Irvine Car Accident Lawyers

Why So Many Irvine Drivers Trust Thompson Law After a Crash

When Irvine drivers need a law firm they can trust after a devastating car accident, they turn to Thompson Law. Why? Because we don’t just handle cases, we fight for lives turned upside down by reckless drivers, distracted motorists, and tragic collisions.

At Thompson Law, we’ve recovered over $1.9 billion for accident victims, and every dollar represents someone whose life was disrupted by someone else’s carelessness.

We know the impact goes far beyond medical bills. It’s about getting your life back, piece by piece.

Here’s why so many Irvine residents trust us to stand up for them after a crash:

• No Fees Unless We Win:  You pay nothing out of pocket. Our success is tied directly to yours, so we work relentlessly to secure the maximum compensation possible.
• 24/7 Availability:  Crashes don’t follow a schedule, and neither do we. Day or night, we’re here to take your call and start working on your case immediately.
• Proven Track Record:  We know what it takes to win, we have recovered millions already. From negotiating with insurers to taking cases to trial, we go the distance.
• Personal Attention:  You’re not just a case number to us. We treat every client like family, and we make sure you fully stay informed and supported throughout the entire process.
• Experience and Resources: Our team leverages technology, expert witnesses, and decades of legal experience to build compelling cases that get results.

If you or someone you love was injured in a car accident in Irvine, you don’t have to navigate the legal maze alone. Call Thompson Law today for a FREE CONSULTATION from our Irvine car accident lawyers and let us fight to recover every amount you deserve.

What Compensation Can You Get After a Car Accident in Irvine?

Depending on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances surrounding the crash, you could recover:

• Payment for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing medical care.
• Compensation for lost wages if your injuries kept you from working.
• Reimbursement for future lost earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job.
• Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
• Costs of vehicle repair or replacement if your car was damaged in the crash.
• Payment for out-of-pocket expenses related to your recovery, such as medical devices or transportation costs.
• Compensation for loss of companionship or support if the accident resulted in the death of a loved one.

Every car accident claim is unique, and the amount you receive will depend on factors like the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and whether the other driver was clearly at fault. Speak with our Irvine car accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW to learn more about what you may be entitled to.

Why Choose Thompson Law?

As one of the best personal Car Accident law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated personal injury attorneys who are ready to fight for your legal rights.

At Thompson Law, we understand the emotional distress that comes with serious injuries, and we are committed to providing you with the best legal representation possible. Our trial lawyers are not afraid to take your case to court if necessary and have successfully secured billions of dollars in compensatory and punitive damages for our clients.

We have extensive experience working with insurance companies, large corporations, and medical professionals, and we know how to get you the results you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not have to pay anything until we win your case.

Don’t let an injury case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law‘s car accudent injury lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated injury attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

What You’ll Need to Build a Strong Car Accident Claim in Irvine

To present a compelling claim, you will need:

• The official police report detailing the accident, witness statements, and any citations issued
• Medical records that document your injuries, treatment plans, and long-term prognosis
• Photos and videos from the crash scene, showing vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries
• Witness statements from people who saw the crash and can verify how it happened
• Expert analysis from accident reconstruction specialists to provide clarity on fault and negligence
• Pay stubs, tax records, or employment documentation that show your lost income and any future earning capacity affected by your injuries
• Vehicle repair estimates or appraisals to substantiate your property damage claim
• Evidence of out-of-pocket expenses for medical devices, prescriptions, or home modifications needed due to your injuries

The more thorough your documentation, the stronger your case will be. If you’re unsure about gathering this evidence, our Irvine car accident lawyers can step in to handle it for you. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Common Mistakes People Make After an Accident And How to Avoid Them

A car accident can leave you feeling disoriented and overwhelmed, making it easy to make costly mistakes. Avoid these common missteps:

• Failing to call the police and obtain an official accident report
• Admitting fault or apologizing at the scene, even if you believe you may be partly to blame
• Not seeking medical treatment right away, which can weaken your injury claim
• Speaking to the other driver’s insurance adjuster without consulting a lawyer first
• Accepting a quick settlement offer without fully understanding your long-term medical needs
• Posting about the accident or your injuries on social media, which could be used against you in court
• Failing to gather crucial evidence, such as witness contact information or photos of the crash scene

Before making any decisions, consult with our Irvine car accident lawyers to protect your rights. Reach out to us now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

The Role of Vehicle Tech and Dashcam Footage in Proving Fault

In today’s world, vehicles are equipped with technology that can provide compelling evidence after a car accident.

Here’s how vehicle tech and dashcam footage can support your claim:

• Dashcam footage can capture the moments leading up to the crash, providing visual evidence of reckless driving, speeding, or sudden lane changes
• Data from event data recorders (also known as black boxes) can reveal the vehicle’s speed, braking patterns, and steering inputs at the time of impact
• GPS tracking and navigation data can confirm the vehicle’s location and direction of travel, validating your account of the incident
• Backup cameras or collision avoidance systems can record near misses, close calls, or sudden stops that led to the crash
• Automatic crash detection systems can alert emergency responders and document the severity of the collision

Securing this evidence quickly is vital, as data from black boxes and other devices can be overwritten or lost. If you have dashcam footage or believe vehicle tech could support your case, our Irvine car accident lawyers can help preserve and analyze this evidence to build a stronger claim.

Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

How Thompson Law Investigates Irvine Car Accidents From Day One

When a car accident disrupts your life, getting the right legal support from the start can make all the difference. At Thompson Law, we take immediate action to gather evidence and build a strong case for you. Here’s what we do:

• We interview witnesses to capture their accounts while the details are still fresh in their minds
• We request dashcam footage, surveillance video, and any black box data that may shed light on how the crash happened
• We work with accident reconstruction experts to piece together the events leading up to the collision
• We secure medical records that document your injuries and establish the connection between the crash and your treatment
• We handle all communication with insurance adjusters to prevent them from minimizing your claim or using your statements against you
• We stay in constant contact with you, providing updates and clear explanations of what to expect next

Our approach is proactive, relentless, and designed to protect your best interests every step of the way. If you were injured in a car accident in Irvine, don’t wait. Call Thompson Law’s team of car accident lawyers in Irvine today for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us start building your case.

Irvine Car Accident Statistics and Trends

Irvine’s roadways have seen a significant number of vehicle crashes, with the city ranking among the highest in several categories. According to the 2022 OTS (Office of Traffic Safety) data, Irvine recorded 595 fatalities and injuries from vehicle accidents, placing it 15th out of 15 similar-sized jurisdictions.

Key crash data for Irvine in 2022 include:

• 49 accidents involved alcohol, ranking 15th out of 15
• 30 crashes involved drivers aged 21–34 who had been drinking, ranking 15th out of 15
• 16 motorcycle-related crashes, ranking 14th out of 15
• 41 pedestrian accidents, ranking 15th out of 15
• 75 bicycle-related crashes, placing Irvine 9th out of 15
• 29 bicyclist accidents involving children under 15, ranking 1st out of 15

Speeding, nighttime driving, and hit-and-run incidents were particularly troubling in Irvine:

• 91 speed-related crashes, ranking 15th out of 15
• 50 nighttime crashes (9 PM – 2:59 AM), ranking 15th out of 15
• 26 hit-and-run incidents, ranking 15th out of 15

In Comparison with Orange County

Orange County, with a population of over 3.1 million, recorded:

• 17,734 total fatal and injury crashes, ranking 8th out of 58 counties
• 1,966 alcohol-involved accidents, ranking 50th out of 58
• 1,020 bicycle-related crashes, ranking 5th out of 58
• 3,946 speed-related crashes, ranking 7th out of 58
• 1,291 hit-and-run incidents, ranking 30th out of 58

If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident in Irvine, speak with our experienced car accident lawyers to understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a FREE CONSULTATION today.

Local Traffic Laws and Irvine-Specific Ordinances That May Impact Your Case

Here are some key local ordinances that could play a role in your car accident claim in Irvine:

Sidewalk and Pedestrian Safety Rules

It is illegal to drive or ride any vehicle, including bicycles and animal-drawn carts, on Irvine sidewalks (Sec. 6-3-501). If a pedestrian is hit on a sidewalk, the driver is likely to be held liable, especially if they violated this ordinance. Similarly, riding animals, such as horses, on sidewalks is prohibited, which can affect cases involving animal-drawn vehicles.

Speed Limits and Signage

Speed limits in Irvine are set based on engineering and traffic studies, and the City Council can adjust these limits for public safety (Sec. 6-3-505). Speeding beyond posted limits can significantly impact your case, as exceeding the speed deemed safe for specific road segments may establish fault. Speed limit signs must comply with the California Vehicle Code for enforcement.

Stop Signs and Intersection Safety

The Director of Public Works is responsible for installing and maintaining stop signs at key intersections to ensure safety (Sec. 6-3-563). Failing to yield at these marked stops can directly lead to liability. In cases where stop signs were missing or not maintained, the city may also bear partial responsibility.

Parking and Tow Zones

Parking laws in Irvine are strictly regulated, including restrictions on parking at bus stops, red-curb zones, and time-restricted areas (Sec. 6-3-571 and Sec. 6-3-573). Vehicles parked in restricted zones, especially during accidents involving parked cars, may complicate liability assessments. Irvine also designates tow-away zones for unauthorized parking, which can affect vehicle recovery after an accident.

Truck Route and Weight Restrictions

Certain roads within Irvine are designated as truck routes, and heavy vehicles must comply with route restrictions to minimize road damage and traffic risks (Sec. 6-3-565). Violating these designated routes or weight limits may result in increased liability, especially in crashes involving commercial trucks. Exceeding weight limits or using prohibited streets can also be cited as negligence.

Rules About Vehicle Abandonment

Leaving an abandoned, wrecked, or inoperative vehicle on public or private property for over 10 days is illegal (Sec. 4-11-219). This rule can impact cases where an abandoned vehicle is involved in a crash. Additionally, vehicles deemed a public nuisance can be towed, and failure to remove a vehicle when ordered is also a misdemeanor (Sec. 4-11-220).

Noise and Disturbance Violations

Operating a vehicle in a way that disturbs the peace through excessive noise, dust, smoke, or fumes is prohibited (Sec. 4-11-222). This ordinance can come into play if noise or reckless driving led to an accident or if disturbances contributed to driver distraction.

Our Irvine car accident lawyers understand the nuances of these local ordinances and how they affect claims. We can help investigate whether ordinance violations played a role in your accident and advocate for your right to compensation. Contact us for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your case.

Where Most Accidents Happen: Irvine’s High-Traffic Roads and Intersections

Certain intersections and roadways in Irvine see higher accident rates due to heavy traffic, complex layouts, and high-speed limits. These areas are known for frequent collisions and severe injuries:

• Campus Drive and Turtle Rock Drive
• Jamboree Road at Walnut Avenue
• Alton Parkway at Irvine Center Drive and Barranca Parkway
• Irvine Boulevard at Jeffrey Road and Culver Drive
• Barranca Parkway at Harvard Avenue and Jamboree Road
• Armstrong Avenue and McGaw Avenue
• A71 between Greenwood Interchange and Corsehill Mount Roundabout

Consult with a legal team that understands how to investigate and navigate claims involving these dangerous locations. Contact our Irvine car accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Medical Facilities Serving Car Accident Victims in Irvine

Getting quick medical attention after a car accident can be vital for diagnosing hidden injuries and preventing complications. Irvine is home to several top-rated hospitals and urgent care centers equipped to handle accident-related injuries:

• Hoag Hospital Irvine
• Kaiser Permanente Orange County – Irvine Medical Center
• UCI Medical Center
• MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center
• Irvine Urgent Care

Speak with our car accident lawyers in Irvine now for a FREE CONSULTATION.

How to Get a Police Report from the Irvine Police Department or CHP

Obtaining a police report after a vehicle accident can provide vital evidence to support your claim. Here’s how to get a report in Irvine:

Irvine Police Department (IPD):

• Visit the Records Unit located at 1 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine, CA 92606.
• Submit a Records Request Form and provide details such as the accident date, report number, and involved parties.
• Call (949) 724-7000 for more information or to verify availability before visiting.

California Highway Patrol (CHP):

• If the crash occurred on a highway or state route, CHP may have jurisdiction.
• Visit the Santa Ana CHP Office at 2031 E Santa Clara Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705.
• Complete a CHP 190 Collision Request Form and submit it in person or by mail.

Online Requests:

• Some reports may be available through online portals.

Need assistance? Contact our Irvine car accident lawyers at Thompson Law today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in California?

Time is critical after a car accident in California. The state imposes strict deadlines for filing injury claims:

• You generally have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit for injuries. Missing this deadline can forfeit your right to recover damages.
• Claims for vehicle damage must also be filed within two years of the crash.
• If a public entity, such as the City of Irvine or a state-run bus service, is involved, the filing window is much shorter, only six months from the accident date.
• Families of deceased accident victims typically have two years from the date of death to pursue a wrongful death claim.

Exceptions may apply in cases involving minors, incapacitated victims, or when injuries were not immediately discovered. Our Irvine car accident attorneys can review your case and ensure all deadlines are met. Contact us now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Speak With Our Irvine Car Accident Lawyers Today, No Fees Unless We Win

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Irvine, you deserve more than just recovery. You deserve justice. At Thompson Law, we fight for accident victims.

We ensure they receive the compensation they need to rebuild their lives. Here’s what to remember:

• Over $1.9 billion already recovered for our clients.
• You don’t pay a dime unless we win your case.
• We handle every detail, from investigating the crash to negotiating with insurers.
• Call anytime, we’re here for you around the clock.

Our experienced Irvine car accident lawyers are ready to fight for you.

Contact us now for a FREE, NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.

FAQs About Car Accidents in Irvine

What happens if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If you’re involved in a car accident in Irvine and the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or by pursuing a personal injury claim.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our attorneys can help assess your case and protect your right to fair compensation.

What if my injuries get worse after I settle my car accident claim?

Once you accept a settlement, you typically cannot pursue additional compensation for the same accident, so it’s important to fully understand the extent of your injuries before you agree to any kind of settlement. Speak with our legal team to ensure your settlement accounts for future medical expenses and ongoing treatment.

How can I prove the other driver was distracted at the time of the crash?

Evidence such as phone records, dashcam footage, and witness statements can be used to establish that the other driver was distracted. Our attorneys can work with accident reconstruction experts and subpoena necessary records to build a strong case for you.

Can I recover compensation if a defective car part contributed to the crash?

If a vehicle defect, such as faulty brakes or malfunctioning airbags, contributed to your injuries, you may have a claim against the manufacturer or another third party. Our Irvine car accident lawyers can investigate product liability claims to pursue compensation from all responsible parties.