Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to questions that are frequently encountered by the attorneys at The Venardi Elam Firm, LLP as they practice personal injury trial law throughout Oakland, Contra Costa County, and the entire Bay Area from their Walnut Creek office. 

Q.  I was in a car accident.  What should I do?

A.  The first and most important thing to do is to secure medical attention for yourself and anyone else who may have been injured in the accident.  If you can, collect the names and contact information of any witnesses, and obtain information from the other driver, including car insurance and registration information.  If possible, do not move the vehicles until the police arrive to make a report.  If the vehicles must be moved, it is wise to take pictures of the scene beforehand. 

If you were unable to make a statement to the police, it is important to review a copy of the accident report for accuracy as soon as possible; if only the other driver's point of view is represented, the report may not present an accurate picture of what happened.

As soon as you can after the accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can make sure that your rights are protected throughout each step of the process.

Q.  How much is my case worth?

A.  Most damages awarded in a personal injury case are compensatory in nature, meaning that they are meant to make up for the economic losses you suffered.  You are eligible to recover for property damage as well as present and future medical expenses.  If the injury caused you to miss work, you can recover for those lost wages, and if you have a long-term disability that will prevent you from working or diminishes your earning capacity, you can recover for that as well. 

In addition to these economic damages, you are also entitled to non-economic damages, such as the pain and suffering caused by your injury.  In certain instances, where the misconduct of the defendant was particularly egregious, punitive damages may also be awarded.  Punitive damages are meant to punish the defendant and set an example to others.

The value of your particular case depends upon many factors, such as the extent of your injuries and the particular circumstances of the accident.  Contact our office for a free consultation, which will allow us to provide you with an estimate of the value of your case.

Q.  How long do I have to file my case?

A.  The statute of limitations in a personal injury case in California is generally two years from the date of the accident or injury.  If you do not file a lawsuit within that period, you will be forever prohibited from filing suit on the claim.  It is important that you contact an attorney early on to provide adequate time to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident, identify all possible theories of liability, and to prepare and file the appropriate documents to initiate the lawsuit.

The attorneys at The Venardi Elam Firm, LLP offer a free initial consultation to victims in personal injury cases.  If you have questions or wish to meet with an attorney to discuss your case, contact The Venardi Elam Firm, LLP today.