Orange County Car Accident Lawyer

Orange County is one of California’s busiest regions resulting in a high volume of auto accidents per year. The 5, 405, 91 and 57 freeways are some of the busiest highways in the country. As one of the leading causes of injury and preventable deaths in the US, it is crucial to know how to respond in the event of a car accident, and the aftermath.

When you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident in Costa Mesa or anywhere in Orange County, there are several things you should be aware of:

☑ It is prudent to call the police to the scene of an accident to ensure your own safety and document the event via an official police report.

☑ Whenever possible, gather any witness statements from the accident.

☑ Document your injuries by taking photos and gathering related medical records.

It’s critical that when seeking out a car accident attorney in Orange County, that you choose one that is both experienced and well versed in this area of law. The attorneys at Hicks Law Firm have recovered millions of dollars for Orange County residents from our offices in Costa Mesa. If you or a family member were seriously injured through the negligence or actions of another, contact us today at (949) 541-9944 to schedule a risk-free, no obligation consultation.

Our legal services are provided on a contingency fee basis, meaning that we only get paid if you get paid, and you will not be required to pay legal fees out of pocket.

What to do following a California car crash?

After a crash, your mind and heart are likely racing with high emotions; however, taking a few critical steps in the moments and days afterward can save you from significant headaches in the future.

1. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe area and, most importantly, relocate yourself and any passengers to safety. Other surrounding traffic often continues moving around the scene of accidents, especially when police support is not yet present. Thus, getting into a safe place and position is vital to preventing further injury or an even greater tragedy.
2. Check yourself and others for more apparent injuries. If anyone has sustained a life-threatening injury, care for these individuals first and call 911.
3. Call the police and wait for their arrival on scene. When the police arrive, describe to them the sequence of events leading up to and including the accident and any other relevant information. The officer(s) may have follow-up questions for you as they try to build an accurate account of the incident. The officer will also interview all parties separately. The interviews and collection of a statement are standard procedures for creating a police report. Do your best to remain calm and cooperative.

Note: If any witnesses are at the scene who saw the accident, you should record their recollection, get their contact information and ask them to provide a witness statement to the police.

Exchange of information at the scene.

You should also take the opportunity to exchange insurance information, identification, and contact information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident.

Should the other driver not have insurance, you should still get identification and contact information. In such cases, it is also imperative to take photos of the vehicles and damages and license plates.

It is illegal to drive without insurance under California code, and a driver doing so will face a substantial fine, possible vehicle impoundment, and other potential consequences. Uninsured or underinsured at-fault drivers are nevertheless liable for damages and injuries. The injured party should seek compensation regardless of whether the at-fault driver has insurance.

Regardless of how you feel after an accident, seek medical attention.

After an accident, the body has automatic responses and reactions to the impact resulting from a crash, such as producing hormones like adrenaline to cover the pain from any sustained injuries. Just because you “feel okay” (in the moment) does not mean you’re in the clear or have not suffered any injuries. A medical professional such as a physician in an emergency department, urgent care setting, or primary care physician will begin an assessment of any potential injuries. Receiving proper examination and any necessary subsequent treatments is essential.

Begin keeping an organized file of medical paperwork, related bills and expenses, and any corresponding documentation.

Depending on your injuries, you may require scans, medication, treatments, and therapies. Medical professionals can officially document your injury, which is paramount to your claim and a lawsuit. Maintaining proper documentation, medical bills, and related costs will significantly aid in arriving and receiving a complete compensation for damages and injuries.

When should you consider consulting an attorney?

It can take weeks and even months to fully recover from an injury sustained in a car accident. Injuries can leave you vulnerable, suffering from acute and even chronic pain, and attending numerous doctor and therapy appointments while accumulating stressful medical debt.

However, the added strain of managing an insurance claim without legal support is unnecessary and avoidable. It’s also important to note that insurance companies are businesses. They prioritize their bottom lines, profits, and interests. Thus, pursuing a complicated and often lengthy insurance claims process on one’s own can easily result in receiving entirely inadequate compensation.

To avoid these frustrations and receive total compensation as soon as possible, contact a skilled and reputable Costa Mesa car accident lawyer at Hicks Law Firm. Our firm is built on experience, professionalism, skill, compassion, and trust. Give us a call today at (949) 541-9944 or fill out a contact form, and we will be happy to schedule a complimentary consultation.