Our San Bernardino injury lawyers are always available to answer your questions.
We will help navigate you through your case and recovery.
San Bernardino Personal Injury Lawyer
Fighting for Accident Victims in Southern California
Very few things compare to the trauma, fear, and pain of being injured in an accident. The type of accident has little bearing on the difficulties that victims face as they attempt to recover from their injuries and losses. As expenses begin to pile up, accident victims are likely to suffer from overwhelming amounts of stress and anxiety. Realizing the impossibility of facing such steep costs on their own, injured accident victims should be aware of their options when it comes to seeking compensation for the damages that were caused by someone else's negligence.
Vetchtein Law has fought on behalf of countless accident victims in the San Bernardino area, and we want to fight for you, as well. Our firm's legal team understands the suffering victims are going through. We provide excellent communication and support to help you through the process of obtaining compensation. Personal injury claims are not easy, which is one of many reasons why you should call our skilled and accomplished firm for a consultation if you wish to fight for a fair settlement.
Our approach ensures every client receives personalized attention. We take time to understand the unique aspects of each claim, providing tailor-made strategies that suit specific situations. We focus on not only legal representation but also on the emotional and practical support that victims of accidents need for their daily lives. We have built a reputation for reliability and excellence in serving personal injury clients across Southern California.
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help our clients. If you would like to speak with us, fill out a free consultation form or call us (888) 963-9999.
How Much Is My Personal Injury Claim Worth?
There are many factors to consider when determining the value of a personal injury claim. In general, the average settlement is one to five times the cost of your medical bills, plus additional damages, such as lost income and pain and suffering. There are two common methods used to determine the value of your claim.
Our lawyers are prepared to provide the advice, guidance, and relentless representation that you need to pursue fair compensation after an accident. Do not hesitate to find out what our firm can do for you! Vetchtein Law can provide the counsel and representation that you need at this time.
If you have sustained injuries because someone failed their duty to exercise care, then our personal injury attorneys want you to know that you do not have to face the aftermath alone. Our San Bernardino personal injury attorneys understand the difficulties that arise after an accident like yours and want to apply their skills to help you reach full recovery as soon as possible.
We Take Your Case Personally
Insurance providers have one goal: to deny or reduce payout claims. We give our full energy to each case and provide excellent counsel and support at all times.
Our injury lawyers in San Bernardino will also negotiate on your terms and yours alone, never giving in to the pressures and intimidation of the big insurance companies. You won’t ever have to worry about paying anything upfront. Contact our team today!
Understanding your legal rights can be overwhelming, which is why we offer comprehensive legal consultations to explain each step of the process. At Vetchtein Law, we aim to empower our clients with knowledge, ensuring they are confident about the choices they make in the pursuit of justice. Our dedicated team regularly updates clients, fosters open communication, and remains accessible throughout the journey. We stand by your side, providing reassurance and clarity when you need it most.
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In Need of Legal Counsel?
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Questions About Your Case
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What Will Happen Next?
Why Choose Vetchtein Law?
When you become the collateral damage in someone else's mistake, that person must compensate you for the pain, distress, and loss they have caused you. While it is impossible to turn back time and erase what has occurred, the law has created a platform by which you can claim monetary compensation for both financial and non-financial damages.
Personal injury law involves interaction with negligent parties, large corporations, and insurance companies, and we understand all unique aspects of the law.
Choosing Vetchtein Law means selecting a team committed to fighting fiercely for your rights while ensuring that you feel supported throughout the legal process. We offer not only legal acumen but also compassion and understanding, recognizing that recovering from an injury involves much more than financial compensation. It is about restoring balance and helping you move forward confidently.
Our holistic approach encompasses an understanding of the emotional and psychological impact of injuries, as we strive to provide not just legal solutions but comprehensive support. This dedication to a client-centered approach has made us a trusted partner for those seeking justice in the San Bernardino area and beyond.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Vetchtein Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"Rob & his team are the best law firm in Southern California."Rob and his team are the best law firm in Southern California. He and his team are hard-working and very attentive. I would highly recommend them for any injury case you have!- Veronica R.
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"I was in a pretty bad car accident. I reached out to Vetchtein Law Firm & couldn't have made a better choice."I was involved in a pretty bad car accident a year ago. From the accident, I ended up having severe nerve and deep tissue damage in my neck, knee, and entire back. I reached out to Vetchtein Law Firm from my friend Felix's recommendation and could not have made a better choice. from day one, Brian called me and set up physical therapy, MRIs, and transportation. Mr. Vetchtein assured me that they would be with me all the way. I am beyond grateful for the level of service and care Mr. Vetchtein, Brian, and their team provided for me. I never hesitated to reach out and was taken care of at every turn. I would highly recommend if you are experiencing any issues and need representation, go with Vetchtein Law Firm!- Cortez L.C.
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"Above and beyond from the beginning"Communication was fluid, using emails, calls and text. I was given timely updates, which I appreciated.- Roy R.
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"Highly responsive, respectful, patient, and results-oriented professional."Robert is a no-nonsense advocate that will handle your situation with compassion and professionalism.- M.B.
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"Ready to fight for me."Mr. Robert Vetchtein was available to answer the call. Unlike other lawyers I called, he was patient to hear my story. He was ready to fight for me. I was very happy with the results.- A.O.
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"Took care of everything."Robert was very helpful in my personal injury case. He always kept me well informed and took care of everything with little work on my part. Highly recommend.- J.S.
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"Extremely happy with the settlement."Mr. Robert Vetchtein personally handled my claim from beginning to the end. My calls were always returned...Most importantly, I was extremely happy with the settlement that Mr. Vetchtein obtained for me.- Former Client
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"Knowledgeable and professional."I will definitely recommend this attorney to others. He's the type of person who will go that extra mile to help. I will be using Robert Vetchtein in the future if I ever need an accident attorney again.- W.S.
What We Offer Clients
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24/7 Availability
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Personal Attention for Every Client
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Free Personal Injury Consultations
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No Out of Pocket Expenses
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Thorough Preparation & Investigation
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Tailored Solutions for Every Case
Proving Negligence in a Personal Injury Claim
When you are faced with an injury, you need to consider if the accident was caused by another party's negligent behavior. Some people understandably just want the situation to be over, so they let it go or assume that everyone makes mistakes, and do not look deeper into the situation. Many accidents are preventable and could have been avoided altogether if the responsible party had been cautious. If there is an individual that is responsible for the incident then they should be held liable.
One of the main factors of a claim will be to show that the defendant was negligent in some way. In addition to showing they were negligent, this negligence should be tied to the outcome of the claim. So, how do you prove someone was negligent? This can be done in a variety of ways depending on the details of the claim. Ultimately, the defendant should be shown as acting in a way that differs from what another person in their position would do if being cautious and prudent. Negligence shows that they were acting in a way that was not reasonable.
Elements of Negligence
Negligent behavior can take many different forms, depending on the situation. For example, evidence could be used to show negligence when a driver is caught running a red light by a camera, or when a property owner did not maintain their property so that it was safe. Negligence means a failure to behave with the same level of care an ordinary individual would under the same circumstances. In legal terms, negligence is when a defendant breaches a duty owed to another individual.
A "duty" can mean many things. For example, if you slip and fall in a store due to a spill on the floor, the store employees must clean up or warn their customers of the spill. Additionally, a texting driver who causes an accident has to follow the laws of the road that prohibit such distracted driving acts. As mentioned above, an injury victim must prove negligence to move forward with their personal injury claim. As such, the elements of negligence are important to any injury claim. Elements of negligence include:
Thoroughly understanding these elements is crucial, as it lays the groundwork for building a strong legal argument. It involves gathering substantial evidence, such as eyewitness testimonies, expert opinions, and physical evidence from the scene. Our team at Vetchtein Law excels in meticulously gathering and analyzing these pieces of evidence to construct a compelling narrative that supports our clients' claims.
Our approach is methodical and strategic, ensuring that every angle is covered. By focusing on the specifics of negligence, we can emphasize the necessity of accountability and the pursuit of justice. This diligence is at the heart of ensuring our clients receive the rightful compensation they deserve.
- The negligent party had a duty towards another
- The negligent party breached this duty
- This breach of duty caused the plaintiff's injuries
- The negligent party knew or should have known that their actions could result in harm to others
The Personal Injury Statute of Limitations in California
The statute of limitations is a law that limits how long injury victims have to file a claim. According to the California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1, you have two years from the date of your injury to file a claim before you lose your legal right to do so and recover compensation.
Some exceptions can change this two-year timeframe. For example, injury victims who are minors at the time of the accident have two years from their eighteenth birthday to file a claim. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our San Bernardino personal injury attorney to discuss your claim as soon as possible.
Understanding the statute of limitations is critical because missing this window can forfeit your right to seek compensation entirely. Our team ensures that all deadlines are met and that claims are filed correctly and promptly. We guide our clients through the complexities of legal timelines to safeguard their rights and maximize their opportunities for a successful outcome.
How Our Team Can Help
Since these claims can sometimes be subjective, it is important to work with a professional who can develop a strong case that shows you are owed compensation. Proving negligence and giving little room for doubt can be the difference in getting the financial assistance you need for an injury or lost wages.
Need legal help? Connect with an experienced personal injury lawyer near you in San Bernardino now. Dial (888) 963-9999 or complete an online form.
Frequently Asked Questions about Personal Injury Claims
What Should I Do Immediately After an Accident?
After an accident, it's essential to prioritize your safety. First, check yourself and others for injuries, and if anyone is seriously injured, call emergency services immediately. If possible, move to a safe location to avoid further harm. Once you're safe, document the scene: take photographs of the accident, gather contact information from witnesses, and note the conditions surrounding the incident, such as weather, time, and road conditions. This information will be crucial when filing a claim. Additionally, seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Lastly, report the incident to the authorities and contact your insurance company to inform them of the accident. Having a clear record from the beginning can be beneficial in the claims process.
How Long Does the Personal Injury Claims Process Take?
The timeline for personal injury claims can vary significantly based on the case's complexity, the parties involved, and their willingness to settle. On average, straightforward claims may resolve within a few months, while more complicated matters, especially those requiring litigation, can take a year or more. Factors influencing the timeline include gathering and reviewing evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and addressing medical costs and treatment plans. At Vetchtein Law, we prioritize efficiency without compromising on thoroughness, ensuring that each aspect of your claim is meticulously handled to maximize outcomes. We keep our clients informed at every stage, helping them understand what to expect and prepare for any developments during their journey towards compensation.
Can I Still File a Claim If I Was Partially at Fault?
In California, the law follows the doctrine of pure comparative negligence, which means that you can file a personal injury claim even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be adjusted based on your degree of fault. For instance, if you are found to be 30% responsible for an accident, your compensation might be reduced by that percentage. Vetchtein Law excels in analyzing and presenting claims that highlight the true extent of liability, working to ensure clients get fair and just compensation despite the complexities that partial fault can introduce. We meticulously review the evidence and coordinate with experts to construct a narrative that minimizes your liability and accentuates the negligence of the other party involved.
What Types of Compensation Can I Receive?
Compensation in personal injury claims is typically categorized into economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible financial losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages address subjective, non-monetary losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. The team at Vetchtein Law is dedicated to thoroughly evaluating each aspect of damage, ensuring our clients receive full compensation that reflects both their financial burdens and emotional hardships. Additionally, in some scenarios where the defendant's actions were particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to penalize the offender and deter future misconduct.
Why Choose a Local Personal Injury Lawyer?
Choosing a local personal injury lawyer provides several advantages. A firm with roots in San Bernardino, like Vetchtein Law, brings a deep understanding of local laws, court procedures, and the regional insurance companies involved. Our connection to the community enhances our insight into local dynamics that could impact a claim. Furthermore, having a local attorney means accessibility: face-to-face meetings can be held easily, and our team can be on-site quickly if necessary. Personalized service is paramount at Vetchtein Law, ensuring each client feels supported and informed throughout their legal journey. This local touch, coupled with our client-centered approach, positions us uniquely to advocate effectively for injury victims.
Call Vetchtein Law at (888) 963-9999 to schedule your free initial consultation with our San Bernardino personal injury lawyer.
Our FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at (888) 499-3889 today!
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Do I need to hire a lawyer?The short answer is yes, you need a lawyer! Filing for personal injury compensation without the counsel of an experienced attorney will not be likely to end in maximum compensation. Only a personal injury lawyer will have the knowledge and experience to know how much you deserve to receive, as well as the aggression and skill to fight for such a payout in court. Hire an attorney right away after you've been injured in an accident.
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Who pays for my doctor bills?In a majority of personal injury cases, doctors will take the case on a “lien” basis, which is when the doctor does not require payment from the client while they are being seen. Once the settlement is paid to the injured victim, the doctor will then ask for payment.
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Should I see a doctor after my accident?If you are injured in the accident, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. While some injuries appear instantly, others may take a few days to appear. It is best that you see a doctor following an accident to rule out any serious injuries that may have occurred during the accident.
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What can people recover in a wrongful death claim?Survivors can recover expenses associated with their loved one’s death, such as funeral and medical costs, mental anguish, pain and suffering, and much more.
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Can I seek monetary compensation for emotional distress?Yes, you can seek damages for emotional distress in many circumstances. Emotional damage can be just as painful as physical damage, and you have the right to earn compensation for your suffering.
