Our attorneys have been assisting the Orange County and Southern California communities for over 40 years.
It is not always easy to know who is at fault in a car accident. A variety of factors contribute to these accidents, and uncovering all of them is the only way to know who to blame. Determining fault after an Orange County car accident can vary among insurance companies, police, and reality.
That is why having an Orange County car accident attorney working for you becomes critical.
Police gather evidence from the scene of an accident to determine fault. This evidence may include:
The police report helps insurance companies determine fault in most accidents. However, if a person is hurt and cannot tell their story or someone does not tell the truth, errors can happen.
Insurance companies will assess the claim provided by each person involved and gather evidence to substantiate it. In most situations, the insurance company is looking for reasons not to pay the claim, such as showing proof that the fault is not on their policyholder.
When there are disputes, insurance companies may deny compensation outright. They may further investigate. In some situations, insurance companies will jointly gather and analyze information to establish fault. If they cannot agree, they may choose arbitration to determine who is negligent.
There are situations where the two parties cannot agree on who is at fault in an accident. That means it is up to the Superior Court of California, County of Orange, to make decisions. No one wants to go to court. It is far more expensive and time-consuming. However, when it happens, several steps take place.
After one party files a lawsuit against the other, the wheels of action are put into motion. There are numerous steps here, including providing the other side with time to investigate, depositions, and presenting information to the court. In most situations, agreements happen long before a judge has to hear the case.
If not, the judge or, in some situations, a jury, will hear evidence and determine fault. Whatever happens in this courtroom is considered the resolution. Not even the Supreme Court can overturn the verdict of a jury’s decision on fault.
If you are in a car accident in Orange County and not at fault, take every step possible to protect yourself. That means calling 911 to get medical care and police at the scene. Take photos of the area yourself and gather the contact information for all involved. Follow through with medical care, stay off social media, and always provide the police with accurate information without self-incrimination. Protect your right to compensation.
Once you take these steps, seek the help of an Orange County car accident lawyer. Your attorney will be able to seek additional evidence and documentation of your accident and fault. This gives you the best ability to demonstrate clearly who is at fault.
By taking these steps, you protect yourself from mistakes that could limit your ability to recover damages. Contact us today.