Finding a qualified Orange County car accident lawyer to handle your case and offer solid legal advice can be overwhelming. What will they charge, how long will it take, and what is fair compensation? These are all questions that you are likely to have.
At Bisnar Chase, we specialize in dealing with all motor vehicle accident cases – from car crashes to truck accidents. We have built up an outstanding success rate over 45 years of helping car accident victims fight for the compensation they deserve.
Over $800M recovered.
Our skilled and experience attorneys are experienced trial lawyers with a proven track record. They have a wealth of experience in California courtrooms, helping more than 14,000 clients, including thousands of car crash victims, and taking on even the most complex motor vehicle accident cases.
Our passion for plaintiff justice goes beyond compensation. We set you and your family on a path to physical, emotional, and financial recovery from the moment we receive your online inquiry or phone call. We will always weight the risk and benefits of how to proceed with your case to best protect you.
If you or a family member has been involved in a car crash, seeking legal advice from accident injury lawyers near you who specialize in handling car wrecks is essential.
For immediate assistance from a top-quality Orange County personal injury lawyer, call us at (949) 203-3814.
Orange County Car Accident Resources
FAQs for a California Car Accident
After a car accident, many people are confused and frustrated about what to do legally. You should not limit your options by settling for whatever the insurance company hands you. The car crash injury lawyers of Bisnar Chase are here to help you every step of the way with any questions you may have.
Various questions that accident victims may have include:
Yes. You will increase your chances of winning the maximum compensation for your settlement. With the right legal representation, you will always be informed of what is taking place during the lawsuit.
Accident victims should contact an injury attorney as soon as possible. Usually, insurance companies will delay the settlement process which could potentially lead to you accumulating more medical expenses.
Every injury claim is different, there is not a standard time when your claims process will end. It will depend on how many people were involved in the incident, how much damage was accumulated, and also how many injuries did you experience from the accident.
Bisnar Chase has a 99% success rate when it comes to winning compensation for their clients. Our legal team has helped injury victims fight against huge insurance companies and win, and will do the same for you. Call our law office for a free consultation.
It would be best not to use an online calculator to understand what you can receive in compensation for your car accident. The reason is that you may not consider all economic and non-economic damages. Remember, every accident is unique, and everyone does not receive a fixed amount for their settlement.
For example, the average settlement for a car accident back and neck injury can vary from a few thousand to a seven-figure settlement because of the extent of the damage done. All medical treatment has to be considered and every case is different.
What To Do If You Have Been in a Car Crash in OC
If you or a loved one have been in a car crash in Orange County, your priority is to ensure that you are safe and that no one else has been injured. You should also call the police and get witnesses to the scene immediately.
If you can, you should go straight to the hospital so your injuries can be treated. If you cannot do this or someone else is hurt, they should stay at the scene until the police arrive.
It is also essential to stay calm and avoid panicking. This will help your chances of making a successful recovery. You should always maintain an open line of communication with your car accident attorney after any car crash so that they can update you on how things are going with your case.
Steps to take after an auto accident
- Make sure you get to safety. Experts say that staying next to your car after a crash can be dangerous, depending on where it happens.
- Get medical attention. Get the treatment you need as soon as possible after a crash, either from a paramedic at the scene or later from your doctor. This is vital for your health and well-being, as well as helping any future legal claim.
- Call the police. If there has been a car crash, the police should be involved. You can also request a copy of the police report later to support a “whose at fault claim.”
- Document the scene and preserve evidence. When you have been in a car crash, you should document everything. Take pictures or videos of the scene and vehicles using your phone, record license plate numbers, and secure witness statements or contact details.
- Exchange driver information. Be sure to get all the details from the person(s) that caused the car accident. It is essential to collect this information before leaving the scene. This includes copying down insurance information, driver license number, VIN number and the other parties phone and address.
- Organize your evidence. Make sure the evidence you have collected is well organized. Request copies of police reports and proof of medical treatment and bills.
If you have questions about your rights after an accident, contact our car accident attorneys in Orange County for a free case evaluation. There is no obligation; call 949-203-3814.
Minor Car Accident No Police Report
California residents facing non-injury car crashes resulting only in minimal property damage do not need to report it to law enforcement. It is recommended that relevant information [eg, full name details, driver’s license & insurance policy specifics] be exchanged among involved parties.
Be sure to take photographs of all vehicles involved and related evidence from the traffic scene. Motor vehicle accidents involving injury, death, or property damage over $1k need to be reported through California Highway Patrol and relevant police departments where the accident happened.
Regardless of the severity of damages, there is a mandatory requirement that accidents involving government-owned vehicles be reported to law enforcement.
If you thought you were not injured and skipped calling the police but realize now that you have some injuries, you should immediately seek medical treatment and document the damages you’re experiencing. Contact an injury attorney specializing in car accidents for plaintiffs and start a paper trail to determine compensation.
While it’s always better to have a police report, not having one doesn’t mean you cannot file a personal injury claim.
How long do I have to report a car accident in California?
Generally, it is recommended to report the accident to the relevant authorities and the California DMV as soon as possible, typically within ten days of the accident. If there are any injuries or immediate dangers resulting from the car accident, it is crucial to contact emergency services immediately for medical assistance and to ensure the safety of all parties involved.
Top Questions to Ask Your California Car Accident Lawyer
Here are some of the top questions that your Orange County car crash attorney can help you answer after a crash:
Do I contact my car insurance company or the insurance company of the person who hit me?
You should contact your own insurance company first. The person who hit you is responsible for contacting their insurance company, but you should provide their insurance information to your insurance provider. It is essential to call your insurance company and report any accident that involves injuries or property damage, regardless of fault.
How do I get compensated for lost time and income from work?
To be reimbursed for lost income, you typically must be able to show the time you missed from work because of your accident, injuries, and recovery and how much money you would have made during the time you missed.
If you are regularly employed by someone else, collecting information about your lost income is usually fairly straightforward.
Ask your supervisor, boss, or human resources department to print out a letter or email you a document (on company letterhead or stationery, if that’s an option) that includes your name, your position, your rate of pay, the number of hours you usually work, and the number of hours or days you missed following the accident.
If you are irregularly employed or are self-employed, proving lost income can be a little more complicated. You have to show how much work time you lost and what you might have earned had you been able to work.
You can use any evidence of a drop in billing or invoices, a calendar showing appointments you had to cancel, and any documents (including printouts of emails and other electronic messages) showing meetings, conferences, or other appointments you could not attend.
After demonstrating how much work you missed, you must show how much you might have earned.
Who will pay my medical bills, and when will they pay them?
Generally, the person or business at fault for auto accidents will be responsible for paying your medical bills. However, they may not have to pay your medical bills continuously.
It is important to understand the interplay between your medical payments insurance, health insurance, and other possible coverage to determine which policy is primary and which is secondary.
A good attorney will work with medical providers involved in your car crash insurance claim to put your bills on a lien and pay them when the case settles to take the burden off you.
If you are in a “no-fault” state, your automobile insurer will pay some or all of your medical bills if you get into a collision, regardless of who was at fault for the accident, up to the limits of your no-fault coverage.
What information should I give to insurance adjusters?
After a no-fault car accident, you should provide the insurance adjuster with your name and contact information, the date and time of the accident, the location of the accident, a description of the accident, and the names, contact information, and insurance information of any other drivers involved in the accident.
You should also provide the adjuster photos of the accident scene, your medical bills, lost wages, and other relevant documents. It is important to remember that you should not give a recorded statement or sign anything without consulting a lawyer first.
What should I do if the person who hit me is uninsured or the accident is a hit-and-run?
If the person who hit you is uninsured or if it was a hit and run, you should file an uninsured motorist claim with your own insurance company. This coverage will cover car repairs, property damage, and medical bills up to your coverage amount.
You should also file a police report and keep all receipts for repairing your vehicle and any medical care you receive due to the accident. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you may also be able to pursue legal action against the other driver.
What should I do if someone who hit me did not have enough car insurance for my damages?
If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you may also be able to pursue legal action against the other driver. You can take your car to a repair shop, a body shop, or a dealership to have the repairs done, or you can choose to purchase a new vehicle to replace your damaged one.
Store the car for evidence if your car accident includes a potential auto defect.
What is my California car crash case worth?
The exact value of your no-fault car crash case depends on your specific facts and circumstances. It is difficult to determine the value of a case without assessing all of the relevant facts and information including your losses.
Generally, the value of a no-fault car crash case is based on the extent of the injuries suffered, the number of medical bills incurred, any lost wages, and any pain and suffering experienced. You can speak to a personal injury lawyer to get a better idea of the value of your case and what you can expect to receive bases on your losses.
What does an attorney cost, and should I pay a retainer?
Personal injury attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they are only paid if they successfully recover a settlement or award on your behalf. The terms of the contingency fees agreement, including the exact fee, will vary based on the details of your case. Generally, the percentage of the recovered compensation will range from 31%-45%, depending on the resources used in your case.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in California?
According to California’s statute of limitations, you have six months to file an insurance claim for injuries sustained in a car accident and two years to file a claim for a personal injury.
Failure to file within the two-year deadline could result in losing your legal right to compensation. It is always best to file your insurance claim as quickly as possible to ensure you receive the settlement you deserve.
Remember to exchange insurance information, report the accident to the California DMV within ten days if there was property damage, and contact a car accident attorney in Orange County immediately to preserve evidence and avoid compromising your case’s strength.
What is negligent entrustment of a motor vehicle?
“Negligent entrustment of a motor vehicle” holds a person or entity responsible for allowing someone else to use their vehicle when they knew or should have known that the driver was incompetent, reckless, or otherwise unfit to operate it.
This is true whether the person or business knew or should have known that the driver was unfit to operate the motor vehicle, making them financially liable.
Consult with our Orange County car accident lawyer if you have questions about whether you have a claim and are entitled to compensation to determine liability in the case.
Is California a no-fault state for car accidents?
No, California has a comparative negligence legal system (fault system) which means each party involved is responsible for their part in the accident. California also requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage to compensate injured parties.
The four elements of a car accident case: Liability lies with each person, and determining who’s liable is crucial to a successful car accident claim by considering comparative fault, negligence, causation, and breach of duty.
What are my rights as a passenger In a car accident?
Passengers involved in a motor vehicle accident have the same rights as anyone injured. Passengers are also not responsible for the accident unless there was some egregious action from them that led to the crash. Compensation for injuries, time off work, and other elements of a personal injury case also apply to the passengers.
Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney in Orange County
Following a serious car wreck, you will need the best legal representation available. You will need an auto accident attorney in orange county who knows how to play hardball with insurance adjusters and has a proven winning record in CA courtrooms.
- Specializing in nothing but personal injury law, including motor vehicle accidents
- Assess your case and its value, including lost wages, pain & suffering & property damage
- Evidence gathering and documentation done for you
- Negotiating with car insurance companies for you
- Legal representation and litigation in court if your case goes to trial
- Peace of mind and less stress
Some of the best car accident lawyers in Orange County, Ca. have spent decades in the courtroom, not just settling motor vehicle crash cases but arguing your case, using expert witnesses, and understanding the defense team’s strategy.
Some car crashes are relatively minor but can still leave a lasting impact on the victim. Other incidents will leave crash victims with serious injuries and disabilities. For many people, this results in a significant adjustment.
Bisnar Chase aims to take the strain off the victim(s). We have a very skilled legal team with an outstanding record of success in local courtrooms. We aim to ease the burden on those injured in car collisions and ensure they get the justice and compensation they deserve.
Our success rate, long history of highly-satisfied clients, and hundreds of millions of dollars recovered make us the go-to car accident attorneys in Orange County.
We also offer a No Win, No Fee guarantee to ensure our clients do not have to pay a dime unless their case is successful. We have built a reputation for providing a client experience that is second to none.
We have been recognized by Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, Lexisnexis, Avvo, and many more, earning an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Our caring Orange County car accident attorneys are here to serve you.
Elements of a Car Accident Claim
Auto accidents can be serious, leaving you with many different claims. There are two main types of claims that you can make: property damage and personal injury.
Property damage claims are about losing property, such as your car or personal items. Personal injury claims are about injuries you might have suffered in the accident.
But a personal injury claim is much more complicated because you’ll have to prove that the other driver caused your injuries. In court, both sides will need to show evidence and witnesses to support their claims.
Bodily injury vs. pain and suffering
Typically, bodily injury refers to injuries obtained by the other driver(s), passenger (s), or nearby pedestrians. Pain and suffering are the damage caused to you, including physical and emotional.
Bodily injury is a legal term for any harm, including pain and suffering, caused by accident. In some states, bodily injury is bodily harm (including pain and suffering) to the body caused by accident. Other states define bodily injury as only physical injuries, while others still use physical and non-physical injuries. Bodily injury may also be used in severe emotional trauma associated with an accident.
For example, if a pedestrian is injured in a car accident due to the driver’s negligence, she may claim that she suffered emotional distress and the physical injuries she incurred.
To recover for bodily injury, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant was negligent in causing the injury. In many cases, proving negligence is straightforward; however, other factors may complicate matters, so it’s a good idea to have an experienced attorney to consult with.
No car insurance but not at fault?
In California, you can still file a claim against the other driver’s insurance company if you were not at fault. Recovery could be impacted, and you’ll collect less. This get’s even more complex if you were partially at fault and have no insurance. California requires that all drivers carry car insurance.
Determining who is at fault
The fault is typically determined based on one of three elements: driver, vehicle, or environment. The type of accident determines the information you should look for when assessing fault.
For instance, if a car hits a pedestrian, that driver’s negligence will likely be the main factor to consider. On the other hand, if two cars have an impact in a parking lot or on the road, it’s more likely that vehicle maintenance and road conditions will be the main factors to consider. The most important thing to remember when determining fault is that every case is different, and no two accidents are identical.
That means every case needs to be evaluated based on its own circumstances. As such, it’s important to look beyond what might seem obvious to get a more accurate picture of what happened in a particular accident.
An attorney can help you understand how to evaluate each factor and make sound decisions about fault allocation when facing an accident claim.
If both drivers are at fault for the accident, comparative negligence will determine how much each driver receives in compensation.
Insurance settlement or going to trial
The other party’s offer and your lawyer’s opinion on declining that offer will determine whether your case settles or goes to trial.
The attorney’s job is to get their client the best possible outcome, and if going to trial is needed, you had better make sure that you hire an attorney with trial experience.
Quite a few personal injury insurance claims end up in trial, especially if the defense’s offer is very low and your car crash injury attorney knows he can get much more.
California Car Accident Compensation
How much are you likely to receive if you have been the victim of a car crash? Car accident claim insurance can be very complicated and lengthy, especially if there are major injuries and ongoing medical treatment.
The frustrating answer is that it will always depend on the circumstances of the specific accident. Some of the factors which will affect the value of an insurance claim include:
- Vehicle or property damage caused
- Extent of injuries
- Medical bills and expenses
- Costs of ongoing rehabilitation and care
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages
- Economic damages
- Non-economic damages
- Lost wages and work opportunities
Auto accident compensation is the legal process by which a person who has been injured in a car accident can be compensated for their injuries. The injured party usually initiates the process of car accident compensation, and they will be compensated based on the severity of their injuries—the more serious the damage, the higher the compensation will be given to them.
The person(s) who caused the car accident are liable for paying for any medical bills and other expenses incurred by the injured party. The benefits of compensation from a car crash are that it can help cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
This can be essential in getting your life back on track after a car accident and avoiding financial ruin. Contact our Orange County car accident attorney for a free personal injury case evaluation if you’ve been injured and don’t know your next step.
The Insurance Adjuster is Not Your Friend
It is best to place your trust in a car crash lawyer working for you – with your best interests in mind – rather than an insurance agent whose job is to save money for the insurance companies.
California car accident attorney John Bisnar said:
“Thinking the insurance companies are on your side is a big mistake. Car insurance companies give bonuses and pay raises to adjusters who settle claims in the quickest time and for the least money. The insurance adjuster is not your friend.”
Finding the Best Orange County Car Accident Lawyer
Choosing the right lawyer for your injury claim can be a big decision that you should not take lightly. The success of your claim can depend on the representation provided by your attorneys, so you must choose a firm with an excellent reputation.
You should ask these questions before hiring an attorney or law firm:
- How long have they been in business?
- How long has the lawyers handling your case been licensed?
- Have they worked on cases similar to your accident?
- Are they flexible and considerate of your needs?
- Does the attorney seem like a good listener, or do they talk over you?
- Do they go to court if need be (trial lawyers)?
- Check their legal standing with the Bar Association of their state
- Do they genuinely offer a free consultation and advance all costs?
- Is the car accident lawyer near me or close to my work?
- Do the personal injury lawyers at the law firm strictly practice PI law?
Top-12 Most Common Car Crash Causes
- Speeding
- Running red lights
- Distracted driving
- Failing to stop at stop signs
- Tailgating
- Dangerous lane changes – often without looking
- Vehicle defects and blown tires
- Drunk driving or drugged driving
- Driver error due to high volumes of traffic
- Drowsy driving
- Road rage
- Street racing
- Parking lot accidents from negligence
There are a lot of different types of motor vehicle accidents. Many involve collisions between two or more vehicles. We also deal with many accidents involving cars impacting pedestrians, cyclists, and people riding micro-mobility devices such as e-scooters.
Common Injuries Suffered in Car Accidents
Car crash victims in can sustain a wide range of injuries. It will depend on the type of accident they are involved in, where their car was impacted, and the force of the collision, among other factors.
Some of the most likely MVA injuries include:
- Cuts and bruises
- Broken bones
- Fractures
- Brain injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Disfigurement
- Whiplash
- Head injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Permanent damage to limbs
- Severe eye trauma
- Amputation
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Paralysis
- Emotional pain and anxiety
- Death
Car crashes have many potential outcomes and can leave victims with life-changing injuries. Contact our auto accident lawyer in orange county, CA, for a free case consultation if you have been seriously injured and to start an investigation into your accident.
The Most Dangerous Roads in Orange County, CA
With so many drivers on the roads in and around Orange County, driving can be dangerous. A huge range of driving dangers are present on the streets, on highways, and in parking lots on a daily basis. These can include heavy traffic, car accidents, breakdowns, grand theft auto, speeding, reckless driving, and many other potentially dangerous activities.
The most dangerous roads include:
- Ortega Highway
- Laguna Canyon Road
- Beach Boulevard (State Route 39)
Each of these roadways accounts for a high volume of accidents in Orange County. According to Ortega.com, there were 212 accidents on Ortega Highway through the first four months of 2019 alone, resulting in three fatalities.
Orange County Car Accident Statistics
California is known for having major traffic issues, leading to thousands of accidents annually. Here are some statistics covering the leading causes of car collisions to help you steer clear of road dangers.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there are several data sources and statistics on traffic accidents in California. Source
These include:
- Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS)
- California Traffic Safety Quick Stats (Fast Facts)
- California Fatality and Injury Statistics (SWITRS)
- National Traffic Research and Analysis (NCSA)
- California Dept. of Motor Vehicle Research (DMV)
- OTS Crash Rankings
- California Demographic, Economic, and Financial Research (DOF)
- National Transportation Statistics (RITA), and Traffic Safety Resources
- The California Traffic Safety Quick Stats report for 2021 shows that traffic fatalities increased approximately 7.6% from 3,980 in 2020 to 4,285 in 2021.
- The 2021 Mileage Death Rate (MDR) – fatalities per 100 million miles traveled – is 1.38.
- Alcohol-impaired driving fatalities (fatalities in crashes involving a driver or motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol concentration, or BAC, of 0.08 or higher) increased 16% from 1,180 in 2020 to 1,370 in 2021.
- Unrestrained passenger vehicle occupant fatalities in all seating positions increased 12.4% from 782 in 2020 to 878 in 2021.
- Motorcycle fatalities increased 3% from 549 in 2020 to 565 in 2021.
- Teen drivers involved in fatal crashes increased 18% from 98 in 2020 to 116 in 2021. Source.
Other stats and factors
- Total number of car accidents in 2021: 11,951
- Accidents per 1,000 people: 20
- Most common crash type is rear-end (33.14%)
- Other common crash types: Broadside (29.78%), head-on collisions, sideswipes, pedestrian accidents, and hitting an object
- Most common victims: Drivers (67.02%), passengers (23.35%), pedestrians (4.33%), bicyclists (4.78%)
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that 36,120 people died in car crashes in one year alone.
- Los Angeles experienced 54,000 motor vehicle collisions annually.
- In California, 155 fatal bicycle incidents took place in one year.
Cities in Orange County with the highest reported accident rates:
- Seal Beach
- Fountain Valley
- Garden Grove
- Santa Ana
- Anaheim
Cities in Orange County with the lowest accident rates:
- Aliso Viejo
- Irvine
- Laguna Niguel
- Villa Park
- Rancho Santa Margarita
Overall, the latest California car accident statistics show that traffic fatalities have increased in recent years, with alcohol-impaired driving, unrestrained passenger vehicle occupant fatalities, and teen driver fatalities being particular areas of concern.
However, there has been a decrease in the number of accidents, fatalities, and injuries in 2022 compared to the previous year, which is surprising because many of us worked from home during COVID-19, 2020-2022.
Some of Our Orange County MVA Case Results
- $16,444,904 – Dangerous road condition, driver negligence
- $9,800,000 – Motor vehicle accident
- $8,500,000 – Motor vehicle accident – wrongful death
- $6,500,000 – Motor vehicle accident – auto defect
- $5,000,000 – Auto Defect
- $3,500,000 – Motor vehicle accident
- $3,000,000 – Motor vehicle accident (Insurance offered $100k, we won $3 million)
- $1,500,000 – Motor vehicle accident
These are just some of the significant payouts we have secured for our clients. We strive to make sure all clients get the justice they deserve. Our auto accident attorneys in orange county CA have over 45 years of winning complex motor vehicle accident injury claims.
Navigating Orange County Courts
The car accident lawyers at Bisnar Chase are equally adept at negotiating out-of-court settlements and battling for our clients in the courtroom. We are highly effective trial lawyers and will not hesitate to go to trial if we feel that is the best choice for our clients.
It is essential to hire an OC car crash lawyer who has a good knowledge of the courts. Having the advantage of knowing the rules and procedures of local jurisdictions is an edge that locally planted lawyers always have.
You’ll want a lawyer that knows those particular courtrooms’ judges, defense attorneys, court personnel, and culture.
We can provide top-quality representation to residents of:
You can review our interactive timeline of a typical car accident case to understand better what an injury accident attorney can do for you.
Contact Our Skilled Car Accident Lawyers in Orange County
The Orange County car accident lawyers of Bisnar Chase can provide the skill and support for crash victims to find justice. Our firm has been a part of this great community for over 45 years. Over that time, we have established a 99% success rate and won more than for our clients.
If you’ve been in a car wreck, you might wonder whether you need a lawyer. Hiring a skilled and experienced car accident lawyer can be the difference between getting the compensation you deserve and being left to deal with the aftermath of an accident on your own.
With our award-winning law offices, expertise in the legal system, five convenient locations, and knowledge of the intricacies of motor vehicle accident cases, our award-winning personal injury attorneys can help you navigate the complex process of filing a claim and fighting for your rights. Contact our team for a free case evaluation.
