Modesto Car Accident Attorneys
Advocating for Injured Victims Since 1989
Every year, millions of motorists are injured in vehicle collisions throughout the United States. And, in nearly every instance, these accidents could have—and should have—been avoided. When drivers act carelessly or recklessly, innocent people can get seriously hurt or even die.
At Rancaño & Rancaño, APLC, we believe that no one should have to simply put up with the consequences of someone else’s negligence. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a car accident, we can help you seek fair and just compensation by bringing a personal injury claim. Our Modesto car accident lawyers have been serving clients throughout the Central Valley since 1989; we know the challenges you are facing and we know how to win.
Call us today at (209) 255-6760 or submit an online contact form to get started with a free and confidential consultation. Se habla español.
Handling All Types of Car Accident Claims
Our firm is experienced in handling car accident claims of varying complexities, including:
- Speeding accidents
- Reckless driving
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist claims
- Drunk driving accidents
- Passenger injury claims
- Distracted driving accidents
- Rear-end accidents
- T-bone accidents
- Multi-vehicle accidents
- Rollover accidents
- Rideshare accidents
- Parking lot accidents
How Much Is Your Car Accident Claim Worth?
Because every case is different, it’s impossible to say with certainty how much your car accident claim is worth without assessing the various unique factors involved. That being said, most injured car accident victims are able to seek compensation to cover certain “damages,” or losses they suffered as a result of the accident.
You may be able to seek compensation for the following damages:
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All medical expenses, including:
- Ambulance fees
- Emergency room/hospital fees
- Initial and ongoing treatment
- Rehabilitation (physical and/or cognitive)
- Medical equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, etc.)
- Medications
- Modifications to your home to accommodate a disability
- Lost wages/income, including future earnings
- Lost or reduced earning ability (disability)
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Inconvenience
- Cost of vehicle/property repairs
In some cases, such as if you are hit by a drunk driver, you may be able to also pursue punitive damages, which are typically reserved for cases involving egregious negligence.
Why You Need an Attorney
If you are hit by another driver who was acting carelessly or recklessly, you may believe that it will be easy to recover compensation from his or her insurance company. However, insurance companies are businesses and, like any business, their primary goal is to limit their costs—something they will often attempt to do by devaluing or outright denying rightful claims.
Remember: the insurance adjuster from the liable party’s insurance company is not on your side. We strongly recommend that you refrain from speaking to any adjusters from the other person’s insurance company, as you may accidentally say something that could be construed as you admitting fault for the accident.
It’s best to work with an experienced car accident attorney who understands the processes involved and who knows how to fight for the maximum compensation you are owed. At Rancaño & Rancaño, APLC, we are committed to leveling the playing field for injured victims. Our Modesto car accident lawyers can guide you through the entire process, handling all paperwork, negotiations, and, if necessary, trial preparations on your behalf.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
It's important to know that your time to take legal action after a car accident is limited. Under California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1, car accident injury lawsuits in California are subject to a two-year statute of limitations, meaning you typically have until the second anniversary of your accident to file a civil claim in court against the at-fault driver. If you do not file a claim within this window, you will lose your ability to sue and you will effectively be barred from recovering compensation. For this reason, it is crucial you get an attorney involved as soon as possible after your crash to protect yourself against costly pitfalls.
It is important to know that this time limit only applies to injury lawsuits, not insurance claims. Insurance claims typically must be filed within a few days or weeks after an accident to be eligible for coverage.
Contact Us Today
Browse our recent case results to learn more about our proven track record of results! If you or someone you love was involved in a serious car accident anywhere in the Central Valley, reach out to our team today for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation. We offer contingency fees, so there are no out-of-pocket expenses for you when you choose to work with our firm.
Contact us online or by phone at (209) 255-6760 now.
Car Accident Frequently Asked Questions
Get Answers From Our Experienced Modesto Auto Accident Attorneys-
Q:I'm partially responsible for the crash - do I still have a case?
A:Yes. California follows a rule known as "pure comparative fault" which allows auto accident victims to recover damages even if they are found to be 99% at fault for the collision that caused their injuries, though their potential recovery will be reduced. For example, say you were injured in a crash and suffered $100,000 worth of damages. At trial, the jury finds you to be 15% at fault for the collision because you were speeding. In this scenario, you would only be able to recover up to $85,000 in compensation (or $100,000 less 15%).
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Q:What should I do after a crash?
A:If you have been involved in a car accident, your first priority is to stop and render aid. Call 911 and request medical help if you or anyone else is seriously hurt, then call the police. The responding officer will help you to get control of the scene, facilitate in the exchange of insurance and contact information, and create a report of the incident. Tell the police your version of what happened, but avoid speculative statements. Most importantly, do not admit fault. Next, if you are able to do so, gather as much photographic or video evidence as you can at the scene. This includes the damage to all involved vehicles and their positioning relative to each other, tire tracks and skid marks, weather conditions, traffic patterns, property damage, and your injuries before they are treated. If there were any witnesses to the crash, be sure to get their contact information. Next, if you were not already rushed to the hospital, seek a full medical evaluation and follow your doctor's treatment instructions exactly. Keep records of your medical care and all expenses you incur. Once you have been treated, call your insurance company and tell them you were involved in a crash. Finally, contact an attorney to discuss your legal options in detail.
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Q:How do you prove fault in a car accident case?
A:Many factors are considered when determining fault for a car accident. Your attorney will begin by listening to your description of the events surrounding your crash and reviewing police reports. Eyewitness accounts, photographs, video surveillance evidence, and accident recreation techniques can help to provide a better overall picture of what happened and who is responsible.
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Q:Will my car accident case go to trial?
A:Possibly, but this is unlikely. Most auto accident claims are resolved out of court in the form of a settlement negotiated between your attorney and the other driver's insurance company. A trial is generally only necessary if a settlement cannot be reached. This can happen if there is a dispute over who is at fault for the crash, or if the insurance company is offering a settlement that is far lower than the full value of your injuries. While a trial may sometimes yield a higher monetary award, there is always the risk that you may lose at trial. Your attorney will be able to help you determine the most appropriate course of action for your case.
Client Testimonials
Real Stories from Real People-
“I would tell others if they're seeking legal professional help, that Rancaño & Rancaño helped me and that they can most likely help them in their situation.”
- Jose -
“There's many people that recommended me to go to Rancaño & Rancaño because they were in the same situation, and they helped them like they helped me in providing excellent service.”
- Ancieto -
“The office is always clean and welcoming. The receptionist is very professional and nice.”
- Denise
Our Results Speak for Themselves
Millions Recovered for Injured Workers & Individuals-
Workers' Compensation $2,264,827
Juan Perez Vasquez v. Sonoran Roofing, Inc., CIGA, services by Sedgwick CMS
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Workers' Compensation $2,172,000
Sergio Cervantes v. Central Valley Painting, State Compensation Insurance Fund
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Workers' Compensation $2,150,000
Julio Calderon v. South Placer Roofing Co., Inc., State Compensation Insurance Fund
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Workers' Compensation $1,925,000
Armando Calderon v. A & A Cattle, Intercare Insurance Services
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Construction Site Injury $1,750,000
Martinez v. Unger Construction
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Obstetrical Negligence $1,500,000
Martinez v. County of Merced
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Workers' Compensation $1,302,500
Damian Sanchez v. MG Simms Painting & Decorating, The Hartford
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Workers' Compensation $1,300,000
Ociel Garcia v. Capital Builders, National Fire Union Insurance Company
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Motor Vehicle Collision $1,300,000
Walls v. Svenhard
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Workers' Compensation $1,250,000
Ramon Madriz-Mendoza v. Pacific International Steel, State Compensation Insurance Fund
Why Hire Rancaño & Rancaño, APLC?
When Your Recovery Matters, It Matters Who You Hire-
On the Side of Workers
Our firm is exclusively dedicated to helping injured workers and individuals receive the justice they deserve.
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Experienced Support Staff
Our firm is staffed by experienced legal professionals who have been helping us serve injured workers for many years.
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Se Habla Español
Our multi-lingual staff is proud to serve clients in both English and Spanish.
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Experience on Your Side
Our firm has been serving injured clients throughout California's Central Valley for 30 years.
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A Reputation for Excellence
We have received countless testimonials from happy clients since our law firm first opened its doors in 1989.
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A Track Record of Success
Our firm has recovered millions of dollars for injured workers and individuals.