Los Angeles traffic rarely clears, and a routine commute can become a costly crash in seconds. Drivers first worry about repair bills, but medical expenses, lost wages and insurance adjusters quickly add up, turning a brief incident into a long-term financial strain.
How much a crash can cost
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates motor-vehicle crashes cost the United States $340 billion in 2019. Lost work and household productivity accounted for $106 billion, while property damage added $115 billion. Those national totals illustrate the scale of the problem, and they show why even a single local claim can feel financially painful for an individual.
The state’s law sets a floor for at-fault drivers’ liability coverage. Under Vehicle Code § 16056, as amended by SB 1107, policies issued or renewed on or after January 1 2025 must provide at least $30,000 for one person’s injuries, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. Those figures represent minimums, and they may be exhausted by a prolonged hospital stay or extensive medical treatment.
Fault rules and filing deadlines
The Golden State follows pure comparative fault, meaning a plaintiff can recover even when partially responsible. Recovery is reduced by the plaintiff’s share of blame, as explained in Li v. Yellow Cab Co., 13 Cal.3d 804 (1975). This approach allows a damaged driver to obtain some compensation even if a court finds fault on both sides.
Most injury claims must be filed within two years, per Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. The clock starts on the injury date, and missing the deadline usually leads to dismissal. Two years sounds like plenty. It goes fast when you’re juggling treatment, work, and insurance paperwork.
Law firms drivers often consider
Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP is a Los Angeles trial practice that handles serious injury and wrongful-death cases, attracting clients with long recoveries and high medical bills.
Jacoby & Meyers offers personal-injury representation across the state, including car accidents. Their established presence draws drivers from beyond the city.
Wilshire Law Firm provides a broad personal-injury practice that includes auto crashes, appealing to clients who want a firm with diverse experience.
Questions to ask a potential attorney
Ask how fees work. Many injury firms use contingency fees, which means the fee comes out of any recovery. The state requires written agreements under Business and Professions Code § 6147, so a clear contract should be provided before any work begins.