You’ve just been injured in a San Francisco traffic accident that wasn’t your fault. You’re hurt, scared, and facing mounting medical bills. You deserve full compensation — but one wrong move can cost you tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars.
For over 20 years, Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers has helped hundreds of Bay Area residents recover millions after car, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian, rideshare, and dog bite accidents. We wrote this page to be the most comprehensive, up-to-date resource for anyone injured in San Francisco — whether you decide to hire us or not.
Do You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer in San Francisco?
Yes — in almost every case that involves more than minor injuries.
California law allows you to handle a claim yourself, but insurance companies count on victims not knowing their rights. Even a “simple” claim can become complicated fast.
You definitely need a lawyer if:
- You were seriously injured (broken bones, surgery, head trauma, long-term issues)
- The insurance offer feels too low or negotiations have stalled
- You received a traffic citation (California is a comparative negligence state)
- The statute of limitations is approaching (2 years for private parties, only 6 months against the City)
- You’re a visitor/tourist injured in San Francisco
How to Choose the Right San Francisco Personal Injury Lawyer
Use our free interactive tool below to see which type of attorney is best for your specific case:
How to Choose the Right Lawyer for You
Real Results: $475,000 Slip-and-Fall Settlement for a Bay Area Nurse
A nurse suffered severe injuries after slipping on an unmarked wet floor. The property owner denied responsibility. We fought and secured a $475,000 settlement — almost 10× the original offer — allowing her to cover medical care and lost wages without financial stress.
See the full case → $475,000 Slip-and-Fall Settlement
We’ve also secured $150,000+ for dog bite victims, $1M+ for pedestrian accidents, and countless six- and seven-figure results for traffic collision victims.
What Our Clients Say About Us
“So last year I got into a really bad car accident… They were super helpful, keeping communication up to date… It was a long process, but they made it really easy for me… I highly recommend Sally Morin Law, they are amazing.”
Step-by-Step: What to Do Immediately After a San Francisco Accident (2025 Edition)
Follow these steps in order — every hour counts for your health and your claim.
1. Call 911 and Request a Police Report
In San Francisco, police only respond and write a report if injuries are reported. Call SF Dispatch directly at (415) 553-8090 if needed.
2. Seek Medical Care Immediately — Even If You “Feel Fine”
17% of accident victims are readmitted after initial discharge. Delaying care hurts both your health and your case.
Best Trauma & Emergency Care in San Francisco (2025)
- Zuckerberg San Francisco General (Level 1 Trauma) – Potrero Hill
- Kaiser Permanente ER – Geary Blvd
- St. Mary’s Medical Center – Stanyan St (book ER time online)
- Saint Francis Memorial – Bush St (book ER time online)
- UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital – Mission Bay (pediatric Level 1)
Top Urgent Care (Minor Injuries)
- Golden Gate Urgent Care (multiple locations)
- Dignity Health GoHealth (Castro, Excelsior, Marina, etc.)
3. Collect Evidence Before It Disappears
- Take photos/video of everything (vehicles, license plates, skid marks, street signs, injuries)
- Get witness names and phone numbers
- Note nearby traffic cameras or business security cameras (footage often deletes in 24–72 hours)
- Get police officer names and badge numbers
4. NEVER Speak to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer
Say only: “I’m injured and under medical care. All communication goes through my attorney.” Anything else can be used against you.
Top Medical Specialists for Accident Recovery in San Francisco (2025)
Orthopedic Surgeons
- Dr. James Chen (minimally-invasive)
- Dr. Kenneth Akizuki (SF Giants team doctor)
- UCSF Orthopaedic Institute (nationally ranked)
Reconstructive / Plastic Surgeons
- Dr. Evan Ransom – SF Center for Facial Plastic
- Dr. Rex Moulton-Barrett (Alameda & Brentwood)
Physical Therapy
- Therapydia SF (Maiden Lane & Embarcadero)
- Beacon Physical Therapy (Sansome St)
Mental Health Support
- San Francisco Stress & Anxiety Center
- Well Clinic San Francisco
- PTSD Alliance & MADD victim resources
Filing a Claim Against the City of San Francisco (6-Month Deadline!)
If poor road conditions, missing signs, or city negligence contributed, you have only 6 months to file a government claim. Miss it = zero recovery.
File here: Controller’s Office, Claims Division, 1390 Market St, 7th Floor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Personal Injury Settlement Calculator
Get Your Free Case Evaluation Today
Don’t leave your recovery to chance. Speak with a top-rated San Francisco personal injury lawyer today — 100% free and no pressure.
Call 415-404-6686 or click below for an instant online case review.
Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers – We handle your claim so you can focus on healing. Serving all of San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, and the entire Bay Area since 2003.
