Personal Injury Lawyers in San Francisco, CA
Personal Injury is a legal term which means when a person suffers physical, emotional, or psychological harm due to another’s misconduct, recklessness or intentional action. Personal Injury affects important aspects of life like health, emotions, money, and relationships. That’s Why it is necessary to take legal action to get justice and financial support.
If you are looking for a Personal Injury lawyers in San Francisco, We at the Law Offices of Kenneth C. Odiwe are committed to you and we help you to secure your justice with the deep knowledge of personal injury law and expertise. Our Experienced Personal Injury attorneys Guide you how you can relieve your Personal Injury in San Francisco.
Types of Personal Injury Cases We handle in San Francisco
Here is a list of the personal injury cases we handle in San Francisco:
- Work injury
- Slip and fall
- Slip and fall accidents
- Boating accidents
- Rideshare accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Motorcycle accident
- Traffic collision
- Wrongful death
- Pedestrian accidents
- Traumatic brain injury
- Bus accidents
- Burn
- Nursing home abuse
- Spinal cord injury
- Aircraft accidents
- Dog bite
- Bicycle accident
- Premises liability
- Construction accidents
- Scooter accidents
- Product liability
- Punitive damages
- Assault or intentional violence
- Car Accidents
- Truck Accidents
- Public Transportation Accidents
Consult with us if you are involved in any Personal Injury accident in San Francisco. Handling a personal injury case on your own can be very stressful and frustrating. It is often tempting to settle a small injury claim without an experienced lawyer. But acting alone is a bad decision – we only collect our attorney fees when your case is settled or you win the case.
We are qualified personal injury attorneys who are here to support you. Let us handle your legal problems so that you can focus on your recovery without any tension. We are here to help you win your case.
Laws of Personal Injury Cases in California
California personal injury law creates a legal framework that imposes civil liability for injuries caused by reckless, careless, or intentional acts or mistakes (omissions) of others. When you are in a personal injury situation, it is important to know your rights. There are certain time limits for filing a personal injury claim, and these laws only apply to certain specific situations.
Statute of Limitations : There is a time of two years If you are injured (like in an accident), then you have 2 years from the day when you got injured to file a case in the court. That is, file a lawsuit within this time. If you missed it, then it's over. If these 2 years pass and you don't file a case, then you will lose your right to hear the case forever. The court will not hear the case. If the injury is detected later: Sometimes the injury is not detected immediately (like in medical malpractice). So in such cases, from the day when you get to know about the injury, you have 1 year to file a lawsuit. This is called the “discovery rule”.
Comparative Negligence Rule : Even if you are a little at fault, you can still get money. If you are a little at fault in the accident, you can still claim compensation. The case does not stop despite your mistake. Money will be reduced according to your mistake. Your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. That means, if there are total damages, your share of fault will be deducted from it. Example: Suppose the total damages in the accident are 1 lakh rupees. If the court says that you are 20% at fault, then you will get 80% of the money, i.e. 80,000 rupees. 20,000 rupees will be deducted due to your 20% mistake.
Damage Caps : There is no monetary limit in most cases If you are injured (such as in a car accident or slip-and-fall), you can win as much compensation as you want. There is no set cap on the damages (economic such as medical bills, or non-economic such as pain and suffering) that the court awards. There is a limit on medical malpractice. But if it is medical malpractice (such as injury due to a doctor’s mistake), there is a rule in California. There is a cap on non-economic damages (such as money for pain, suffering, or emotional stress) – it is limited to $350,000 (as of 2023). Every year this amount increases a little due to inflation.
Strict Liability for Dog Bites: The owner of the dog is automatically responsible. If someone's dog bites you, then its owner is automatically responsible. You do not need to prove that the dog was dangerous before or that it had bitten someone else. Liability even on the first bite, Even if the dog bites someone for the first time, the owner has to take responsibility. You just have to show that the dog is his and that it bit you.
Claim Against the Government: In California, if you are hurt by a government agency (such as a city bus or a government department), here are the rules:
First, you must file a special claim: If you are hurt by a government agency (such as a city bus accident), you must file a special claim form (government claim) with them within 6 months. This is the step before a lawsuit. If the claim is rejected, you can file a lawsuit: If the government agency denies (rejects) your claim or does not answer it, you can file a lawsuit in court. But do not miss this 6-month deadline, or the case will not move forward.
Recent Changes (as of 2025)
MICRA Adjustments: Assembly Bill 35 (2022) increased the cap for non-economic damages (such as money for pain and suffering) in medical malpractice cases, and it will increase slightly each year according to inflation. The cap for wrongful death cases is higher than for injury cases.
COVID-19 Related Claims: Some businesses and healthcare providers still have immunity protections against COVID-19 related injuries if they follow public health guidelines (according to some specific laws).
Why Choose Us as a Personal Injury Attorney in San Francisco?
When you get hurt because of someone else's mistake, just being a lawyer is not enough, friend. You need someone who will care for you from the heart, listen to you, and fight for you like his own family. That's what we do.
We know everything about the streets of San Francisco, the courts, and the intricacies of the system. Every case we take up is personal to us. We take out time to understand your whole story, not just the facts written on paper. Then we build a solid case so that you get the maximum compensation you deserve.
We don't make cheap deals in a hurry. We prepare every case as if it will go to court. Insurance companies know we are serious. That's why many of our clients get better settlements without even stepping in the courtroom.
Choosing us means a team that respects you, answers your calls, and keeps you updated at every step. You will never wonder what is happening to your case. A whole team will stand behind you, which will keep fighting until you get justice.
If you want personal attention, solid experience, and a lawyer who truly cares about your future – well, you're in the right place.
Types of Compensation Available for San Francisco Personal Injury Victims
If you are injured due to the actions of someone else in San Francisco, you may receive different types of compensation. This compensation is to cover your losses, such as medical bills, pain, or other damages, and helps you move forward. Basically, this money is to reduce your suffering a little and get your life back on track.
Economic Damages
Economic losses mean that whatever money you have actually lost, it is returned to you. This can include medical bills, expenses of future medical care, salary you lost due to not working, or loss of future earnings if you are unable to do the same work as before. It is a simple principle – whatever money you have lost, an attempt is made to cover it.
Medical Expenses
You can get compensation for the cost of hospital stay, surgeries, rehabilitation, medicines, and therapy. If you need long-term treatment for your injuries, then future medical costs can also be covered. Meaning, whatever medical expenses have occurred or will occur in future, this compensation can handle them too, so that you do not have to worry.
Lost Wages
If you are unable to go to work due to the injury, you can claim compensation for the income you have missed. And if this injury affects your ability to earn money in the future, you can get compensation for that too. It is a simple thing – the money that you have lost, or that you will not be able to earn in future, can be covered by taking an account.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are for things that do not have a fixed monetary amount. Meaning, it is given for your personal pain, suffering, or emotional suffering that occurred due to the injury. Like, this money tries to balance the impact of the injury on your life a little, although it is difficult to calculate its exact amount.
Pain and Suffering
You can get compensation for the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by your injury. This can also include things like anxiety, depression, or inability to enjoy life. Basically, this money is meant to reduce the physical and heart pain that the injury has increased.
Loss of Consortium
If your injury has caused a rift in your relationship with your spouse or family, you can get compensation for that as well. Meaning, efforts are made to cover the emotional or personal loss you suffer while bonding with your loved ones. It is simple – if you miss out on time or love with your family, you can be compensated for that as well.
Punitive Damages
In some rare cases, if the person who hurt you has done a great wrong or has knowingly done something wrong, you can get punitive damages. The purpose of these damages is to punish the person who did the wrong thing and to stop others from doing something like this. It's a simple thing - if someone has done something very bad, then this extra money can be given to teach him a lesson.
Call us today for a free consultation.
If you or someone you love has been injured because of someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to get the help you need.
At The Law Offices of Kenneth Odiwe, we’re here to listen to your story, guide you through your options, and help you take the next steps—all at no cost to you. Our personal injury law firm in San Francisco is dedicated to helping you move forward after an accident. Reach out to us today. Let’s work together to seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Documents Required to File for a Personal Injury Claim in San Francisco
Filing a personal injury claim can seem a little overwhelming, especially when you're dealing with an injury. But having the right documents ready is key to building a strong case. Here's a simple guide on what you need to prepare before filing a claim in San Francisco. Basically, with the right paperwork, your case is solid and there's a little less stress.
Medical Records and Treatment Proof
After an accident, your medical records are the most important evidence. They show what kind of injury you had, what kind of treatment you received, and how much money was spent on it. It's simple – these papers tell the whole story of your injury, which strengthens your case.
What Medical Records Should Include
Your records should include doctor's notes, hospital bills, medicine prescriptions, details of therapy sessions, and if there is a future treatment plan, all of that should be there. All these documents clearly show that your injuries were caused by an accident. It's simple, just collect all these things so that the link is clear.
Photographic and Video Evidence
Look, the biggest proof is what is seen with your eyes. Even the smallest details are captured in pictures and videos, which we may forget while speaking.
Key Areas to Capture
Take clear photos of your injury, if any property is damaged click on that too, and also click the exact location of the accident. If you see any dangerous condition or hazard, then capture that too in the photo.
Police Reports and Official Records
If the police came to the accident spot, their report is a very solid document for your case. It gives an independent description of what exactly happened.
How to Get a Copy
You can ask for a copy of the report from the San Francisco Police Department's records division. It usually includes the names of the witnesses, what the officers saw, and sometimes who made the mistake.
Witness Statements and Contact Details
If someone saw your accident, their words can support your story. Witnesses can confirm details that you may have missed or forgotten.
What to Collect from Witnesses
Write down their full name, phone number, and a short summary of what they saw. If they agree, ask them to give a short written or recorded statement.
Proof of Lost Wages
If you are unable to go to work due to your injury, you should be compensated for your remaining income. If you have the evidence, it is easier to recover these damages.
Documents Needed for Lost Income
Collect your latest pay stubs, a letter from your employer confirming your leave days, and a doctor's note recommending time off from work.
Personal Notes and Journal Entries
Keeping a personal diary about your injury can also strengthen your case. Small daily notes can show how the injury affected your life.
What Your Journal Should Mention
Record your pain levels, emotional stress, missed activities, and how the injury impacts your daily routine.
Legal Forms Required to File the Case
Besides evidence, you’ll need to submit certain legal forms when filing your personal injury claim in San Francisco.
Basic Forms You Will Need
Complaint Form: Explains your side of the story and the compensation you seek.
Summons Form: Notifies the person you're suing about the case.
Civil Case Cover Sheet: Lists the type of case you are filing.
Each form must be filled out correctly to avoid delays.
Special Requirements When Suing Government Entities
If your claim is against a city department or public employee, there are extra steps to follow.
Government Claim Notice
You must first file a claim with the City and County of San Francisco before taking the case to court. This must be done within six months of the incident.
Filing Deadlines You Must Know
Missing a deadline can destroy your case. Always be aware of the time limits.
General Deadline for Personal Injury Claims
In San Francisco, you usually have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. If you are suing a government entity, you only have six months to start.
How to File a Personal Injury Claim?
Being injured due to someone else's mistake is difficult enough. Filing a claim should not be a hassle. Here's what to do:
Get Medical Care
First of all, go to the doctor even if you feel that you are completely fine, still get a check-up from a doctor. Some injuries are visible later. Your health is most important. Medical records are very important. Doctor's visits and reports (such as X-rays, diagnosis) are solid evidence for your case. This proves that you were injured and what the result was.
Gather Evidence
Collect everything:
Take photos: Take photos of your injuries, the accident site (scene), and if any property is damaged (like a damaged vehicle).
Witness info: Note down the names and contact details of people who were there and witnessed the accident.
Police report: If the police came and a report was made, take a copy of it.
Medical bills and doctor's notes: Collect hospital bills, medication receipts, and doctor's notes or reports.
All these things serve as proof for your case. Keep everything as safe as you can because when you have more proof your claim will be stronger.
Report the Incident
Depending on where it happened:
If the accident is a car accident, report it to the police (if necessary, like it is a major accident or someone is injured). In California, you also have to report to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) if the damage or injury is serious. For this, Form SR-1 has to be filled out. If you get hurt after falling on a property (like a mall or someone's home), then quickly tell the property owner or manager about it. Inform them in writing. Whether it is an accident or a fall, keep a record of everything. Whatever report, email, or notice you send, keep a copy of it with you. All this works as proof in the court.
Speak to a Personal Injury Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer in San Francisco can support you. He deals with insurance companies and protects your rights. Many lawyers offer free advice at first, so asking questions early is a smart move.
File an Insurance Claim
If the accident happened due to someone else, you will first file a claim with their insurance company. It is better to let your lawyer talk to the insurance people. They often try to give you less money, which is less than your right. The lawyer knows how to talk to them and he can get you the right amount.
Know the Deadline
The time limit for a personal injury claim in San Francisco, i.e. the statute of limitations, is two years, starting from the date of injury. If you miss this time limit, you cannot file a case in court.
Negotiate or File a Lawsuit
If the insurance company is not paying a fair amount and negotiations fail, your lawyer can file a case in court. Although most cases settle before reaching trial, sometimes going to court is the only option to get fair compensation.
Advantages We Offer to Our Personal Injury and Accident Clients
When you trust us with your personal injury or accident case in San Francisco, you’re choosing real advantages that make a difference in your recovery and future.
Personalized Legal Strategy:
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every injury case is unique, and we build a custom legal plan designed to get you the best possible outcome.
Proven Track Record:
Our experience speaks for itself. We have successfully handled countless personal injury and accident claims, helping clients secure the compensation they need to heal and move forward.
Direct Access to Your Attorney:
When you hire us, you work directly with an experienced personal injury attorney — not just case managers or assistants. You get clear advice and honest answers whenever you need them.
No Fees Unless We Win:
We handle personal injury and accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid when we win your case.
Aggressive Negotiation and Trial Readiness:
Insurance companies respect attorneys who are ready to fight. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, putting pressure on insurers to offer fair settlements quickly.
Full Support from Start to Finish:
From medical referrals to handling insurance calls and paperwork, we manage every detail. You can focus on your health while we focus on your case.
Choosing the right personal injury attorney can change everything. Let us stand with you and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
FREE CASE ASSESSMENT
To contact us, please take the time to fill out the information below or contact us immediately at (669) 315-4431).
Practice Areas
The Law Offices of Kenneth Odiwe has a strong focus on police misconduct, including officer-involved shootings, occurring in California. We deal with matters throughout California, including, San Jose, San Francisco, Oakland, Vallejo, Sacramento, Modesto, Stockton, Antioch, Fresno, Los Angeles, Santa Ana, and Riverside. Our comprehensive knowledge of these communities allows us to tailor legal services for each client according to their specific needs. Moreover, our law firm has a history of success in cases that include individuals with personal and life-changing catastrophic injuries.
OFFICER-INVOLVED SHOOTINGS
In California, and throughout the United States, police officers must only use lethal force when it is the last available option. All police officers are trained to justify every use of force, with each action required to be objectively reasonable.
When the police use unnecessary deadly force, it not only constitutes an unwarranted act but also infringes upon your fundamental rights under the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution.
At the Law Offices of Kenneth Odiwe, we believe that no one is above the law – especially police officers.
POLICE MISCONDUCT
At the Law Offices of Kenneth Odiwe, we strongly believe that no one, including police officers, are above the law.
PERSONAL INJURY
The courts throughout California recognize the right of accident victims and their families to sue for injuries that are suffered
IN-CUSTODY DEATH
In-custody deaths and violations of inmates’ rights continue to hurt countless families in California. Even if someone is incarcerated
CATASTROPHIC INJURY
If you have suffered major catastrophic injuries or the death of someone you love due to someone else’s negligence