Car Accident Lawyer in Encino

We Help You Seek Justice After a Car Accident

No driver plans to be in a car accident, but car crashes happen every day in the Encino area. Thankfully the majority of accidents are minor and have no long-term effects. For others, the injuries sustained are so severe that the individual faces a lifetime of challenges. You may be entitled to substantial compensation if you were injured in a car accident. Our car accident lawyer in Encino, CA, can help you by evaluating your case and advising you on how to move forward to seek maximum compensation.

At V&A Law Firm, our team of Encino personal injury attorneys understands the consequences of a serious car accident and the suffering, pain, and financial losses that come with being hit by a negligent driver. Recovering from an accident can take weeks or months of medical intervention and rehabilitation, lost income from work, reduced earning capacity, and a range of other severe consequences.

Common Types of Car Accidents in Encino

Encino is the location of many vehicle accidents, some of which cause serious, catastrophic, or fatal injuries. The types of vehicle accidents that occur far too often in the city include the following:

Driver-Related Car Accidents in Encino

Distracted Driving

Using a phone, eating, adjusting in-vehicle systems, or failing to pay attention to the road ahead take a driver’s focus off the road—putting all other drivers and passengers at risk of serious injuries or death.

Drunk Driving

Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination. Drivers who get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol can lead to innocent drivers and their passengers suffering severe or catastrophic injuries.

Speeding

Driving too fast is a dangerous habit common to many drivers in the Encino area. When the vehicle’s speed causes the driver to lose control, it will increase the force of impact in a car accident, causing severe injuries.

Drowsy Driving

Fatigue affects a driver’s focus and response time—and, according to research, can be as dangerous as drunk driving. Drivers falling asleep at the wheel can be responsible for high-speed, head-on, or rear-end collisions.

Inexperienced Drivers

Younger, less experienced drivers may not react as quickly or appropriately in traffic when avoiding a collision or road hazard. Inexperienced drivers are a common cause of traffic accidents in Encino.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving can include tailgating, weaving through traffic, road rage, or failing to stop at stop lights, stop signs, or merging safely. Reckless driving behavior increases the likelihood of high-speed collisions, causing serious injuries or even loss of life.

Common Types of Vehicle Accidents in Encino

Some of the most common types of car accidents in Encino include the following:

Rear-End Collisions

One of the most common types of crashes in the region, often caused by distracted or tailgating drivers, is rear-enders. Rear-end collisions can lead to painful and debilitating whiplash, severe head injuries, or spinal trauma.

Side-Impact Collisions (T-Bone Crashes)

These crashes are common at intersections and involve one vehicle striking the side of another when running a red light or failing to yield as required by law. These can be especially dangerous for occupants on the impact side.

Head-On Collisions

Among the most serious types of crashes, head-on collisions often involve high speeds and result in catastrophic or fatal injuries.

Rollover Accidents

More likely to happen to drivers operating SUVs and trucks, rollovers often occur due to speeding, sharp turns, or collisions. These crashes frequently cause severe trauma or ejection injuries.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups

Chain-reaction crashes can cause multiple impacts and make it difficult to determine fault. Victims could be hit more than once by several vehicles or from several directions.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

When a driver flees the scene, the injured person may face delays in receiving care or identifying the responsible party. Uninsured motorist coverage may apply in these cases.

Compensation in Car Accident Cases: What Is Your Case Worth?

If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you are entitled to seek full compensation for all losses. In California, the damages paid should cover the financial losses you have experienced, along with compensation for the personal and emotional consequences.

Medical Expenses: These losses include the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, follow-up visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and any future medical treatment required for your injuries.
Lost Wages: If your injuries kept you from working, you should be eligible to receive full compensation for lost income during your treatment and recovery.
Loss of Earning Capacity: If the accident left you with a long-term disability that limits your ability to work or continue to earn a living in your chosen industry, future estimated income losses must be pursued.
Pain and Suffering: This refers to the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the crash, including anxiety, depression, or loss of enjoyment of life.
Out-of-Pocket Losses: You may also be reimbursed for expenses such as transportation to medical appointments, prescription medications, and necessary modifications to your home to accommodate medical equipment, such as ramps, wider doorways, and other expensive alterations.
Punitive Damages: These damages are intended to punish the responsible party for their actions.

The car accident lawyers at V&A Law Firm will evaluate all of your financial, personal, and emotional losses and pursue every form of compensation allowed under California law.

Common Injuries in Car Collisions in Encino

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some so extreme that they are life-altering. Even low-speed collisions can result in serious physical trauma. Below are some of the most common injuries our clients suffer after a crash:

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Whiplash is one of the most frequently reported car accident injuries caused by the sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck during impact. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness, limited mobility, and headaches. Whiplash can lead to chronic discomfort without the correct treatment and may take several weeks or months to resolve.

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

The force of a collision can damage the vertebrae, discs, or spinal cord, potentially resulting in herniated discs, nerve compression, or paralysis (paraplegia, quadriplegia). Spinal injuries often require long-term care, physical therapy, or surgery.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Head trauma from hitting a steering wheel, window, or airbag can lead to a concussion or more severe brain injuries. A traumatic brain injury can cause headaches, memory loss, mood changes, impaired cognitive function, or, in the worst cases, long-term coma or a vegetative state.

Broken Bones

Fractures are common in car accidents, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Some breaks heal with time and immobilization, while others require surgical intervention and rehabilitation.

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma can lead to internal bleeding or damage to vital organs like the lungs, liver, or kidneys. These injuries are not always apparent at once and may become life-threatening if left untreated.

Cuts and Lacerations

Broken glass, metal, and deployed airbags can cause deep cuts or lacerations. Some wounds may result in permanent scarring or require plastic surgery.

Facial Injuries

Impact with hard surfaces or airbag deployment can cause fractures, dental injuries, or eye trauma. These injuries often require reconstructive surgery or ongoing care.

Psychological Injuries

Car accidents don’t only cause physical harm—many victims experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a traumatic crash. Mental health care is a critical component of full recovery.

Fatal Injuries

When the injuries are so severe that no medical intervention can save the life of the patient, the loved ones left behind face the devastation of the sudden loss of a loved one. In these cases, a wrongful death claim can be brought against the responsible party.

At V&A Law Firm, we understand the full impact these injuries can have on your life. We work with medical professionals and specialists to document your condition and pursue the compensation necessary for your recovery—both now and in the future.

Who is Liable?

All car accident claims and lawsuits will list all liable parties. In California car accident cases, liability requires proving the driver drove in a negligent manner. Proving negligence means establishing another driver failed to exercise reasonable care and failed to operate the vehicle with due care for the safety of others.

The driver may have done something they shouldn’t have, such as driving recklessly, speeding, or driving drunk. The driver may have failed to do something they should have, such as stopping at a red light or failing to adhere to posted speed limits or other traffic laws.

Comparative Negligence and Your Claim

Under California’s comparative fault laws, you can recover compensation even if it is established that you were partially at fault. Your financial recovery will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. At V&A Law Firm, we investigate every detail of the accident to identify all liable parties and fight for the maximum compensation you have the right to seek under state law.

Establishing Negligent Driving in a Car Accident Claim

California law requires proof of the four key elements of negligence to hold a driver legally responsible for a car accident:

Duty of Care: All drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles with reasonable care for the safety of others. The duty of care includes following traffic laws, operating a vehicle in a safe manner, and not engaging in dangerous driving behavior that could potentially harm others.
Breach of Duty: A breach occurs when a driver fails to meet the standard of care. Examples of a breach of duty include speeding, running red lights, driving under the influence, texting while driving, and other risky driving conduct.
Causation: It must be shown that the driver’s breach of duty directly caused the accident and the resulting injuries. It must be established that had the driver acted responsibly, the crash likely would not have occurred.
Damages: The injured party must have suffered actual damages. “Damages” is the legal term for the financial compensation that the injured person can seek to restore them to the condition (financially, physically, and emotionally) they were in before the collision.

At V&A Law Firm, we can build a compelling case around these core legal elements. All supporting evidence will be gathered and preserved, including witness statements, police reports, expert testimony, eyewitness testimony, and data from accident reconstruction specialists. We will prove negligence to hold the driver accountable.

If you were injured in a car crash, reach out to our Encino personal injury lawyer today. You may be entitled to substantial compensation.

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

When a car accident victim suffers losses due to an accident caused by a negligent driver, they are entitled to seek compensation—but California law has imposed a time limit. To file a lawsuit, you have only two years from the date of the accident to file, after which you lose your right to seek compensation.

There are some exceptions, such as in cases when injuries become apparent later. Generally, after the two years have expired, you lose the ability to seek justice through the civil court system.

Settlement or Lawsuit? Your Legal Options in a Car Accident Injury Case

After a car accident, injured victims generally have two legal paths to pursue compensation: negotiating a settlement or filing a lawsuit. At V&A Law Firm, we guide clients through both avenues and help determine the strategy that best serves their interests.

Settlement

Most car accident claims will be resolved through a settlement. This process involves negotiating with the at-fault party’s insurance company to reach an agreement on compensation without going to court. A settlement can include payment for medical expenses, lost income, vehicle repairs, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Settlements are typically faster, less expensive, and less stressful than litigation. Many are resolved within a few months, depending on the complexity of the case and the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate. However, insurers often try to minimize payouts, which is why experienced legal representation is critical. At V&A Law Firm, we push back against unfair offers and fight for a result that reflects the true value of your losses.

Mediation and Arbitration

If direct negotiations stall, mediation or arbitration may be used as alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods. Mediation is a non-binding process where a neutral third party helps both sides reach a compromise. Arbitration is more formal and is often binding, with the arbitrator’s decision final. These methods can effectively avoid trial while pursuing a fair resolution.

Lawsuit

When settlement efforts fail, filing a personal injury lawsuit becomes necessary. This formal legal process involves preparing court filings, conducting discovery (gathering evidence), taking depositions, and potentially presenting the case at trial. A judge or jury will determine liability and award damages if appropriate.

While lawsuits can take longer—sometimes a year or more—they often lead to higher compensation levels, primarily when insurance companies act in bad faith or deny clear liability. Our team prepares every case for trial, and we do not shy away from litigating a serious injury claim in court.

Which Path Is Right for You?

Every case is different. Some can be resolved efficiently through negotiation, while others will not be resolved without the pressure and authority of a courtroom. At V&A Law Firm, we assess all legal options and advise you on the most effective path toward securing the compensation you deserve—whether through settlement, mediation, or litigation.

Fatal Injuries and Wrongful Death Claims

In the most tragic cases, car accidents result in the loss of life. When a person is killed due to another driver’s negligent driving conduct, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.

A wrongful death lawsuit seeks compensation for the financial and emotional losses caused by the death, including funeral and burial expenses, lost future income, and loss of companionship or support. These claims are typically brought by close relatives, such as a spouse, children, or the deceased’s parents.

At V&A Law Firm, we handle wrongful death cases with the utmost sensitivity and determination. Our team is committed to holding negligent parties accountable and helping families find justice and financial security in one of life’s most difficult and emotional times.

Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers and Car Accident Claims

Not every driver on California roads carries adequate auto insurance—some are operating vehicles with none at all. If you’re injured in a car accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, it can create serious complications when seeking compensation. At V&A Law Firm, we help clients navigate these challenging situations and pursue all available options to help recover full compensation for all economic and non-economic losses.

Uninsured Drivers

An uninsured driver is someone who operates a vehicle without any liability insurance. If this type of driver causes an accident, you can’t rely on their insurance to cover your medical expenses or property damage. In this case, you may need to turn to your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage—if you have it.

Underinsured Drivers

An underinsured driver carries insurance, but not enough to cover the losses they cause in a serious accident. For example, if your damages total $100,000 and the at-fault driver only carries $15,000 in liability coverage (the California minimum), your underinsured motorist (UIM) policy can cover the gap.

Filing a UM/UIM Claim

If you carry UM/UIM coverage, which is optional in California but highly recommended, you can file a claim with your insurance company. However, don’t assume your insurer will offer a payout. These are still insurance companies, and their goal is to minimize losses. Having legal representation helps protect your interests and ensures the process is fair.

What If You Don’t Have UM/UIM Coverage?

If you lack uninsured motorist protection, your options are more limited. However, we will explore whether the at-fault driver has personal assets, whether other parties share liability, or whether other insurance policies apply. UM coverage may apply when a driver is not identified in hit-and-run cases.

Protecting Your Right to Compensation

Dealing with an uninsured or underinsured driver doesn’t mean you’re out of options—it just means the path forward is more complex. At V&A Law Firm, we know how to pursue these claims effectively and fight for the compensation you deserve, even when the other driver failed to follow the law.

Why Choose V&A Law Firm to Represent You?

At V&A Law Firm, our car accident lawyers offer much more than just legal representation—we’re dedicated advocates committed to providing personalized legal support to individuals whose lives have been disrupted by serious car accidents. We are not your average law firm; we genuinely offer our clients more, including the following:

Proven Experience in Personal Injury Law: Our attorneys bring years of experience handling complex car accidents and personal injury claims throughout California. We understand the legal, medical, and insurance challenges that come with these cases, and we use that knowledge to develop strategies that get results.
Personalized Legal Support: We treat every case with the attention it deserves. From your initial consultation to the final resolution, you’ll work directly with an attorney who knows your story, understands your goals, and keeps you informed every step of the way. At V&A, you’re not just a case file—you’re a person we’re fighting for.
Aggressive Representation, Inside and Outside the Courtroom: Whether negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial, we fight for fair and full compensation. We prepare every case as if it’s going to court, which strengthens our position at the negotiating table and ensures we’re always ready to litigate if necessary.
No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we secure compensation for you. This allows you to focus on healing while we handle the heavy lifting.
Strong Track Record of Results: Our firm has recovered substantial settlements and verdicts for clients injured in car accidents, from whiplash cases to catastrophic injury and wrongful death claims. We know what it takes to stand up to insurance companies and deliver justice.

Our Legal Team at V&A Law Firm

G. Amy Vahdat: Founder & Managing Partner

Ghazal Amy Vahdat is the founder and managing partner of V&A Law Firm, a Los Angeles-based personal injury practice committed to representing severely injured victims across California. A magna cum laude graduate of UCLA with dual degrees in Political Science and Education, Ms. Vahdat earned her Juris Doctor from Loyola Law School, along with a Certificate in Dispute Resolution.

With a client-first approach, Ms. Vahdat is known for providing personalized, hands-on representation. She advocates fiercely to secure full and fair compensation for her clients and leads the firm with compassion, dedication, and a deep-rooted drive to serve those in need.

Kevin M. Davis: Attorney at Law

Kevin M. Davis brings a strong business and litigation background to V&A Law Firm, offering clients experienced counsel in personal injury and complex legal matters. He earned his Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University School of Law after completing a Bachelor of Science in Management with an emphasis in Purchasing from Arizona State University. Before practicing law, Mr. Davis worked in the aerospace industry, giving him a practical, business-oriented perspective that informs his legal strategy.

Known for his hands-on approach and dedication, Mr. Davis works closely with clients to ensure they are informed and supported at every stage of the legal process. His commitment to personal attention and professional excellence sets him apart in both injury and business-related matters.

What Our Clients are Saying…

“Won my settlement for me…”

I was recently injured and wasn’t sure about my options. I needed some advice. V&A Law Firm helped me. I was almost out of time, but they jumped right in so I didn’t miss the deadline. They were all very helpful. They worked together as a team and won a settlement for me. Even after the case was over, they went above and beyond to help me. They always answered my questions no matter how much I bugged them. They made sure I knew all my options so I didn’t lose my income in the process. They made a very stressful time much easier. Thank you, V&A Law Firm.

–Jennifer L.

“This is a great firm to have on your side.”

Amy Vardat, Kevin, and the entire team are extraordinary professionals who provide superior advice, implementation, knowledge, strength, and compassion. This is a great firm to have on your side.

–Lou S.

“Thank you for all the hard work…”

After getting rear-ended last year, they helped me every step of the way to get the right care my daughter and I needed! If it weren’t for the staff and the lawyers, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today. Thank you for all the hard work you guys did with my claim.

–Cheryl A.

“It was a near impossible case they did it.”

Where do I begin? It was a long process with many ups and downs. To sum it up, it was a road rage incident where I was the victim. Against all odds and countless hours of phone conversations and emails, after I was told I was not going to be able to recover anything, it happened.

The team here kicked butt and got me settled. Although it was nearly impossible, they did it, and I couldn’t be more pleased. I highly recommend!!

–Joseph A.

Your Recovery Starts with the Right Legal Team

Choosing the right law firm can make all the difference in your outcome. At V&A Law Firm, we combine legal skills, compassion, and a deep commitment to client success. Let us help you move forward with confidence.

Let our car accident lawyers in Encino, CA, help you seek justice. We offer a free 15-minute case evaluation. Call us today at 818-369-3270.

FAQ: Car Accident Claims in Encino

What should I do immediately after a car accident?

Call 911 if anyone is injured. If you’re able, move to a safe location, exchange insurance information, take photos of the scene, and get contact info from witnesses. Then, seek medical attention—even if you feel fine—and contact an attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters.

Do I need a lawyer for a car accident claim?

While you’re not legally required to hire a lawyer, having experienced legal representation can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. An attorney handles negotiations, gathers evidence, and protects your rights throughout the process.

How long do I have to file a claim in California?

In most cases, California’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, deadlines may vary, especially if a government entity is involved. It’s best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

California follows a comparative fault rule, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partly to blame. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What types of compensation can I recover?

You may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. In some cases, punitive damages may also apply.

How is fault determined in a car accident?

Fault is determined through evidence such as police reports, witness statements, traffic laws, surveillance footage, and accident reconstruction. Insurance companies and attorneys use this information to assess liability.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options through your own UM/UIM (uninsured/underinsured motorist) coverage. Our firm can help you explore all available sources of compensation.

How long will my case take to resolve?

Each case is different. A straightforward claim might settle in a few months, while more complex cases involving serious injuries or litigation can take a year or longer. We aim for efficient resolution without compromising results.

Will I have to go to court?

Not necessarily. Many car accident cases are resolved through settlements. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case or secure a settlement. This ensures that anyone can access legal representation, regardless of financial situation.

What if my injuries appeared days after the accident?

It’s common for certain injuries—like whiplash or soft tissue damage—to show up hours or days later. Always seek medical care as soon as symptoms emerge and inform your lawyer. Delays in treatment can impact your claim.

Can I still file a claim if I didn’t go to the hospital right away?

Yes, but prompt medical attention strengthens your case. If you have delayed treatment, it’s important to document symptoms and follow up with a doctor as soon as possible. We can still build a strong claim with the right evidence.