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Car Accident

San Rafael Car Accident Lawyers

Injured in a Car Accident in San Rafael, CA?

If you are a car accident victim, you may qualify for compensation under California’s personal injury laws if another person caused your crash. Act quickly to protect your legal rights.

With over 50 years helping car accident victims, our San Rafael car accident attorneys at Kuvara Law Firm will work to recover the maximum compensation available to you. We recognize the emotional and financial strain a car accident creates, so we remain committed to advocating for your entitled compensation.

Our firm’s deep community roots in Marin County mean we know the most accident-prone intersections and local court procedures. Many claims in San Rafael arise near areas such as the Highway 101 corridor and busy downtown streets like 2nd Street and Irwin Street, where traffic collisions frequently occur. We use our understanding of these local patterns to help you pursue the recovery you deserve.

Steps to Take After a Crash in San Rafael

If you have been in a collision, following proper steps supports your health and any claim. Move your vehicle to safety if possible and call local law enforcement to report the incident. Gather contact details from witnesses and take clear photos of the vehicles, intersection, and any skid marks. Marin County’s unique road conditions—including frequent rain and traffic congestion—can affect fault and liability, so capturing details makes a difference. Always seek prompt medical care since some injuries take time to show symptoms. Notify your insurance provider, but avoid discussing your case details until you have professional legal guidance.

To schedule a free consultation with our car accident lawyers in San Rafael, contact us by calling today.

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Table of Contents

What Is the Duty of Care Owed to Drivers in California?

All California drivers must operate their vehicles safely and reasonably on public roadways so they do not endanger others. Following traffic laws and adjusting to poor weather, such as slowing down for rain in San Rafael, are responsibilities drivers should follow every time they drive.

Local roads in San Rafael can become slick from morning fog or showers. Drivers should remain alert and careful, especially in the rainy winter season. The region’s winding roads and intersections with limited visibility increase the need for watching for pedestrians and cyclists.

What Are Examples of Breaches in the Duty of Care?

Many breaches of the duty to drive safely are also violations of traffic law. Examples include texting behind the wheel, drinking and driving, and running red lights.

In San Rafael, rolling through stop signs or not yielding at Highway 101’s merging lanes often leads to crashes. Drivers also tend to follow too closely in heavy traffic on local thoroughfares, causing rear-end collisions. Recognizing these patterns allows our attorneys to identify liability and strengthen your case.

Don’t settle for less. Fight for full compensation.

  • $2,000,000 Truck Accident
  • $1,850,000 Pedestrian Accident
  • $1,800,000 Motorcycle Accident
  • $1,750,000 Motor Vehicle Accident
  • $1,495,000 Premises Liability
  • $1,410,000 Premises Liability
  • $1,300,000 Pedestrian Accident
  • $1,000,000 Rollover Accident
    • "We recommend Kuvara Law Firm to anyone needing services of a law office."
      Kuvara law firm was able to resolve a dispute with our insurance company. We received a settlement that we believe is fair and just. Everyone we dealt with at the law firm was very friendly and professional.
      - Craig M.
    • "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.
    • "They were kind, understanding, and extremely helpful in every conversation."

      Beyond grateful with the service and support the professionals at Kuvara Law Firm offered me every step of the way in this process. I know being in a situation of need and not knowing where to begin is overwhelming and quite frankly a bit scary.

      - Esmeralda M.
    • "Wish I could give 6-stars."

      I had a bad car accident and I had both the pleasure and the best experience with Kuvara Law Firm. Was given excellent top notch service , the firm and its excellent staff went above and beyond the call of duty, I highly recommend. Thank you for everything.

      - Brennan C.

      How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in California?

      The Statute of Limitations For Personal Injury Claims in a Motor Vehicle Accident Is Two Years From the Date of the Accident.

      Time matters after a car accident. Under California law, injury victims have a limited window to file a lawsuit, regardless of the severity of their injuries. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations.

      In California, car accident and auto accident victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If you fail to file a claim by the deadline, the case will be dismissed, and you will be responsible for the financial losses you incur—even if you did not cause the accident.

      Many clients feel overwhelmed by paperwork and court deadlines after a crash in Marin County. The courthouse in San Rafael handles many personal injury filings each year. Meeting these deadlines affects your eligibility for compensation. Stay organized and take prompt action after an accident to protect your options for recovery.

      If you have been involved in a car accident in Marin County, speak with an experienced attorney at our law firm by calling as soon as possible so that work on your case may begin.

      More Than Just Medical Bills: Damages and the Value of a Car Accident Case

      After a car accident in Marin County, victims often face mounting medical bills. These expenses can quickly reach tens of thousands of dollars or more. However, hospital or treatment costs are only one part of the losses that follow a crash.

      Many people are surprised by how many different losses can result from a car accident on San Rafael’s busy roads. The effects can extend beyond what insurance companies consider. Expenses for transportation, home modifications, or the loss of enjoyment in daily activities may increase quickly, especially for those dealing with hilly neighborhoods or long commutes in Marin County.

      In general, damages—which affect the total value of a car accident case—include:

      • Medical expenses
      • The estimated cost of future medical care
      • Property damage
      • Lost wages
      • Pain and suffering
      • Loss of companionship
      • The cost of remodeling a home to accommodate an injury (for example, building wheelchair ramps or installing handrails)

      If you needed emergency surgery after an accident, missed a work bonus due to recovery, or face repair, replacement, or rental expenses for your car, these can factor into your claim. Storage fees and costs for modifications to your living space may also increase the value of your case.

      Continue Reading Read Less

      How Our Car Accident Lawyers Will Help You Win Your Case

      Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer increases your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your losses in a personal injury case. In fact, accident victims who have legal representation recover up to 3 times more than those who handle their cases on their own. Car accident lawyers can help you win your case in several ways:

      • Investigating the Accident
        We will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and photos. This evidence can help establish fault and liability.
      • Dealing with Insurance Companies
        Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims. An experienced lawyer at our San Rafael accident law firm will handle negotiations with the insurance companies, fighting for a fair settlement on your behalf.
      • Determining Damages
        Our car accident lawyers will help calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. We will work to ensure you receive fair compensation for all damages.
      • Knowing the Laws
        Personal injury laws can be complex, and car accident cases often involve numerous legal issues. Your lawyer will have a deep understanding of the relevant laws and legal precedents that apply to your case.
      • Representing You In Court
        If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our car accident lawyers will represent you in court. We will present evidence, question witnesses, and make legal arguments to convince the judge or jury to rule in your favor.
      • Meeting Deadlines
        There are strict deadlines for filing claims and lawsuits in car accident cases. Your lawyer will ensure all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time.
      • Handling Appeals
        If the initial ruling is not in your favor, your lawyer can file an appeal and represent you through the appeals process.
      • Providing Guidance
        Our car accident attorneys will guide you through the legal process, keeping you informed and advised on the best course of action to take.

      What Do You Have to Prove in a Car Accident Claim?

      In California, motor vehicle accident claims proceed as negligence claims. In a negligence claim, the injured victim must show:

      Each of these elements must be proven for a motor vehicle accident victim to prevail in a claim. With the assistance of an experienced California car accident attorney at our San Rafael law firm, the odds of success increase exponentially.

      • The At-Fault Party Owed the Accident Victim a Duty of Care
      • The Duty Was Breached Because the At-Fault Party Was Negligent;
      • Due to the At-Fault Party’s Negligence The Accident Victim Suffered Damages
      With More Than 50 Years of Combined Experience We Can Help You Maximize Your Compensation
      Kuvara Law Firm, our car accident attorneys represent clients throughout California. We offer a free initial consultation so that you may learn about your legal options, and the legal services we offer.
      CONTACT US ONLINE
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        What Are the Most Frequent Causes of Car Accidents?

        Approximately 94% of car accidents are caused by human error. Reducing the number of accidents depends on safer driving, better road design, and enforcement of traffic laws.

        The Most Frequent Causes of Car Accidents in Marin County Include Distracted Driving, Drunk Driving, and Speeding.

        An experienced vehicle accident attorney can evaluate the cause of your crash and identify options for compensation.

        In San Rafael, heavy daily traffic on roads like 3rd Street, Francisco Boulevard, and local freeways contributes to rear-end collisions and intersection crashes. Distracted drivers texting at red lights or rushing through crosswalks often create risks. Alcohol-related crashes rise after large local events or on weekends, and rainy weather can make speeding even more dangerous on area highways and hills.

        Understanding Comparative Fault in California

        California’s comparative fault law means more than one person may share responsibility for an accident. Even if you share some blame, you may still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. In Marin County, disputes about fault can arise at complex intersections or during quick lane changes in heavy traffic. Understanding your rights under comparative fault empowers you in discussions with insurance companies or in court. We ensure our clients understand how local rules and traffic patterns affect the recovery process.

        Car accident claims can be a challenging maze to navigate. Our California car accident attorneys will make sure you are going in the right direction to maximize your recovery - call or contact us online.

        • Distracted Driving
          Texting while driving, talking on a cell phone, eating, and other such activities are dangerous for drivers. Distracted driving is defined as actions that take one’s hands off of the wheel, one’s eyes off of the road, or one’s mind off of driving. Nearly half a million drivers use their cell phones while driving during daylight hours.
        • Drunk Driving
          Thousands of individuals are injured or killed every year because of drunk drivers. The NHTSA reports that 37 people die in drunk-driving crashes every day in the United States. That’s equal to one fatality every 39 minutes. People who are intoxicated have slower reaction times, and impaired judgement. They may experience blurred vision, and their motor skills and the ability to control a motor vehicle deteriorate.
        • Speeding
          Speeding remains one of the top causes of crashes throughout the country. Since impact is greater when motor vehicles are moving faster, the odds of a severe injury or fatality are much higher when accidents occur at high rates of speed.

        What Evidence Should Be Collected at the Scene of a Car Accident?

        The more evidence you have, the better, after a car accident in San Rafael. Evidence can go a long way in helping your car accident attorney build a successful claim on your behalf. There are a number of pieces of evidence that can be collected at the scene of an accident to help your attorney. These include:

        • Information On Any Drivers Involved
          The most important thing you need to collect at the scene of the accident is the information on any drivers involved in the accident. You’ll want to gather license plate numbers, driver’s license numbers, insurance policy numbers, and contact information.
        • Witness Information
          After collecting information from any drivers involved in the accident, you’ll want to obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Witness statements can help piece together the events of the accident and can also be used as evidence in a lawsuit.
        • Documentation of Vehicle/Property Damages
          The cost of damages to your vehicle and/or other property items can be claimed in your case. You’ll want to take photos of any damage sustained after the accident. You may also take photos of your injuries.
        • Documentation of Road Signs
          In certain cases, it can be helpful to take photos of nearby road signs, such as reduced speed zone signs and stop signs. This evidence is especially helpful if the driver that caused the accident negligently ignored or disobeyed the signs.
        • Documentation of Road Conditions
          Negligent drivers are not the only cause for road accidents. In certain cases, dangerous road conditions can contribute to the accident. Hazardous road conditions include uneven surfaces, large potholes, broken concrete, road debris, and similar conditions. If any of these conditions existed, they should be documented with photos.
        • Location of Security Cameras
          Look around and take note of any red light cameras or security cameras in the vicinity of the accident. The footage captured by the cameras can often be acquired and used in your case.

        What Are Common Injuries in San Rafael Car Accidents?

        Car accidents in San Rafael and the surrounding areas can cause many types of injuries, with some seen more often than others.

        Injury severity depends on the speed of the vehicles, how they collided, the use of seat belts, and the circumstances of the crash. Seeking prompt medical care and proper treatment matters for recovery after a car accident.

        Here are some of the most common injuries sustained in car accidents in San Rafael:

        Busy downtown intersections in San Rafael often lead to whiplash, back injuries, or broken bones, especially in multi-vehicle collisions. Crashes near freeway on-ramps or at higher speeds on Highway 101 can cause traumatic brain injuries or chest injuries. Many people require physical therapy or ongoing care after even minor accidents, sometimes because of the area’s challenging traffic and unique road layouts.

        • Whiplash
          This is a neck injury caused by the sudden, forceful back-and-forth motion of the head during a rear-end collision. Whiplash can lead to neck pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
        • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
          TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain injuries, and they can occur when the head strikes an object or experiences a sudden jolt or impact.
        • Spinal Cord Injuries
          High-impact collisions can result in damage to the spinal cord, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis.
        • Broken Bones
          Fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis, are common in car accidents due to the immense forces involved.
        • Soft Tissue Injuries
          These include sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which can be caused by the sudden impact or twisting motions during a collision.
        • Internal Injuries
          Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, or other injuries to the chest, abdomen, or other internal areas.
        • Burn Injuries
          In cases where a vehicle catches fire or a pedestrian is involved, burn injuries can occur, ranging from minor to severe.
        • Psychological Trauma
          Car accidents can be traumatic events, leading to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression.

          With More Than 50 Years of Combined Experience, We Can Help You Maximize Your Compensation

          At Kuvara Law Firm, our San Rafael car accident attorneys support clients throughout California. We provide a free initial consultation so you can learn about your legal options and the services available to you.

          We have built relationships with healthcare providers and attorneys over five decades, helping clients receive a broad range of support. The 1-800-4-INJURY phone number shows our commitment to staying accessible, whether your accident was a fender-bender in Terra Linda or a serious crash on local highways. Our team draws on decades of community experience and regional knowledge to address every case with care and clarity.

          To schedule your free consultation with our firm: Contact Us Online or call

          Where Do Car Accidents Occur in California?

          Accidents happen throughout California every day, but some locations see more crashes than others.

          For example, in San Francisco, frequent accident sites include the intersection of Mission Street and 16th Street, followed by Market Street and 5th Street and then 9th Street and Mission Street.

          In San Rafael, the most dangerous intersection is 2nd Street and Irwin Street, followed by Manuel T. Freitas Parkway and Del Presidio Boulevard, and Hetherton Street and 3rd Street.

          Bustling routes such as Bellam Boulevard and Andersen Drive frequently see fender-benders, sideswipes, and accidents involving pedestrians. Increased construction, changing weather, or events at Marin Center can raise the number of crashes in the area. Knowing these accident locations makes it easier to explain your circumstances when working with insurance companies or attorneys who may not know the region as well as you do.

          Contact us online or by calling to get started on your claim today.

          Why Should You Call a Car Accident Lawyer Before You Call the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company?

          Insurance agents for the at-fault driver’s company often try to resolve claims in a way that protects their own bottom line. They may call you soon after the accident, before the extent of your injuries and losses is clear, and encourage you to settle quickly—often for less than your claim is worth.

          Local insurers may refer to familiar road conditions or local traffic as they negotiate claims in San Rafael, but these arguments may overlook the full extent of your losses. By reaching out to a car accident attorney first, you get an advocate who understands neighborhood traffic hazards and the common arguments insurers make to minimize claims. This perspective can help make sure your case considers all circumstances unique to Marin County.

          The insurance company will try to take advantage of your expenses and stress by making an initial offer that is often much too low to cover your losses. Many hope you will accept the offer and close your case before fully understanding your claim’s value.

          If you settle too soon, you may sign away important rights and eliminate your opportunity to pursue further damages for your auto accident.

          Dos and Don’ts After a Car Accident

          After a car accident, the advice you receive is often conflicting. There are certain steps you should take after your accident. There are also a lot of actions you should avoid.

          • DO Speak With an Experienced California Car Accident Attorney as Soon as Possible
            These attorneys may speak with insurance companies on your behalf, shielding you from pressure to settle your claim. These attorneys ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the case.
          • DO Seek Medical Attention Immediately—even if You Do Not Think You Are Seriously Injured
            Some injuries have a delayed onset of symptoms and may not exhibit any symptoms at the time of the accident. Insurance companies love to argue that an accident victim is not seriously injured if medical attention was not sought quickly after the accident.
          • DO Keep Detailed Records of Your Accident
            Take photos of the crime scene, write down your recollection of the events as soon as possible, and keep copies of all of your medical records. This information will help your attorney pursue damages on your behalf.
          • DON'T Have Lengthy Conversations With the at-fault Party’s Insurance Company About the Accident
            Simply tell the adjuster or agent that you are hiring an attorney and that any questions may be directed to the law firm. You do not want to risk making a statement that could be used against you later.
          • DON'T Discuss the Case on Social Media
            Even seemingly innocent posts that state something like, “We were in an accident today, but we are okay!” may be used against you by the insurance company.
          • DON'T Keep Anything From Your Attorney
            Even if you think some of the facts of your case will hurt your claim, you need to disclose these to your attorney. Chances are, they will not seriously damage your claim! Your attorney needs the full picture of your case to thoroughly protect your rights.

          faqs about car accident cases

          • How Many Cases Has Kuvara Law Firm Handled?

            In Kuvara Law Firm’s over 50-year history representing injured victims in California, we have handled over 20,000 personal injury cases, resulting in millions of dollars in awards for our clients.

          • What Is the Advantage of Settling a Case?

            If the other party’s insurance company is willing to try and settle with you, it is advantageous to at least try to negotiate with them. In many cases, you can get just as much money settling a case as you can when actually going to court. The difference is that when you go to court, there is a chance that you can lose. The other party is usually willing to pay up to a certain point to try to avoid going to court, and we try to take advantage of this whenever we can. When we have to take a case to court, it can take a lot longer for the process to complete and get you your money. If we can settle your case, you get compensation more quickly.

          • How Many Years Has Kuvara Law Firm Been in Business?

            Kuvara Law Firm was established in 1971. Our law firm has established relationships with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, investigators, and other experts in our community who can help us help you recover compensation in your personal injury case. We have earned an outstanding reputation with our valued clients and our industry peers.

          • What Are Compensatory Damages, and What Are Punitive Damages?

            There are two types of damages that you might be awarded for in a personal injury case. The first is compensatory damages, which are damages meant to help you reach the state you were in before you were injured, such as compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, vehicle repair, and so on. Unlike compensatory damages, punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and set an example with others to help prevent similar behaviors in the future.