Experienced Electric Vehicle Accident attorneys in just one call
America's Top rated Electric Vehicle Accident Attorney
We are one of the best electric vehicle accident law firms in America
Have You Been Injured in an Electric Vehicle Accident?
Goldberg & Loren are experienced electric vehicle accident lawyers who are ready to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. With their years of expertise, they understand the unique challenges that come with these types of accidents and are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process.
If you’ve been injured in an electric vehicle accident, you deserve justice and fair compensation for your pain, suffering, and medical expenses. With Goldberg & Loren by your side, you can trust that your case will be handled with care and precision, giving you the best chance at a favorable outcome.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today to schedule a free consultation and start the process of getting the compensation you deserve for your electric vehicle accident injuries. Don’t wait; take action now!
What is an Electric Vehicle Accident?
An electric vehicle (EV) accident refers to a collision or incident involving an electrically-powered vehicle such as an electric car or a hybrid vehicle. With the rising popularity of EVs and their increasing presence on the roads, it is important to understand the nature of these accidents and how they differ from accidents involving traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Electric vehicle accidents can result in various types of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and death.
The global stock of electric cars surpassed 3 million vehicles in 2017, after passing the threshold of 1 million in 2015. By 2019, that number had swelled to 7.2 million. [1]
How Are EV Accidents Different?
The main concern with lithium-ion batteries is thermal runaway, which can occur if the battery is damaged or punctured. This can lead to battery fires and pose a safety risk to both the occupants of the vehicle and nearby individuals. Although EV manufacturers have implemented safety measures to prevent thermal runaway, accidents involving battery fires can still happen. [2]
It takes at least 2,600 gallons of water to put out a battery fire, and handling the battery or moving it can make it more prone to reigniting. [3]
EV accidents may occur due to a variety of reasons, similar to accidents involving gas-powered cars. These reasons include driver negligence, design defects, or manufacturing errors.
To prevent electric vehicle accidents and promote safety, both EV manufacturers and vehicle owners must take precautionary measures. This may include implementing advanced driver assistance systems, following proper maintenance protocols, and adhering to traffic laws.
Currently, it’s estimated that around 1 percent of the 250 million cars, SUVs, and light-duty trucks on American roads are electric. [4]
Common Causes of Electric Vehicle Accidents
One of the primary causes of electric vehicle accidents is driver negligence. Just like accidents involving traditional gasoline-powered cars, distracted driving, speeding, and reckless behavior can lead to accidents involving EVs.
Design defects or manufacturing errors can also contribute to electric vehicle accidents. Although EV manufacturers have implemented safety features, there may still be instances where design flaws or manufacturing mistakes result in accidents.
These defects can impact the vehicle’s performance and may lead to brake failures, electrical malfunctions, or other issues that compromise safety on the road.
Another common cause of electric vehicle accidents is the negligence of other drivers. Some drivers may not be accustomed to sharing the road with EVs or may disregard traffic laws when interacting with these vehicles. This can lead to collisions or other incidents that put EV drivers and their passengers at risk.
Accidents involving electric vehicles can occur due to environmental factors. Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, can make roads slippery and increase the risk of accidents for all vehicles, including EVs.
What Should You Do if You Are in an Electric Vehicle Accident?
- Ensure your safety: Prioritize your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident. If you can safely do so, move your vehicle away from traffic and turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers. Check yourself and your passengers for any injuries and call for medical assistance if needed.
- Call 911: Even in minor accidents, it's important to report the incident to the police. Call emergency services and provide them with accurate information about the accident's location and any injuries. If injured, allow medics to provide care for you and accompany them to the nearest trauma center.
The police will document the details of the accident, which will be beneficial for insurance claims and legal proceedings. - Document the accident: Take photographs or videos of the accident scene, including the position of the vehicles, damage sustained, and any visible injuries. This documentation can serve as important evidence later on. Also, gather important details such as the names and contact information of all parties involved, witnesses, and the police officers present at the scene.
- Notify your insurance company: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with accurate details about the incident, and make sure to comply with any requirements they may have for documenting the accident. This will help facilitate the claims process and ensure you receive the necessary compensation for damages.
- Seek ongoing medical attention: Even if you don't feel immediate pain or injuries, it's essential to visit a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or whiplash, may not manifest symptoms immediately. Prompt medical attention will ensure your well-being and create a medical record that can be used to support any future personal injury claim.
- Consult with an electric vehicle accident lawyer: Our knowledgeable electric vehicle accident lawyers can assess the circumstances of your case and provide expert advice on how to proceed. We will help you understand your legal options, assist with gathering evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
Table of Contents
Pursuing Compensation After an Electric Vehicle Crash
You may be entitled to seek compensation for various damages and losses, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of hospitalization, surgeries, medical treatments, medications, rehabilitation, and any other healthcare expenses related to your injuries.
- Property damage: If your electric vehicle was damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for the cost of repairing or replacing the vehicle. This may also include reimbursement for personal belongings or accessories damaged in the accident.
- Pain and suffering: This refers to the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish you have endured as a result of the accident and your injuries. Compensation for pain and suffering aims to provide financial relief for the non-economic impact of the accident.
- Lost wages: If your injuries have prevented you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you have lost during your recovery period. This can include both present and future lost wages if your injuries have long-term effects on your ability to work.
- Loss of earning capacity: In cases where your injuries have resulted in a permanent disability or impairment that affects your ability to work and earn a living, you may be able to claim compensation for the loss of earning capacity.
- Rehabilitation and assistive devices: If you require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, or assistive devices such as wheelchairs, prosthetics, or modifications to accommodate your injuries, you can seek compensation to cover these expenses.
- Wrongful death: If the electric vehicle accident resulted in the death of a loved one, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.
Benefits of Hiring an Electric Vehicle Accident Lawyers
Experience and expertise:
Electric vehicle accidents involve unique considerations, such as lithium-ion batteries and design defects. Our electric vehicle accident lawyers understand these intricacies and can effectively investigate the accident to determine liability. We have the necessary experience and expertise to handle the technical aspects of the case and build a strong argument on your behalf.
Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations:
Our electric vehicle attorneys stay updated on the ever-changing laws and regulations surrounding electric vehicles. We are familiar with the specific traffic laws and safety measures applicable to electric vehicles, ensuring that your case is handled in compliance with these laws.
Thorough investigation and evidence gathering:
We have the skills and resources to conduct a thorough investigation of the accident. We will collect evidence, such as accident reports, witness testimonies, medical records, and expert analysis, to build a strong case in your favor. By presenting compelling evidence, we can establish liability and support your claim for compensation.
Negotiation with insurance companies:
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Our personal injury attorneys are skilled in negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf. We know how to counter the strategies employed by insurance adjusters and fight for your rights to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
Legal representation in court:
In some cases, litigation becomes necessary to obtain a fair settlement. If your case goes to court, our electric vehicle accident lawyer will provide strong legal representation. We will present your case before a judge and jury, cross-examine experts and witnesses, and argue your case persuasively. Having a skilled attorney by your side can significantly increase your chances of winning the case and obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Peace of mind:
Dealing with the aftermath of an electric vehicle accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from injuries and handle insurance claims simultaneously. Hiring our experienced personal injury lawyers at Goldberg & Loren allows you to focus on your recovery while we handle all the legal aspects of your case.
If you’ve been involved in an electric vehicle accident, don’t hesitate to seek the assistance of our personal injury attorneys at Goldberg & Loren to protect your interests.
Sources:
[1] Pardo-Ferreira, M. C., Torrecilla-García, J. A., las Heras-Rosas, C. D., & Rubio-Romero, J. C. (2020, September 14). New Risk Situations Related to Low Noise from Electric Vehicles: Perception of Workers as Pedestrians and Other Vehicle Drivers. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17186701
[2] What Is Thermal Runaway? | UL Research Institutes. (2021, August 24). What Is Thermal Runaway? | UL Research Institutes. https://ul.org/research/electrochemical-safety/getting-started-electrochemical-safety/what-thermal-runaway
[3] Electric vehicles mean first responders have to deal with battery fires. (2018, July 3). Electric Vehicles Mean First Responders Have to Deal With Battery Fires – the Verge. https://www.theverge.com/2018/7/3/17530646/tesla-battery-fire-electric-vehicles-transportation-science
[4] Electric Cars’ Turning Point May Be Happening as U.S. Sales Numbers Start Climb. (2022, August 8). Car And Driver. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a39998609/percentage-of-electric-cars-usa/
If you or someone you care about has been in an accident involving an electric vehicle, you may be eligible for compensation to assist with your injuries and related distress. Please don't hesitate to contact us to assess whether your situation qualifies for a potential claim.
George Goldberg
Senior Partner
Have Questions About Your Case? Call Us Today: