Common Types of Personal Injury Claims in California (2025)

Whether it’s a car crash on a busy highway, a slip-and-fall in a grocery store, or an injury caused by a defective product, victims of personal injuries often face physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Understanding the common types of personal injury claims in California can help you determine whether you have a case. If you do, a abogado de lesiones personales from Amendt Law can go over your legal options to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Common Types of Personal Injury Claims in California

Accidentes de tráfico

Accidentes de tráfico are among the most common personal injury claims in California. The state’s busy roads, including the heavily traveled State Route 91 and Interstate 15 in Corona, see thousands of collisions every year. Whether it’s a fender bender or a devastating crash, these accidents often leave victims with serious injuries, from whiplash and broken bones to spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injuries.

Many car accidents result from driver negligence, like speeding, distracted driving, running red lights, and drunk driving. However, other factors like poor road conditions, defective auto parts, and inclement weather can also contribute to crashes.

Slip-and-Fall Accidents

A slip-and-fall may seem minor, but it can lead to major injuries, especially for older adults. About 8 million emergency room visits each year are after falls occur. Falls often result in broken bones, head injuries, and soft tissue damage that can take months or even years to heal. These accidents often happen in public places like grocery stores, restaurants, office buildings, and apartment complexes.

In California, property owners have a legal duty to keep their premises safe for visitors. Hazards like wet floors, uneven pavement, poor lighting, and loose carpeting can make walking areas dangerous. If a property owner knew — or should have known — about a hazard and failed to address it, they could be held liable for the injury.

Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

California leads the country in dog bite claims with 2,104 in 2023. Mordeduras de perro are painful and can lead to infections, permanent scarring, and psychological trauma. Unlike some states that follow a “one-bite” rule, California holds dog owners strictly liable for bites, which means they’re responsible for injuries even if their pet has never bitten anyone.

Victims of dog bites may require stitches, reconstructive surgery, or therapy to cope with emotional distress, and in some cases, infections from bites can lead to serious complications requiring hospitalization.

Workplace Injuries

While workers’ compensation typically covers most on-the-job injuries, there are circumstances where an injured worker may have the right to file a personal injury claim. Workplace injuries can happen in any setting, from construction sites to retail stores. Some situations that may allow an injured worker to file a claim include:

• Accidents caused by a third party, like a negligent contractor or an equipment manufacturer
• Injuries caused by defective machinery or toxic substances
• Cases where an employer’s intentional action led to harm

In these cases, consulting and hiring an experienced lawyer isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential. Third-party workplace injury claims can get very complicated, and victims need an attorney who can help them understand their options and advocate for their rights.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents

California’s beautiful weather makes it a popular place for cyclists and peatones. However, this also means an increased risk of accidents involving cars and trucks. Pedestrians and cyclists have little protection in a crash, making injuries far more serious — and some injuries result in fatalities.

Many of these accidents happen because drivers fail to yield at crosswalks, speed in residential areas, or drive while distracted. Cyclists also face dangers like “dooring” incidents, where a driver opens their car door into a bike lane without checking for riders.

Catastrophic Injury Claims

A catastrophic injury isn’t just a painful setback; it alters a person’s ability to work, move, and even take care of themselves. These injuries often come with overwhelming medical bills, long-term rehabilitation, and major lifestyle adjustments. Catastrophic injuries can include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Spinal Cord Damage
• Severe Burns
• Amputaciones
• Multiple Fractures or Crushed Bones

Because these claims involve significant financial losses, insurance companies do everything they can to limit their payout. They might try to argue that the injury isn’t as serious as it seems or that it wasn’t caused by the accident. That’s why building a strong case backed by medical records, expert testimony, and detailed evidence is crucial.

Preguntas frecuentes

Can I File a Personal Injury Claim if I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still file a personal injury claim if you were partially responsible for the accident. That said, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. A lawyer can help determine how fault might be assigned in your case and protect your interests when dealing with insurance companies.

How Do I Know if My Injury Is Serious Enough to File a Claim?

A lawyer can help assess whether your injury qualifies for a personal injury claim by reviewing your medical records, the severity of the injury, and its long-term impact. Even seemingly minor injuries can have lasting effects, so consulting with an attorney can ensure you don’t overlook potential legal options or settle too soon.

What if the At-Fault Party in a Car Accident Doesn’t Have Insurance?

If the at-fault party in a car accident doesn’t have insurance, you might still have options. You can file a claim with your own uninsured motorist coverage or pursue compensation through other means. A lawyer from Amendt Law can help navigate these complexities and find alternative avenues for compensation, ensuring you don’t get stuck with the financial burden.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally dos años from the date of the accident. However, specific circumstances may extend or shorten this time. By consulting with an attorney, you can make sure you don’t miss important deadlines and that your claim is filed within the required timeframe to preserve your rights.

Take the Next Step After a Personal Injury With Amendt Law

Suffering a personal injury can be overwhelming, but understanding the different types of claims and knowing your legal rights are important steps toward securing the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been injured in an accident or due to someone else’s negligence, Amendt Law is here to provide the guidance you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward rebuilding your life.