San Bernardino Personal Injury Attorneys

Serving San Bernardino: Local Insight for Accident Victims

If you are searching for an accident attorney in San Bernardino who truly understands the local landscape, Bullard & Powell, APC. is here to help. We recognize the unique factors that impact personal injury and accident claims in San Bernardino, from major roads like I-215 and Route 210 to the diverse neighborhoods that make up our city. Our accident lawyers in San Bernardino draw upon extensive knowledge of the local court system to assist you throughout the journey. We know the protocols at San Bernardino Superior Court and can help you navigate everything from a car accident on Hospitality Lane to injuries sustained in a public facility downtown. If you want experienced, accessible legal guidance for an accident claim, our team of accident attorneys in San Bernardino can provide the strategic support you need based on an insider's understanding of San Bernardino courts and insurance practices.

Suffering a physical and/or emotional injury due to another’s negligent or intentional conduct can have a devastating impact on your life. Civil litigation can be stressful. At Bullard & Powell, our approach is to treat you as the unique person you are, not just a file. Keeping that in mind, our strategy is to work closely with you to determine your goals and to develop a strategy to achieve the most positive result. We advocate for you both in and outside the courtroom.

Contact our accident attorneys in San Bernardino online or call us at (909) 771-2304.

Common Types of Accidents in San Bernardino

San Bernardino’s varied landscape includes urban streets, suburban roads, and major freeways, each presenting unique risks for accidents and injuries. Collisions frequently occur at congested intersections such as those along Highland Avenue, and weather-related hazards are common during the region’s seasonal Santa Ana winds. In addition to rear-end and side-impact crashes involving cars and trucks, many clients experience injuries from pedestrian incidents, cycling accidents, or public transportation mishaps.

Clients seeking help with their accident case benefit from our familiarity with traffic engineering reports, police agency protocols, and how liability is determined when multiple parties are involved. We stay up to date on accident patterns reported by the San Bernardino Police Department and regularly assess how city infrastructure upgrades or changes in traffic laws could impact client cases. This local perspective allows our accident attorneys in San Bernardino to offer targeted advice and develop claims that address the specific nuances present in San Bernardino accidents. If you need a dedicated accident lawyer in San Bernardino who understands these unique risks and processes, Bullard & Powell, APC. is ready to advise you each step of the way.

What to Expect When Filing an Accident Claim with an Accident Attorney in San Bernardino

Navigating the accident claim process in San Bernardino requires understanding both California law and the local court system. Following an injury, victims typically start by notifying insurance providers and gathering supporting documentation. The San Bernardino Superior Court hears a high volume of personal injury matters, and each case must comply with detailed requirements, such as the timely filing of forms and submission of supporting evidence.

Clients of Bullard & Powell, APC. receive guidance through every step—from filing initial documentation to negotiation with insurers and, if necessary, representation at trial. Our accident lawyers in San Bernardino regularly assist clients with court appearances at the San Bernardino Justice Center, ensure all necessary paperwork is properly prepared, and help manage communications with opposing parties.

How Bullard & Powell, APC. Stands Out as Your Accident Attorney in San Bernardino

Choosing an accident attorney in San Bernardino with a strong reputation for client advocacy and results can make a difference in your recovery. Bullard & Powell, APC. draws on 30+ years’ experience serving residents, with a reputation for direct communication and a tireless focus on each client’s unique needs. As dedicated accident lawyers in San Bernardino, our team is known for being accessible and attentive—taking the time to answer questions, provide updates, and explain legal strategy in a straightforward way.

Understanding the Time Limits for Personal Injury & Accident Claims in California

How long an injured individual has to file a personal injury claim in California is determined by a law called the statute of limitations. According to the California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1, the timeline to file is two years. 

More specifically, this means you have two years from the date your injury occurred to file a personal injury claim, or you risk losing your right to file and pursue compensation altogether.  It’s important to note that there are exceptions that can change this two-year time limit. Some examples of these exceptions include:

• If you claim is against a government entity
• If the injury victim is under the age of 18 
• If the injury victim did not discover their injury right away
• If the alleged negligent party leaves California before a claim can be filed

The statute of limitations has a big impact on your ability to file a claim, so it’s crucial to speak to an experienced San Bernardino personal injury attorney about the specifics of your case as soon as you can. 

Types of Damages You Can Recover in a San Bernardino Accident Claim

In a personal injury case, the injured party may seek compensation, often referred to as damages, for the losses and harms they have suffered due to the negligence or intentional actions of another party. The types of damages that can be recovered in a personal injury case can be broadly categorized into two main types: economic damages and non-economic damages.

Economic Damages:

• Medical Expenses: This includes costs associated with medical treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and any other necessary medical care.
• Lost Earnings: If the injury prevents the plaintiff from working, they may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, including past and future earnings.
• Property Damage: In cases involving motor vehicle accidents, the plaintiff may seek compensation for the repair or replacement of damaged property.

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and Suffering: This category encompasses physical pain and emotional suffering caused by the injury. It is a subjective form of damage that is challenging to quantify but is often a significant component of personal injury claims.
• Emotional Distress: In addition to pain and suffering, emotional distress damages may be awarded for psychological impact, such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances resulting from the injury.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injury significantly diminishes the plaintiff's ability to enjoy life or engage in activities they previously enjoyed, they may be entitled to compensation for this loss.
• Disfigurement or Scarring: Compensation may be sought for any visible and permanent disfigurement or scarring resulting from the injury.

Punitive Damages Explained

In certain cases where the defendant's actions were particularly egregious or involved intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded. Punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future. It's important to note that the specific damages available can vary based on jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case. Some states have caps on non-economic damages or other limitations on the types and amounts of compensation that can be awarded.

To determine the appropriate compensation in a personal injury case, various factors are considered, including the nature and severity of the injuries, the impact on the plaintiff's life, the degree of negligence or fault on the part of the defendant, and any economic losses incurred. If you are involved in a personal injury case, it's consult with an experienced personal injury attorney from our firm. We can assess the details of your case, help you understand the potential damages, and advocate for your rights in seeking fair compensation.

Bullard & Powell, APC offers free, no-obligation consultations, so contact our accident attorneys in San Bernardino. Call (909) 771-2304 today. 

Frequently Asked Questions