If you’ve been injured in an accident, you’re probably facing more questions than answers. Los Angeles personal injury claims can be confusing and overwhelming—especially when you’re dealing with physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty.
This blog answers the most common questions we hear from injury victims in Los Angeles. Whether you’ve been in a car accident, slip and fall, or workplace injury, this guide will help you understand your rights and what to expect.
1. What Qualifies as a Personal Injury Claim in Los Angeles?
A personal injury claim arises when someone suffers harm due to another person’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions. In Los Angeles, these claims typically result from:
Car, motorcycle, or truck accidents
Slip and fall incidents
Pedestrian or bicycle accidents
Dog bites or animal attacks
Workplace injuries
Defective products
Medical malpractice
To file a claim, you must prove that the other party was responsible and that their actions directly caused your injuries and damages.
👉 Learn more from California Courts
2. Do I Need a Lawyer for My Personal Injury Case?
While it’s not legally required, having an experienced personal injury attorney in Los Angeles can significantly increase your chances of winning your case or negotiating a fair settlement.
Lawyers help with:
Investigating the accident
Gathering medical and legal evidence
Calculating damages
Handling communications with insurers
Filing the claim or lawsuit within deadlines
👉 Search the California State Bar Lawyer Referral Service
3. How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in LA?
California has a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury cases. This means you must file your claim within two years of the date of the injury.
If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to recover any compensation.
👉 California Statute of Limitations Info
4. What Compensation Can I Receive?
Compensation in a personal injury claim—also known as “damages”—can include:
Medical bills (past and future)
Lost wages and loss of earning potential
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Property damage
Rehabilitation or therapy costs
Loss of consortium (in serious cases)
👉 More on Compensation from the Insurance Information Institute
5. Will I Have to Go to Court?
Most Los Angeles personal injury claims are settled out of court, often through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit.
👉 California Courts: Going to Trial
6. How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
Most personal injury attorneys in Los Angeles work on a contingency fee basis. That means:
You pay nothing upfront
The lawyer only gets paid if they win your case
Their fee is usually a percentage of your settlement or award (typically 33–40%)
👉 More on Contingency Fees (Nolo)
7. What Should I Do Immediately After an Accident?
To protect your claim:
Get medical attention immediately
Report the accident (to police, property owner, or employer)
Take photos and gather evidence
Get witness contact information
Avoid discussing fault at the scene
Contact a personal injury attorney ASAP
👉 Accident Guide from the National Safety Council (NSC)
Final Thoughts
Dealing with the aftermath of an accident is stressful—but understanding your rights makes it easier. Whether you’re worried about medical bills, lost work, or how to handle the insurance company, getting clear answers can help you take the right next step.
If you’re navigating Los Angeles personal injury claims, reach out to a qualified attorney for a free consultation. The right legal guidance can make all the difference in your recovery and compensation.
