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Michael E. Gatto | Attorney At Law

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Aggressive And Skilled Legal Advocacy
Michael E. Gatto

Justice For The Injured In California

Last updated on September 23, 2024

Getting hurt in an accident can feel incredibly unfair. The physical pain and emotional distress are overwhelming, and your injuries can affect your livelihood and relationships. Holding the responsible party accountable can help you get justice and fight for a fair resolution.

At the Law Office of Michael E. Gatto, PC, we understand this. We have the experience and dedication to help you through these tough times. Located in Walnut Creek and serving California and Arizona, we are here to support the injured.

Personal Injury Advocacy You Can Trust

We handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

Injuries like these can profoundly disrupt your life today and for many years to come. Our dedicated team is here to help you fight for justice, accountability and the compensation you may deserve.

What Sets Our Firm Apart?

With over 30 years of practice experience, our founding attorney, Michael E. Gatto, has participated in over 100 jury trials. His legal and medical knowledge, gained from representing medical professionals in civil cases, sets our firm apart.

Mr. Gatto, a former prosecutor, has handled over 150 bench trials. This well-rounded experience helps us make the world safer, one case at a time. Michael’s work influences change, not just for the individual but for others, too. We hold corporations and people accountable for wrongdoing.

Further, our staff speaks Spanish fluently (se habla español).

How Do I File A Personal Injury Claim In California?

Filing a personal injury claim in California involves several crucial steps:

  • Seek medical attention: Your health is the top priority. Ensure you get the necessary medical care immediately after the accident. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, going to your doctor can aid in your recovery and provide essential medical records for any claim you might decide to file.
  • Document everything: Keep detailed records of all medical visits, accident reports and communications related to the incident. This documentation is vital for building a strong case and aids in calculating damages and fair settlements.
  • Prove negligence: To succeed in a personal injury claim, you must show that the other party’s carelessness or negligence caused your injury. Gathering evidence such as witness statements and photos can prove that a party failed to take reasonable steps to avoid an accident or intentionally engaged in behaviors they knew could cause one.
  • File the claim: Submit your claim with all the necessary documentation. This includes medical records, proof of negligence and any other relevant information.

While this process may seem straightforward, it can quickly become complicated, especially when you are also dealing with the physical and emotional challenges of recovery. The legal process involves strict deadlines, complex paperwork and negotiations with insurance companies, which can be stressful.

Rather than take this on alone, you can depend on us to investigate and build your claim. We will handle the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on your recovery. We have the knowledge and resources to steer through the legal process and obligations on your behalf, thoroughly preparing for and presenting your case.

Who Pays For My Medical Bills?

In California, the at-fault party is typically responsible for your medical bills. However, insurance coverage can be tricky. Often, insurance company offers do not cover the full extent of your damages. Challenges can also arise when there are multiple parties involved or in crashes with uninsured motorists.

This is where a personal injury lawsuit can help. Filing a legal claim can mean increasing insurance settlements, seeking compensation from multiple at-fault parties and holding dangerous people accountable for their bad actions. We fight to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

What Is My Case Worth?

Every personal injury case is unique, and the value of your case depends on various factors:

  • Economic damages: These are also called special damages and include tangible costs like medical expenses, lost wages and property damage. Medical bills cover hospital stays, surgeries, medications and ongoing treatments. Lost wages account for the income you miss out on due to your inability to work. Property damage includes repair or replacement costs for items like your vehicle.
  • Noneconomic damages: These are also called general damages and referred to as “pain and suffering.” These damages include physical pain and emotional distress as well as loss of enjoyment of life. Emotional distress includes anxiety, depression and trauma. Pain and emotional distress can have a profound effect on one’s health and happiness. Loss of enjoyment of life refers to the inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
  • Punitive damages: In some cases of reckless or intentional behavior, courts may award punitive damages. These damages are specifically intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. Courts do not award them in every case, but punitive damages can significantly increase compensation.

The severity of your injuries and their long-term impact also play a crucial role in determining your case’s value. Severe injuries that require long-term care or result in permanent disability typically warrant higher compensation.

Our experienced personal injury attorney will carefully evaluate your situation, considering all these factors, to determine a fair compensation amount. We aim to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve for your losses and suffering.

Get The Justice You Deserve

After an accident, let us help you hold the responsible party accountable and fight for the fair resolution you deserve. Call us at 925-587-9949 or message us online to discuss your case and next steps. We offer free consultations. Se habla espanol.