Can I Drive By Myself With a Permit in California?
Key Takeaways Permit holders in California cannot drive alone under any circumstances, regardless of experience. Adult permit holders need a licensed driver at least 18 years old in the car. Minor permit holders generally need a supervising driver who is 25 or older. Driving alone on a permit can lead to a citation and DMV […]
read moreWhat Is the New Law on Suspended Licenses in California?
Key Takeaways AB 2746 ends DMV suspensions for failing to appear in court by January 1, 2027. AB 3 allows courts to suspend a license for 90 days to six months for sideshow convictions. AB 366 lets some DUI offenders drive on a restricted license using an interlock device. Vehicle Code 14601 makes driving on […]
read moreIs Car Insurance Required in California? Understanding the Law
Key Takeaways California law requires drivers to carry liability insurance on all public roads. Minimum coverage now includes liability limits of $30,000, $60,000, and $15,000. Driving uninsured can lead to fines, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment. Uninsured drivers cannot recover pain and suffering under Proposition 213. Uninsured or underinsured coverage helps when the at-fault driver […]
read moreWhat Are the Consequences of Driving Without Insurance in California?
Key Takeaways First-conviction fines under California Vehicle Code 16029 range from $100 to $200, with penalty assessments multiplying the total. California can suspend vehicle registration and impound a driver’s vehicle for lacking proof of financial responsibility. Proposition 213 bars uninsured drivers from recovering non-economic damages, even when the other driver caused the crash. A DUI […]
read moreWhat is the 3-Second Rule in Driving? A California Guide
Key Takeaways California Vehicle Code § 21703 requires drivers to maintain a following distance that is reasonable and prudent at all times. The 3-second rule is the California DMV’s standard method for measuring whether a driver maintains a safe following distance. Adverse conditions such as rain, fog, and heavy traffic require increasing following distance to […]
read moreSuing for Injuries Caused by Reckless Driving in California
Key Takeaways Reckless driving in California is defined under Vehicle Code 23103 as willful or wanton disregard for safety. A criminal reckless driving conviction can directly strengthen an injured person’s related civil lawsuit. Negligence per se means a statutory violation serves as proof of negligence, simplifying the civil claim. Police reports, dashcam footage, and witness […]
read moreWhat Happens if You Total a Leased Car in California?
Key Takeaways Totaling a leased car in California creates financial exposure beyond what an insurance payout covers. Notify your leasing company, insurance provider, and police immediately following the collision. Insurance pays the car’s actual cash value, which is often lower than the remaining lease balance. GAP insurance covers the difference between the ACV payout and […]
read moreHow Much to Expect From a Car Accident Settlement in California
Key Takeaways California car accident settlements vary widely, and no formula produces a reliable average for every case. Economic damages cover medical bills, lost wages, lost earning capacity, and property damage costs. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, mental suffering, emotional distress, loss of society, and companionship. Non-economic damages are calculated by multiplying total economic […]
read moreCommon Car Accident Injuries in San Francisco
Key Takeaways Motor vehicle accident injuries—including brain, spine, and psychological trauma—may not manifest immediately, but can require costly, long-term care. Violent impacts or sudden forces can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which disrupt normal brain function and stand as the second leading cause of injury-related deaths. Car accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord […]
read moreDefective Tire Accidents in California: Blowouts & Product Liability
Key Takeaways Strict Product Liability: Under California law, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by defective tires without needing to prove direct manufacturer negligence. Three Product Defect Types: Tire defect claims generally stem from manufacturing defects (deviations from design specs during assembly), design defects (inherent flaws failing safety expectations […]
read moreCalifornia Teen Driving Laws: GDL Rules & Restrictions Guide
Key Takeaways Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL): California enforces a phased GDL system to help young drivers build skills gradually under low-risk conditions before earning full driving privileges. Provisional Permit Requirements: Teens age 15½ or older can apply for a instruction permit after completing approved driver education, passing the knowledge/vision exams, and logging at least 50 […]
read moreReport an Accident to Insurance in California: A Brief Guide – The Cartwright Law Firm, Inc.
Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming. Still, it’s vital to know the steps you need to take, particularly when it comes to reporting the accident to your insurance company. This guide is designed to help Californians understand the process of reporting an accident and initiating an insurance claim, including key deadlines and […]
read moreEveryone at the Cartwright Firm is very likeable. The attorneys and staff are kind, thoughtful, and sincere. They helped walk me through the entire process and were patient when explaining the legal jargon I didn't understand. It is clear they not only really care about your claim, but care about making sure you understand whats going on. Can't recommend them enough!
Justin G.
Personal Injury
Schedule A Case Review
Act Now. Get The Justice You Deserve.