Car Accident Lawyers in Riverside | ConsumerShield (2025)

How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost in Riverside, CA?

Car accident lawyer fees are usually contingent on the outcome of the case. Specifically, you pay a contingent fee equal to an agreed percentage of your settlement or jury award when your lawyer settles or wins your case.

The typical contingent fee in California ranges from 30% to 40%. There is no standard contingency fee. Instead, California allows lawyers to set a fee based on many factors, including the complexity of the case and the time required.

How to Hire a Riverside, CA, Car Accident Attorney

You have many choices when searching for a car accident lawyer in Riverside. You should start by gathering recommendations from friends, family members, and lawyer referral services like ConsumerShield.

Research the attorneys recommended to you by reviewing their law firm websites. You should also read the attorney’s profile with the State Bar of California. This profile includes any disciplinary actions against the lawyer for breaking ethical rules.

Finally, schedule appointments to speak to a few lawyers. Car accident attorneys typically offer free consultations, so you can talk to them without any fee or obligation to hire them.

During your consultations, ask questions about the lawyer’s experience with car accident claims. Discuss the lawyer’s fees and how you will receive case updates. Pick a lawyer you trust and can form a working relationship with.

Average Car Accident Settlement in Riverside, CA

Typical car accident settlement amounts with injury average around $30,416. This is a national average rather than a California-specific average.

However, this average provides little guidance because your insurance settlement depends on the injuries you suffer. Minor injuries are not worth as much, but they drag down the average because they occur more frequently. Severe injuries are worth more but happen less often.

One factor that can affect the average is California’s auto insurance minimums. The state requires all vehicle owners to carry at least $15,000 in bodily injury liability coverage. In many cases, the insurer uses the at-fault driver’s policy limit to determine their negotiation position.

Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in California

You can file a car accident lawsuit immediately after a crash. However, your injury attorney will probably advise you to start with an insurance claim. If the insurer pays your losses, you can avoid the time required to litigate an injury lawsuit.

On the other hand, California law only gives you two years after your accident to file a lawsuit. Thus, you should consult a lawyer promptly after your crash so you have time to file an insurance claim and attempt to settle it. If the insurer refuses to settle, your attorney can file a lawsuit before time expires.

How Does a Car Accident Lawsuit Work in Riverside?

A car accident lawsuit starts with a complaint. This document explains the basis for the lawsuit and requests monetary relief. The at-fault driver answers the complaint with any applicable defenses, such as comparative fault, which replaces the defense of contributory negligence.

The attorneys for both sides will prepare for trial by gathering evidence. You and the other driver will likely give depositions. The lawyers will exchange documents, such as medical records and hospital bills.

If your case reaches trial, your attorney will present your case to a jury. The opposing attorney will present any defenses. The jury’s verdict will determine who wins the case and whether you get paid.

However, many cases are not tried. In these cases, the lawyers negotiate a settlement to avoid an unpredictable jury.

Types of Car Accident Cases in Riverside, CA

Car accident cases can take many forms. For example, truck accidents involving commercial motor vehicles can produce more serious injuries than collisions between passenger automobiles. As a result, a truck accident lawsuit may seek greater compensation than a car accident lawsuit.

You can also categorize car accident cases by the damage caused. A personal injury lawsuit has a different statute of limitations and seeks different damages than a wrongful death lawsuit.

Contact ConsumerShield for Help Finding a Car Accident Lawyer in Riverside

An attorney knows California car accident law and has experience dealing with insurance companies. They can present the evidence and legal arguments to persuade insurers to accept your claim. If the insurer denies your claim, an attorney can prepare and file a lawsuit.

ConsumerShield helps accident victims understand the law and find legal representation. Contact us for a free case evaluation and attorney referral.