Best Car Accident Lawyers in Orange

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Orange, California?

  The City of Orange's police department non-emergency contact number is (714) 744-7444.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Orange, California?

  Copies of reports are available at the Records Bureau counter between 8 AM and 6 PM, Monday through Saturday. Reports will only be issued to parties involved in the incident. You must present a valid form of identification to obtain a copy of any reports, and there may be a fee. Online requests for police reports are also available.

• How is negligence established in an Orange City auto accident claim?

  A vehicle accident injury claim in Orange must prove the four fundamental elements of negligence using accessible evidence:

  • The plaintiff's counsel must first identify and prove that the defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care.
  • The plaintiff's counsel must prove the defendant breached this duty of care, which involves showing that the defendant was distracted, intoxicated, or committed a moving infraction that caused the collision.
  • The plaintiff must prove all negligence-related damages, including medical bills, property damage, and accident-related pain and suffering. If the crash forced the plaintiff to miss work, they should present documentation of their lost income.
  • The plaintiff's counsel must prove the defendant's negligence caused the plaintiff's damages.

• Is there a deadline for Orange City vehicle accident claims?

  Yes. California law, which applies to Orange, limits personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits to two years from the accident. Under section 335.1 of the California Code of Civil Procedure, you have two years from the date of the underlying accident or incident to initiate a civil case seeking a legal remedy (compensation) for "injury or death of an individual caused by the negligent act or negligence of another." The majority of personal injury claims are governed by the "negligence" liability theory (which is synonymous with "neglect" as used in section 335.1).

• What areas in Orange City are deemed accident-prone?

  The most hazardous crossroads in Orange City is the Orange Crush Interchange (I-5/SR-22/Orange Freeway interchange), where Santa Ana 5, Garden Grove 22, and Orange 57 freeways intersect. This freeway interchange is reportedly one of the nation's most complex highway interchanges. It provides 34 pathways, including onramps, offramps, and perhaps one of the sharpest left-turning routes you've ever driven on. According to the Land Use Database, at least 629,000 autos pass daily on 66 lanes and across 13 bridges.

• What happens if a hit-and-run driver cannot be located following a car accident in Orange City?

  It is prohibited in California to leave the scene of an accident where someone has been injured before emergency personnel arrives. A driver who fled the scene of a collision may face criminal charges if apprehended. A hit-and-run driver's conviction does not mean the case is over. If the motorist is found to have driven recklessly or negligently, the injured person may file a claim for compensation in Orange for their losses.

• What happens if you get involved in a car accident in Orange City without insurance?

  Accidents caused by drivers without insurance can have severe repercussions. In addition to the fines and penalties, you may be responsible for medical expenditures and repair costs. Instead of filing a claim with your insurance company, the other party can sue you in court. Furthermore, you may be held liable for extra damages such as lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical procedures. When this happens, you'll need to contact a lawyer in Orange City. Addditionally, if you are injured in an accident that you caused and do not have insurance, you may be unable to receive compensation for your own injuries and financial losses.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.