Orange County Car Accident Lawyer

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Wise Law Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers
Published date: August 11, 2025
Home / Orange County Car Accident Lawyer
Orange County Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents can happen in seconds but cause problems that last for months or years. From painful injuries to high medical bills, a crash can affect every part of your life. After a collision, you may be left wondering how to pay for treatment, return to work, or handle the insurance company’s calls and demands.

Wise Law helps car accident victims across Orange County understand their rights and recover fair compensation. Our experienced team knows how stressful Orange County car accidents can be. Whether your injuries are minor or serious, our goal is to help you move forward. We deal with the insurance company, investigate what happened, and guide you through the legal process.

If you need help from an Orange County car accident lawyer who puts your needs first, we are ready to stand by your side and fight for what you deserve.

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Get Legal Help From an Orange County Car Accident Lawyer

Get Legal Help From an Orange County Car Accident Lawyer

Getting legal help right after a crash can make a big difference. Car accident lawyers know how to build strong cases, protect your rights, and deal with insurance companies that want to pay less.

Here's how our team supports car accident victims in Orange County:

Why You Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident

After a car accident, many people feel overwhelmed by medical bills, lost wages, and pain. A car accident lawyer helps you understand your rights, files your car accident claim, and makes sure the at-fault driver is held responsible. Without legal help, it’s easy to accept less than you should.

Our Firm Fights for Car Accident Victims Across Orange County

Wise Law helps people injured in Orange County car accidents get the support they need. Whether you were hurt in Newport Beach or another part of the county, we’re here to help. We’ve handled many types of car accident cases and fight to get you fair compensation for the harm you suffered.

Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle

Wise Law handles a wide range of car accident cases across Orange County. Each crash is different, and every case deserves personal attention. Whether your injuries are minor or life-changing, our team works hard to help you recover.

Some of the most common types of Orange County car accidents we see and handle for our clients are:

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are among the most common car accidents in Orange County. They often happen because of distracted driving, tailgating, or sudden stops. Even low-speed crashes can cause whiplash and soft tissue injuries.

Our car accident attorneys help prove the other driver’s fault and seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain caused by the crash.

T-Bone and Side-Impact Accidents

T-bone or side-impact crashes usually happen at intersections when a driver runs a red light or fails to yield. These accidents can lead to serious injuries, especially to the head, chest, or spine.

Our team investigates the accident report, gathers witness statements, and works to hold the at-fault party responsible for the damage caused.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are some of the most dangerous car accidents. These crashes often happen when a driver crosses into the wrong lane, drives the wrong way, or loses control of their vehicle. They usually result in serious injuries or even wrongful death.

Victims may suffer broken bones, brain injuries, or internal injuries. Our Orange County car accident lawyers work to uncover what caused the crash and help you recover fair compensation for the harm you suffered.

Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) Accidents

Accidents involving Uber or Lyft can be confusing because of the number of parties involved. You may be a passenger, another driver, or even a pedestrian hit by a rideshare vehicle. These car accident cases often include both the driver’s personal insurance and the rideshare company’s policy.

We handle rideshare car accident claims in Orange County and work to hold all responsible parties accountable so that you can focus on your recovery.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups

Multi-vehicle pileups often happen on highways or in heavy traffic when one crash leads to several others. These car accidents can involve many drivers, making it harder to find out who caused the chain reaction.

In these complex cases, our Orange County car accident lawyers sort through the details, examine the police report, and identify every at-fault party. We work to make sure you’re not blamed for someone else’s mistake and help you recover full compensation.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

In a hit-and-run accident, the driver who caused the crash leaves the scene without giving their information or helping the injured. This creates a stressful situation for the victim. If the driver is not found, you may still have options through your own uninsured motorist coverage.

Wise Law helps hit-and-run car accident victims in Orange County file claims, protect their rights, and pursue the compensation they deserve.

Common Injuries From Car Accidents

Common Injuries From Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor soreness to permanent damage. Some injuries heal quickly, while others require months of medical care or even lifelong treatment. Wise Law helps victims of Orange County car accidents recover compensation for all types of harm.

A few of the most common injuries we see in car accident cases include:

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries

Whiplash happens when your head is suddenly forced back and forth, often during a rear-end collision. This injury can cause neck pain, headaches, and stiffness. Soft tissue injuries, such as pulled muscles or torn ligaments, may not show up right away but can cause long-lasting pain. These injuries often require physical therapy and medical care, and they are an important part of your car accident claim.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Broken bones are common in car accidents and can range from minor fractures to severe breaks that require surgery. Victims often suffer injuries to the arms, legs, ribs, or hips. These injuries can limit movement, cause long-term pain, and keep you out of work. Our team helps accident victims recover compensation for medical expenses and other losses related to broken bones.

Head, Brain, and Spinal Cord Injuries

Some of the most serious injuries from Orange County car accidents involve the brain or spine. Traumatic brain injuries can lead to memory loss, confusion, and long-term disability. Spinal cord injuries may result in limited movement or paralysis.

These conditions often require ongoing care and lead to high medical costs. Our car accident attorneys fight to make sure you are fully compensated for the damage done.

Emotional Distress and PTSD

Car accidents don’t just cause physical harm; they can also affect your mental health. Many victims suffer emotional distress, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions can impact your sleep, relationships, and overall well-being.

Wise Law believes emotional trauma deserves attention, too. We work to include these damages as part of your full car accident claim.

Who Is Liable in an Orange County Car Accident?

To recover compensation after a car crash, it’s important to know who was responsible. In many Orange County car accidents, more than one person or group may be at fault. Identifying all parties involved helps build a stronger case.

Some of the most common sources of liability in car accident cases are:

Negligent Drivers

Most car accidents are caused by negligent drivers who make unsafe choices. This includes speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, or failing to follow traffic laws. If another driver’s careless actions led to your crash, they may be held responsible for your injuries and losses.

Our Orange County car accident attorneys gather evidence, review the police report, and help prove the other driver was at fault.

Government Entities for Poor Road Design or Maintenance

In some car accident cases, the road itself may be part of the problem. Crashes can happen because of poor lighting, missing signs, potholes, or unsafe road designs. When this happens, a city, county, or state agency may be held responsible.

Filing a claim against a government entity has strict deadlines and rules. Our team helps car accident victims in Orange County take the right legal steps and demand accountability when unsafe roads lead to a crash.

Vehicle Manufacturers

Sometimes, a car accident is caused not by a driver, but by the vehicle itself. Defective brakes, airbags, or steering systems can fail and lead to a serious crash. In these cases, the carmaker or part manufacturer may be liable for the accident.

Our Orange County car accident lawyers work to investigate vehicle defects, review recalls, and hold companies accountable when a dangerous product causes harm.

What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?

What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?

Not every driver on the road has enough insurance -- or any at all. If you’re in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, you may still have options to recover damages. These cases can be more complex, but our Orange County car accident lawyers help you explore every possible source of compensation.

Using Your Own UM/UIM Coverage

Uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can protect you if the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance. This coverage is part of many California auto policies. You can file a claim with your own insurance company to help pay for medical bills, car repairs, and other losses. We help you handle this process and deal with your insurance provider if they delay or deny your claim.

Filing a Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Driver

If you don’t have UM/UIM coverage, or if your damages are more than the policy limits, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This step can help recover additional compensation, but it depends on the driver’s assets. Our team investigates the case, explains your options, and fights for the best outcome possible.

How Insurance Companies Try to Limit Your Claim

After a car accident, the insurance company may act friendly, but their goal is to pay as little as possible. They use different tactics to lower your car accident claim or delay your payment. Knowing these strategies can help you protect your rights.

A few common ways insurance companies try to limit what you receive include:

Quick Settlement Offers

One of the first things an insurance company might do is offer you money right away. These quick settlements often seem helpful, but usually don’t cover the full cost of your medical expenses, lost income, or long-term care needs.

Once you accept, you can’t ask for more, even if your injuries get worse. Our Orange County car accident lawyers review every offer and make sure you get fair compensation before signing anything.

Disputing Fault or Downplaying Injuries

Insurance companies often try to avoid paying by blaming you for the accident or saying your injuries aren’t serious. They might argue that the accident wasn’t their driver’s fault or claim your pain came from something else.

They may even question your medical records. Our Orange County car accident lawyers gather strong evidence, including the police report and medical documentation, to prove the other driver’s negligence and the full extent of your injuries.

Delaying the Claims Process

Another common tactic is delaying your insurance claim. The longer they take, the more pressure you may feel to settle for less, especially if you’re dealing with medical bills and lost income. These delays are meant to wear you down.

Wise Law stays on top of the process, responds quickly, and pushes the insurance company to act. You deserve a fair result without being dragged through months of waiting.

California Car Accident Laws You Should Know

California Car Accident Laws You Should Know

If you were hurt in a crash, it’s important to understand the laws that apply to car accidents in California. These rules affect how long you have to file a claim, how fault is shared, and what insurance coverage drivers must carry.

Here are the laws every Orange County car accident victim should know when filing a claim or lawsuit:

Statute of Limitations

In California, the statute of limitations for most car accident cases is two years from the date of the crash. This means you must file a personal injury lawsuit within that time or lose your right to seek compensation.

If you’re filing for property damage only, the deadline is three years. There are even shorter deadlines if a government vehicle was involved. To avoid losing your chance to recover damages, speak with an Orange County car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Comparative Negligence Rules

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your damages.

Minimum Insurance Requirements in California

All drivers in California must carry at least:

  • $15,000 for injury or death to one person
  • $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person
  • $5,000 for property damage

Drivers who don’t carry these minimum amounts can face penalties and may be held personally responsible for accident costs. It's also wise to have uninsured motorist coverage for added protection.

Police Report Requirement

You must file a police report within 24 hours if the accident caused injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.

Reporting to the DMV

You must report the accident to the California DMV within 10 days if anyone was injured or the property damage exceeded $1,000.

FAQs

What should I do immediately after an auto accident in Orange County?

Call 911, move to a safe location, and request medical assistance. Document the accident scene, gather contact details, and write down the driver's license number and insurance information. Always seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.

Can I file personal injury claims for car accident injuries that appear later?

Yes. Many car accident injuries, such as whiplash or internal pain, may not show right away. You can still file personal injury claims as long as you act within the statute of limitations and seek proper medical treatment.

What if my car insurance company offers a quick settlement?

Be cautious. Insurance companies often make low offers early. Before accepting anything, speak with an attorney to make sure your current and future medical bills are covered, especially if you suffered catastrophic injuries.

Are pedestrian accidents treated the same as other traffic accidents?

Pedestrian accidents are different from other motor vehicle accidents, but still allow you to file a claim. If a driver was at fault, you can pursue an auto accident case and seek compensation for your injuries and losses.

Who pays for medical treatment after an automobile accident?

In most cases, the at-fault driver's insurance pays. If they’re uninsured or underinsured, your own car insurance company may cover costs. You may also claim for future medical bills if your recovery requires long-term care.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Orange County Car Accident Lawyer Today

Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Orange County Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been hurt in a crash, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The law firm of Wise Law is here to support you with trusted legal representation. Our experienced county car accident attorneys understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with injuries, medical bills, and insurance companies after a serious crash.

We handle all types of personal injury claims, from minor collisions to catastrophic accidents. Whether you were in a rear-end crash, a multi-car pileup, or a pedestrian accident, our legal team will work to protect your rights and fight for full compensation. Every auto accident lawyer at Wise Law is committed to giving your case the time, attention, and care it deserves.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your situation, explain your legal options, and guide you through the next steps. Let Wise Law be the law firm that stands with you when it matters most.

Published by
josh kohanim
About The Author
Josh Kohanim, Esq., is the founder and managing attorney of Wise Law. He has dedicated his career to advocating for individuals who have suffered catastrophic personal injuries. With over a decade of extensive experience in personal injury law, including six years at a prestigious California injury law firm, Josh was mentored by some of the state’s leading trial lawyers. He has successfully represented clients in a wide array of cases, ranging from catastrophic motor vehicle accidents to intricate injuries resulting from toxic chemical exposure.

Wise Law Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers. (2025, May 15). What to Do After a Car Accident in Los Angeles: A Quick Legal Guide. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.wiseinjuryfirm.com/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-los-angeles.

This guide provides essential steps for car accident victims in Los Angeles, including immediate actions to take, how to document the scene, and when to seek legal help.Los Angeles Police Department. (2024, December 10). LAPD Traffic Collision Reports and Safety Statistics. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.lapdonline.org/traffic/accident-statistics.

This official LAPD resource offers detailed statistics on traffic collisions in Los Angeles and outlines citywide safety initiatives and reporting procedures.California Office of Traffic Safety. (2024, October 18). City of Los Angeles Traffic Safety Rankings and Reports. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.ots.ca.gov/rankings/los-angeles-2024
This page outlines how Los Angeles ranks among other California cities in terms of crashes, injuries, DUI incidents, and pedestrian safety.
California Department of Motor Vehicles. (2023, November 5). Accident Reporting Requirements in California. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/reporting-a-traffic-accident.

This DMV resource explains when and how to report a car accident in California, including legal requirements for filing SR-1 forms and working with insurance providers.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2023, July 20). Driving Safely in Urban Areas: Los Angeles Focus. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.nhtsa.gov/los-angeles-driving-safety
The NHTSA offers urban driving safety tips and accident prevention strategies tailored to high-traffic cities like Los Angeles.

This page was written, edited, and reviewed & approved by Josh Kohanim. Josh is has been recognized as a “Super Lawyer” in Personal Injury representation for several consecutive years. Additionally, Josh has been named one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers Association for his exceptional track record in personal injury law. If you’ve been injured or harmed, Josh has the experience and dedication to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Our last modified date shows when this page was last reviewed.
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