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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

Skilled Car Accident Attorneys in Riverside, California

Riverside auto accident attorneysThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported a 3.1 percent decrease in roadway fatalities for the first half of 2018 as compared to 2017 data. Despite some encouraging statistics, according to The Accident Data Center: “Riverside car accidents cause more injury, death, and economic loss than any other crime or civic issue.”

Car accidents are regular occurrences around the city and county of Riverside. Unfortunately, every day, someone in our community is injured on our roadways from preventable causes. Victims of automobile accidents are more than statistics. These are our friends, neighbors, and family members, and compensation is expected and justified when they are injured in an automobile accident.

Although car accidents seem commonplace, it doesn’t make them any less traumatic when it happens to you. An accident involving a car can be a life-altering event. If you or a loved one has been injured in a serious auto accident, contact the experienced Riverside car accident attorneys at Aitken * Aitken * Cohn today. At Aitken * Aitken * Cohn, we leverage our collective experience to effectively analyze statutes, research case law, and develop mechanisms to enhance our clients’ chances for maximum, financial recovery. Our Riverside personal injury lawyers proudly serve clients throughout Riverside and Southern California.

Why Work With Our Riverside Car Accident Attorney?

One of California’s most respected civil litigation law firms, Aitken * Aitken * Cohn is dedicated exclusively to representing plaintiffs, whether it be the most seriously injured individual, a family that has lost a loved one, or a business entity/consumer victimized by unfair and fraudulent business practices. The firm enjoys a national reputation for the quality of its trial skills and the aggressive representation it provides on behalf of its clients. This reputation was built on a foundation of numerous trial victories, settlements, and precedent-setting appellate decisions and is nurtured by the firm’s continuing commitment to each of its clients. While the firm’s success has translated into substantial recoveries for its clients, our Orange County personal injury lawyers derive equal satisfaction from the knowledge that these cases have also promoted a safer, more fair society.

–From our firm’s brochure

Common Types of Auto Accidents

All auto accidents are not created equal, and many will involve complicated liability issues. At Aitken * Aitken * Cohn, we have successfully handled a diverse mixture of single-car, multi-vehicle, and commercial vehicle accidents, including (but not limited to):

The aftermath of an automobile accident can be incredibly overwhelming. Our Riverside personal injury attorneys are skilled researchers, investigators, and negotiators who remain singularly focused on helping our clients seek justice and maximum compensation. If you or someone in your family was injured in a Southern California car accident that was caused by someone else, financial compensation is possible with the help of a car accident lawyer in Riverside.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Riverside

No matter how safely we drive, there is always the possibility of being involved in an accident due to someone’s negligence. Whether the fault is determined by subjective or objective standards, it is a critical element of a personal injury case.

Driver Negligence

Every driver has a responsibility (or duty of reasonable care) to exercise caution and follow established regulations. When a driver is not careful and does not live up to this duty, they may be held liable in an auto injury case. Some examples of driver negligence include:

  • Aggressive and reckless behavior, such as changing lanes too quickly, or speeding is a major contributor to roadway accidents. Aggressive drivers are responsible for collisions and property damage that happen because they were passing on the right, yelling and impulsively, and continually honking or flashing their car lights.
  • Disobeying traffic signs and signals is both reckless and illegal. Running a red light, or failing to yield right-of-way can cause serious and life-threatening injuries.
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most dangerous causes of accidents in the United States—and is the most deadly. In 2016, 15 percent of all drivers killed in motor vehicle crashes, who were tested, tested positive for legal and/or illegal drugs. Prescription medication can have sedating side effects that make driving hazardous. As of January 1, 2018, California became the sixth state to legalize the sale of marijuana. It is against the law to use marijuana while operating a motor vehicle.
  • Road rage is violent and dangerous behavior. Some common manifestations of road rage are:
    • Shouting verbal abuse, obscenities, or threats
    • Intentionally causing a collision
    • Threatening to use or using a firearm or other deadly weapon
    • Throwing projectiles from a moving vehicle
  • Failure to adjust to poor weather conditions such as heavy rain, or limited visibility due to fog.
  • Distracted driving remains a leading cause of car accidents, despite California laws that ban all drivers from using handheld cell phones while driving (whether the driver lives in California or not.) In addition to phone calls and texting, eating, reading, and grooming while driving can cause accidents.
  • Night driving: Lack of visibility makes hazards more difficult to see at night. Our ability to perceive and judge distance is severely impaired at night. Driving after dark is a major cause of car accidents.
  • Wrong-Way driving and improper turns are not uncommon, especially when drivers are not familiar with the area. Momentary lapses in judgment while driving a car can cause life-changing accidents.
  • Driver fatigue is one of the top causes of car accidents since drowsy drivers are unable to adequately perceive, react, and respond to situations on the road. A 2018 study sponsored by the Automobile Association Of America (AAA) revealed drowsiness was identified in 8.8 percent–9.5 percent of all crashes examined, and in 10.6 percent–10.8 percent of crashes that resulted in significant property damage and airbag deployment.
  • Following too closely, also known as tailgating, is a leading cause of rear-end collisions. This type of crash can frequently cause serious personal injury and trauma to the neck, spine, brain, and back.
  • Inexperienced drivers and teenage drivers may lack the experience necessary to drive defensively.

If a driver’s negligence has made you an auto accident statistic on Riverside County roads, you need the experienced personal injury litigators at Aitken * Aitken * Cohn. Our founding partner, Wylie Aitken, has received a “Best Lawyer distinction” for 31 consecutive years, and we are proud to say each of our qualified lawyers, eight in total, have been included in the 2019 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America.

Automotive Malfunction

It is possible for design defects or manufacturing errors of an automobile to cause a malfunction and an accident. For example:

Cases involving automotive malfunctions are complex, and often involve large automobile or parts manufacturers and the mega law firms that represent them. You need experienced litigators on your side; while each situation is unique and it is not possible to predict future outcomes based on past results, consider this recent case:

Aitken * Aitken * Cohn was part of a team of 30 law firms and 80 plus lawyers that represented millions of Toyota vehicle owners in the largest automobile class-action lawsuit settlement in U.S. history. $1.63 billion.

Road Conditions and Sovereign Immunity

When injury or damage from auto accidents are caused by government employees, or from preventable road conditions, litigation against the city or state may be possible. The California Tort Claims Act allows a victim to file suit against the government under certain conditions and time constraints. There is a six-month window (from the date of injury) to initiate a claim, and the administrative process is not always simple.

“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”

Some examples of dangerous road conditions that can cause car accidents are:

  • Poor drainage
  • Uneven roads
  • Potholes
  • Obstructed view from vegetation growth
  • Construction sites / debris
  • Loose gravel
  • Broken guardrails
  • Missing or faded reflective paint
  • Icy conditions on overpasses and bridges
  • Missing signage

More About Riverside Car Accidents

California Driving Laws

  • Car accident reporting. If you are involved in a vehicle accident you must report it to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if there was property damage in excess of $1,000, or if there were any injuries.
  • Auto insurance law. The laws of California require all motorists to be financially responsible for at least $35,000 worth of damages while operating a vehicle. The state allows residents to prove financial responsibility either with an insurance policy, a cash deposit of $35,000 or a surety bond for $35,000. Minimum requirements for insurance coverage is set at $15,000 for bodily injury liability per person, $30,000 for bodily injury liability per accident, and $5,000 property damage liability per accident.
  • Shared fault. California has a pure comparative negligence rule meaning the amount of compensation a victim may receive will be reduced proportionally to their percent of complicity.
  • The statute of limitations. In California, you must file a personal injury claim within two years.

Types of Car Accident Injuries in Riverside

The most common types of injuries we see following car accidents are:

If someone is killed as a result of a car accident, please contact our Riverside wrongful death lawyers today to review your case and see that you are compensated.

Among the most severe injuries are those that impact the skull and brain, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries. Neck pain (whiplash) is probably the most common complaint following an accident. This unnatural jerking motion can result in headaches and dizziness.

Warning signs of head and brain injuries include:

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

Spinal Cord Injuries

Back pain, numbness, or tingling in your back or lower body following a car accident are indicators of possible spinal cord injuries. This type of injury has the potential to result in:

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

Burn Injuries

Burns are some of the most painful injuries from an automobile accident. Any degree of a burn can result in permanently damaged skin tissue, nerve damage, infection, and scarring. Serious burns may require skin grafts, and can frequently be fatal.

Bone Fractures

Bone fractures, common in high-impact traffic accidents, may require surgery as well as an extended recovery period.

Amputations

Loss of lower or upper extremities is also common if a victim is crushed or thrown from the vehicle.

Any of the above injuries can dramatically alter a victim’s life. When a person suffers a catastrophic injury because of someone’s negligence, they may be forced to make drastic changes and modifications to their lifestyle and living environment. At the law offices of Aitken * Aitken * Cohn, we are zealous in our quest to hold responsible parties accountable. We believe there is a price to pay for undue pain and suffering.

If a death has resulted from a car accident in Riverside, please reach out to our Riverside wrongful death attorneys to look over your case.

Protect Your Health And Your Rights

Following a serious auto accident, remain focused and in control. Have emergency services address any immediate health issues, and schedule a comprehensive medical evaluation to screen for potential future complications. Preserve and protect your right to seek financial compensation. Work quickly before valuable evidence is destroyed, lost, or forgotten. If you are involved in an automobile accident:

  • Stop. Never drive away from an accident.
  • Safeguard the area. Avoid another collision by setting up flares, or keeping your flashers on.
  • Call law enforcement, and get a police report.
  • Give an accurate description of the incident to the police. Protect your integrity and do not misstate any facts.
  • Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.
  • Take pictures. Use a cell phone to visually document your injuries, the accident scene, and any property damage.
  • Start a file with all accident-related information and documents. This should include receipts for a rental car, and any other expenses related to the accident.

Defense attorneys and powerful insurance companies will do everything within their power to disprove your claims and discredit your account of events. They could claim the injury was not their fault, you have not experienced a significant injury or loss, or you have a pre-existing condition. Social media is a powerful tool. Be cautious in posting comments about the accident, or pictures of yourself engaged in strenuous activities. A defense lawyer or private investigator may monitor your public accounts to find evidence that could jeopardize your case.

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

Office building

Our Primary Focus is You, the Client

Aitken * Aitken * Cohn is nationally recognized for its success in the courtroom – but we’re most proud of our client-focused approach. From the free initial consultation to the final court proceedings, our case strategies are entirely informed by your needs. Our personal injury lawyers in Riverside strive to maintain regular, consistent communication to ensure that we are as transparent as possible regarding case status, investigations, or any other legal decisions we make along the way.

Additionally, we understand just how financially devastating a personal injury can be for you and your loved ones. That’s why we represent your interests on a contingency fee basis – you don’t pay any initial fees, and there are no upfront costs. If our injury lawyers don’t secure a favorable settlement or verdict on your behalf, your total legal costs are zero.

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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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.

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

Office building

Our Primary Focus is You, the Client

Aitken * Aitken * Cohn is nationally recognized for its success in the courtroom – but we’re most proud of our client-focused approach. From the free initial consultation to the final court proceedings, our case strategies are entirely informed by your needs. Our personal injury lawyers in Riverside strive to maintain regular, consistent communication to ensure that we are as transparent as possible regarding case status, investigations, or any other legal decisions we make along the way.

Additionally, we understand just how financially devastating a personal injury can be for you and your loved ones. That’s why we represent your interests on a contingency fee basis – you don’t pay any initial fees, and there are no upfront costs. If our injury lawyers don’t secure a favorable settlement or verdict on your behalf, your total legal costs are zero.

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

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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

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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

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Chris Aitken

Partner

Chris graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a Bachelor of Arts Degree and a Political Science Major. He obtained his Juris Doctorate Degree from the University of… read more

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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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Wylie Aitken

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Recovery From A Car Crash

Some of the most common awards and settlements include:

  • The cost of medical treatments and therapy
  • Payment to provide for estimated future care
  • Compensation for lost wages
  • The possible monetary award for loss of future income
  • The fair market value of damaged property

Looking beyond financial restoration for just out-of-pocket expenses, plaintiffs involved in car accidents also often suffer:

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

Common symptoms and examples of emotional distress are:

  • Anxiety
  • Excessive worrying
  • Hyperactivity
  • Irritability
  • Inability to relax
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Fatigue
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Anger
  • Confusion
  • Feeling helpless or out of control

Anxiety can also cause a person to experience problems with personal relationships. Some victims may find that they are fearful and unable to resume driving. Additional potential side effects are recurring flashbacks about the accident and symptoms of PTSD.

Be Prepared For A Car Accident in Riverside

Accidents are always unexpected—keep insurance information and your vehicle’s registration in a convenient place. It is a good idea to keep an emergency kit in the car that includes:

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

6 Tips to Help Prevent a Riverside Car Accident

  1. When possible, stay out of the fast lane. You will have more opportunities to avoid problems and get out of the way quickly in the event of sudden problems.
  2. Keep your side and rear-view mirrors adjusted to give you the best and widest possible view behind you
  3. Know where other drivers’ blind spots are, and avoid them.
  4. Take a professional approach to driving techniques. Move your seat forward enough so your wrist sits on the top of the steering wheel when your back is against the seat, and use both hands to maintain control of the vehicle
  5. Assume that a car’s condition is an indication of an inattentive driver. Stay clear of vehicles with excessive body damage, unpredictable movements on the road, and behavioral red flags like cell phone use, headphones, or other distracting behaviors.
  6. Keep your car in good shape. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance guidelines, and replace worn tires.

A Riverside Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

The Riverside car accident attorney at Aitken * Aitken * Cohn have over three decades of experience helping victims and families receive fair compensation for injuries, damages, and losses caused by a motor vehicle accident. We stand with you throughout the entire process and work tirelessly to:

  • Locate all possible insurance coverage
  • Identify all defendants
  • Face off against insurance companies
  • Collect and review relevant documentation<
  • Work in collaboration with your health care providers
  • Build a viable case to illustrate how and why the defendant was at fault
  • Help you make informed decisions about your case

As a car accident attorney in Riverside, our firm actively supports organizations and community projects that promote victims’ legal rights.

Call Our Riverside Car Accident Lawyers for Help With Your Case

At Aitken * Aitken * Cohn, we rely on our collective experience to help victims of car accidents get the compensation they deserve. Our attorneys fight aggressively to recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other accident-related costs. We are well-positioned and committed to providing competent legal representation to the individual, family, or business entity that has suffered injury or catastrophic loss in any variety of circumstances. Contact us online or call (866) 434-1424 for a no-cost evaluation of your legal issues. If we determine our firm can help you, we offer our services on a contingency basis: you will not owe us a fee unless we are successful in settling or proving your claim.