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01

Tier 1 Ranking

best law firm
top 10 in california

Aitken Aitken Cohn is one of California’s most respected law firms known for its client-centered focus and its landmark results.

Aitken Aitken Cohn is one of California's most respected law firms known for its client-centered focus and its landmark results.

02

If We Accept Your Case:

You Will Be Treated Like Family

We understand that facing a legal matter can be overwhelming and stressful, which is why we offer personalized and compassionate… read more

We understand that facing a legal matter can be overwhelming and stressful, which is why we offer personalized and compassionate representation to every one of our clients. At our law firm, you can expect to be treated like family. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for your best interests.

03

Our Clients Love Us:

We Have Over 200 5-Star Reviews

Our clients love us, and it shows. We have a proven track record of delivering exceptional legal services and providing… read more

Our clients love us, and it shows. We have a proven track record of delivering exceptional legal services and providing the best possible outcome for our clients. We are proud of the relationships we have built with our clients and their trust in us to handle their legal needs.

04

The Firm You Choose:

Is the Biggest Decision You’ll Make

Choosing the right law firm for your case is your biggest decision. Your legal representation can impact the outcome of… read more

Choosing the right law firm for your case is your biggest decision. Your legal representation can impact the outcome of your case and your future. That's why picking a law firm like Aitken Aitken Cohn with experience, compassion, resources, and results is essential. Our firm was founded in 1972 and has earned a national reputation for the quality of our personal injury trial lawyers.

Riverside Car Accident Attorneys

Serving Inland Empire Communities and All of Southern California

Experienced Car Accident Attorneys in Riverside, California

Riverside auto accident attorneysThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) noted a 3.1 percent drop in road fatalities during the first half of 2018 compared to 2017. Despite some positive trends, data from The Accident Data Center highlights that car accidents in Riverside result in more injuries, fatalities, and economic losses than any other crime or civic concern.

In the city and county of Riverside, car accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence. Each day, someone within our community suffers injuries on our roads due to preventable circumstances. Those affected by car accidents are not just numbers; they’re our friends, neighbors, and family members. It’s only fair and reasonable for them to receive compensation when they’re harmed in such incidents.

While car accidents may appear routine, experiencing one can still be incredibly traumatic. A car accident has the potential to drastically alter someone’s life. If you or someone you care about has suffered injuries in a significant auto collision, reach out to the seasoned Riverside car accident attorneys at Aitken * Aitken * Cohn without delay. Our team utilizes our combined expertise to thoroughly examine laws, study past legal cases, and devise strategies to improve the likelihood of our clients receiving the highest possible financial compensation. Serving clients across Riverside and Southern California, our Riverside personal injury lawyers are dedicated to assisting those in need.

What Makes Our Riverside Car Accident Attorney Stand Out?

Aitken * Aitken * Cohn stands out as one of California’s most esteemed law firms specializing in civil litigation. We focus solely on advocating for plaintiffs, whether it’s individuals severely injured, families grieving the loss of a loved one, or businesses and consumers affected by unjust business practices. Our firm has earned a national reputation for its exceptional trial skills and vigorous representation of clients. This recognition stems from numerous successful trials, settlements, and groundbreaking appellate decisions, supported by our ongoing dedication to every client. While our firm’s achievements have led to substantial recoveries for our clients, our Orange County personal injury lawyers find equal fulfillment in knowing that these cases contribute to fostering a safer, more just society.

–From our firm’s brochure

Typical Auto Accident Scenarios

Not all car accidents are the same, and a lot of them come with complex liability matters. At Aitken * Aitken * Cohn, we’ve effectively managed a wide range of car accidents, including single-car incidents, collisions involving multiple vehicles, and accidents with commercial vehicles. Some examples include:

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can feel like a lot to handle. Our team of personal injury lawyers in Riverside is here to support you through it all. We’re dedicated researchers, investigators, and negotiators, committed to helping our clients get the justice and compensation they deserve. If you or a family member has been hurt in a car accident in Southern California due to someone else’s negligence, getting financial compensation is possible with the assistance of a car accident lawyer in Riverside.

Common Reasons Behind Car Accidents in Riverside

Even if we drive cautiously, there’s always a chance of getting into an accident because of someone else’s carelessness. Whether fault is decided subjectively or objectively, it’s a crucial aspect of a personal injury case.

Driver Carelessness

Every driver is expected to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws. When a driver fails to do so, they can be held accountable in a car accident case. Examples of driver negligence include:

  • Aggressive and reckless driving behaviors, like sudden lane changes and speeding, contribute significantly to accidents. Aggressive drivers are responsible for collisions and property damage resulting from actions such as passing on the right, yelling impulsively, and incessantly honking or flashing their lights.
  • Disobeying traffic signs and signals is not only reckless but also illegal. Running a red light or failing to yield the right-of-way can lead to severe and life-threatening injuries.
  • Driving while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs is one of the most perilous factors leading to accidents in the United States, and it’s also the deadliest. In 2016, 15 percent of all drivers who were tested and killed in motor vehicle crashes were found to have consumed legal and/or illegal drugs. Prescription medications can cause drowsiness, making driving unsafe. Since January 1, 2018, California has been the sixth state to legalize the sale of marijuana. However, it’s illegal to use marijuana while driving.
  • Road rage involves violent and hazardous behavior. Some common examples of road rage include:
    • Yelling verbal insults, using profanity, or making threats
    • Purposefully causing a collision
    • Threatening to use or actually using a firearm or other deadly weapon
    • Throwing objects from a moving vehicle
  • Failing to adjust to adverse weather conditions like heavy rain or fog with limited visibility.
    Despite California laws prohibiting the use of handheld cell phones while driving, distracted driving remains a leading cause of car accidents. This includes activities like phone calls, texting, eating, reading, and grooming.
  • Night driving presents challenges due to reduced visibility, making hazards harder to spot. Our ability to perceive distance is significantly impaired at night, making it a common cause of car accidents.
  • Wrong-way driving and improper turns are frequent occurrences, especially among drivers unfamiliar with the area. Momentary lapses in judgment while driving can lead to life-altering accidents.
  • Driver fatigue ranks among the top causes of car accidents since tired drivers struggle to properly perceive, react, and handle road situations. According to a <ahref=”https://www.michiganautolaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/AAA-FTS-study-Prevalence-of-Drowsy-Driving-February-2018.pdf” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>2018 study funded by the Automobile Association of America (AAA), drowsiness was a factor in 8.8 percent to 9.5 percent of all crashes analyzed, and in 10.6 percent to 10.8 percent of crashes resulting in significant property damage and airbag deployment.
  • Following too closely, also known as tailgating, is a major contributor to rear-end collisions. These accidents often result in severe injuries to the neck, spine, brain, and back.
  • Inexperienced and teenage drivers may lack the defensive driving skills needed to navigate the roads safely.

If you’ve become a statistic in an auto accident on the roads of Riverside County due to a driver’s negligence, you can rely on the seasoned personal injury litigators at Aitken * Aitken * Cohn. Our founding partner, Wylie Aitken, has earned the “Best Lawyer” distinction for 31 consecutive years. Additionally, all eight of our skilled lawyers have been recognized in the 2019 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

Car Malfunction

Design flaws or manufacturing mistakes in a car can lead to malfunctions and accidents. For instance:

  • Faulty auto parts
  • Flawed vehicle design or production
  • Recalled auto parts
  • Tire blowouts

Dealing with automotive malfunction cases can be intricate, often involving major car or parts manufacturers and their powerhouse legal representatives. Having seasoned litigators on your team is crucial. While every case is different and future outcomes can’t be guaranteed based on past results, here’s a recent case:

Aitken * Aitken * Cohn collaborated with 30 law firms and over 80 lawyers to represent millions of Toyota vehicle owners in the largest class-action lawsuit settlement in U.S. automotive history, totaling $1.63 billion.

Governmental Immunity and Road Conditions

If an auto accident results in injury or damage due to government employees or avoidable road conditions, you may have grounds to sue the city or state. The California Tort Claims Act permits victims to file lawsuits against the government under specific conditions and within certain time limits. You typically have six months from the injury date to start the claim process, but navigating the administrative procedures can be complex.

“Paralyzed 9-Year-Old Girl and Her Mother Receive a Precedent Shattering $55 Million Judgment Against the United States Government After a Five Year Ordeal”

Here are some hazardous road conditions that can lead to car accidents:

  • Inadequate drainage
  • Uneven surfaces
  • Potholes
  • Limited visibility due to overgrown vegetation
  • Construction zones with debris
  • Loose gravel
  • Damaged guardrails
  • Faded or absent reflective markings
  • Ice accumulation on overpasses and bridges
  • Absent or obscured signage

Further Details on Car Accidents in Riverside

Traffic Laws in California

  • Reporting Car Accidents: If you’re in a vehicle accident, you’re required to report it to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if the property damage exceeds $1,000 or if there are any injuries.
  • Auto Insurance Laws: California mandates that all drivers must have financial responsibility for at least $35,000 in damages while driving. This can be proven with an insurance policy, a $35,000 cash deposit, or a $35,000 surety bond. The minimum insurance coverage required includes $15,000 for bodily injury liability per person, $30,000 for bodily injury liability per accident, and $5,000 for property damage liability per accident.
  • Shared Fault: California operates under a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning compensation for a victim may decrease based on their percentage of fault.
  • Statute of Limitations: In California, you must file a personal injury claim within two years.

Different Types of Injuries from Car Accidents in Riverside

The injuries frequently observed after car accidents include:

If a car accident leads to someone’s death, reach out to our Riverside wrongful death lawyers to discuss your case and ensure you receive compensation.

Some of the most serious injuries involve the skull and brain, such as concussions and traumatic brain injuries. Whiplash, causing neck pain, is often reported after accidents, leading to headaches and dizziness due to the sudden, forceful movement.

Signs indicating head and brain injuries include:

  • Nausea
  • Memory Loss
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Blurry Vision

Spinal Cord Injuries

If you experience back pain, numbness, or tingling in your back or lower body after a car accident, it could signal potential spinal cord injuries. Such injuries may lead to:

  • Paralysis
  • Loss of sensation in the lower extremities
  • Loss of bladder and bowel function

Burn Injuries

Burns are among the most agonizing injuries sustained in a car accident. Any level of burn can cause permanent damage to skin tissue, nerve impairment, infection, and scarring. Severe burns often necessitate skin grafts and can sadly lead to fatalities.

Broken Bones

Fractures of the bone, often occurring in severe traffic collisions, may necessitate surgery and an extended period of recovery.

Amputations

It’s common for victims to lose either their lower or upper extremities if they are crushed or ejected from the vehicle.

Any of the injuries mentioned above can profoundly change a victim’s life. When someone suffers a catastrophic injury due to another person’s negligence, they might need to make significant adjustments to their lifestyle and living arrangements. At Aitken * Aitken * Cohn, we’re committed to holding accountable those responsible for causing undue pain and suffering.

If a car accident in Riverside has resulted in a death, please contact our Riverside wrongful death attorneys to discuss your case.

Take Care of Your Health and Protect Your Rights

After a serious car accident, it’s important to stay composed and focused. Seek immediate medical attention for any urgent health issues and schedule a thorough medical assessment to check for potential future complications. It’s crucial to preserve and defend your right to pursue financial compensation. Act swiftly before crucial evidence is lost, destroyed, or forgotten. If you are involved in a car accident:

  • Stop immediately and never leave the scene.
  • Safeguard the area to prevent further accidents by using flares or keeping your hazard lights on.
  • Call law enforcement and obtain a police report.
  • Provide an accurate account of the incident to the police, maintaining honesty and integrity.
  • Notify your insurance company promptly.
  • Take photographs using your cellphone to document your injuries, the accident scene, and any property damage.
  • Keep a record of all accident-related information and documents, including receipts for rental cars and other accident-related expenses.

Defense lawyers and influential insurance firms will use all available means to challenge your claims and undermine your version of events. They may argue that the injury wasn’t their fault, that you haven’t suffered a significant injury or loss, or that you have a pre-existing condition. Social media can be influential, so be careful about posting comments or pictures related to the accident or engaging in strenuous activities. Defense attorneys or private investigators might monitor your public profiles to uncover evidence that could harm your case.

We want to listen and offer solutions within our power to help.

Office building

Our Primary Focus is You, the Client

At Aitken * Aitken * Cohn, while we’re nationally recognized for our courtroom successes, what truly matters to us is our client-centered approach. From the initial consultation to the final court proceedings, our case strategies revolve entirely around your needs. Our personal injury attorneys in Riverside are committed to maintaining open and regular communication, ensuring transparency regarding case status, investigations, and any legal decisions made along the way.

Furthermore, we understand the financial strain a personal injury can impose on you and your family. That’s why we represent your interests on a contingency fee basis – you won’t pay any upfront fees, and there are no initial costs. If our injury lawyers fail to secure a favorable settlement or verdict on your behalf, you won’t owe any legal fees.

Over a billion dollars won for our clients

view our results

$17.5M

catastrophic injury

Welding contractor involved in negligent explosion at industrial plant.

$15M

truck accident

Forty-Eight-Year-Old Father of Two Dies in Rear-End Accident Involving Cal Fire

$8.9M

product liability

Polaris RZR 1000 fuel system malfunction results in burn injuries.

$6M

wrongful death

Plaintiffs aquire over 4 million dollars for death of motorist in truck crash.

client reviews

We are proud to have over 200 5-star reviews

This firm is 100% reliable and trustworthy.

No question about it, this firm is 100 percent reliable and trustworthy. I felt very comfortable about continuing my case with this firm based on the first impression they gave me: professional.

Jose L.

Extremely competent and really cared about our family.

The law firm provided us complete guidance and direction in our legal matter, but at the same time, they didn’t make our decisions for us. It sure was nice to have confidence in knowing we were going to be taken care of.

Andrea and Larry W.

This firm has a great reputation, even amongst other lawyers.

I was referred to by a lawyer friend and had Richard Cohn as my attorney. He was personable and compassionate, and took his time explaining everything to me. His assistant was also very personable and easy to contact.

Corinth C.

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latest breaking firm news

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Matthew Perry’s Memoir: A Story of Addiction and Hope In the autumn of 2022, when Matthew Perry published his revealing memoir, “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing,” about his
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November 25, 2024
AAC’s Chris Aitken Named One of 2024’s “Top Plaintiff Lawyers” by the Daily Journal
Congratulations to AAC partner Chris Aitken for being named one of the Daily Journal’s Top Plaintiff Lawyers in California for 2024! This honor recognizes Chris’s dedication and commitment to his clients.
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Recognized for Securing $6.15 Million Landmark Insurance Bad Faith Settlement AAC partners Richard Cohn and Casey Johnson have been selected as one of six finalists for the 2024 Consumer Attorney
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August 19, 2024
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10 reasons to choose us
1
Billions Won
Over the years, we have recovered billions of dollars in damages for our clients, helping them to receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.
2
Compassionate &
Understanding
We understand that a personal injury or the wrongful death of a loved one is a traumatic and devastating experience. We take the time to listen to our clients' stories, understand their needs and goals, and offer support throughout the legal process.
3
Unmatched
Trial Results
Whether in the negotiation room or in front of a judge and jury, our trial attorneys are tenacious advocates for justice, always working tirelessly to achieve the best possible result. With our team on your side, you can trust that your case is in good hands.
4
No Costs
Unless We Win
We believe everyone should have access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That's why there are no costs to incur unless we win your case. That way, you can focus on your recovery while we take care of the legal process.
5
Experience
An experienced lawyer will thoroughly understand the legal system and know how to effectively negotiate and litigate a case to secure the compensation you deserve. Don't leave your future to chance - choose an experienced personal injury trial lawyer to increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
6
Acclaimed &
Award Winning
With a track record of high-stakes wins and a reputation for providing personalized attention and strategic guidance, our legal team has earned awards, accolades, and recognition from industry peers and satisfied clients.
7
Trustworthy
Our trustworthy attorneys will provide sound guidance, protect your rights, and advocate for your interests. When facing a complex lawsuit, having a dependable legal professional by your side gives you peace of mind and the confidence to navigate the legal system successfully.
8
Happy Clients
Client satisfaction is our top priority. We understand that encountering the legal system can be overwhelming, which is why we treat every one of our clients like family. With our team on your side, you can trust that your case is in good hands.
9
Respected
Our law firm is proud to have a stellar reputation for excellence in the legal community. With years of experience and a commitment to providing top-notch legal services, we have earned the respect of judges, lawyers, and clients alike.
10
Unparalleled
Resources
Every client deserves the highest level of representation. That's why we have amassed unparalleled resources to take on even the most formidable opponents, including corporate giants, public entities, and deep-pocket defendants.
types of Cases We Handle
Car Accidents
premises liability
medical malpractice
truck accidents
product liability
wrongful death
motorcycle accidents
brain injury
slip and fall injury

The personal injury attorneys at Aitken * Aitken * Cohn have decades of valuable experience successfully advising people in many types of personal injury claims.

View All Practice Areas

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Wylie Aitken

Founding Partner

He was recently inducted in the LawDragon 500’s “Hall of Fame,” is repeatedly designated a “Southern California Super Lawyer,” and is featured in the Best Lawyers in America and The… read more

full bio

Richard Cohn

Partner

Known as a persistent, aggressive trial attorney who takes a “turn every stone” approach toward the legal matters he handles, he has received numerous awards and accolades for his results…. read more

full bio

Darren Aitken

Partner

Darren has been recognized and awarded consistently throughout his career for his professional accomplishments and was named the Orange County Trial Lawyers “Top Gun–Personal Injury Lawyer of the Year” in… read more

full bio

Chris Aitken

Partner

Daily Journal recognized Chris as one of the “Top Plaintiff Lawyers in California” in both 2024 and 2022, a distinction given to less than 50 lawyers in California.  Consumer Attorneys… read more

full bio

Casey Johnson

Partner

Casey obtained his Juris Doctorate degree from USC Law School in 2002, graduating in the top quarter of his class. At USC Law School, he was a member of the… read more

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Michael Penn

Partner

After graduation, he returned to Tokyo and worked at Toyo Corporation.  Mr. Penn obtained his Juris Doctorate degree from Chapman University School of Law in 2004 and was elected student… read more

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Megan Demshki

Partner

Megan received departmental honors in both Political Science and Peace Studies.  Megan served as Chapman University’s Student Body President from 2012-2013. As Chapman University Student Body President, Megan worked to… read more

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Ashleigh Aitken

Of Counsel

Ashleigh is a former federal prosecutor, practicing in the Los Angeles and Santa Ana Office of the United States Attorney in the Central District of California. While serving as an… read more

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we're here to help.

Wylie Aitken
  • Wylie Aitken
  • Richard Cohn
  • Darren Aitken
  • Chris Aitken
  • Casey Johnson
  • Michael Penn
  • Megan Demshki
  • Ashleigh Aitken

any case.
any client.
any courtroom.

Recovery After a Car Accident

Here are some typical awards and settlements:

  • Covering medical treatments and therapy expenses
  • Payment to cover estimated future care needs
  • Compensation for lost wages
  • Possible monetary award for loss of future income
  • Fair market value reimbursement for damaged property

In addition to seeking financial compensation for immediate expenses, car accident victims often experience:

  • Physical pain
  • Emotional distress such as anxiety and depression
  • Loss of enjoyment of daily activities

Typical signs and instances of emotional distress may include:

  • Anxiety
  • Excessive worrying
  • Hyperactivity
  • Irritability
  • Difficulty relaxing
  • Sleep disruptions
  • Fatigue
  • Inability concentrating
  • Anger
  • Confusion
  • Feeling helpless or overwhelmed

Anxiety can also strain personal relationships and leave individuals too fearful to drive again. Victims might also suffer from recurring flashbacks of the accident and symptoms associated with PTSD.

Prepare Yourself For a Car Accident in Riverside

Accidents can happen when you least expect them, so it’s wise to have your insurance details and vehicle registration easily accessible. It’s also a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car, which should include:

  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Seat belt cutter and window breaker
  • Flares, reflective triangles, or orange cones
  • Pen and paper

6 Tips to Avoid a Riverside Car Accident

  1. Whenever possible, avoid driving in the fast lane to give yourself more options for maneuvering and quickly avoiding potential hazards.
  2. Adjust your side and rear-view mirrors to maximize your visibility behind you.
  3. Be aware of other drivers’ blind spots and avoid lingering in them.
  4. Adopt proper driving techniques by adjusting your seat so that your wrist rests on top of the steering wheel when your back is against the seat, and always use both hands to control the vehicle.
  5. Be cautious around vehicles that show signs of neglect, such as excessive body damage or erratic driving behavior like using cell phones or wearing headphones.
  6. Keep your own vehicle well-maintained by following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and replacing worn tires promptly.

Get Assistance from a Riverside Car Accident Attorney

The Riverside car accident attorneys at Aitken * Aitken * Cohn have more than three decades of experience assisting victims and their families in obtaining fair compensation for injuries, damages, and losses resulting from motor vehicle accidents. We stand by you every step of the way, striving tirelessly to:

  • Identify all potential insurance coverage
  • Determine all parties responsible
  • Negotiate with insurance companies
  • Gather and assess relevant documents
  • Collaborate with your healthcare providers
  • Construct a compelling case demonstrating the defendant’s liability
  • Provide guidance to help you make informed decisions about your case

As car accident attorneys in Riverside, our firm actively supports organizations and community initiatives aimed at protecting victims’ legal rights.

Contact Our Riverside Car Accident Lawyers for Help With Your Case

At Aitken * Aitken * Cohn, we use our combined expertise to assist car accident victims in obtaining the compensation they rightfully deserve. Our lawyers vigorously advocate for recovering medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and any other expenses related to the accident. We are dedicated to providing effective legal representation to individuals, families, or businesses that have suffered injuries or significant losses in various situations. Reach out to us online or by calling (866) 434-1424 for a free assessment of your legal concerns. If we determine that our firm can assist you, we offer our services on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t owe us a fee unless we successfully settle or prove your claim.