How much time do I have to file a lawsuit against an at-fault driver in California?

In California, you have up to two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Even if you're unsure about taking legal action, it’s smart to speak with a trusted San Diego personal injury lawyer early on. This gives you clarity about your options—and ensures you’re prepared with reliable legal support if you choose to move forward

What kinds of damages can I recover through a personal injury claim?

While medical expenses are typically the main type of damages, you may also be entitled to other compensation related to the accident, such as lost wages or pain and suffering. If you lost a loved one in the accident, damages could include loss of consortium as well. For a clearer understanding of what may apply to your specific case, schedule a consultation today.

How can I prove the other driver was negligent?

It starts with a detailed investigation into how the accident occurred. We’ll bring in expert witnesses, use accident reconstruction, and more to demonstrate how your accident in San Diego likely took place. By preparing your case for trial from day one, you'll be ready if it goes that far. Proving the other party’s negligence is a critical part of your claim.

What if the other party tries to blame me?

It’s common for the other driver or their insurance company to try to shift blame onto you after an accident. That’s why having a skilled San Diego personal injury lawyer on your side is so important. We know how to counter these tactics and will build a strong case that clearly shows how the other party’s negligence caused your injuries.

How do I choose the right attorney for my San Diego personal injury case?

Before choosing an attorney, schedule a free consultation with a San Diego personal injury lawyer . This gives you the opportunity to assess their experience, communication style, and commitment—so you can confidently select the right advocate to represent you and your family during a challenging time.

San Diego Car Accident Lawyer

Voted 'Best Car Accident Lawyer' of San Diego according to SD Magazine.

Schedule Free Case review

San Diego’s Trusted Car Accident Attorney

Your trusted San Diego car crash injury lawyer has the experience to provide the care you need and the results you deserve. Take a moment to review this page and learn more about the California injury claims process. If you believe you have a valid case, contact our San Diego office today—we’re ready to help you get the justice and compensation you’re entitled to. We’ll handle every detail, so you can focus on recovery. Take advantage of our 100% Free Injury Case Review and our “No Recovery, No Fee” Guarantee. Call now and let a top-rated San Diego car accident attorney help you move forward with confidence.

Reviews Mean Everything

Paul Batta is one of the kindest people I know. He goes out of his way to help others, and truly cares about his clients. It’s hard to put into words the level of care Paul provides his clients, but it really is exceptional. If you’ve been injured and are searching for an attorney, Paul should be your go to choice. You won’t be disappointed.
read moreread less

Taylor Castro

5/01/2025

Best personal injury attorneys ever! The whole team at Batta Fulkerson was amazing to work with throughout the whole entire process of my case. They were reachable whenever I needed them, answered any questions that I had and made me feel completely at ease. I genuinely felt that they had my best interests at heart, and will be recommending all of my friends to them in the future!
read moreread less

Justin Slack

4/14/2025

These guys are wonderful, they took such great care of us. I highly recommend and appreciate their service. If you need help you should reach out!!
read moreread less

Kim Vasquez

2/27/2025
Taylor Gains is a top notch lawyer. HE shoots straight from the hip and tells you how it is. He's honest and trustworthy. I appreciate his candor when talking about my case. I've already referred him to family to cover their case.
read moreread less

R

2/07/2025

Amazingly responsive
read moreread less

Brendan Bargmann

1/31/2025

I can't recommend this firm enough. Paul Batta was referred by a trusted attorney friend of mine to help navigate a difficult personal injury case I was dealing with. He was honest, professional, and gave me no-nonsense advice. Most importantly, he was always responsive and available to talk about my options, and what's next. If it wasn't for his help, I have no doubt my claim would not have come to any sort of resolution. If you are looking for top-notch attorneys that will provide you all of the information and assistance you need, look no further.
read moreread less

Royal

1/08/2025
They treated my case like I was family, and that made the long term care I needed worth fighting for. Impressed with their attention to care, and their altruism with their NP rescue for bulldogs. Thank you Paul & Dan.
read moreread less

danielle mahoney

12/29/2024

I was referred to Dan at Batta Fulkerson by a couple of close friends, and I wasn’t sure what to expect at first. From the very beginning, Dan and his team exceeded all my expectations. They guided me through every step of the process, clearly explaining what to expect and making the entire experience seamless. Their dedication and support were truly outstanding, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone who has been injured in an accident. Thank you all so much!!
read moreread less

Walter Wilson

11/24/2024

Dan and Paul were incredible in handling my dog bite case. Their team was supportive and made a difficult situation feel like a breeze. They make you feel like family as soon as you walk through the door. I’m so grateful for their help.
read moreread less

Chelzie Perez

10/11/2024
Super trustworthy. What a relief because that's hard to find lately. A+ highly recommended.
read moreread less

Alan J.

10/08/2024

I am incredibly grateful to the entire Batta Fulkerson team for their outstanding work on my car accident case. They were compassionate, professional, and always kept me informed throughout the process. Their expertise and dedication led to a great outcome, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the support I received. I highly recommend Dan, Paul, and the Batta Fulkerson team to anyone in need of personal injury attorneys!
read moreread less

Marieke Koch

10/08/2024

I attend many local events and continue to see and meet more of the amazing staff from Batta Fulkerson. I love their involvement in the community and can relate to their passion for dogs. If I were ever in an accident, I'd know who to call!
read moreread less

Jennifer Alberts

10/08/2024
My siblings are Ivy League lawyers, so I've been around legal professionals my whole life. While they aren't accident attorneys, I know quality when I see it, and Dan stands out. From the start, he’s shown incredible knowledge and compassion. He thinks like a judge, and that’s exactly the kind of sharp mind you want representing you. He immediately set up a Zoom call with me on a Saturday—no admin asking endless pre-intake questions, just genuine care. Based on my experience so far, Dan is exactly the type of attorney you want on your side.
read moreread less

Cheri Inokon

10/08/2024

Hiring Connor Er and the Batta Fulkerson Group was the best decision I have ever made! I was getting ignored and taken advantage of by my OWN insurance and thankfully Connor and the team stepped in to fight on my side! They were patient, knowledgeable, and most of all seemed like they truly cared about me and winning the case for me not just another notch on the belt. If I ever need a Personal Injury Lawyer again I for sure know who to call first!!
read moreread less

tyler

10/07/2024

Literally mind blown how attentive and caring Dan Fulkerson is. You couldn’t ask for a better attorney to represent you after an accident. 10/10 recommend!
read moreread less

Dr. Jay Libs

9/23/2024
I was referred to Dan from a good friend of mine. Our first consultation was at his office in Mission Hills. Dan was professional and did all his research ahead of time. He made me feel very comfortable from the onset. I was impressed with professionalism and eagerness to help me handle my particular case. Its safe to say that everything worked out great and he handled everything in a timely manner. I strongly suggest this law firm.
read moreread less

Derek DiNublia

6/16/2024

From start to finish attorney Robert Sagerian was extremely helpful and fully communicative. He went above and beyond to make sure I understood the entire process and made sure that I was not only happy with the outcome but during its entirety. 10/10 recommend Robert and Batta Fulkerson.
read moreread less

Zach Vasquez

5/17/2024

These guys are amazing, honest and very empathizing. They understood each aspect of my families situation, got us the maximum possible and made sure that they never get more than what the net pocket to client. Took care of everything from talking to other insurance, liens, expenses. Special thanks to Paul and team.
read moreread less

neel shah

2/29/2024
Excelentes abogados muy recomendados
read moreread less

Diana Aragon

10/20/2023

Batta Fulkerson is amazing! They were the first recommendation from a friend when I had my accident. Sucks that I lost a car but they have great connections to get the care you need while helping out your case. Thank you again! Would highly recommend them!
read moreread less

Anthony Fletcher

10/12/2023

Wonderful and a very professional group. Always on time, and returned phone calls promptly. Additionally the entire Law group treated me in the most respectful and professional manner. Highly recommend the Paul Batta and Dan Fulkerson group. Thank you R/ B.Barker
read moreread less

Bob Barker

9/23/2023
Incredible team and very happy with the outcome and service's they provide. Highly recommend to everyone!
read moreread less

mehdi niroomand

9/20/2023

Batta Fulkerson is the absolute best. I was hit from behind on the freeway and went to them for help. They fought hard for me to get what I rightly deserved. When I went in to talk to Paul Batta, he was caring, a great listener and helped me understand what my options were. There was solid, transparent communication throughout the whole process until the case was closed. Very grateful for their help and I highly recommend to anyone in need!!
read moreread less

Michael Busalacchi

9/20/2023

The Whole Batta|Fulkerson team is amazing! Best in SD! My kids love the bulldogs and everything you do in the community!
read moreread less

Amber

9/19/2023
The team at Batta Fulkerson were a God send. I needed help with a personal injury case and after being told no by half a dozen other firms they stepped up to help me out. They took everything off my plate and handled things incredibly well. The team kept me looped in throughout the entire process and came up with a favorable outcome. I can't recommend them highly enough.
read moreread less

Dave Harris

9/19/2023

These guys delivered! I retained Batta Fulkerson Law Group for a personal injury case after I was rear ended at a Red Light. After getting the run around from the other parties Insurance I decided to lawyer up and it was a great decision. Primary focus was on my recovery and they took care of everything. In the end they got me well above what I was hoping for in the settlement and I am a very satisfied client.
read moreread less

Jeremy Jones

9/19/2023

I had a very professional experience at Butta Fulkerson. The attorneys i worked with Robert and Dan were knowledgeable, reachable for any queries and presented options with pros and cons to make an informed decision. I will definitely recommend them.
read moreread less

Mahesh Kshetramade

5/26/2023

Speak to an Attorney Immediately!!!

If you've been injured in an accident, call or text Attorney Dan Fulkerson on his direct cell of (858)252-2222

Free Case review

Dedicated Accident Claim Lawyer Ready To Put YOU First!!!

A truly experienced car accident lawyer puts one thing above all else—you. At Batta Fulkerson, our client-first approach means your health, recovery, and legal outcome are always our top priority. Every case is unique, and we take the time to ensure you get the personalized care, attention, and results you deserve. Even if you don’t have health insurance, we can connect you with trusted medical providers to support your recovery.

From day one, our San Diego car accident attorneys get to work setting up your claim the right way. We immediately gather crucial evidence—accident reports, witness statements, property damage assessments, and more—to build a solid foundation for your case. Our team ensures nothing falls through the cracks, so your focus can stay where it belongs: on healing. While you recover, we’ll handle the legal legwork and fight to secure the full settlement you’re owed. ~Dan Fulkerson

San Diego Auto Accident Lawyer

Receive the maximum compensation possible for your car accident injuries

Our San Diego car accident lawyers at Batta Fulkerson are here to hold negligent drivers accountable for their reckless or careless actions—whether through a third-party insurance claim or a civil lawsuit. We focus on securing the full compensation you deserve while managing all legal aspects of your case, so you can prioritize your physical and emotional recovery. If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by another driver’s negligence, trust Batta Fulkerson’s experienced San Diego car accident attorneys to fight for your rights. Call our office today at (619) 333-5555 or schedule your free case review online.

How can a car accident accident lawyer help me?

Determining the true value of your car accident claim and negotiating a fair settlement is often more complex than it seems—making skilled legal representation critical. When you choose our San Diego legal team, you're backed by one of California’s most successful injury law firms. From day one, we launch a comprehensive investigation into your accident and take every step necessary to pursue the maximum compensation you’re entitled to. We’re proud of our proven track record—over a 98% success rate and more than $100 million recovered for our clients.

What should I do after an auto accident?

After an auto accident, the effects on your life can be immediate and overwhelming. You may require medical treatment, family support, and time away from work to heal. A serious crash in San Diego can disrupt every part of your routine—but with the right car accident lawyer, you don’t have to face it alone. Prioritize your health, document the details of the accident, and reach out to an experienced San Diego car accident attorney. We're here to help you get the support you need and the compensation you deserve, so you can focus on recovery and moving forward.

Getting Justice when you need it most.

When a serious car accident turns your life upside down, you need a legal team that acts fast and fights hard. Under California law, car crash victims in San Diego have the right to pursue financial compensation from the negligent driver and any other responsible parties. This can cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. But there’s a strict two-year statute of limitations, and missing that deadline can cost you everything. Don’t let your opportunity for justice slip away—let our experienced San Diego car accident attorneys protect your rights and help secure the financial future your family depends on.

Why do our clients choose Batta Fulkerson San Diego Car Accident Lawyer?

If you need a car accident lawyer in San Diego, you deserve a trusted legal team with the experience, commitment, and results to help you move forward. Turn to one of Southern California’s most respected personal injury law firms.

Batta Fulkerson, a top-rated Auto Accident Lawyer in San Diego, delivers the ideal blend of large-firm firepower and personalized service. Backed by extensive trial experience and legal resources, our team provides the one-on-one attention you need—your attorney is always just a call or text away. For those seriously injured in a crash, we’re the firm people trust when results matter most.

San Diego car accident attorneys Dan and Paul have spent years together fighting for accident victims and know the ins and outs of California’s legal system. Their commitment to securing fair compensation and delivering compassionate representation sets them apart. From the very first consultation, they work to build a powerful case tailored to your recovery. You don’t have to navigate this alone—let our experienced legal team protect your future.

Batta Fulkerson Personal Injury Lawyers represent clients injured in all types of motor vehicle accidents, including car crashes, rear-end collisions, head-on collisions, side-impact (T-bone) crashes, rollover accidents, multi-vehicle pileups, single-vehicle accidents.

We Win Big Recoveries

At Batta Fulkerson Personal Injury Lawyers in San Diego, we fight relentlessly to secure the maximum compensation our clients deserve—and we’ve won in 98% of our cases. This success rate is a testament to our dedication to protecting your rights and pursuing justice with everything we’ve got. If going to trial is what it takes, our legal team is fully prepared to stand by your side and fight for the best possible outcome.

No Recovery? No Fee.

We work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case through a settlement or trial verdict. This ensures our San Diego car accident lawyers are fully invested in securing the maximum compensation for you, while you focus on healing and getting your life back on track after your car accident.

Trial Ready Attorneys

While our goal is always to resolve your case as efficiently and favorably as possible outside the courtroom, some situations demand a trial. That’s why from your very first consultation, our San Diego car accident attorneys start building your case with litigation in mind. This proactive approach ensures we’re fully prepared to take your case to court if necessary—maximizing your chances for a successful outcome.

Successful Track Record

Our client testimonials, record-setting settlements, and strong reputation throughout California speak volumes about what you can expect with Batta Fulkerson, Personal Injury Lawyers in San Diego. We know the ins and outs of personal injury / car accident law in Southern California and use that insight to craft smart, aggressive legal strategies focused on helping you recover—physically, emotionally, and financially—after a serious accident.

We’ve won nearly every award and accolade in personal injury.

Favorite San Diego Car Accident Attorney

Your San Diego Auto Accident Lawyer

Batta Fulkerson

At Batta Fulkerson Law Group, we work closely with you to build a winning strategy for your auto accident case. Recognized throughout California for our aggressive representation and results, we’ve built a reputation that insurance companies take seriously. From your very first consultation, your San Diego car accident lawyer will handle your case with integrity, transparency, and a commitment to getting results. As one of San Diego’s top-rated personal injury firms, we start fighting for your rights the moment you hire us.

Over $175,000,000 Recovered

30+ Years of Experience

50+ Individual Settlements Over $1 Million

Awarded – "Top 100 Trial Lawyers" by The National

2025 Injury Law Firm of the Year - San Diego Magazine

Free Case review

More About Our Firm

Most Common Types of Car Accidents

We’ve dealt with nearly every kind of traffic law violation, many of which lead to accidents—whether it’s checking your phone, ignoring a red light, or being distracted by others in the vehicle. Working alongside our accident investigation and reconstruction experts, we identify the underlying cause of each crash. Some of the most frequent car accident cases we handle include:

With the widespread use of smartphones, distracted driving has become a leading cause of accidents in recent years. California law prohibits holding or using a phone while driving unless it's mounted and used hands-free—but many drivers still take the risk. In San Diego and beyond, distracted driving crashes continue to rise. Since it’s often difficult to prove a driver’s behavior just before a collision, experts believe these accidents are significantly underreported.

Highway and interstate accidents are often catastrophic due to higher speeds and increased traffic volume. Whether caused by speeding, reckless driving, distracted behavior, or impairment, a crash on San Diego’s roadways can change your life in seconds. At Batta Fulkerson, we’re committed to helping you recover full compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial toll these serious accidents can cause.

Driving under the influence remains one of the top causes of serious traffic accidents nationwide. In San Diego, DUI-related crashes continue to pose a major threat to road safety—accounting for a significant share of fatal collisions. It’s not just alcohol that leads to impaired driving; prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and illegal substances also play a role in many preventable accidents across California’s roads.

Distracted driving goes far beyond texting or using a phone—it includes anything that pulls a driver’s attention away from the road. In San Diego, even brief distractions like adjusting the radio, reaching for something, or tending to children in the back seat can lead to devastating crashes. Safe driving means keeping your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road, and your focus sharp. When drivers fail to do so, serious accidents are often the result.

Not all car accidents are solely caused by other drivers. In some cases, dangerous road conditions—like poor design, lack of maintenance, or hazardous layouts—can play a major role. Our San Diego legal team investigates every angle of your crash to uncover contributing factors and hold all responsible parties accountable. This may include government agencies or contractors tasked with designing, building, or maintaining the roadway where your accident occurred.

Most Common Types Of Car Crashes

Almost any traffic law violation, from running a red light to glancing at your phone, can cause car accidents. By working with professional accident reconstruction specialists, we uncover the cause of every crash. The most common types of car wrecks we handle include:

Car Accidents

Motorcycle Accidents

Truck Accidents

Bicycle Accidents

Dog Bites

Slip n Fall

Brain Injury

Wrongful Death

How Accident Injury Claims Process Works?

Evaluate

During our initial consultation, we will examine the details of your injury case and explore the legal avenues for the maximum compensation you deserve. We’ll help you identify who was at fault for your accident and explain how we can hold them accountable for your injuries and property damage.

Gather Evidence

We start by preparing your legal documents to file a claim and proceed through the early trial phases, including depositions and possible settlement negotiations.

Medical Assessment

We are partnered with experts and certified specialists who can provide insight and reports on how your injury will impact your life, ensuring we have a fully prepared case to fight for you in court.

Negotiations

We always seek the opportunity to resolve your personal injury case through settlement negotiations, aiming for a full and fair compensation that you deserve.

Resolution

Whether through settlement or trial, the resolution of your injury case marks the final step, where we remain dedicated to advocating for you and your best interests.

After a car accident in San Diego, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Trust our experienced auto accident lawyers to handle every detail of your personal injury claim with care and commitment.

After a car accident, insurance companies often prioritize their bottom line—not your recovery. They may pressure you into accepting a lowball settlement. Without strong legal representation, getting fair compensation can feel impossible. By hiring Batta Fulkerson, San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys, you send a clear message: you're serious about justice and won’t settle for less.

Committed to making your life whole again.

Our proven success reflects our dedication to building strategic, results-driven legal cases for every client. From day one, we carefully assess every detail of your San Diego car accident to pursue the maximum compensation available. Choosing to work with a San Diego car accident lawyer from the start shows the insurance company and the other party that your case is being taken seriously—and so are your rights.

Free Case review

CA Insurance Law

In California, the legal system uses a pure comparative negligence rule—meaning your compensation can be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you in the accident. Even if you're partially at fault, you can still recover damages.

You won’t see us recommending that you rely solely on your insurance company after a crash. That’s because insurers often work to minimize payouts, not protect your best interests. Instead, you need a skilled San Diego personal injury lawyer who will advocate for your rights. Be sure to seek medical attention immediately and file your insurance claim promptly—delays can hurt your case and lead to denied claims.

Batta Fulkerson aggressively fights for you.

However, if your insurance company delays, lowballs, or unfairly denies your claim, you’re not alone. Having an experienced San Diego car accident lawyer on your side—someone who knows the tactics insurers use—can give you the leverage you need to fight back and pursue the full compensation you’re owed.

San Diego Auto Accident Rankings Results

2022 Crash Ranks

41

Fatal Crashes

12,589

Injury Crashes

3,653

Speeding Crashes

2,606

DUI Crashes

Schedule your free case review with one of the most experienced and successful San Diego car accident lawyer.

We know that choosing to file a claim—and picking the right attorney—can feel like a big step. At Batta Fulkerson, Car Accident Lawyers in San Diego, we offer a free consultation to give you a clear, honest assessment of your case and explain your legal options. Our passionate legal team is committed to securing full compensation and justice for injury victims and their families. From your very first meeting, you’ll understand what sets Batta Fulkerson apart—backed by a strong reputation and a history of winning results.

Reach out to us today to schedule your free consultation and get the answers you need about the personal injury claim process.

Call us at (619) 333-5555 or request a free case review online.

Submit Online

Call Us Now

Schedule Your Free Case Review

We’ll Come To You

Our attorney will travel to your home, or hospital, at your convenience and request. We also have offices conveniently in San Diego for you to walk in if preferred.

Call Us Anytime

We're here to talk about your case whenever you’re ready. Reach out to us at (619) 333-5555

1000% Free Consultation

Meeting and/or discussing your case with our attorney is completely free. Our policy is, No Recovery, No Fee!

"*" indicates required fields

Instagram

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Name*

Phone*

Email*

City/Town (in California))*

Best Time To Contact*

Details*

CAPTCHA

San Diego Car Accident Lawyer

Voted 'Best Car Accident Lawyer' of San Diego according to SD Magazine.

San Diego’s Trusted Car Accident Attorney

Speak to an Attorney Immediately!!!

Dedicated Accident Claim Lawyer Ready To Put YOU First!!!

San Diego Auto Accident Lawyer

Receive the maximum compensation possible for your car accident injuries

How can a car accident accident lawyer help me?

What should I do after an auto accident?

Getting Justice when you need it most.

Why do our clients choose Batta Fulkerson San Diego Car Accident Lawyer?

If you need a car accident lawyer in San Diego, you deserve a trusted legal team with the experience, commitment, and results to help you move forward. Turn to one of Southern California’s most respected personal injury law firms.

We Win Big Recoveries

No Recovery? No Fee.

Trial Ready Attorneys

Successful Track Record

We’ve won nearly every award and accolade in personal injury.

Your San Diego Auto Accident Lawyer

Batta Fulkerson

Over $175,000,000 Recovered

30+ Years of Experience

50+ Individual Settlements Over $1 Million

Awarded – "Top 100 Trial Lawyers" by The National

2025 Injury Law Firm of the Year - San Diego Magazine

Most Common Types of Car Accidents

Negligent Drivers

Texting While Driving

Reckless Driving

Speeding Drivers

Aggressive Driving Accidents

Highway Accidents

Drunk Driving

Distracted Driving

Dangerous Roads & Highways

Most Common Types Of Car Crashes

Almost any traffic law violation, from running a red light to glancing at your phone, can cause car accidents. By working with professional accident reconstruction specialists, we uncover the cause of every crash. The most common types of car wrecks we handle include:

Car Accidents

Motorcycle Accidents

Truck Accidents

Bicycle Accidents

Dog Bites

Slip n Fall

Brain Injury

Wrongful Death

How Accident Injury Claims Process Works?

Evaluate

Gather Evidence

Medical Assessment

Negotiations

Resolution

After a car accident in San Diego, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Trust our experienced auto accident lawyers to handle every detail of your personal injury claim with care and commitment.

Committed to making your life whole again.

Top Questions about Car Accident Claims

How much time do I have to file a lawsuit against an at-fault driver in California?

When should I talk to a lawyer about my car crash?

What kinds of damages can I recover through a personal injury claim?

What if I can’t afford to hire a San Diego personal injury attorney?

How can I prove the other driver was negligent?

How can I tell if my injuries are severe enough to file a claim?

What if the other party tries to blame me?

Should I accept a settlement offer from the insurance company or the other party?

How do I choose the right attorney for my San Diego personal injury case?

CA Insurance Law

Batta Fulkerson aggressively fights for you.

San Diego Auto Accident Rankings Results

Fatal Crashes

Injury Crashes

Speeding Crashes

DUI Crashes

Schedule your free case review with one of the most experienced and successful San Diego car accident lawyer.

Schedule Your Free Case Review

We’ll Come To You

Call Us Anytime

1000% Free Consultation

San Diego

North County

San Diego

North County

California Locations

San Diego