Injuries Reported in San Diego’s I-5/Gilman Dr Multi-Vehicle Accident

A serious San Diego car accident disrupted the Monday morning commute on August 18, 2025, when three vehicles collided on Interstate 5 South near State Route 52. The crash occurred just north of La Jolla Parkway, leaving several people injured and prompting a large emergency response. According to the California Highway Patrol’s crash report system, paramedics transported multiple victims to nearby hospitals while police managed heavy traffic delays in the southbound lanes.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the collision, which involved three vehicles during peak traffic hours. While officials have not yet released the identities of those involved or the extent of their injuries, this incident highlights the dangers drivers face daily on San Diego’s busiest freeways. Freeway crashes in San Diego often involve multiple vehicles, making it more difficult to determine fault and increasing the likelihood of severe injuries.

Events like this serve as a reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn into a life-changing emergency. Victims injured in a San Diego car accident may be entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. That is why seeking legal guidance from an experienced San Diego car accident attorney is critical after a serious crash.

If you or a loved one was hurt in a San Diego car accident or another freeway collision, Gershen Law is here to help. Call us today at (619) 492–5526 for a free consultation.

What to Do After a Car Crash in San Diego

Knowing what steps to take after a car accident in San Diego is crucial for both your safety and your legal rights. The moments after a collision can feel overwhelming, but the actions you take can make the difference between protecting your health and losing valuable evidence for a future claim. Victims who follow a clear process often have stronger cases when seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our team at Gershen Law guides accident victims through every stage of this process, protecting their rights and fighting to recover the maximum compensation available.

Call 911 and Request Emergency Assistance

After a serious San Diego freeway accident, the very first step is to call 911. California law requires drivers involved in collisions that cause injury or death to report the incident to law enforcement. Responding officers from the California Highway Patrol or the San Diego Police Department create an official accident report, which becomes vital evidence for both insurance negotiations and personal injury claims.

Why Emergency Medical Care Matters Immediately

Even if you feel fine after the collision, you should always accept medical evaluation from paramedics. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services stresses that hidden injuries such as concussions, internal bleeding, and spinal trauma may not appear right away but can worsen without treatment. Getting prompt care also creates a clear medical record linking your injuries to the crash, which helps strengthen any claim you may later file.

Where to Find Trauma Care in San Diego

San Diego is home to several trauma centers that routinely handle accident injuries. Facilities such as UC San Diego Health and Scripps Mercy Hospital provide emergency services for victims of freeway collisions. Choosing a reputable hospital ensures you receive both immediate treatment and accurate documentation of your injuries.

Document the San Diego Auto Accident Scene

If it is safe to do so, begin gathering information at the accident site. Taking photos and videos of vehicle damage, skid marks, weather conditions, and road signage can prove invaluable later. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration explains that evidence collected in the first few hours after a crash often makes the difference in establishing fault.

Collecting Contact Information From Witnesses

Eyewitness statements provide independent perspectives about how the collision occurred. If bystanders saw the crash, write down their names and phone numbers. Their testimony can be used to confirm what happened and counter any inaccurate claims made by the other driver or their insurance company.

Preserving Digital Evidence From Your Vehicle

Modern vehicles often contain electronic data recorders that track speed, braking, and steering before a collision. Preserving this data may require help from an attorney who can send a preservation letter before the vehicle is repaired. This type of evidence often supports accident reconstruction and proves liability in complex multi-vehicle crashes.

Avoid Admitting Fault at the Crash Site

After an accident, emotions run high, but it is critical to avoid statements that can be interpreted as admitting fault. A simple apology could later be used against you. The California Office of Traffic Safety warns that fault determination requires a full investigation that includes police reports, crash data, and medical evidence. Let investigators and your attorney handle responsibility assessments.

Provide Only the Facts to Officers

When police arrive, stick to factual details such as your direction of travel, the number of vehicles involved, and whether you experienced pain after impact. Do not speculate about causes or blame other drivers, as inaccurate statements can damage your credibility later in court.

Seek Ongoing Medical Evaluation After the Accident

Many car accident injuries worsen in the days following a collision. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that whiplash, concussions, and internal trauma may not show symptoms until hours or days later. Following up with a physician ensures you have accurate records of all accident-related injuries.

The Importance of Following Your Doctor’s Orders

Courts and insurance companies often look at whether a victim followed prescribed treatment. Skipping appointments or failing to take medications can reduce the credibility of your injury claim. Keep a consistent record of doctor visits, therapy sessions, and prescriptions.

Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care Needs

Some San Diego car crash victims require long-term rehabilitation, including physical therapy, pain management, or even surgical intervention. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons emphasizes that consistent therapy is vital for regaining mobility and reducing chronic pain. These expenses are recoverable in a personal injury claim when properly documented.

Contact a San Diego Auto Accident Lawyer Immediately

One of the most important steps after a collision is speaking with a qualified San Diego car accident attorney as soon as possible. Insurance companies begin investigating right away, often looking for ways to reduce payouts. A lawyer ensures that your rights are protected, evidence is preserved, and negotiations reflect the full value of your claim.

Why Early Legal Representation Is Critical

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners reports that insurance carriers routinely offer settlements far below the true cost of injuries. An attorney can handle communication with insurers, preventing you from being pressured into an unfair agreement.

How Gershen Law Protects San Diego Car Accident Victims

At Gershen Law, we launch investigations from day one, gathering police reports, interviewing witnesses, and working with accident reconstruction experts. Our firm has a proven record of helping crash victims across San Diego County secure compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and emotional distress.

When You Should Call a San Diego Car Wreck Attorney for Legal Help

After a serious crash, many people wonder whether they really need a lawyer. Some victims assume their insurance company will handle everything fairly, while others wait too long to get advice. In reality, contacting a San Diego car wreck attorney early is one of the most important decisions you can make after a collision. Acting quickly not only protects your rights but also ensures that critical evidence is preserved before it disappears.

Why Timing Matters After a San Diego Auto Accident

The first days and weeks following a car accident are often the most chaotic. Victims are dealing with hospital visits, car repairs, and constant calls from insurance adjusters. During this time, key evidence such as skid marks, dashcam footage, and eyewitness accounts can vanish. The Federal Highway Administration has documented how roadway evidence deteriorates rapidly after collisions, which can make proving fault harder the longer you wait. By calling a San Diego auto accident lawyer early, you protect your ability to build the strongest possible case.

The Two-Year Deadline Under California Law

California law sets strict deadlines for personal injury lawsuits. Under the California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, victims usually have two years from the date of a crash to file a lawsuit. Missing this statute of limitations can bar you from ever recovering compensation, no matter how strong your case may be. A qualified San Diego traffic accident attorney ensures your claim is filed on time and complies with all procedural requirements.

Shorter Deadlines in Government-Related Claims

If your crash involves a government vehicle or hazardous road conditions maintained by the city, the rules are even stricter. Claims against government entities must generally be filed within six months under the California Government Claims Act. That is why calling a San Diego car wreck attorney as soon as possible is critical when municipal liability may be involved.

Situations That Require Immediate Legal Advice

Not every fender bender in San Diego requires a lawyer. However, there are clear warning signs that you need immediate legal help. Recognizing these situations ensures you do not risk your financial recovery.

Serious or Catastrophic Injuries From the Crash

If the accident caused broken bones, spinal injuries, or traumatic brain injuries, you should not attempt to handle the case on your own. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of severe head trauma in the United States. A San Diego auto injury lawyer will work with medical experts to calculate long-term costs, including rehabilitation and lost earning capacity.

Why Medical Documentation Strengthens Your Claim

Courts and insurers rely heavily on medical records to assess the impact of an accident. The National Institutes of Health emphasizes that consistent follow-up care and proper documentation are critical in proving the extent of injuries. An attorney ensures that all treatment is recorded and properly linked to the crash, preventing insurers from downplaying your suffering.

Insurance Company Denials or Low Settlement Offers

If the at-fault driver’s insurer denies liability or offers an unreasonably low settlement, you need an advocate who can push back. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners has reported that insurers often use delay tactics or ambiguous policy language to minimize payouts. A San Diego car wreck lawyer negotiates aggressively to ensure you receive compensation that reflects the full scope of your losses.

Common Insurance Tactics That Hurt Victims

Insurance adjusters may pressure you into giving recorded statements, ask misleading questions, or argue that your injuries were pre-existing. These strategies are designed to weaken your claim. By retaining a San Diego auto accident attorney early, you prevent these tactics from undermining your case.

Complex Multi-Vehicle Collisions

When more than two vehicles are involved, liability becomes much harder to determine. California follows a system of comparative negligence, meaning damages are divided based on each party’s percentage of fault. The California Office of Traffic Safety has noted that multi-vehicle collisions are particularly common on busy freeways like Interstate 5 and Interstate 805. In these situations, a San Diego traffic crash attorney uses accident reconstruction experts to untangle liability and prove who should be held responsible.

How a Lawyer Builds a Strong Case for a San Diego Traffic Crash

Retaining legal counsel early is not just about paperwork and deadlines. A skilled San Diego auto accident attorney has the resources to build a case that proves negligence and maximizes compensation.

Preserving and Investigating Key Evidence

Attorneys move quickly to secure dashcam footage, subpoena phone records in distracted driving cases, and collect data from electronic vehicle recorders. The National Transportation Safety Board emphasizes how event data recorders often provide crucial information about speed and braking patterns before a crash. With this evidence, your attorney can demonstrate fault more effectively than relying solely on police reports.

The Role of Accident Reconstruction Experts

In complex wrecks, attorneys often work with engineers and reconstruction experts to recreate the collision. These professionals use physics, vehicle data, and roadway conditions to establish how the crash occurred. Their testimony can be pivotal in cases where multiple drivers deny responsibility.

Managing Medical and Financial Documentation

A San Diego car wreck lawyer does more than handle liability evidence. They also coordinate with medical providers, track treatment costs, and calculate future expenses. The American Medical Association stresses that the long-term cost of trauma care can be substantial, particularly when surgeries or ongoing therapy are required. Proper documentation ensures that settlement negotiations account for both current and future needs.

Negotiating Medical Liens on Behalf of Clients

Hospitals often place liens on personal injury settlements to recover unpaid bills. Experienced attorneys negotiate with providers to reduce these liens, leaving victims with more of their settlement. Without legal representation, many accident victims unknowingly forfeit large portions of their compensation to medical creditors.

Why Calling a San Diego Car Wreck Attorney Protects Your Future

Ultimately, contacting a lawyer after a serious collision is not just about filing paperwork. It is about protecting your financial future, your health, and your right to fair compensation. Every day that passes without representation can weaken your case and give insurers the upper hand.

How Gershen Law Supports Crash Victims Across San Diego

At Gershen Law, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a collision can be. From investigating complex freeway crashes to negotiating with aggressive insurance carriers, our legal team works tirelessly to protect the rights of San Diego accident victims. We provide compassionate support while fighting for the maximum compensation available under California law.

Call for a Free Consultation Today

If you or a loved one was injured in a San Diego traffic accident, do not wait to get help. Call Gershen Law at (619) 492–5526 to schedule your free consultation.

Can You Sue for Pain and Suffering After a San Diego Car Crash

Victims of serious car accidents in San Diego often face more than just medical expenses and lost wages. Emotional distress, chronic pain, and reduced quality of life can linger long after the physical injuries begin to heal. California law allows injured individuals to pursue compensation for these non-economic damages, commonly referred to as pain and suffering. Understanding how these damages are calculated and when you can pursue them is essential for protecting your legal rights after a crash. At Gershen Law, we help accident victims prove the full extent of their suffering and fight to recover the maximum compensation they deserve.

How California Law Defines Pain and Suffering Damages

In California, pain and suffering includes the physical discomfort and emotional anguish caused by an auto accident. The California Civil Jury Instructions recognize that these intangible harms are real and compensable, even though they are not as easily measured as medical bills or lost income.

The Difference Between Economic and Non-Economic Losses

Economic damages cover quantifiable expenses like hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and property repair. Non-economic damages address the harder-to-measure consequences of a San Diego car wreck, such as anxiety, PTSD, or the loss of enjoyment in daily life. Both forms of damage may be included in a personal injury lawsuit.

Examples of Non-Economic Harm in San Diego Crash Cases

Victims may experience ongoing headaches from whiplash, flashbacks from a freeway collision, or depression after losing the ability to participate in hobbies. The National Institutes of Health has found that chronic pain can significantly reduce life satisfaction, reinforcing why compensation for pain and suffering is vital.

Factors That Influence Pain and Suffering Compensation

No two car accidents are identical, and courts consider multiple elements when awarding non-economic damages.

Severity and Duration of Injuries

The more severe and long-lasting the injuries, the greater the potential recovery for pain and suffering. A victim who suffers a spinal cord injury in a San Diego auto accident may face permanent disability, which greatly increases the potential value of their claim. According to the Mayo Clinic, spinal trauma often requires lifelong medical management, adding weight to the damages calculation.

How Medical Evidence Supports a Claim

Detailed medical records, imaging scans, and physician testimony are critical in proving the severity of injuries. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services emphasizes the importance of accurate medical documentation in long-term care, which also serves as key evidence in personal injury cases.

The Emotional Impact on the Victim’s Daily Life

Courts also consider how the crash has changed the victim’s mental health and lifestyle. The American Psychological Association reports that post-traumatic stress disorder is common after traffic accidents, particularly those involving multiple vehicles. Documented therapy sessions and psychiatric evaluations help demonstrate these invisible injuries.

How Loss of Enjoyment of Life Is Calculated

Loss of enjoyment refers to the inability to take part in activities once central to the victim’s life. For example, a cyclist struck by a car in San Diego may no longer be able to ride for recreation. Attorneys often use testimony from family, friends, and therapists to illustrate how daily activities have been permanently altered.

Proving Pain and Suffering in a San Diego Auto Accident Case

Unlike medical bills or pay stubs, pain and suffering damages cannot be tallied on a calculator. Attorneys must rely on both qualitative and quantitative methods to demonstrate these losses.

Using the Multiplier Method in Settlement Negotiations

Many insurance companies calculate pain and suffering by multiplying the total economic damages by a factor based on injury severity. The Insurance Information Institute explains that insurers frequently use this method to simplify negotiations, though attorneys often argue for higher figures when injuries are severe or life-altering.

How Insurance Companies Use the Per Diem Method for Car Accident Settlements

Another approach is the per diem method, which assigns a daily dollar amount to the victim’s suffering, multiplied by the number of days the victim is expected to endure pain. This approach is sometimes favored when injuries involve ongoing rehabilitation or chronic pain.

The Role of Testimony and Expert Witnesses

Personal injury attorneys in San Diego often call upon medical professionals, mental health experts, and accident reconstruction specialists to provide testimony. Their statements help jurors and insurers understand the depth of suffering the victim has endured. The National Center for Biotechnology Information highlights how expert testimony improves accuracy in injury assessments.

Limits and Exceptions on Pain and Suffering Claims in California

While California does allow pain and suffering damages, there are certain restrictions accident victims must understand.

The Proposition 213 Limitation for Uninsured Drivers

Under California Civil Code § 3333.4, also known as Proposition 213, uninsured drivers cannot recover non-economic damages even if another driver was at fault. This limitation means that victims without auto insurance may only seek economic damages like medical bills or vehicle repairs. The California Department of Insurance provides resources to help residents understand their rights under this law.

Special Rules in Medical Malpractice Cases

While not directly related to car accidents, it is important to note that California places a cap on pain and suffering damages in medical malpractice cases. This rule does not apply to car wreck lawsuits but illustrates how different case types carry different limitations.

Why You Should Consult a San Diego Car Accident Lawyer About Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering damages are often contested by insurance companies that prefer to downplay emotional distress. An experienced San Diego personal injury attorney can gather evidence, build arguments, and present a compelling case for full compensation.

How Attorneys Counter Insurance Company Tactics

Insurers may argue that your injuries are exaggerated or unrelated to the accident. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners warns that carriers often minimize non-economic damages to reduce payouts. Legal representation ensures that these strategies do not prevent you from securing the compensation you deserve.

How Gershen Law Helps Victims Pursue Pain and Suffering Claims

At Gershen Law, we understand that the harm from a car crash extends beyond hospital bills. Our attorneys work closely with medical experts and mental health professionals to demonstrate how the collision has changed your life. We fight for both the economic and non-economic damages you are entitled to under California law.

Contact a Skilled San Diego Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love was injured in a San Diego car accident, the decisions you make right now can shape your recovery for years to come. Medical bills, lost income, and ongoing pain can leave victims and families overwhelmed, but you do not have to face this process alone. Our team understands how stressful these situations can be, and we are here to fight for the justice and financial relief you deserve.

At Gershen Law, we treat every client with compassion while aggressively pursuing maximum compensation. From investigating crash details to negotiating with insurance companies and presenting strong cases in court, we stand by your side at every stage of the legal process. Our deep knowledge of San Diego traffic laws and our commitment to personal injury victims give us the tools to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure the results our clients need.

Do not wait to get legal help after a car crash. The longer you delay, the more difficult it becomes to gather evidence and protect your rights. Call Gershen Law today at (619) 492–5526 or reach us through our contact page to schedule your free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.