San Diego Car Crash & Injury Attorney – Gershen Law Protecting San Diego

Increased traffic combined with unfamiliarity often leads to dangerous driving conditions, especially in heavily populated areas like Downtown, Mission Valley, and Pacific Beach. Tourists are often distracted by navigation apps or sightseeing, while locals may grow impatient navigating the dense flow of vehicles. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of accidents across the state, a trend that is especially evident in busy tourist hubs like San Diego. With vehicle collisions on the rise, the risks for both residents and visitors continue to mount each year.

Beyond distracted driving, impaired driving remains a serious threat on San Diego’s roadways. Events like concerts, sporting games, and nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter unfortunately contribute to a higher number of DUI-related crashes, particularly on weekends and holidays. Data from San Diego County’s Roadway Safety Plan highlights that alcohol-involved collisions have steadily increased over the past few years, further endangering drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. At Michelle Gershen Law, we are proud to stand up for San Diego car accident victims, helping them navigate the aftermath of serious crashes and fighting for the justice and compensation they deserve.

Why Contact The Law Office of Michelle Gershen for Your Car Accident Injury

When you’ve been injured in a car accident, choosing the right attorney is critical to protecting your future. Unlike large, high-volume law firms that often prioritize the value of a client’s case over the client themselves, The Law Office of Michelle Gershen is built on a foundation of genuine care, advocacy, and trust. Many bigger firms see accident victims as little more than a potential payout, rushing cases through the system to maximize their own profits. In contrast, Michelle Gershen personally handles each case, offering individualized attention and treating every client with the respect and dedication they deserve. Our firm is committed to safeguarding your rights, aggressively pursuing fair compensation, and standing beside you through every stage of the process—not just when it’s convenient. From investigating your accident thoroughly to dealing with stubborn insurance companies, you can count on Michelle Gershen Law to fight relentlessly for your recovery, your dignity, and your peace of mind.

Common Types of Car Accidents in San Diego We Handle

San Diego’s varied terrain, from scenic coastal highways to dense urban streets, presents a wide range of risks for drivers. Whether you’re navigating the curves of Highway 163, braving the I-5 near downtown, or commuting along the I-805, the chances of encountering negligent or reckless drivers remain high. Our legal team has decades of combined experience representing victims in a wide array of collision types across San Diego County. If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, our San Diego personal injury attorneys are here to help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Below are some of the most common types of car accidents we handle:

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end crashes are among the most frequent types of accidents in San Diego, especially during rush hour on crowded freeways like the I-5 and CA-94. These crashes often occur due to distracted driving, speeding, or failure to maintain a safe following distance.

• Common injuries include whiplash, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
  
  
• Liability typically favors the driver who struck from behind, but insurers often attempt to dispute injury severity.
  
  
• Even low-speed impacts can result in serious long-term injuries requiring ongoing care.
  
  
• Immediate medical evaluation is critical even if symptoms seem mild at first.

T-Bone and Intersection Accidents

T-bone accidents usually happen when a driver fails to yield the right of way at an intersection—common trouble spots include University Avenue and intersections throughout Mission Valley.

• Impact typically occurs at high speeds, increasing the risk of catastrophic injuries.
  
  
• Victims often suffer pelvic fractures, internal injuries, and head trauma.
  
  
• These collisions can involve disputes over who had the right of way, making thorough investigation essential.
  
  
• Surveillance footage and eyewitness statements can significantly strengthen your case.

Head-On Collisions

Few crashes are as devastating as head-on collisions, which often result from wrong-way drivers, DUI, or distracted behavior on divided highways like SR-56 and the I-8 corridor.

• Fatalities and life-altering injuries such as paralysis are tragically common.
  
  
• Victims frequently require extensive surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
  
  
• Damages often include future lost income, extensive pain and suffering, and ongoing medical expenses.
  
  
• Aggressive legal representation is crucial to uncover all liable parties and maximize recovery.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Sadly, hit-and-run accidents are on the rise in San Diego, leaving victims injured and without immediate answers. Busy areas like Barrio Logan and Chula Vista see frequent incidents where negligent drivers flee the scene.

• Victims may still pursue compensation through their own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.
  
  
• Prompt police reporting and witness interviews can help track down fleeing drivers.
  
  
• Surveillance footage from businesses or traffic cameras often plays a vital role.
  
  
• Legal expertise is key to uncovering all potential sources of compensation.

Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation in San Diego—but accidents involving rideshare vehicles introduce complex insurance issues that are very different from regular car crashes. Our firm understands these complexities and can skillfully navigate them for you.

Uber Accidents

When involved in a crash with an Uber vehicle—whether as a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian—it’s important to understand which insurance policy applies based on the Uber driver’s status at the time.

• If the driver was off-duty (app closed), their personal insurance applies.
  
  
• If the app was on but no trip was accepted, Uber offers limited contingent coverage.
  
  
• If a ride was accepted or underway, Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage.
  
  
• Claims often involve aggressive insurance adjusters—early legal intervention makes a difference.

Lyft Accidents

Lyft insurance coverage is very similar to Uber’s but has some procedural differences when it comes to filing claims.

• Coverage up to $1 million applies once a ride has been accepted or a passenger is onboard.
  
  
• If the app is on but no rider is matched, a smaller policy covers damages.
  
  
• Lyft often disputes liability or delays processing injury claims without strong legal advocacy.
  
  
• Thorough documentation and legal strategy are crucial to obtaining a full settlement.

Dangerous Areas for Car Accidents in San Diego

San Diego’s beautiful landscapes and lively city streets also hide some of California’s most dangerous driving hotspots. Certain areas are consistently linked to high rates of vehicle collisions, pedestrian accidents, and serious injuries. Knowing where these risks are highest can help you drive safer—and if you’re injured in a crash, our San Diego car accident attorneys are here to help you recover.

Downtown San Diego and Gaslamp Quarter Car Accidents

Downtown San Diego and the Gaslamp Quarter are known for their vibrant energy, but also for being among the most accident-prone areas in the city. With busy one-way streets, heavy pedestrian traffic, and a bustling nightlife scene, collisions are unfortunately common. According to San Diego’s Vision Zero crash data, intersections in these neighborhoods frequently rank at the top for serious injury crashes.

• High pedestrian activity: Increased foot traffic leads to more pedestrian-related incidents.
  
  
• Nighttime driving risks: Accidents spike during late-night hours due to poor visibility and impaired driving.
  
  
• Confusing intersections: Narrow lanes and unfamiliar one-way streets cause additional driver confusion.

Traffic Accidents on Interstate 5 (I-5) in San Diego

The Interstate 5 (I-5) freeway is a major artery for Southern California traffic—and one of the deadliest. Spanning from the U.S.–Mexico border through the heart of San Diego, the I-5 sees heavy congestion, high-speed crashes, and frequent rear-end collisions. According to the California Department of Transportation, roadwork zones and fluctuating traffic speeds on the I-5 create consistent hazards for all types of drivers.

• Heavy congestion: Rush hour gridlock increases the likelihood of accidents.
  
  
• Speed variation: Stop-and-go traffic patterns contribute to sudden collisions.
  
  
• Construction impacts: Lane closures and detours create unexpected hazards.

Dangers of Driving on State Route 67 (SR-67)

State Route 67 (SR-67), running between El Cajon and Ramona, has a long-standing reputation as one of the most dangerous roads in San Diego County. Sharp curves, limited lighting, and driver inexperience all contribute to frequent and sometimes fatal crashes. Public data about SR-67 reveals that speeding and unsafe passing maneuvers are two of the most common causes of accidents.

• Winding curves: Tight turns demand slower, cautious driving.
  
  
• Poor nighttime visibility: Lack of lighting makes driving hazardous after dark.
  
  
• Historical crash record: SR-67 has a known pattern of severe accidents.

University Avenue in City Heights – A High-Risk Corridor

University Avenue cuts across some of San Diego’s most densely populated areas, and unfortunately, it ranks as one of the most dangerous streets for drivers and pedestrians alike. A report from San Diego County Public Health Services shows that University Avenue consistently reports a high number of serious injury crashes each year.

• Multiple modes of transit: Buses, cars, and bicycles compete for space.
  
  
• Frequent stops: Numerous signals and crosswalks disrupt traffic flow.
  
  
• Driver distraction: Busy storefronts and activities pull driver attention away from the road.

El Cajon Boulevard Accident Statistics

El Cajon Boulevard stretches across several San Diego communities and remains a major site for car accidents. Data from the SANDAG Traffic Safety Dashboard indicates that high speeds, distracted driving, and frequent lane changes all contribute to a higher-than-average collision rate along this busy thoroughfare.

• Speeding risks: Drivers often exceed posted speed limits, increasing crash severity.
  
  
• Mixed-use neighborhoods: Heavy local traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists share the road.
  
  
• Poor visibility: Parked cars and narrow lanes create blind spots and sudden hazards.

Recent Car Accidents in San Diego

San Diego’s roads have witnessed several severe accidents in recent months, underscoring the importance of vigilance and the need for experienced legal representation in the aftermath of such incidents. Below are some notable accidents that have occurred in the area:

Fatal Crash into San Diego Bay

A tragic incident occurred when a pickup truck veered off Harbor Island Drive and plunged into the San Diego Bay, as reported by ABC 10News San Diego. Two occupants, including David Montgomery Jr., lost their lives, while a third passenger was critically injured. The circumstances leading to the crash remain under investigation.

• Location: Harbor Island Drive
  
  
• Casualties: 2 fatalities, 1 critical injury
  
  
• Status: Investigation ongoing

Road Rage Incident on Euclid Avenue

In a violent road rage episode on Euclid Avenue and Federal Boulevard, a 22-year-old man allegedly stabbed a 57-year-old driver approximately 10 times after a confrontation escalated, according to NBC San Diego. The suspect was apprehended and is now facing attempted murder charges.

• Location: Euclid Avenue and Federal Boulevard
  
  
• Injuries: Victim sustained life-threatening injuries
  
  
• Legal Action: Suspect arrested for attempted murder

Wrong-Way Collision on Interstate 8

A fatal wrong-way crash occurred on eastbound I-8 near San Diego State University when a BMW collided head-on with a Mini Cooper, as detailed by NBC San Diego. The female driver of the Mini Cooper died at the scene, and the BMW driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI.

• Location: I-8 near San Diego State University
  
  
• Casualties: 1 fatality
  
  
• Cause: Suspected DUI

Multi-Vehicle Crash on SR-163

A devastating multi-car accident on southbound SR-163 in Kearny Mesa resulted in four fatalities, according to NBC San Diego. Two drivers were arrested on suspicion of DUI, and the crash led to the closure of the freeway for over 11 hours.

• Location: SR-163 near Interstate 805
  
  
• Casualties: 4 fatalities
  
  
• Legal Action: 2 drivers arrested for suspected DUI

Fiery Collision Involving San Diego Police Officers

A high-speed pursuit ended in tragedy when a suspect’s vehicle collided with a San Diego Police Department patrol car in Clairemont Mesa, as reported by NBC San Diego. Officer Austin Machitar was killed, and his partner sustained critical injuries. The suspect also died in the crash.

• Location: Clairemont Mesa Boulevard and Doliva Drive
  
  
• Casualties: 2 fatalities (including a police officer), 1 critical injury
  
  
• Status: Investigation by California Highway Patrol ongoing

Why Choose The Law Office of Michelle Gershen for Your Car Accident Case

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, insurance claims, and potential legal actions. At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we prioritize your well-being and are committed to providing personalized legal support tailored to your unique situation. Michelle Gershen brings years of experience in personal injury law, ensuring that your case is handled with the utmost professionalism and dedication. Unlike larger firms that may treat clients as mere case numbers, our office offers individualized attention, guiding you through every step of the legal process to secure the compensation you deserve.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause far more than just temporary aches and bruises; they often lead to life-altering injuries that can affect victims physically, emotionally, and financially for years to come. In San Diego, with its busy freeways and congested urban streets, car accidents are an unfortunately common occurrence, and the injuries sustained can vary widely based on the severity of the crash. From traumatic brain injuries to long-term psychological trauma, it’s essential to recognize the wide range of potential harms caused by vehicle collisions. If you have been involved in a recent accident, understanding these injuries—and seeking timely medical care—is critical to both your physical recovery and protecting your legal rights. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car crashes remain a leading cause of serious injury and death in the United States.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most severe and devastating outcomes of a car accident. Even a moderate concussion can lead to lasting cognitive challenges, while more serious brain trauma may permanently alter a victim’s ability to function independently. TBIs often result when the head strikes a window, steering wheel, or dashboard during a crash, but can also occur from violent shaking of the brain within the skull even without direct impact.

• Symptoms: Memory loss, confusion, mood swings, difficulty concentrating.
  
  
• Severity: Ranges from mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring lifelong care.
  
  
• Long-Term Impact: Potential permanent cognitive and emotional impairments.
  
  

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are life-changing events that can rob victims of their mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. These injuries often occur during high-impact collisions where sudden force damages the delicate structures of the spine. Victims of spinal trauma from car accident face daunting physical and emotional challenges, from relearning daily tasks to adapting homes and vehicles for accessibility.

• Common Causes: High-speed collisions, rollovers, or head-on crashes.
  
  
• Outcomes: Quadriplegia, paraplegia, chronic pain, and mobility limitations.
  
  
• Treatment: Often requires emergency surgery, rehabilitation, and assistive devices.

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Whiplash injuries are some of the most commonly reported after car accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. When a vehicle is struck from behind, the sudden jerking motion causes the neck to whip forward and backward violently, damaging muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Although some victims recover within a few weeks, others are left dealing with persistent pain and restricted movement for months or even years.

• Symptoms: Neck stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and shoulder pain.
  
  
• Recovery Time: Symptoms can persist for weeks or even months.
  
  
• Complications: Chronic pain disorders if early treatment is delayed.

Broken Bones and Fractures

The violent forces involved in car accidents make fractures extremely common, affecting everything from wrists and ribs to legs and hips. Some fractures are simple and heal with a cast and time, but more complex fractures—such as compound breaks where the bone pierces the skin—often require surgical intervention, pins, or plates to stabilize.

• Types: Simple fractures, compound fractures (where the bone breaks through the skin), or crushed bones.
  
  
• Treatment: Surgery, immobilization (casts or rods), and physical therapy.
  
  
• Recovery Challenges: Long-term weakness, limited mobility, and arthritis development.
  
  

Internal Injuries

Unlike broken bones or cuts, internal injuries aren’t immediately visible, making them especially dangerous if left untreated. Car accidents can cause blunt-force trauma to the chest or abdomen, damaging organs and blood vessels. Without prompt diagnosis and surgical care, internal bleeding and organ failure can occur, making it essential for accident victims to seek medical evaluation even if they initially feel fine.

• Commonly Affected Areas: Liver, spleen, lungs, kidneys.
  
  
• Symptoms: Abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, and deep bruising.
  
  
• Emergency Response: Immediate surgical intervention is often necessary.

Establishing Liability in Car Accident Cases

When you’re injured in a car accident, determining who is legally responsible—or liable—for the crash is one of the most important factors in securing fair compensation. Liability impacts everything from settlement negotiations to trial outcomes, and it’s not always as clear-cut as it might seem at the scene. In San Diego, establishing liability often requires a careful investigation, strong evidence, and a deep understanding of California traffic laws. Without skilled legal guidance, insurance companies may try to shift blame or undervalue your claim. At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we work tirelessly to protect your rights and build a solid case that holds negligent parties fully accountable for the harm they’ve caused.

Driver Negligence

In most car accident cases, liability is based on negligence—the failure to exercise reasonable care behind the wheel. Whether it’s texting while driving, speeding, running a red light, or simply failing to yield, negligent behavior is a leading cause of collisions in San Diego and beyond. Proving driver negligence requires more than just showing an accident occurred; it requires clear evidence that the driver breached their duty of care and that this breach caused your injuries. An experienced attorney can investigate the circumstances, collect key evidence, and build a compelling argument that leaves little room for insurance companies to dispute.

• Common Examples: Distracted driving, aggressive driving, DUI, failure to obey traffic signals.
  
  
• Proof Needed: Eyewitness testimony, traffic camera footage, police reports, and cell phone records.
  
  
• Impact on Compensation: Establishing clear negligence strengthens your claim for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Comparative Fault in California

California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, meaning more than one party can share responsibility for a crash. Even if you are partially at fault, you may still recover damages—though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. This system is intended to provide fairness, but it also gives insurance companies an opportunity to try to shift more blame onto you to minimize their payouts. With a strong advocate on your side, you can push back against unfair fault assignments and work toward a settlement that reflects the true circumstances of the accident.

• Example Scenario: If you are found 20% at fault and awarded $100,000, you would still receive $80,000.
  
  
• Why It Matters: Insurance companies often exploit comparative fault rules to minimize payouts.
  
  
• Defense Strategy: Skilled negotiation and strong evidence can reduce any fault attributed to you.

Employer Liability for Commercial Vehicle Accidents

When a commercial driver causes a crash while on the job, their employer may also be held liable under the legal doctrine of “respondeat superior.” This allows accident victims to pursue compensation not just from the individual driver but also from the company that employed them. Commercial carriers have a duty to hire qualified drivers, properly train them, and maintain safe vehicles. When companies cut corners in these areas, they can be held responsible for the resulting harm, often providing victims access to larger insurance policies and greater resources for compensation.

• Examples of Commercial Vehicles: Company vans, semi-trucks, delivery trucks, and rideshare vehicles.
  
  
• Employer Responsibility: Includes negligent hiring, lack of proper driver training, or poor vehicle maintenance.
  
  
• Advantages: Businesses often have larger insurance policies and deeper financial resources than individual drivers.

Third-Party Liability

Sometimes, accidents aren’t caused by driver error alone. Poor road conditions, defective auto parts, or faulty traffic signals can all contribute to a crash, opening the door for third-party liability claims against manufacturers, contractors, or government agencies. Pursuing a third-party claim typically involves more complex litigation, but it can be crucial for fully compensating a victim’s injuries and losses. Establishing third-party fault often requires technical inspections, expert witness testimony, and extensive documentation, all of which an experienced attorney can help manage efficiently.

• Examples: Tire blowouts due to defective tires, malfunctioning traffic lights, or dangerous roadway design.
  
  
• Investigation Process: Expert inspections, maintenance records, and recall notices can reveal third-party negligence.
  
  
• Legal Challenges: Claims against government entities often have strict deadlines and special procedural rules.

Types of Compensation You Can Pursue After a Car Accident

After a car accident, victims often face overwhelming medical expenses, lost income, and emotional trauma. In California, injury victims have the legal right to seek financial compensation from the at-fault party to help cover the wide-ranging losses caused by the crash. Understanding the types of damages available is crucial to ensuring you don’t settle for less than you deserve. At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we fight tirelessly to ensure our clients recover every dollar they are entitled to, helping them rebuild their lives after a serious accident.

Medical Expenses

Medical costs are often the largest and most immediate financial burden after a car crash. Compensation for medical expenses includes everything from emergency room visits to ongoing rehabilitation therapies. It’s important to account not only for your past medical bills but also for future medical care that may be necessary due to long-term injuries.

• Examples of Covered Costs: Hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, mobility aids.
  
  
• Future Medical Needs: Rehabilitation services, additional surgeries, long-term pain management.
  
  
• Proof Needed: Medical records, bills, treatment plans, and expert testimony from healthcare providers.

Lost Income and Loss of Earning Capacity

If your injuries prevent you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you may be entitled to recover compensation for lost wages. In more serious cases, victims suffer permanent disabilities that limit their ability to return to the workforce in the same capacity—or at all. Calculating lost income isn’t always straightforward, and future earning potential must often be supported by vocational experts.

• Immediate Losses: Missed workdays, loss of overtime or bonuses.
  
  
• Future Earnings: Reduced earning potential due to disability or career changes.
  
  
• Documentation Needed: Pay stubs, employer letters, tax returns, and expert wage analyses.

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering damages compensate victims for the physical discomfort and emotional distress they experience due to the accident. Unlike economic damages like medical bills, pain and suffering is subjective and requires strong evidence to support your claim. A skilled attorney can help present a compelling picture of how your injuries have impacted your daily life.

• Physical Pain: Chronic pain, nerve damage, difficulty performing daily activities.
  
  
• Emotional Suffering: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  
  
• Proof of Impact: Medical testimony, mental health evaluations, and personal journals.

Property Damage

Car accidents often cause significant damage to vehicles and other personal property. Victims are entitled to recover the full cost of repairing or replacing their property, as well as any diminished value their vehicle may suffer even after repairs.

• Types of Property Damage: Vehicle repairs, total loss replacement, damaged electronics or belongings inside the vehicle.
  
  
• Repair or Replacement: Compensation should cover fair market value if repairs are not feasible.
  
  
• Insurance Battles: Insurers often undervalue property damage claims, requiring skilled negotiation.

Punitive Damages

In certain cases, California law allows accident victims to seek punitive damages. These are awarded not to compensate the victim directly, but to punish the wrongdoer for particularly reckless or malicious behavior, such as drunk driving or intentional harm. Punitive damages are rare but can significantly increase the total recovery in extreme cases.

• Eligibility Requirements: Defendant must have acted with malice, oppression, or fraud.
  
  
• Examples: Drunk driving accidents, intentional road rage incidents.
  
  
• Additional Proof: Criminal charges, eyewitness accounts, and documented reckless behavior.

Why You Should Trust The Law Office of Michelle Gershen to Maximize Your Compensation

Recovering full and fair compensation after a car accident isn’t just about submitting a claim—it’s about understanding the true value of your case and fighting to make sure no category of loss is overlooked. At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we take the time to fully investigate your injuries, work with expert witnesses, and aggressively negotiate with insurance companies who are determined to minimize payouts. Michelle Gershen brings a personalized approach to every case, ensuring that you receive the financial recovery you need to heal and move forward. When you choose our firm, you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re gaining a relentless advocate who will fight for your future at every step.

Contact The Law Office of Michelle Gershen Today

After a car accident, every moment counts. Critical evidence such as skid marks, surveillance footage, and eyewitness memories can quickly fade, making it harder to build a strong case. Insurance companies move fast to protect their own interests, often trying to minimize your injuries or deny valid claims before you even understand the full extent of your damages. Navigating these challenges alone can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it by yourself.

At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we take immediate action to preserve evidence, handle insurance negotiations, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Our firm is committed to providing you with compassionate, personalized support during this difficult time, while aggressively pursuing justice on your behalf. Whether you’re dealing with mounting medical bills, lost wages, or emotional distress, Michelle Gershen is ready to stand beside you every step of the way.

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Let Michelle Gershen Law take the legal burden of a car accidents off your shoulders so you can focus on healing, rebuilding, and moving forward with confidence.