Monterey Personal Injury Attorney

Top Accident and Injury Lawyer in Monterey

Fighting for Justice, Right Here at Home

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need someone who truly cares. Someone who knows Monterey County as well as you do, but also has the experience and reputation to take on even the most complex cases. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one, I’m here to provide the compassionate and powerful legal support you deserve.

I’m John McCarthy, a Monterey personal injury attorney with a national reputation for standing up for people like you. Whether you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, scooter wipeout, bike crash, motorcycle wreck, car collision, truck accident, or are grieving a wrongful death or dealing with elder abuse, I’m here to fight for you.

Let me break down how I can help you and why I'm considered one of the best personal injury attorneys in Monterey.

Wrongful Death:

Finding Justice and Closure

The loss of a loved one is an unimaginable pain, and when that loss is due to someone else’s negligence, the grief is often paired with confusion, anger, and the need for justice. Wrongful death cases are about more than money—they are about holding those responsible accountable and ensuring some measure of closure.

Having lost loved ones to tragic accidents, I understand the emotional toll firsthand. That’s why I approach wrongful death cases with a blend of compassion and relentless advocacy. My job is to take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your family and healing. Whether the wrongful death occurred in a car accident, motorcycle crash, or as a result of elder abuse, I’ll make sure those responsible are held to account.

As your Monterey wrongful death attorney, I’ll fight to get you the compensation that can help with funeral costs, lost income, and medical expenses. While no amount of money can ever replace what you’ve lost, the financial recovery can provide some measure of security and stability.

Pedestrian Accidents:

Standing Up for Walkers in Monterey

Monterey’s streets and sidewalks are part of what makes this area special. Whether you’re walking along Cannery Row, exploring Pacific Grove, or crossing streets near the Monterey Bay Aquarium, you shouldn’t have to worry about reckless drivers. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents happen far too often, and the injuries can be devastating.

When a car hits a pedestrian, the injuries are often severe—broken bones, head trauma, and spinal injuries are common. Drivers are responsible for watching out for pedestrians, but when they fail to do so, the law is on your side, and so am I.

I have helped pedestrians win cases even when the driver initially denied fault. As your Monterey pedestrian accident attorney, I’ll investigate the accident, talk to witnesses, and make sure the responsible party is held accountable. I’ll handle the legal fight so you can focus on your recovery.

Scooter Accidents:

Advocating for Scooter Riders in Monterey

Monterey County is a beautiful place to get around on a scooter, with its charming coastal streets and accessible neighborhoods. But scooter riders, just like cyclists, are often at the mercy of drivers who fail to pay attention or give them the space they need. Whether you were hit by a careless driver in downtown Monterey, involved in an accident near Cannery Row, or injured while scooting through Seaside, you have the right to seek justice.

Scooter accidents can lead to serious injuries—ranging from road rash and fractures to head trauma and spinal damage. These accidents can disrupt your life, leaving you with medical bills, time off work, and the emotional weight of recovery.

As a Monterey scooter accident attorney, I bring the same dedication to scooter accident cases as I do to all personal injury claims. I know how vulnerable scooter riders are, and I’ll work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for your injuries are held accountable. My goal is to secure the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and the emotional and physical pain you’ve endured.

Scooter accidents are often treated with less seriousness, but I know the impact these injuries can have on your life. I’ll fight to make sure your rights are respected, and I’ll guide you through the legal process so you can focus on healing.

Bicycle Accidents:

Protecting Cyclists on Monterey’s Roads

Monterey County is a cyclist’s dream, with beautiful routes like the scenic 17-Mile Drive and trails around Pacific Grove. But all too often, drivers fail to respect the rights of bicyclists, resulting in serious accidents. Whether you were hit by a car while commuting through Salinas or crashed due to a negligent driver in Carmel, you deserve justice.

Bike accidents are personal to me. I’ve lost loved ones in bike crashes, and I know how devastating these accidents can be. I bring that personal commitment to every bike accident case I handle. Whether you’re dealing with road rash, broken bones, or life-altering injuries, I’m here to help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve.

As a Monterey bicycle accident attorney, I’ll hold negligent drivers accountable and make sure your rights as a cyclist are respected. My goal is to get you the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll of the accident.

Motorcycle Accidents:

Defending Monterey’s Riders

Riding a motorcycle along Highway 1 or through Big Sur is one of the most exhilarating experiences Monterey has to offer. But it’s also one of the riskiest, especially when other drivers fail to give motorcyclists the respect and space they deserve. When a motorcycle accident happens, the injuries can be life-changing.

Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists, arguing that riding is inherently dangerous. But I know the truth—most of the time, the fault lies with the driver who failed to see the rider or give them enough space. I’ll fight to make sure your rights are protected and that you receive full compensation for your injuries.

As a Monterey motorcycle accident attorney, I understand the unique challenges these cases present. I’ll work to prove the other driver’s negligence and secure compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Car Accidents:

Navigating the Aftermath with an Experienced Attorney

Whether it’s a fender bender on Highway 68, a T-bone on Canyon Del Rey or Highway 1, or a severe collision on Highway 101, car accidents can happen anywhere in Monterey County. No matter the circumstances, dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. From medical bills to vehicle damage to insurance companies trying to minimize your claim, the process is stressful.

That’s where I come in. I’ll handle the legal battle while you focus on your recovery. Whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to trial, I’ll be there every step of the way, ensuring that you get the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and the emotional toll of the accident.

As your Monterey car accident attorney, I’ll make sure you understand every step of the process. I’m committed to providing personalized, down-to-earth representation. You’re not just another case to me—you’re a person who deserves justice, and I’ll fight to get you exactly that.

Truck Accidents:

Holding Trucking Companies Accountable

When a truck accident happens, the consequences are often severe. Large commercial trucks can cause devastating damage when they collide with smaller vehicles. Whether the accident happened on Highway 101, Highway 1, or Highway 156, dealing with a trucking company and their insurance can feel overwhelming.

Trucking companies have teams of lawyers and insurers who are experts at minimizing their liability. To win against them, you need an attorney who knows how to navigate these complex cases. I have extensive experience handling truck accident cases and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

As your Monterey truck accident attorney, I’ll investigate every detail of the accident, from driver logs to vehicle maintenance records, ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable. You deserve compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll of the accident, and I’ll work tirelessly to get it for you.

Elder Abuse:

Protecting Monterey’s Seniors

Elder abuse is one of the most heartbreaking types of cases I handle. Monterey County is home to a large population of seniors, many of whom live in nursing homes or rely on caregivers. Unfortunately, not all caregivers are trustworthy, and some may take advantage of or neglect the people they’re supposed to care for.

If you suspect that a loved one is a victim of elder abuse, it’s important to take action. These cases require a compassionate attorney who understands the sensitivity of the situation, but also someone who can be fierce in holding the abusers accountable.

I’ve helped many families in Monterey protect their loved ones and recover damages to cover medical expenses, relocation costs, and more. As your Monterey elder abuse attorney, I’ll fight to make sure your loved ones are safe and secure, and that those responsible for the abuse are brought to justice.

Premises Liability Accidents:

Protecting Your Rights on Unsafe Properties

Monterey County is known for its scenic beauty and welcoming public spaces, from the shops in Carmel to the hotels along the Monterey Bay. However, not all properties are properly maintained, and when property owners neglect their responsibilities, dangerous accidents can happen. Whether you’ve been injured by a slip and fall at a restaurant in Pacific Grove, tripped on uneven pavement in Seaside, or faced a hazard in a Monterey hotel, you deserve justice and compensation.

Premises liability accidents can result in serious injuries like broken bones, head trauma, or long-term disabilities. These cases are personal to me because no one should have to suffer due to someone else’s negligence. Property owners have a responsibility to ensure their spaces are safe, and when they fail, I step in to hold them accountable.

As a Monterey premises liability attorney, I’ll fight to make sure property owners face the consequences of their neglect. I’m here to help you navigate the legal process, making sure you receive the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional impact of the accident. Whether it’s a business, apartment complex, or public space, I’ll stand by your side to get the justice you deserve.

Why I’m Considered the Best Personal Injury Attorney in Monterey

You might be asking yourself: why should you choose me as your attorney? Here’s what sets me apart:

  • Local roots, national reputation: I was born and raised on the Central Coast, and I’m proud to serve the people of Monterey. But I’ve also built a national reputation for taking on large corporations and defense firms, and I’ve successfully represented clients across the country. I understand the unique challenges that Monterey residents face, and I bring the experience and resources to win, no matter how tough the opposition.

  • Compassionate counsel, aggressive advocacy: I care deeply about my clients. When you come to me with your case, you’re not just another file on my desk. I’ll listen to your story, guide you through the process, and fight aggressively for your rights. You’ll get the personal attention you deserve, combined with the fierce representation that wins cases.

  • Proven results: I’ve recovered millions of dollars for my clients in personal injury and wrongful death cases. I don’t back down from a challenge, and I won’t stop fighting until you get the compensation you deserve.

  • Direct access: When you hire me, you’ll work directly with me throughout your case. I don’t hand off my clients to other attorneys or paralegals. I’m here for you, answering your questions, guiding you through the process, and providing support whenever you need it.

Let’s Get You the Justice You Deserve

If you’ve been injured in Monterey County, you don’t have to go through this alone. I’m here to help. Whether you’re dealing with a serious injury, the loss of a loved one, or suspect elder abuse, I’ll stand by your side and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact me today for a case evaluation. If I think I can help, I’ll schedule a free consultation. If I can’t help, I’ll get you pointed in the right direction. Let’s discuss your case and start building a strategy to get you the best possible outcome.

Monterey’s Best Personal Injury Lawyer: A Community Advocate

What truly makes me the best personal injury attorney in Monterey is not just my track record of winning cases or the national reputation I’ve built—it’s my deep commitment to advocating for the people of this community. Monterey County is where I grew up, where I live today, and where I’m raising my family. My ties to this community run deep, and that passion drives me to work even harder for my clients.

When I take on a case, it’s not just about securing a win—it’s about fighting for real people who are facing real challenges and making the community safer for all of us. Whether you’re a cyclist who’s been hit by a careless driver, a pedestrian injured in a crosswalk, or a family member grieving a wrongful death, I understand how hard life can become after an accident. I'm here to guide you through the legal system with compassion, while also fighting relentlessly for your rights.

Personal Attention and Powerful Advocacy

When you hire me, you’ll get a potent blend of personal attention and powerful advocacy. Many large law firms shuffle clients between attorneys or pass cases down to paralegals. That’s not how I work. I believe in direct, hands-on representation. When you reach out, you’ll talk to me. When you need guidance, I’m the one who’ll be there for you, every step of the way.

I understand that personal injury cases are not just about the legal details—they’re about people’s lives. That’s why I take the time to really get to know my clients. I want to understand how the accident has impacted your life, your family, and your future. This not only helps me build a stronger case, but it also ensures that you feel heard, respected, and supported throughout the entire process.

We Don’t Stop Until You Win

One of the reasons I’ve been able to build a national reputation as a fierce advocate for personal injury victims is that I don’t stop until my clients get the results they deserve. Whether you’ve been injured in a car accident, are dealing with a wrongful death, or are facing the aftermath of elder abuse, I bring the same tenacity and drive to every case I handle.

I’m not afraid to take on big corporations, insurance companies, or defense firms—in fact, I thrive on it. When these entities try to minimize your claim, deny liability, or downplay your suffering, I push back. I’ve won cases against some of the toughest opposition, and I’ll use that experience to fight for you.

Monterey’s Personal Injury Process: What to Expect

I know that for many of my clients, dealing with a personal injury case is completely new territory. You might feel overwhelmed by the legal process, unsure of what to expect, or worried about how to move forward. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to simplify things for you and provide clear guidance every step of the way.

Here’s a basic outline of how the personal injury process works when you work with me:

  1. Free Consultation: When you contact my office, if I think I can help, I’ll provide you with a free, confidential consultation. This allows us to discuss the details of your case, and I’ll offer my initial assessment of the situation. If I believe you have a strong case, I’ll let you know right away, and if not, I’ll help point you in the right direction.

  2. Building the Case: If we decide to move forward, the next step is gathering evidence and building a strong case. This might include reviewing medical records, interviewing witnesses, gathering accident reports, and consulting with experts if needed. I’ll take care of all the legal legwork while keeping you informed throughout the process.

  3. Negotiation: In many cases, we’ll enter negotiations with the responsible party’s insurance company. My goal is to secure a fair settlement that covers all your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. I’ll make sure you get the full compensation you deserve, not just what the insurance company is willing to offer.

  4. Trial (if necessary): If we can’t reach a fair settlement, I’m fully prepared to take your case to trial. I have extensive trial experience, and I’m not afraid to stand up to corporations or insurance companies in court, in fact, I love it. My goal is always to secure the best possible outcome for you, whether that’s through a settlement or a verdict.

  5. Final Resolution: Once we’ve reached a settlement or won your case at trial, I’ll ensure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. My team and I will handle all the paperwork and logistical details, so you can focus on moving forward with your life.

Making Monterey a Safer Place

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is the opportunity to help make Monterey County a safer place for all of us. Every case I take on is a chance to hold wrongdoers accountable and push for change. When corporations or careless drivers are forced to take responsibility for their actions, they’re less likely to repeat those mistakes, making our roads and communities safer for everyone.

Whether it’s advocating for bike safety, pushing for better pedestrian protections, or fighting for elder care reforms, I’m committed to not just winning cases, but also making a lasting difference in Monterey.

Get Your Free Case Evaluation Today

If you or a loved one has been injured or wronged in Monterey County, don’t wait to seek help. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your case and working toward the justice and compensation you deserve.

I’m here to provide you with a free, confidential case evaluation. If I can help, I’ll schedule a free consultation by close of business. If I can’t help, I’ll get you pointed in the right direction by close of business. There’s no waiting around, no pressure, and no cost to you unless we win your case since I take all personal injury cases on a contingency fee. Whether you’re dealing with a wrongful death, car accident, bike crash, motorcycle accident, or elder abuse, I’m ready to help you every step of the way.

Get your free case evaluation today. Let’s work together to fight for your rights and get the justice you deserve. You don’t have to face this alone—I’m here to stand with you. Together, we’ll make things right.