How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost in California?
Car accident lawyers in California often work on a contingency fee, typically around 40% of what they recover for their clients. You usually pay nothing upfront, and the lawyer only gets paid if you receive compensation. The exact cost depends on the lawyer’s fee agreement, when your case settles, and other expenses.
Car Accident Injuries in California
Car accidents leave thousands of people injured across California each year. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, the following cities recorded these numbers of people injured or killed in traffic crashes in 2023:
- Sacramento: 4,214
- Stockton: 1,913
- Modesto: 1,876
- Fresno: 1,600
People injured in these crashes may face medical bills, missed work, and ongoing treatment. If another driver caused the accident, an injury victim may be able to recover compensation for these losses, along with pain and suffering. A car accident lawyer can investigate the crash, gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and pursue compensation through a settlement or lawsuit.
How Contingency Fees Work in California
With a contingency fee, you do not pay an hourly rate or an upfront retainer. Instead, your lawyer receives an agreed-upon percentage of your settlement or court award.
For example, if your lawyer charges 40% and you receive a $100,000 settlement, the attorney fee would be $40,000. The remaining $60,000 would still be subject to case expenses and any unpaid medical bills or liens.
Some lawyers charge a higher percentage if they must file a lawsuit or take the case to trial. Others use the same percentage throughout the case. Make sure the fee is clear before you sign an agreement.
Other Costs You Might Have to Pay
Attorney fees and case expenses are separate charges. Case expenses cover the costs of investigating an accident, gathering evidence, and preparing a claim. Common expenses include medical records, court filing fees, expert witness fees, depositions, and accident reports.
Many law firms pay these expenses upfront and deduct them from the final settlement. Some also waive these costs if the case is unsuccessful. Your written agreement should explain who pays.
How Much of Your Settlement Will You Keep?
The amount you take home depends on your settlement, attorney fees, case expenses, and any unpaid medical bills or liens. Medical providers or health insurance companies may also take money owed from your settlement.
The order of these deductions can vary. Some lawyers calculate their fees before deducting case expenses, while others calculate them afterward. Ask your lawyer to explain how much you can expect to receive after all costs are paid.
What California Law Says About Attorney Fees
Under California Business and Professions Code § 6147, contingency fee agreements must be in writing and signed by both the client and attorney. The agreement must explain the fee percentage, how case expenses affect your payment, and whether the fee is negotiable. You must also receive a signed copy.
California generally does not set a fixed percentage for car accident attorney fees. The lawyer and client negotiate the amount, subject to rules against unreasonable fees.
Do You Pay a Car Accident Lawyer If You Do Not Win?
Under a typical contingency fee agreement, you do not owe attorney fees if your lawyer does not recover compensation. However, you could still owe certain case expenses or court costs.
Many California personal injury lawyers also offer free consultations. Before hiring anyone, ask about the fee percentage, additional expenses, and what happens if your case is unsuccessful. You can contact Curtis Legal Group for a free consultation to discuss your claim and gain a better understanding of what costs are included in the contingency agreement and what costs you may be responsible for regardless of the outcome.