Dedicated California Electric Vehicle Accident Lawyer
Never face a legal battle alone. We’re here to join forces with you. Hear what attorney Jeremy has to say.
Table of Contents
Importance of hiring proven attorneys
- Medical expenses
- Long-term care
- Rehabilitation
- Loss of wages
- Loss of earning power
- Pain and suffering
We stand behind the principle that financial cost should not hinder your ability to attain experienced legal advocacy. It is our promise that you will not pay anything unless we win your case for you.
Why EV accidents are unique
Electric vehicle growth in California
California has consistently led the U.S. in EV adoption and charging infrastructure since 2016. As of 2022, the state accounted for 37% of registered light-duty EVs and 27% of charging locations nationwide. This growth has significantly increased the presence of EVs on roads, raising risks for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Are electric cars more dangerous in a crash?
Electric cars could be more dangerous in a crash because of the following reasons:
- Battery fires: Lithium-ion batteries can overheat, leading to hard-to-extinguish fires.
- Increased weight: EVs are heavier than traditional vehicles, increasing collision force.
- Silent operation: EVs’ quiet engines can make them harder for pedestrians to detect.
Common causes of electric vehicle accidents
Software and electrical issues in EVs
Technical malfunctions in EVs frequently contribute to accidents:
- Software glitches: Problems with braking, acceleration, or navigation systems.
- Electrical failures: Faulty wiring or short circuits causing loss of control.
- Autonomous driving errors: Misjudgments by self-driving systems leading to collisions.
Risks in EV accidents
EV-specific design features create additional accident risks:
- Higher Vehicle Weight: The heavy battery increases collision severity.
- Charging Hazards: Faulty charging or mishandling can cause overheating or fire.
Silent EVs and accident risks
The quiet operation of EVs poses dangers to pedestrians and cyclists. Lack of engine noise makes EVs harder to detect, increasing the likelihood of collisions in busy areas.
Battery and mechanical failures
Defective batteries and mechanical issues can lead to dangerous accidents:
- Overheating batteries: Fire risks during collisions or malfunctions.
- Mechanical breakdowns: Faulty brakes or motors causing sudden failure.
Legal rights of EV accident victims in California
Liability in electric vehicle accidents
Liability in EV crashes may involve several parties:
- Drivers: Negligent driving, speeding, or distractions.
- Manufacturers: Faulty components, such as defective batteries or software.
- Third parties: Poor maintenance or road hazards caused by others.
California’s comparative negligence laws
California’s comparative negligence law allows shared fault in accidents. Victims’ compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if you are at 20% fault, you will be compensated for 80% of your total damage.
Understanding insurance challenges in EV accidents
Insurance claims for EV accidents face unique complications:
- Policy limitations: Standard policies may not cover high EV repair costs.
- Specialized components: Insurers may dispute claims for expensive EV parts.
Steps to take after an electric vehicle accident in California
- Ensure safety first: Move to safety and check for injuries. Call 911 for assistance.
- Document the scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries.
- Exchange information: Collect contact and insurance details from involved parties.
- Request a police report: Ensure all technical factors, like software malfunctions, are noted.
- Seek medical attention: Get evaluated for hidden injuries or delayed symptoms.
- Notify your insurance provider: Report the accident promptly with supporting evidence.
- Contact an EV accident lawyer: Consult a California electric vehicle accident lawyer for expert guidance.
Pursuing compensation after an EV crash
Types of damages you may recover
Victims of EV accidents may be eligible to recover compensation for several types of damages, such as:
- Medical expenses: Hospital bills, therapy, and ongoing care.
- Lost income: Compensation for missed work and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Reimbursement for physical and emotional distress.
- Property damage: Repairs or replacement for your EV and its components.
How J.G. Winter maximizes compensation for EV accident victims
- Specialized expertise: Handling battery defects, autonomous driving errors, and EV complexities.
- Thorough investigations: Gathering crash data, software logs, and expert testimony.
- Proven negotiation skills: Fighting insurers to overcome policy limitations.
- Track record: Securing high-value settlements for EV accident victims.
The benefits of choosing J.G. Winter for your electric vehicle accident case
Specialized knowledge of electric vehicle accident laws
We understand the complexities of EV-related cases, from technical malfunctions to legal nuances. Our team knows how to handle insurance challenges and battery defect claims.
Proven track record in personal injury cases
Our experience in personal injury law has allowed us to help many clients achieve favorable outcomes. Client testimonials reflect our dedication to providing thoughtful, compassionate representation and pursuing justice.
Compassionate representation on a contingency basis
We provide empathetic legal support with no upfront costs. You can pursue your claim risk-free, knowing we only get paid when you win.
JC Gabrintina
- Verified Client
Thank you so much to Jeremy and his entire team for their support and getting me through a troubling time in my life. They were able to negotiate a fair settlement for me and my family and I sincerely appreciate everything they’ve done. After 2 years, I have the justice I deserve. Please consider them for all your personal injury cases, near or far (I live in LA!), they’ve got your back.
Lucy Velásquez
- Verified Client
I want to thank Attorney Jeremy and his team at J.G. Winter Injury Lawyers for how much they have done for me. I can’t imagine going through this process alone. Having them in my corner was like having a guardian Angel on my shoulder; I felt like I was part of their family. They are so kind, and caring, yet aggressive and ready to fight for you when it comes to dealing with the insurance companies and greedy corporations. They really know their stuff, and won’t back down from anyone. I hope you never go through what I went through but if you ever find yourself badly injured and needing help, look no further than J.G. Winter Injury Lawyers…you won’t regret it.
FAQs about electric vehicle accident cases in California
Are there specific safety regulations for electric vehicles in California?
Yes! California enforces specific safety regulations for electric vehicles, including EV safety standards and battery guidelines, to minimize risks.
Are there specific time limits for filing an EV accident claim in California?
Yes! California law sets a two-year time limit for filing an EV accident claim for personal injuries.
What should I do if the other driver involved in my EV accident is uninsured?
If the other driver is uninsured, you can pursue compensation through uninsured motorist coverage. A lawyer can help explore additional legal options.
How does the repair process differ for electric vehicles after an accident?
How do electric vehicle accidents impact battery performance and safety?
Contact us for a free consultation today
Don’t handle the complexities of an electric vehicle accident alone. At J.G. Winter, we offer a free consultation to help you understand your rights and legal options. Our experienced team specializes in securing compensation for EV accident victims, ensuring your recovery is our top priority.
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