After a car accident, one of the most important questions is also one of the hardest to answer: Who was at fault? Determining liability impacts everything—from insurance coverage to your ability to recover damages for injuries, property damage, and emotional distress. At Pilavjian Law, our Sherman Oaks personal injury attorneys work diligently to uncover the truth behind every accident and ensure clients receive the compensation they deserve.
How Fault Works Under California Law
California follows a comparative negligence system, which means fault can be shared between multiple parties. For example, one driver might be 80% responsible for speeding, while the other is 20% at fault for distracted driving. Your final compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
This makes it crucial to gather strong evidence—because every percentage point matters. The more fault the other driver carries, the higher your potential recovery for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Long-term rehabilitation costs
Pilavjian Law investigates each case thoroughly to ensure fault is assigned accurately and fairly.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Sherman Oaks
While accidents can happen anywhere, certain risk factors are especially common in Sherman Oaks. The neighborhood’s combination of high-traffic intersections and narrow residential streets means even minor errors can lead to serious injuries. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting or adjusting navigation)
- Speeding on Ventura Boulevard or the 405 onramp
- Failing to yield in busy intersections
- Driving under the influence
- Unsafe lane changes or tailgating
These situations often result in complex liability disputes, especially when multiple vehicles or commercial drivers are involved.
Evidence That Can Help Prove Fault
Establishing fault requires a strategic approach and the right supporting documentation. Some of the most persuasive forms of evidence include:
- Police and accident reports
- Eyewitness statements
- Surveillance or dashcam footage
- Cell phone records
- Vehicle damage analysis
- Medical reports connecting injuries to the crash
Pilavjian Law works with accident reconstruction experts and investigators to build a clear, compelling case for each client.
Why Insurance Companies Dispute Fault
Even when liability seems clear, insurance companies may argue otherwise. Their goal is to minimize payouts—and that often means shifting blame onto you. They might claim you were partially distracted, didn’t seek medical care fast enough, or exaggerated your injuries.
Having an experienced personal injury lawyer in Sherman Oaks can make all the difference. Pilavjian Law handles all communication with insurers, negotiates from a position of strength, and protects clients from lowball settlement offers.
What to Do After an Accident
If you’re involved in a car crash in Sherman Oaks, protect your rights immediately:
- Call 911 and seek medical attention—even for minor injuries.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers.
- Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and surroundings.
- Avoid admitting fault or discussing details with the other party’s insurer.
- Contact Pilavjian Law at (818) 380-3021 before speaking to any adjuster.
Prompt legal action not only helps preserve evidence but also ensures your case is built on a solid foundation.
Protect Your Right to Compensation
Determining fault in a Sherman Oaks car accident can be complicated, but you don’t have to handle it alone. The attorneys at Pilavjian Law are here to investigate, advocate, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call (818) 380-3021 today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.