{"id":497,"date":"2026-10-18T02:54:35","date_gmt":"2026-10-18T02:54:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/34-138-224-95.nip.io\/car-accident-lawyer\/lancaster\/"},"modified":"2026-10-24T08:51:36","modified_gmt":"2026-10-24T08:51:36","slug":"lancaster","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-lawyer\/lancaster\/","title":{"rendered":"Car Accident Lawyer Lancaster, CA: Local Guidance"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-70 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background\" alt=\"An appraiser in a work apron with a clipboard inspects a dented four-door sedan in a fluorescent-lit auto body shop bay.\" src=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/an-appraiser-in-a-work-apron-with-a-clipboard-inspects-a-den-photo-1.jpg\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Car Accident Lawyer \u00b7 Lancaster, CA<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Hurt in a Car Accident in Lancaster? Talk to Colvin Accident Lawyers First<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Your first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue. Learn where you stand and what your next steps could be.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Get a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Get a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Donald Norman Colvin \u00b7 Published October 17, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>In California, you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit after a car crash (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CCP&amp;sectionNum=335.1.\">Code Civ. Proc. \u00a7 335.1<\/a>). If you were hurt on a Lancaster street or on the Antelope Valley Freeway, the steps you take now can shape your claim later. This guide covers what to know if you need a <a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-lawyer\/\">car accident lawyer<\/a> Lancaster drivers can call. It explains the deadlines, fault rules, insurance basics, and first steps in plain language. Colvin Accident Lawyers is based in Bakersfield and serves accident victims and families in Lancaster and nearby communities.<\/p>\n<h2>Car Accidents on Lancaster and Antelope Valley Roads<\/h2>\n<p>Lancaster crashes can happen on busy city streets and on State Route 14, the Antelope Valley Freeway. Many drivers here commute to Los Angeles County job centers, to Palmdale, and to Kern County. A crash can happen far from home, and the place where it happened matters.<\/p>\n<p>The location can decide which agency responds and which crash report you request. If a crash involves an unidentified driver, California&#8217;s reporting rules name the local police department. In unincorporated areas, they name the county sheriff or the California Highway Patrol (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=INS&amp;sectionNum=11580.2.\">Ins. Code \u00a7 11580.2<\/a>). A crash can also involve a city, county, or state vehicle, which brings a different set of deadlines.<\/p>\n<p>Colvin Accident Lawyers is based in Bakersfield. The firm serves readers in Lancaster and the surrounding Antelope Valley communities. It can review how the crash location affects your claim.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a Lancaster crash left you hurt or without a loved one, you do not have to sort out the deadlines and insurance calls alone. Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>When Should I Hire an Attorney After a Car Accident?<\/h2>\n<p>Every accident case has its own timeline, and a lawyer can explain the steps that apply to yours. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CCP&amp;sectionNum=335.1.\">Code of Civil Procedure \u00a7 335.1<\/a>, an action for injury to a person caused by another&#8217;s wrongful act or neglect must be brought within two years. The same section covers an action for a death caused by that kind of conduct.<\/p>\n<p>Claims against public agencies work differently and move faster. A claim against a city, county, or state entity must be presented first. For death or injury to person, that claim is due within six months after the cause of action accrues (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV&amp;sectionNum=911.2.\">Gov. Code \u00a7 911.2<\/a>). Treat that six-month deadline as urgent.<\/p>\n<p>Early involvement also protects evidence. Police reports, photos of vehicle damage, witness names, and dashcam video can be lost or can fade over time. Insurance adjusters may ask for a recorded statement or a signed medical release soon after a crash. A lawyer can handle those calls so you can focus on your treatment.<\/p>\n<h2>What to Do at the Scene and in the Days After<\/h2>\n<p>Stop at the scene, get medical care, and keep records of everything. California law requires a driver in a crash that causes injury or death to stop immediately at the scene and meet the information and reporting duties (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH&amp;sectionNum=20001.\">Veh. Code \u00a7 20001<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>Drivers must also report the crash to the state within 10 days when it causes injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. The report can be made personally or through an insurance agent, broker, or legal representative (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH&amp;sectionNum=16000.\">Veh. Code \u00a7 16000<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>These steps help protect your claim:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Call police or emergency services, and ask for the crash report number.<\/li>\n<li>Photograph the scene, the vehicles, and any visible injuries.<\/li>\n<li>Collect the names and phone numbers of witnesses.<\/li>\n<li>See a doctor promptly, even when symptoms seem mild.<\/li>\n<li>Keep every bill, prescription receipt, and record of missed work.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Before you give a recorded statement to an insurer, understand what it covers. Colvin Accident Lawyers can take over those communications so you aren&#8217;t handling them alone.<\/p>\n<h2>How Fault and Insurance Work in California Car Cases<\/h2>\n<p>Being partly at fault does not automatically end your claim.<\/p>\n<p>For policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, the minimums are $30,000 for one person, $60,000 for two or more people in one accident, and $15,000 for property damage (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH&amp;sectionNum=16056.\">Veh. Code \u00a7 16056<\/a>). Those minimums may not cover a serious injury, so your own coverage can matter.<\/p>\n<p>For non-economic losses such as pain and emotional distress, each defendant is liable only for the share allocated to it based on its percentage of fault (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&amp;sectionNum=1431.2.\">Civ. Code \u00a7 1431.2<\/a>). That rule matters when more than one party contributed to a crash.<\/p>\n<p>When the other driver can&#8217;t be identified, your uninsured motorist coverage may apply. A police report must be made within 24 hours, and a sworn statement must be filed with your insurer within 30 days (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=INS&amp;sectionNum=11580.2.\">Ins. Code \u00a7 11580.2<\/a>). How fault and insurance apply depends on the facts of the crash, the injuries, and the policies involved.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-car-raised-on-a-hydraulic-lift-in-a-well-lit-garage-ready-photo-3.jpg\" alt=\"A car raised on a hydraulic lift in a well-lit garage, ready for repair.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Injuries and Losses Common in Lancaster Car Crashes<\/h2>\n<p>Common car crash injuries include whiplash, broken bones, head injuries, and back and neck injuries. Some symptoms appear days or weeks after the crash. A prompt medical check matters, even when you feel fine at first.<\/p>\n<p>Spinal injuries are among the most serious. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ninds.nih.gov\/health-information\/disorders\/spinal-cord-injury\">NINDS spinal cord injury overview<\/a> explains that cerebrospinal fluid surrounds the spinal cord to cushion it against shock or injury. It also states that an injury between C1 and C4 can stop breathing, because the nerves in that region control the diaphragm.<\/p>\n<p>A claim can include two kinds of losses. Economic damages are objectively verifiable money losses, such as medical expenses, lost earnings, repair costs, and lost employment. Non-economic damages are subjective losses, such as pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&amp;sectionNum=1431.2.\">Civ. Code \u00a7 1431.2<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>Serious or permanent injuries may fall under a catastrophic injury claim. When a crash causes a death, a wrongful death claim can be brought by a surviving spouse, domestic partner, children, certain dependent family members, or the decedent&#8217;s personal representative on their behalf (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CCP&amp;sectionNum=377.60.\">Code of Civil Procedure \u00a7 377.60<\/a>).<\/p>\n<h2>Who Is Handling Your Case at Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/h2>\n<p>Donald Norman Colvin is the lawyer at Colvin Accident Lawyers. The firm&#8217;s support staff assists with office work, records, scheduling, and client communications. Our team keeps your file organized while you focus on recovery.<\/p>\n<p>The firm is a personal injury practice based in Bakersfield, California. It handles car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian, bus, and dog bite claims. It also handles premises liability, wrongful death, and catastrophic injury matters. The firm serves readers in Kern County, Fresno, Visalia, Lancaster, Palmdale, Delano, and Tehachapi.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims in Lancaster<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How long do I have to file a car accident claim in California?<\/summary><p>Generally, you have two years from the date of injury under <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CCP&amp;sectionNum=335.1.\">Code of Civil Procedure \u00a7 335.1<\/a>. Claims against a city, county, or state agency have a shorter six-month claim deadline first.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Do I have to pay for the first consultation?<\/summary><p>No. The first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What should I bring to a first meeting?<\/summary><p>Bring the crash report number if you have it, photos, medical records and bills, insurance information, and any letters from insurers.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a car accident lawyer in Lancaster help if the other driver had no insurance?<\/summary><p>Possibly. Your own uninsured motorist coverage may apply, and a lawyer can review that policy with you.<\/p><\/details><h2>Talk to Donald Norman Colvin About Your Lancaster Crash<\/h2>\n<p>If you were hurt in a collision on a Lancaster or Antelope Valley road, you may be juggling medical bills, insurer calls, and a filing deadline right now. Send your details through the <a href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">contact page<\/a> or call the office. The team will walk through your next steps with you.<\/p>\n<p>Colvin Accident Lawyers, Bakersfield, California &#8212; responsible for this site.<\/p>\n\n<\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Please consult a licensed attorney regarding your specific legal situation.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Why Lancaster Car Accident Victims Call Colvin<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--heart\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Focused on Injury Cases<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Colvin Accident Lawyers focuses exclusively on accident and injury matters, including car, truck, motorcycle, and other crashes that happen on Antelope Valley roads.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Confidential From the Start<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your first consultation is confidential, so you can share what happened without any obligation to hire us.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--phone\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Direct Line to the Firm<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Call Colvin Accident Lawyers to speak with our team about your Lancaster car accident and your questions.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Help Organizing the Facts<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We can review the crash details, your medical treatment, and the paperwork you have received so you understand your situation clearly.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Be Careful With the Insurance Company<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An insurance adjuster may ask you for a recorded statement or for a quick signature. Before you agree to either, consider talking with a lawyer about what you are being asked to say and sign.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Call Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Call Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Car Accidents We Handle for Lancaster and the Antelope Valley<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Intersection Collisions<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Crashes at busy signals and intersections along Lancaster and Palmdale corridors often involve disputed fault. We help gather the facts that explain what happened.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Rear-End and Highway Crashes<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rear-end impacts and high-speed collisions on the 14 and 138 can cause serious injuries, even at moderate speeds. We look closely at the injuries and the cause of the crash.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hit-and-Run and Uninsured Drivers<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the at-fault driver leaves the scene or lacks insurance, your own coverage may come into play. We can explain the options available to you.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Crashes Involving Commercial Vehicles<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Collisions with delivery trucks, buses, or other commercial vehicles may involve additional parties and records. We can help identify who may be responsible.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Talk to Colvin Accident Lawyers About Your Lancaster Car Accident<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Call Colvin or Request a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Call Colvin or Request a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Car Accident Lawyer in Palmdale<\/li><li>Truck Accident Lawyer Fresno: Deadlines and Next Steps<\/li><\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Hurt in a crash on a Lancaster or Antelope Valley road? Learn California&#8217;s deadlines and first steps, then contact Colvin Accident Lawyers to talk through your case.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":29,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Donald Norman Colvin\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/donald-colvin-esq-bakersfield-personal-injury-attorney\", \"jobTitle\": \"Bakersfield Personal Injury Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/bakersfield.kernhigh.org\", \"https:\/\/www.calstate.edu\", \"https:\/\/www.wsulaw.edu\", \"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/nZfBxYtQQifX3osw5\"]}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Colvin Accident Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Regina Absher\", \"jobTitle\": \"Personal Injury Paralegal\"}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long do I have to file a car accident claim in California?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Generally, you have two years from the date of injury under Code of Civil Procedure \u00a7 335.1. Claims against a city, county, or state agency have a shorter six-month claim deadline first.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Do I have to pay for the first consultation?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. The first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation to continue.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What should I bring to a first meeting?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Bring the crash report number if you have it, photos, medical records and bills, insurance information, and any letters from insurers.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can a car accident lawyer in Lancaster help if the other driver had no insurance?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Possibly. Your own uninsured motorist coverage may apply, and a lawyer can review that policy with you.\"}}], \"@type\": [\"Article\", \"FAQPage\"], \"image\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/an-appraiser-in-a-work-apron-with-a-clipboard-inspects-a-den-photo-1.jpg\"}, {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/car-accident-lawyer-lancaster-ca\/#service\", \"name\": \"Car Accident Lawyer Services in Lancaster, California\", \"@type\": \"Service\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"audienceType\": \"Accident victims, passengers, and families of people injured or killed in motor vehicle crashes\"}, \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Colvin Accident Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/\"}, \"areaServed\": [{\"name\": \"Lancaster\", \"@type\": \"City\", \"containedInPlace\": {\"name\": \"California\", \"@type\": \"State\"}}, {\"name\": \"Antelope Valley\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}, {\"name\": \"Los Angeles County\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}], \"description\": \"Guidance for people injured in car, truck, motorcycle, or bus crashes on Lancaster and Antelope Valley roads, covering the two-year filing deadline, first steps after a crash, California fault and insurance rules, and what a free first consultation involves.\", \"serviceType\": \"Personal injury legal representation for car accident claims\", \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\"}, {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/car-accident-lawyer-lancaster-ca\/#webpage\", \"name\": \"Car Accident Lawyer Lancaster, CA: Local Guidance\", \"@type\": \"WebPage\", \"about\": {\"name\": \"Car accident personal injury claims in California\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}, \"isPartOf\": {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\"}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Colvin Accident Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/\"}, \"mainEntity\": {\"@type\": \"FAQPage\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"name\": \"How long do I have to file a car accident claim in California?\", \"@type\": \"Question\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"text\": \"Generally two years from the date of injury under Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1, with exceptions that depend on the parties involved.\", \"@type\": \"Answer\"}}, {\"name\": \"Do I have to pay for the first meeting with a car accident lawyer?\", \"@type\": \"Question\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"text\": \"No. The first consultation is free and confidential, and it carries no obligation to continue.\", \"@type\": \"Answer\"}}, {\"name\": \"What should I bring to a car accident consultation?\", \"@type\": \"Question\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"text\": \"The crash report number if known, photos, medical records and bills, insurance information, and any letters from insurers.\", \"@type\": \"Answer\"}}, {\"name\": \"Can a lawyer help if the at-fault driver was uninsured?\", \"@type\": \"Question\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"text\": \"Possibly, through the injured person's own uninsured motorist coverage, which a lawyer can review with the policy.\", \"@type\": \"Answer\"}}]}, \"description\": \"Local guidance for people hurt in a car crash in Lancaster and the Antelope Valley, explaining California deadlines, first steps after a crash, fault and insurance basics, and how to arrange a free first consultation.\", \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\"}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Car Accident Lawyer\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-lawyer\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Car Accident Lawyer Lancaster, CA: Local Guidance\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-lawyer\/lancaster\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"Hurt in a crash on a Lancaster or Antelope Valley road? Learn California's deadlines and first steps, then contact Colvin Accident Lawyers to talk through your case.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-497","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/497","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=497"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/497\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2027,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/497\/revisions\/2027"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/29"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=497"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}