Accidents can turn life upside down in a matter of seconds. One moment you’re driving along Pacific Coast Highway, walking through Downtown Santa Monica, or simply shopping on the Third Street Promenade, and the next, you’re dealing with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about what comes next.
If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you don’t have to go through this alone. A dedicated Santa Monica personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. At the Law Offices of Steers & Associates, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.
Why You May Need a Santa Monica Personal Injury Attorney
Many assume that an insurance company will cover their losses fairly after an accident. Unfortunately, insurers often look for ways to reduce payouts. They may question the severity of your injuries, delay payment, or offer far less than your claim is worth.
That’s where an experienced Santa Monica personal injury lawyer makes a difference. We understand California personal injury law and know how to build strong cases that force insurance companies to take our clients seriously.
It’s also important to act quickly. Under California law, you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Claims against government entities have an even shorter timeline; for example, under the Government Claims Act, it is just six months. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to compensation entirely.
Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in Santa Monica
Santa Monica’s bustling streets, popular tourist attractions, and dense population increase the risk of accidents. In fact, the California Office of Traffic Safety reported 522 crashes causing injuries or deaths in Santa Monica in 2022.
Our firm regularly represents clients in cases involving:
- Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents;
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents;
- Slip and fall and premises liability claims;
- Defective products;
- Medical malpractice; and
- Wrongful death cases.
These accidents can happen to anyone, and the aftermath is often overwhelming. No matter how your injury occurred, a knowledgeable attorney can help you pursue the financial recovery you need to rebuild your life.
What a Santa Monica Injury Attorney Can Do for You
Working with an injury attorney ensures that you have someone on your side who understands both the legal system and the tactics used by insurance companies. Our role includes several important steps that protect your rights and strengthen your case:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence;
- Consulting with medical experts about the extent of your injuries;
- Calculating the true cost of your losses, including both current and future;
- Negotiating aggressively with insurers; and
- Filing a lawsuit and representing you in court, if necessary.
These efforts allow you to focus on your recovery instead of battling paperwork and insurers. California also follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. For example, if you were found 20% responsible for a car crash, your total compensation would be reduced by 20%. Having an attorney argue against exaggerated claims of fault can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
The Types of Damages You May Be Entitled To
A serious accident can affect nearly every part of your life. As your Santa Monica personal injury attorney, we pursue full compensation for economic and noneconomic losses. These may include:
- Medical expenses—hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and future care;
- Lost income—wages you’ve already missed and your reduced ability to work in the future;
- Property damage—repair or replacement of vehicles or personal items;
- Pain and suffering—physical pain and emotional distress; and
- Loss of enjoyment of life—changes to your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
By accounting for both short-term and long-term needs, we can ensure your settlement or verdict reflects the true impact of your injuries. In wrongful death cases, surviving family members may also seek damages for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support.
What to Do After an Accident in Santa Monica
The steps you take after an accident can make a big difference in your health and the success of your legal claim. While every situation is unique, some important actions can help protect your rights:
- Seek medical care right away. Even if you feel fine, injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not show symptoms immediately.
- Report the accident. Whether it’s a car crash, a fall, or another incident, file a report with the appropriate authorities.
- Gather evidence. Take photos, collect contact information from witnesses, and save medical records.
- Avoid discussing fault. When speaking with others at the scene or with insurers, stick to the facts and do not speculate about the cause or who is at fault.
- Call a lawyer. The sooner you consult with an attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case.
Taking these steps early on helps protect your health and strengthens your position when pursuing compensation later.
Choosing the Right Santa Monica Personal Injury Law Firm
The attorney you choose can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At the Law Offices of Steers & Associates, we combine local knowledge with over 40 years of combined experience. As a trusted Santa Monica personal injury law firm, we have handled everything from straightforward car accident claims to complex injury litigation.
Our clients know us for our dedication, compassion, and results. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your unique challenges, and craft a strategy tailored to your needs. Above all, we are relentless in pursuing justice and fair compensation.
Take the Next Step
If you or a loved one has been injured in Santa Monica, don’t wait until the bills pile up and the deadlines pass. Reach out to a skilled Santa Monica personal injury attorney who will fight for your rights and stand by you every step of the way.
Contact the Law Offices of Steers & Associates today for a free consultation. There are no fees unless we recover compensation for you.
