A car accident can change everything in an instant. One moment, you’re driving to work or running errands, and the next, you’re facing painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and time away from your job. Insurance companies may try to downplay your claim or offer far less than you need to recover. At OC Trial Group, APC, we fight for the compensation you deserve. If another driver’s negligence caused your crash, we will stand by your side, handle the legal process, and push back against insurance companies so you can focus on healing.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Most car accidents happen because of driver negligence. Even the safest drivers can be put at risk by someone else’s careless actions. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted driving – Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting in-car controls can take a driver’s focus off the road.
- Speeding and reckless driving – Exceeding the speed limit, tailgating, and weaving through traffic increase the risk of a crash.
- Driving under the influence – Alcohol and drugs impair reaction time, judgment, and coordination.
- Failure to yield or obey traffic signals – Running red lights and ignoring stop signs lead to dangerous collisions.
- Poor weather or road conditions – Rain, fog, and potholes can contribute to accidents, especially when drivers fail to adjust their speed.
No matter the cause, we will investigate your case and fight for your rights.
Injuries and Long-Term Impact
Car accidents can cause serious injuries, some of which require extensive medical treatment and long-term care. Even minor crashes can lead to lasting pain and complications. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries – Neck and back pain that may persist for months.
- Broken bones – Fractures that can take weeks or months to heal.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – Concussions or more severe brain damage affecting memory and motor function.
- Spinal cord injuries – Partial or total paralysis in severe cases.
- Internal injuries – Damage to organs that may not show symptoms right away.
At OC Trial Group, APC, we fight to recover compensation for both immediate and long-term medical needs.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
If you were injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. California law allows you to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses – Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost income – Wages lost due to missed work, as well as future earning potential.
- Pain and suffering – Emotional distress, physical pain, and reduced quality of life.
- Property damage – Vehicle repairs or replacement costs.
California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
The Insurance Claims Process
Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be frustrating and time-consuming. While insurers may seem helpful at first, their priority is to protect their bottom line—not to pay you what you deserve. They may offer a quick settlement that doesn’t cover your full medical costs, lost wages, or long-term care needs. In some cases, they may delay or even deny valid claims. At OC Trial Group, APC, we handle all communication with the insurance company, ensuring they don’t take advantage of you. We gather the necessary evidence, negotiate aggressively, and, if needed, take your case to court to secure fair compensation.
What to Do After a Car Accident
The moments after a crash can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights.
- Check for injuries – Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries take time to appear.
- Call the police – A police report provides valuable documentation of the accident.
- Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details.
- Document the scene – Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and visible injuries.
- Get witness statements – If anyone saw the crash, ask for their contact information.
- Notify your insurance company – Report the accident but avoid admitting fault.
- Contact an attorney – At OC Trial Group, APC, we will guide you through the claims process and fight for your compensation.
Contact Our Experienced Orange County Car Accident Attorneys
A car accident can leave you with medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain. You shouldn’t have to fight for fair compensation alone. At OC Trial Group, APC, we are ready to stand up for your rights and handle the legal process while you focus on recovery. Call us today for a free consultation. Let’s discuss your case and take the next steps toward securing the compensation you deserve.
OC Trial Group, APC, is a top-rated law firm based in Orange County, with offices in Newport Beach and San Juan Capistrano. We also serve clients throughout California, including Westminster, Tustin, Irvine, Buena Park, Laguna Hills, Fullerton, Newport Beach, Fountain Valley, San Juan Capistrano, Costa Mesa, Garden Grove, Stanton, Cypress, Anaheim, Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Brea, and Dana Point.