Los Angeles Side Impact Collision Lawyer

A side-impact crash occurs when one vehicle collides with the side of another. Because the sides of a vehicle offer less structural protection than the front or rear, the force of impact often results in catastrophic injuries to drivers and passengers.

If you or a loved one has been injured, you need a legal team with the resources and experience to handle serious injury claims against aggressive insurance companies. The Los Angeles side-impact collision lawyer at Jacoby & Meyers has stood by injured Californians for over 50 years.

Founded in 1972: Half a century of legal advocacy in California, backed by several real client testimonials. Client testimonials reflect individual experiences. Results vary depending on the facts of each case.
Over $2 Billion Recovered: A history of securing results for our clients. Our proven results show our dedication to achieving outcomes that reflect the harm you’ve endured. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
No Upfront Attorney Fees: We handle cases on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront attorney’s fees. Legal fees are only paid if compensation is recovered.

A Legacy of Legal Advocacy in California

For more than 50 years, Jacoby & Meyers has provided high-quality legal representation to the people of California. With 14 locations across the state and a dedicated focus on serious personal injury cases, our firm has the infrastructure and litigation experience necessary to take on complex liability disputes. We do not just settle cases; we prepare every file as if it is going to trial, ensuring our clients’ rights are protected from day one.

Get an expert assessment or request a free consultation.

Personal Injury Awards

Can I Afford a Side-Impact Collision Lawyer?

The financial aftermath of a severe T-bone accident is often immediate and overwhelming. Between emergency room bills, ongoing rehabilitation costs, and the inability to work while recovering, many victims assume they cannot afford high-quality legal representation.

Jacoby & Meyers operates on a contingency fee basis. This means our interests are fully aligned with yours:

You pay no attorney fees upfront to hire us.
No hourly bill.
We only receive an attorney’s fee if we successfully resolve your case through a settlement or verdict.

What To Do After a Side-Impact Collision

Get medical care right away: Even if you think you’re okay, adrenaline can hide serious injuries like concussions or internal bleeding. Follow every treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments.
Document what happened: If you’re able, take photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and your injuries. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Be careful with insurance calls: Adjusters may sound helpful, but their job is to limit payouts. Avoid giving recorded statements or signing anything before speaking with legal counsel.
Preserve important evidence: Save damaged clothing, broken personal items, medical paperwork, and any dashcam or phone footage. These details can become critical later.
Talk to a Los Angeles side impact car accident attorney early: Before accepting any settlement or paperwork, speak with a lawyer who can protect you from costly mistakes and help you understand your options.

Expert Legal Tip from Our Attorneys

In side-impact cases, liability often comes down to who had the right of way. It is rarely as simple as ‘he ran the red light.’ Modern vehicles, especially commercial trucks and newer passenger cars, often contain Event Data Recorders (EDRs), essentially ‘black boxes’ that record speed, braking, and steering inputs seconds before impact. However, this data can be overwritten or lost if the vehicle is repaired or scrapped quickly. Securing a preservation order for this electronic evidence immediately after a crash is often the difference between a disputed claim and a successful recovery.

Common Causes of Side-Impact Accidents in Los Angeles

One of the most common places for a side-impact crash to occur is at an intersection. If a driver enters an intersection without the right-of-way, a collision may occur with vehicles lawfully proceeding through the intersection.

Unfortunately, Los Angeles is notorious for its complex intersections and high traffic on surface streets like Wilshire Boulevard, Western Avenue, and Sepulveda Boulevard. In these dense environments, side-impact crashes often happen when drivers fail to adhere to traffic laws.

Distracted Driving: Drivers looking at phones or GPS devices often miss red lights or stop signs.
Failure to Yield: Making aggressive left turns across traffic or failing to wait for a safe gap when merging.
Running Red Lights: Drivers speeding up to “beat the yellow” frequently cause high-speed broadside collisions.
Unsafe Property Conditions: Obscured stop signs (blocked by trees or construction) or malfunctioning traffic signals.
Defective Equipment: Brake failure or steering malfunctions that prevent a driver from stopping at an intersection.

Common Injuries in T-Bone Crashes

Side-impact collisions are particularly dangerous because only a door and a window separate the occupant from the striking vehicle. This lack of a “crumple zone” often leads to severe physical trauma.

A 2016 study analyzing the impact of these collisions highlighted several critical risk factors:

Passenger location: Rear-seat passengers seated on the side of impact (near-side) faced a significantly higher risk of severe or fatal injury. Specifically, they were about 2.5 times more likely to be seriously injured or killed compared to those seated on the opposite side. This risk increased dramatically in more severe crash configurations, such as angle or T-bone collisions, where the likelihood rose to as much as 10 times higher.
Seatbelt use: The study also found a strong link between driver and passenger restraint behavior, when drivers wore seatbelts, rear-seat passengers were more likely to do the same. Importantly, unrestrained rear-seat passengers on the side of impact were nearly 6 times more likely to suffer severe or fatal injuries than those who were properly restrained.

Due to the violent nature of these crashes, victims often suffer life-altering injuries, including:

Traumatic brain injury
Spinal cord damage or paralysis
Internal bleeding and organ damage
Whiplash and neck injuries
Broken or fractured bones
Severe bruising
Scars, burns, or other disfigurements
Emotional distress

Who May Be Liable in a Side-Impact Collision?

Side-impact crashes are some of the most violent collisions on the road. When the side of your vehicle is struck, there is often very little space between you and the impact. Victims can suffer life-changing injuries in seconds, even when they did everything right.

Determining who is responsible is one of the most important steps in protecting your claim, and in many T-bone accidents, more than one party may share liability.

Potentially liable parties may include:

Negligent Drivers: Often, the at-fault driver is the one who ran a red light, failed to yield, or made an unsafe left turn.
Employers and Commercial Companies: If the driver was working at the time of the crash (such as a delivery driver or company vehicle operator), the employer may share responsibility.
Government Entities: If the collision was caused or worsened by poor road design, broken traffic lights, dangerous intersections, or missing signage, a public agency may be liable.
Vehicle Manufacturers: If defective brakes, faulty steering systems, or airbags that failed to deploy contributed to the crash or the severity of your injuries, a product liability claim may apply.

Why This Case Type Is Legally Complex

Side-impact collisions are rarely “simple accidents.” They often involve disputed fault, high-value injuries, and insurance companies working aggressively to reduce what they pay.

These cases become complicated because:

Fault is often disputed: Many side-impact crashes happen at intersections, where both drivers may claim they had the right of way.
Comparative negligence can reduce compensation: California follows a pure comparative negligence system, meaning the insurance company may try to shift partial blame onto you to lower the value of your claim.
Multiple parties may be involved: A negligent driver, a commercial employer, a city agency, or even a manufacturer could all share responsibility.
Insurance companies often challenge medical evidence: Serious injuries like spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries, and joint trauma may be dismissed as “pre-existing” unless supported by strong medical documentation.

Because side-impact crashes frequently cause severe harm, insurers often treat these cases as high-risk and fight them harder.

Our Personal Injury Case Results

Our personal injury attorneys have recovered over $2 billion in settlements on behalf of local accident victims in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area. Some of our personal injury case results include:

$19 Million

Ride Share Passenger
V.
Auto/Quadriplegic

$17.5 Million

Bike
V.
Truck/Paraplegic

$13 Million

Wrongful Death
V.
City

See More Case Results

Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

A side-impact crash can affect far more than your vehicle. It can impact your health, your career, and your ability to live normally. Under California law, injury victims may pursue compensation designed to cover the full impact of what they have suffered.

Economic Damages

These cover financial losses that can be documented, such as:

Medical expenses (ER care, hospitalization, surgery, medication)
Future medical care (physical therapy, rehabilitation, long-term treatment)
Lost wages from missed work
Reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your prior job
Property damage to your vehicle and personal belongings

Non-Economic Damages

These reflect the personal and emotional toll of the crash, including:

Pain and suffering
Emotional distress, including anxiety, trauma, and PTSD
Loss of enjoyment of life, especially when injuries limit daily activities
Permanent disability or disfigurement, including long-term physical limitations or scarring

Side-impact crashes often leave victims with injuries that do not heal quickly or fully. A claim must account not only for what you are facing now, but what you may still face months or years from today.

California Statute of Limitations

In California, the general statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this window, you will likely lose your right to seek compensation.

If a government entity is involved, such as a crash involving a Metro bus or caused by a dangerous city intersection, the deadline to file a claim is typically only six months.

This is why it is important to contact an attorney immediately. A side-impact collision lawyer knows the ins and outs of a car accident claim, saving you time and resources that are crucial in your recovery.

Why You Need a Lawyer After a Side-Impact Crash

While you’re trying to manage medical appointments and pain after a side-impact car accident, insurance companies are already building their defense.

Insurance carriers are businesses. Their objective is to limit financial exposure, not to ensure your recovery is fully covered. When you face them alone, the process can quickly become uneven.

Common tactics include:

Minimizing the value of your claim: Insurers may rely on internal formulas to argue that your injuries are not as severe as your doctors say, or that certain treatments were unnecessary.
Disputing fault: In intersection crashes, they may suggest you were speeding, distracted, or partially responsible to reduce their payout under California’s comparative negligence rules.
Leveraging procedural complexity: Strict filing deadlines, evidence rules, and discovery procedures can be overwhelming without legal training.

Having an experienced Los Angeles side-impact collision lawyer levels the playing field. It allows you to focus on healing while your case is handled strategically and professionally.

What a Lawyer Does for Your Case

Evaluates the strength of your claim and provides expert advice.
Handles all legal filings and documentation.
Collects and organizes evidence to build your case.
Negotiates aggressively with insurance companies for a fair settlement.
Represents you in court if a settlement cannot be reached.
Protects your rights and prevents you from being taken advantage of.

How Jacoby & Meyers Prepares Side-Impact Cases

Serious T-bone collisions often result in high-value claims involving spinal injuries, head trauma, or long-term limitations. Because of that, we prepare every case with trial readiness in mind from the start.

Our approach includes:

Comprehensive Case Review: We analyze police reports, intersection data, and liability factors to identify every responsible party.
Evidence Preservation: We secure traffic camera footage, vehicle data, medical records, and witness testimony before it disappears.
Medical and Financial Documentation: We collaborate with treating physicians and economic experts to assess both current and future losses.
Strategic Negotiation: We present a detailed, evidence-supported demand to the insurance carrier.
Litigation Preparedness: If a fair resolution is not offered, we are prepared to file suit and present your case before a jury.

Preparing for trial from the beginning often strengthens your position during negotiations. It sends a clear message that your injuries and your future will be taken seriously.

How to Choose the Best Side-Impact Collision Lawyer in Los Angeles

A side-impact collision often causes serious injuries because there is far less protection on the side of a vehicle. While you’re trying to recover, insurance companies may already be working to reduce what they pay by questioning fault, downplaying injuries, or pushing you toward a fast settlement.

The right Los Angeles side-impact car accident attorney helps ensure your case is treated with the seriousness it deserves and pursued for the full impact the crash has had on your life.

Here are the key questions to ask when choosing the right legal team:

Does the Lawyer Have Experience Handling Serious Side-Impact Crash Injuries?

Side-impact accidents are often more severe than standard rear-end collisions. Victims may face long recoveries, multiple specialists, and injuries that don’t fully show up until days later.

A skilled side-impact accident lawyer understands how to build claims involving:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions
Spinal injuries and chronic back or neck pain
Broken ribs, hip fractures, and pelvic trauma
Internal injuries and organ damage
Long-term physical therapy and mobility limitations
Emotional trauma, anxiety, and PTSD after a violent crash

At Jacoby & Meyers, we’ve represented injured Californians for decades and have recovered over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements in serious injury cases.

Is the Firm Respected and Trusted?

In high-stakes injury claims, reputation matters. Insurance companies take cases more seriously when the firm involved is known for credible, professional advocacy.

Jacoby & Meyers attorneys have been recognized by different organizations, reflecting a long-standing commitment to ethical, results-driven legal representation.

Do They Understand Los Angeles–Specific Crash Challenges?

Side-impact crashes in Los Angeles frequently happen at intersections, busy streets, and congested traffic corridors. A qualified LA attorney should understand:

Local courts, filing rules, and procedures
How is fault investigated in intersection collisions
How insurers defend right-of-way disputes
The government claims deadlines if road design or signage played a role
Common LA crash patterns involving red-light violations and unsafe turns

With over 50 years of serving Los Angeles and communities statewide, Jacoby & Meyers combines local insight with the resources of a major California firm.

Are They Prepared to Take the Case to Trial If Necessary?

Side-impact collision cases often involve serious injuries and serious damages, which means insurance companies may fight harder to avoid paying fair compensation.

Some firms push quick settlements. A trial-ready firm prepares the case from day one, so you are protected if the insurer refuses to negotiate fairly.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we prepare every serious side-impact collision case as if it will be decided by a jury. That approach strengthens your leverage and helps ensure your claim is never treated like “just another accident.”

What to Bring to Your First Consultation

After a serious injury, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. You don’t need to have every document in hand to get started. Even basic information allows us to begin protecting your rights.

If you can, bring:

Medical records, bills, or discharge paperwork
Photos or videos of the accident scene and your injuries
Any police or incident reports
Insurance information or letters from adjusters
Proof of lost income or out-of-pocket costs
Personal notes about how the injury has affected your daily life

If you’re missing anything, that’s okay. We can help gather the necessary records. The most important step is reaching out early so you can focus on recovery while we handle the legal details.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

Jacoby & Meyers
Is Here
To Support You

Client Testimonials

We build lasting relationships with our clients based on trust and reliability, standing by them when they need us most.

“I would like to send a huge thank you to Isabella (case manager), who has been handling my case for a few months. I was in a car accident last December, and I didn’t know what to expect. I’m so grateful to have been able to connect with her. She communicated the entire process and answered all questions about the situation. Her customer service is constantly outstanding, exceeding my expectations every time. I have been completely impressed with her professionalism and prompt response. Thank you.” – Ana Avalos from Google Review.

Disclaimer: Testimonials reflect the unique experience of specific clients. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

What Our Clients Have To Say

“Best firm there is. This Firm has been very helpful throughout the entire process. Adanhelly was been one of the best!!. Very helpful, and she sincerely makes me feel valued and taken care of. I highly recommend this law firm to EVERYBODY!”

– Ali M.

“Jacob & Meyers is the best, they handled our case immediately. Thank you for caring about us and getting us through this horrible thing that happened to us. Emily and the team are top-notch. If you’re looking for the best lawyers to fight for you, look no further; they will take care of your case.“

– Leslie J.

Read More Client Testimonials

Case Results

We have a proven track record of securing significant results for our clients.

$19 Million – Ride Share Passenger V. Auto / Quadriplegic
$9.24 Million – Auto V. Pedestrian / Spinal Cord Injury
$2.5 Million – Auto V. Auto
$1.37 Million – Auto V. Auto

Explore our case studies to see how we protect our clients’ rights.

Disclaimer: Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Side-Impact Collision Lawyer Near Me

Jacoby & Meyers serves clients throughout Los Angeles County and the entire state of California, including:

Bakersfield
Fresno
Oakland
Sacramento
San Bernardino
San Diego
San Francisco
San Jose

Whether your accident occurred in Downtown LA, Santa Monica, Long Beach, the San Fernando Valley, or anywhere in between, our 14 satellite offices ensure that expert legal representation is never far away.

Explore the areas we serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the other driver claims I was partially at fault?

California uses a “pure comparative negligence” system. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault (e.g., 20% at fault). However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What if the other driver says I caused the crash?

That’s common in side-impact collisions. Insurance companies often treat these accidents as “word-for-word” situations.

A lawyer can help gather key evidence, such as:

Traffic camera footage
Witness statements
Vehicle damage analysis
Police reports
Intersection timing and signal records

What if the accident involved a rideshare vehicle?

Rideshare accidents involving Uber or Lyft can be complex due to tiered insurance policies. Coverage depends on whether the driver had the app on, was waiting for a ride, or had a passenger in the car.

What if I didn’t go to the hospital right away?

You may still have a valid claim. Many side-impact injuries (especially soft tissue damage, concussions, and internal trauma) can worsen over time.

However, delaying treatment can give insurers an excuse to argue your injuries were not caused by the crash, so it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

How much does it cost to hire Jacoby & Meyers?

We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay no retainer fees and no hourly rates. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you.

For more information, visit our FAQ page.

Get the Justice You Deserve

If a side-impact collision has disrupted your life, you do not have to face the legal system alone. The team at Jacoby & Meyers is ready to listen to your story, evaluate your claim, and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.

Call us today for a free, confidential consultation. We are available 24/7 to take your call.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.

Attorney Review & Office Information

Attorney Review Disclosure
This content has been reviewed by California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.

Los Angeles Office
Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067

24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792

Other Cases We Take On

Michael Akiva is Managing Partner of Pre-Litigation of Jacoby & Meyers. Having started his career as an attorney at Latham & Watkins LLP, a prestigious, global corporate law firm, Michael quickly realized that representing big corporations was not for him. After leaving the firm, Michael dedicated himself to fighting for the rights of the injured. Education J.D. UCLA School of Law, Editor, UCLA Law Review B.S., Finance, University of Southern California, Magna cum laude

Los Angeles Side-Impact Collision Lawyer