Choosing the right attorney to represent you after an intersection collision means finding a firm with a proven history of high-stakes cases and extensive trial experience. HHJ Trial Attorneys are widely recognized as a premier choice for victims, thanks to our aggressive litigation strategies and expert testimony. While many firms prefer to avoid the courtroom, we prepare every case as if we’re going to trial, so we are ready for any eventuality.
The Dangers of San Diego Intersections
San Diego drivers have to navigate some of the busiest and most dangerous intersections daily. Intersections can be dangerous due to high traffic volume, pedestrians and cyclists, poor visibility, and confusing intersection design. Some of the most notorious red light crash hotspots include Mira Mesa Boulevard & Camino Ruiz. Then there’s Palm Avenue & 16th Street, as well as Mission Avenue & I-5, among many others. However traffic improvements are in the works.
When drivers skip red lights in these areas, it can result in catastrophic T-bone collisions. Because the side of a vehicle offers less protection than the front or back, injuries can be severe. Running a red light is a clear violation of the California Vehicle Code, but proving who had the right of way isn’t always clear-cut. Liability disputes arise when both drivers claim they had a green light.
Proving Liability Through Accident Reconstruction
Successful intersection crash claims depend on effectively recreating the moments leading up to the impact. HHJ Trial Attorneys has a network of experts who can be called on to provide testimony on specific subjects. We work with accident reconstruction experts who use physics and digital models to determine vehicle speeds and positions. Experts can calculate the exact second a driver entered an intersection.
Reconstructions are created using a combination of physical evidence, surveillance camera footage, and event data recorders (EDRs), also known as black boxes. We issue subpoenas for critical data at the start of our investigation. We use EDR logs and send preservation letters for camera footage and traffic signal information. Black box data enables us to see whether the driver attempted to brake or was speeding at the time of the crash.
Physical evidence, such as skid marks and crash debris, provides further evidence of how the collision unfolded. Combining science, high-tech analysis, and traditional physical evidence creates a compelling case that’s difficult to dispute. We know that the more data we provide, the more likely a successful outcome becomes. It’s critical to work with attorneys who know how to build a strong case using resources and expert relationships developed over years.
Why Does Trial Experience Matter?
Many San Diego law firms prefer to settle quickly so they can resolve as many cases as possible in the shortest time possible. Quick settlements usually result in lower payouts that don’t cover the long-term costs of a serious injury. Insurance companies keep records of which attorneys are willing to go to court and those who always settle. Choosing a firm with a reputation for being willing to go to trial puts immediate pressure on the insurer.
Every client deserves a legal representative who isn’t intimidated by the courtroom. We have secured over $30 million for car accident victims. One case we are particularly proud of is when we represented a young mother who suffered spinal compression as a result of a collision. The defense made several baseless arguments, which we refuted with clear and convincing evidence, leading the jury to award $1 million, even though the defense offered only $150,000.
The Benefits of Working With HHJ Trial Attorneys
We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay attorney’s fees unless your case is successful. There are no upfront costs, which means you can secure experienced legal representation even if money is tight. Between medical care, car repairs, and lost income, an accident can already be prohibitively expensive. Many people who need legal support hesitate to reach out because they assume they can’t afford a lawyer—our fee structure is designed to remove that barrier.
We take on the financial risk because we believe in the strength of the cases we choose to represent. If we don’t recover money for you, you don’t owe us anything for our time or expenses. If you’ve been injured in a red light accident in San Diego, contact us at 619-INJURED to schedule a free case review. We believe in helping people who would otherwise be unable to pursue legal action. Don’t delay, call us now so we can start building your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?
California uses a pure comparative negligence system, which allows victims to recover compensation even if they share some responsibility. Your total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault, as determined by the court or through negotiations. For example, if a jury decides you were twenty percent responsible, you will still receive eighty percent of the damages. A skilled attorney can negotiate your fault percentage.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after an intersection crash?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is generally two years from the date of the accident. Claims against government entities, such as cases involving poorly timed signals or road hazards, have much shorter deadlines. Missing these deadlines will result in the permanent loss of your right to seek compensation. It’s best to contact a legal professional as soon as possible to make sure all your paperwork is filed on time.
