What Is Considered a Personal Injury?

According to California law, a personal injury occurs when an individual suffers some form of harm because of someone else’s reckless or negligent behavior. This could include physical, emotional, or even financial harm that occurred due to the carelessness of another individual. Any person who has suffered harm because of negligent behavior has the right to file a personal injury claim against the party that is liable. With this claim, the individual can fight to recover the damages they endured as well as compensation for what they’ve gone through.

Common Personal Injury Cases in Long Beach, CA

Personal injuries can occur in a variety of situations. Here are some of the most common personal injury cases you might see in Long Beach.

Car Accidents

California is home to millions of drivers, massive freeways, and troublesome traffic. Because of this, Car accidents are one of the most common personal injury cases filed throughout the state. Car accidents are traumatic, and they also often cause serious injury and financial trouble for the people involved. If you or a loved one were involved in a car accident that resulted in injury, emotional trauma, or severe financial harm, don’t wait to file a personal injury claim.

Pedestrian Accidents

Because pedestrians are much more vulnerable on the road, negligent drivers can cause catastrophic injury to pedestrians when they operate their vehicles carelessly. Pedestrians can include anyone walking on or off the sidewalk, joggers, and individuals traveling on skateboards, scooters, and other vehicles that are not cars or bikes. If you were knocked down, struck, or injured in some way by a driver in Long Beach, you can file a pedestrian accident personal injury claim and may be entitled to compensation.

Motorcycle Accidents

Like pedestrians, motorcyclists are more vulnerable than cars and trucks in accidents. This is because they have much less protection surrounding the driver than other vehicles. When a car gets in an accident, the individuals within it are protected by seatbelts, airbags, the dashboard, and the exterior of the car, whereas a motorcyclist only has a helmet and other wearable gear to protect them if impact occurs. Motorcycle accidents can be incredibly traumatic and result in severe injury, which is why it is crucial you file a claim to recover compensation if you or a loved one were hurt in Long Beach.

Rideshare Accidents

While most people don’t plan on an accident occurring, it’s important to know what to do and what your rights are if you are injured in an accident while using a rideshare platform. Rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient method for people to travel without having to drive themselves. While these platforms try their hardest to keep everyone safe, you have no idea how careful your driver or other people on the road will be. If you were injured while using a rideshare platform, you have the right to file a personal injury claim against the service you were using and the liable parties that caused your injury.

Premises Liability

All Long Beach businesses are legally required to keep their properties free of hazards and safe for those who visit. When a company fails to take the proper safety precautions or notify visitors of hazards, it can be held liable if someone is injured on the premises. Premises liability cases include common personal injury claims such as slip-and-fall accidents, but they can also involve issues including inadequate maintenance or security. For example, if a business mops the floor without putting up a “wet floor” sign and someone ends up getting hurt, that business can be held liable for causing the injuries that occurred.

Brain Injuries

Your brain is immensely important and also fragile. This means even the slightest injury has the capability of causing severe or permanent damage. A traumatic brain injury, also known as a TBI, most often occurs when an individual suffers a hard blow, strike, or jolt to the head. They may also occur if an individual’s head was struck and something penetrated their skull. Moderate to severe trauma to the brain can cause fainting, seizures, mood swings, loss of coordination, slurred speech, and even memory loss.

Birth Injuries

You and your family put great trust in the people who are helping you bring a baby into this world. Unfortunately, sometimes negligent behavior from medical personnel can result in birth injuries. A birth injury is considered to be any physical injury that harms either the baby or the mother during the childbirth process. Birth injuries encompass a wide range of injuries, from small lacerations and bruises to broken bones and birth defects. They can be incredibly serious and have the potential to impact a mother and her child permanently, which is why it’s important that you file a claim if you or your loved one were affected.

Wrongful Death

When an accident results in the death of an innocent individual, their loved ones can be left in a state of grief and disarray. Losing a loved one can be incredibly emotional for the family that was left behind, but it can also heavily impact their financial situation. If an accident causes the death of an individual who had dependents, the family has the right to file a claim against the liable parties and fight to recover damages and compensation.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Personal Injury Claim in California?

When it comes to personal injury claims, the initial few weeks or even months after an accident can be extremely overwhelming. Luckily, California allows an individual who suffered a personal injury two full years from the date of their accident to file a claim against the liable party. The court will not accept claims that are beyond this statute of limitations, so it’s imperative that you file your personal injury claim as soon as you are able.

How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help You?

Personal injury law is complex. This makes having a qualified personal injury attorney to help you through your case essential. McLachlan Law, APC can assist you in a multitude of ways.

Helping You Understand Your Rights

As someone who was injured due to the negligence of another person, you have a variety of rights that you should be aware of. At McLachlan Law, APC, our team can help you better understand the different rights you have as a victim in a personal injury case as well as assist you in determining what your next steps are. If you suffered harm in some way because another individual was being reckless or careless, it’s crucial that you know your rights and file a claim to hold them accountable.

Assisting You in Filing Your Claim

Filling out and filing legal documents can be complicated, especially if you are filing a claim against an individual or business. By working with our Personal Injury Attorney in Long Beach, CA, we can assist you in filling out the different documents that come across your desk. We can also help you with the actual claim filing process. Our lead attorney is more than familiar with filing personal injury claims and is prepared to guide you through the process.

Helping You to Gather Evidence

Gathering evidence is a critical part of your personal injury case. Without substantial evidence proving the fault of the defendant, it can be difficult to win your claim against them. Working with a Long Beach Personal Injury lawyer can help you immensely when gathering evidence because they know what to look for and how to use it to build a strong case.

Negotiate on Your Behalf

Most personal injury claims are handled outside of court and usually just involve the victim, their lawyer, and an insurance company. This makes having an experienced lawyer essential so that they can negotiate on your behalf. Because so many insurance companies and big businesses deal with multiple claims every year, they may try and offer you less than you deserve if they know you won’t negotiate. Having a lawyer with strong negotiation skills can make a massive difference in the outcome of your case.

Representing You During Litigation

While not every personal injury case goes through litigation, you want to have a lawyer on your side if your claim ends up going to court. Litigation most commonly occurs in personal injury cases when both parties involved are unable to settle outside of court. This causes the claim to be transferred to the local court, where the ultimate decision on the matter will be left up to a judge. Our team has years of experience representing clients both in and out of court, and we are prepared to represent you as well.

What Kind of Compensation Can You Receive From a Personal Injury Case?

If you file a personal injury claim in California, you can try and fight for compensation to recover damages. “Damages” is the legal term used to describe what methods will be taken to try and make the victim “whole” again.

There are two main categories of damages that an individual may receive, which are known as compensatory and punitive damages.

Compensatory Damages

Compensatory damages are designed to compensate victims for the trauma, injuries, and harm they endured from their accidents. With compensatory damages, an individual can receive compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. For example, an individual who was injured may be able to receive compensation for all of their medical bills in addition to compensation for the pain and emotional harm they suffered.

Examples of economic damages a victim may receive include:

• Coverage of current and future medical bills that occur due to your injury
• Lost wage replacement
• Diminished earning capacity compensation
• Repair or replacement of property that was damaged

Examples of non-economic damages, which are considered compensation for subjective losses, include:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional harm and trauma
• Loss of will to live
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Physical impairment or disability
• Disfigurement

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages differ from compensatory damages in that they are meant to punish the defendant in some way. These damages are used as an attempt to discourage the defendants from acting recklessly again. Punitive damages are most often awarded when the defendant was proven to have demonstrated negligent behavior.

How to Apply for a Personal Injury Claim in Long Beach, California

Filing a personal injury claim in Long Beach, California, is straightforward if you follow these steps carefully. Here’s how you can do it:

• 1.Understand the Timeline: Claims for personal injuries must be filed within six months of the incident (California Government Code Section 911.2). Ensure you act promptly to avoid missing this deadline.
• 2.Download the Claim Form: Visit the City of Long Beach’s website to access the official claim form. You can choose to complete it online or download and print it for submission.
• 3.Complete the Form: Fill out the form thoroughly, providing details about the incident, your injuries, and any damages incurred. Incomplete forms may delay the process.
• 4.Attach Supporting Documents: Include evidence like medical records, itemized bills, proof of payments, and photos of injuries or damages. Retain copies for your records.
• 5. Submit Your Claim: Deliver your completed form and documents either in person or by mail to: City Clerk 411, West Ocean Blvd
  Long Beach, CA 90802.
• 6.Await Response: The City will review your claim and respond within 45 days. If approved, you can proceed with further legal action if necessary.

By following these steps, you ensure your claim is processed efficiently and within legal requirements.

Personal Injury Statistics in Long Beach, California

Long Beach confronts serious personal injury challenges, ranking fourth among similar cities with 3,433 total injury and fatal collisions in 2021. The city ranks second-worst for pedestrian injuries (357 victims) and holds the concerning distinction of ranking first statewide for injuries to both young pedestrians under 15 and seniors over 65. Long Beach recorded 165 motorcycle-related injuries, 199 bicycle accidents, and 299 alcohol-involved incidents in 2021. These local statistics mirror California’s broader trend, where personal injury accidents have climbed steadily from 14,500 in 2015 to a projected 16,800 in 2025 – a 16% increase. The California Office of Traffic Safety data highlights other concerning areas, including 410 speed-related collisions and 338 hit-and-run incidents. State transportation officials continue implementing strategic safety plans through infrastructure improvements, enforcement, and public education campaigns aimed at reversing these troubling trends.

Major Factors Contributing to Long Beach, CA Personal Injury Accidents

From 2015 to 2025, California has experienced a concerning rise from approximately 14,500 annual personal injury accidents to 16,800, representing a significant public safety challenge. Some of the major factors are:

Vulnerable Road Users

The statistics reveal a particularly troubling pattern regarding vulnerable road users in Long Beach, California. With the city ranking first for injuries to both young pedestrians under 15 and elderly pedestrians over 65, these demographics require special attention in safety planning and infrastructure design. The 199 bicycle-related injuries further emphasize the vulnerability of non-motorized road users.

Impaired and Dangerous Driving

Alcohol involvement remains a significant factor in Long Beach’s injury statistics, with 299 alcohol-related incidents recorded in 2021. Speed-related collisions (410) and hit-and-run incidents (338) demonstrate that dangerous driving behaviors continue to pose substantial risks to public safety.

FAQs About Long Beach, CA Personal Injury Laws

Q. How much compensation can I expect from my Personal Injury claim in California?

The amount depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, medical costs incurred, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Your attorney will help estimate potential compensation.

Q. What evidence is crucial for proving fault in a California personal injury case?

Evidence includes police reports, medical records, photos of injuries or damages, witness statements, and expert testimony such as accident reconstruction analysis.

Q. Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident in Long Beach, California?

Yes, California follows a “pure comparative fault” rule, meaning you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Q. How long does it take to resolve a personal injury case in Long Beach?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case. Simple cases may settle within months, while more complicated ones involving severe injuries or disputes can take years.

Q. What types of compensation can I receive for a personal injury claim in California?

Compensation typically includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the defendant’s actions were particularly egregious.

Long Beach Personal Injury Lawyer You Can Count On

When you suffer an injury at the hands of another person who was acting carelessly, it can be difficult to focus on anything but healing. However, it’s important that you act quickly if you want to take legal action. Otherwise, you may not be able to hold the party who hurt you accountable. At McLachlan Law, APC, our team has worked for years to represent our clients’ rights and fight for the compensation they deserve. We understand how overwhelming any personal injury case can be and are devoted to helping our clients through tough times.

For more information on McLachlan Law, APC and how we may be able to assist you with a personal injury claim in Long Beach, contact us today to learn more.