This calculator estimates what a car accident injury claim could be worth under California law. It applies California’s pure comparative rule, the two-year deadline to file suit and the insurance that usually pays, then shows the math line by line, including what you might take home after a lawyer’s fee.
Because California uses pure comparative fault, you will see a value even at high fault levels, reduced by your share.
Fault. California uses pure comparative fault. If a jury finds you 20% at fault, your award drops by 20%, and you can still recover something even if you were mostly to blame. Insurers still argue your share up, because every point of fault comes off the payout.
Deadline. You have two years from the crash to file a lawsuit in California. A claim against a city, county or state agency usually needs written notice much sooner, sometimes within months. Missing the deadline almost always ends the claim, and with it your leverage to settle.
Insurance. California is an at-fault state, so the at-fault driver’s liability insurance pays your claim. Drivers must carry at least $30,000 per injured person, $60,000 per crash and $15,000 for property damage, written 30/60/15. Raised from 15/30/5 on January 1, 2025.
Damage caps. No cap on injury damages. Medical malpractice and punitive damages can have separate limits.
Their insurer will usually pay no more than $30,000 for your injuries. Your own underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can pay the difference up to your limit. Enter both above to see the ceiling.
Yes. California uses pure comparative fault, so you can recover even if you were mostly at fault. Your award is reduced by your percentage.
two years from the crash to file a lawsuit. Report the claim to the insurers within days.
No. California is an at-fault state, so you claim against the at-fault driver’s liability insurance, or your own coverage if theirs is too low.
Not in most injury cases. No cap on injury damages. Medical malpractice and punitive damages can have separate limits.