West Coast Trial Lawyers

Can the Police Write Tickets After a Car Accident in California?

A police officer issuing a ticket in their car.

When you’re involved in a car accident, the presence of police can feel both reassuring and scary at times. Their primary role is to ensure everyone’s safety and document the incident, but they also have the authority to issue citations if traffic laws have been violated. In California, where traffic laws are strictly enforced, understanding […]

New Street Takeover Crackdown Bill – California AB 2807

A gray car doing donuts in a middle of a street.

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we’ve seen the chaos of street takeovers up close—reckless stunts that too often end in serious injury or worse, all because of reckless drivers. California’s new law, AB 2807, went into effect in 2024 and is cracking down hard on these dangerous events. As  personal injury attorneys, we’re here to […]

Is It Illegal to Ride in the Bed of a Truck in California?

Four people riding on the back of the truck while it is driving on the road.

If you’ve ever thought about riding in the bed of a truck, you’re not alone. It might seem like a carefree way to enjoy a sunny day, get a quick lift, or make room for extra passengers. But in California, what feels like a harmless adventure can actually land you in legal trouble—and worse, it […]

Who Is Liable for a Car Accident Caused by Freeway Debris?

A large truck carrying logs in the back.

Freeways keep our world moving, helping millions of people get where they need to go every day. But when debris ends up on the road—whether it’s from a blown tire, an unsecured load, or a fallen tree branch—a routine drive can quickly turn into a nightmare. Accidents caused by freeway debris can leave drivers shaken, […]

What Happens if You “Total” a Leased Car in California?

A car with a caved in hood stuck at a intersection.

Accidents are an unfortunate reality of driving, and if you find yourself in a situation where your leased car is deemed a “total loss” in California, it can be overwhelming to navigate the aftermath. California’s laws and regulations add another layer of complexity, so understanding your responsibilities, insurance options, and financial implications is crucial. This […]

What To Do After a Car Accident That Is Not Your Fault

Two people on their phones after a car accident.

Finding yourself in a car accident that wasn’t your fault can be a frightening and confusing experience. In those moments, knowing exactly what to do can make a huge difference in protecting your rights, handling the situation confidently, and ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. This guide walks you through every important step to […]

Who’s at Fault When Two Cars Merge In the Same Lane?

A blue car that got into an accident with another car.

  When two vehicles attempt to merge into the same lane, determining fault can be particularly complicated. While traffic laws and driver responsibilities both play a big role in deciding who caused the accident, knowing how fault is assigned can help speed up the process and avoid unnecessary headaches. In this article, we’ll break down […]

What Is the Three-Second Rule in Driving in California?

A person driving on the road.

Driving in California presents a unique set of challenges, from congested freeways to winding coastal roads. With these driving conditions, the three-second rule stands as a fundamental guideline for maintaining safe distances on the road. But what exactly is this rule, and why is it so crucial for drivers in the Golden State? What is […]

Is It Illegal to Drive a Totaled Car in Nevada?

An old man on the phone after getting involved in a car accident in the desert.

Becoming involved in a car crash is a serious and stressful experience, especially if your car has sustained a significant amount of damage that makes you question whether or not it is drivable. While driving a totaled car around may seem like a safety hazard, but for some people they may not have any other […]

Is Driving a Totaled Car Legal​ in California?

A white car with a totaled front.

Getting involved in a car crash can be a traumatic experience that can especially set you back financially if your car is wrecked. However, what if your car is still drivable despite looking completely totaled? Just because a car is labeled as totaled, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is undrivable. As many people in California […]