Santa Ana Car Accident Lawyers

Why You Need a Santa Ana Lawyer for Your Car Accident Case

Having a Thompson Law attorney by your side can make a significant difference in your car accident case. Here’s how:

• A lawyer can communicate with insurance companies for you to prevent lowball settlement offers.
• An experienced attorney can gather and preserve crucial evidence to support your claim.
• They can accurately assess the value of your claim, so you get the compensation you deserve.
• A skilled lawyer can negotiate aggressively to seek maximum compensation for your injuries.
• If necessary, they can take your case to court to fight for what you deserve.

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, don’t go through the legal process alone. Contact our Santa Ana car accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Compensation You May Be Eligible to Recover After a Car Accident in Santa Ana

Car accidents can lead to significant financial and emotional burdens. Understanding what compensation you may be eligible to recover can help you pursue a fair settlement. You can potentially get compensation from your:

• Medical expenses.
• Rehabilitation costs, including physical therapy and mobility aids.
• Lost income if you’re unable to work due to your injuries.
• Pain and suffering. for physical injuries and emotional distress.
• Property damage.
• Loss of earning capacity.
• Wrongful death damages for families who lost a loved one, covering funeral expenses and loss of financial support.

If you’re unsure what types of compensation apply to your case, speak to our Santa Ana car accident attorneys for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Why Choose Thompson Law?

As one of the best injury law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated 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 Santa Ana car accident injury lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Key Evidence to Gather After a Santa Ana Car Accident

The evidence you gather after a car accident can strengthen your case and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. Acting quickly can prevent evidence from being lost or destroyed.

Here’s what you should compile:

• Photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
• Contact information and statements from eyewitnesses who saw the crash.
• Police reports detailing the collision and any citations issued.
• Medical records linking your injuries to the accident and documenting treatment.
• Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras.
• Vehicle damage estimates and repair bills.
• Cell phone records to prove distracted driving if applicable.

Don’t wait to start gathering evidence. Talk to our Santa Ana car accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW and learn how we can help

Why Santa Ana Drivers Choose Thompson Law for Car Accident Cases

Choosing the right law firm after a car accident can impact the outcome of your case. Here’s why Santa Ana drivers trust Thompson Law:

• Our attorneys have extensive experience handling car accident claims, no matter how complicated they are.
• We thoroughly investigate every case, gathering crucial evidence to prove fault.
• We negotiate assertively with insurance companies to seek maximum compensation.
• Our firm works with medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries.
• We’re trial-ready and willing to take your case to court if necessary.
• We operate on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win.

If you’re looking for a firm that will fight for every dollar you’re owed, contact our Santa Ana car accident attorneys for a FREE CONSULTATION.

What If the At-Fault Driver Was Uninsured or Underinsured?

If the driver who hit you doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, you may still have options for compensation. Here’s what to consider:

• You can file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
• If you were a passenger, you might be able to file a claim under the driver’s policy.
• You could pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
• If the driver was on the job at the time of the crash, their employer might share liability.
• If another party contributed to the crash, such as a vehicle manufacturer or government entity, you could pursue compensation from them as well.

Don’t assume you’re out of options if the at-fault driver lacks coverage. Speak to our Santa Ana car accident attorneys for a FREE CASE REVIEW to explore your legal options.

Can You Recover Compensation if You Were a Passenger in the Crash?

Passengers injured in car accidents often have strong claims for compensation. Here’s what you need to know:

• You can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance, even if the driver was the one you were riding with.
• If multiple vehicles were involved, you may be able to file claims against more than one insurance policy.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help if the driver’s policy isn’t enough to cover your injuries.
• If a commercial vehicle or rideshare service was involved, you might have additional coverage options.

If you were a passenger in a car accident and need help recovering compensation, contact our Santa Ana car accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Santa Ana Traffic Laws and Local Ordinances That May Impact Your Case

Santa Ana enforces specific traffic laws and ordinances designed to maintain road safety, regulate parking, and manage traffic flow. Knowing these regulations can significantly impact the outcome of a car accident claim, especially when establishing fault or liability:

• The Traffic Division handles accident investigations, impounded vehicles, and traffic ticket information. If your vehicle was impounded after an accident, contact the Traffic Division at (714) 245-8200 to arrange its release.
• Parking Regulations (Sec. 36-130 – 36-149): Vehicles parked illegally for more than 72 hours can be towed and impounded. This applies to public streets and alleys.
• Red, Yellow, White, Green, and Blue Curb Markings (Sec. 36-131):
  • Red curbs: No stopping, standing, or parking at any time.
  • Yellow curbs: Loading and unloading only between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., with a 3-minute limit for passengers and a 20-minute limit for materials.
  • White curbs: No parking except for loading and unloading passengers for up to 3 minutes.
  • Green curbs: Short-term parking only, with limits ranging from 12 to 24 minutes as indicated by signs.
  • Blue curbs: Reserved for vehicles with a valid disabled parking permit under California Vehicle Code Section 22511.5.
• No Parking Zones (Sec. 36-132):  The Director of Public Works can establish no parking zones based on engineering studies or City Council resolutions. Vehicles left in no parking zones are subject to immediate towing.
• Street Sweeping and Temporary No Parking Signs (Sec. 36-133, Sec. 36-134):  Vehicles cannot park in designated street sweeping zones during scheduled times. Temporary no parking signs may be installed for construction, public events, or emergency services.
• Oversized Vehicles and RV Parking Restrictions (Sec. 36-149):  Parking oversized vehicles, trailers, and recreational vehicles between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. is prohibited without a valid permit. Vehicles parked in violation may be ticketed or towed.
• Angle Parking and Marked Spaces (Sec. 36-139, Sec. 36-140):  Vehicles must park within designated stalls and in the proper direction. Angle parking is restricted to specific areas, including Ross Street, Fourth Street, and Walnut Street.
• Parking on City Property (Sec. 36-147):  The Director of Public Services may enforce parking restrictions on city-owned lots and properties. Unauthorized vehicles may be cited and towed.
• Commercial Vehicle Parking (Sec. 36-145): Parking commercial vehicles over 10,000 pounds in residential areas is prohibited unless actively loading or unloading.
• School Crosswalks and Pedestrian Zones (Sec. 36-37):  Vehicles must stop within 50 feet of school crosswalks when children are present. Failure to yield may be considered negligence in a pedestrian accident claim.
• Driving Around Railway Barriers (Sec. 36-42):  It is illegal to drive around or under a closed railway barrier. Violations can result in fines and liability for resulting accidents.
• Buses and Private Shuttles (Sec. 36-49):  Private buses, including shuttles and vans, are prohibited from parking or driving on residential streets unless specifically authorized for pickups or drop-offs.

If a traffic law violation played a role in your accident, it could affect liability and compensation. Speak to our Santa Ana car accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss how these ordinances may impact your claim.

Dangerous Intersections, Roads, and Freeways in Santa Ana With High Collision Rates

Santa Ana has several areas known for frequent car accidents due to heavy traffic, poor visibility, and complex road layouts. These locations are considered some of the most dangerous for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists:

• Segerstrom Avenue and Griset Place
• 17th Street and Bristol Street
• Harbor Boulevard and McFadden Avenue
• Santa Ana Freeway (I-5) at Main Street
• Edinger Avenue and Fairview Street

If you or a loved one was injured in a collision at one of these dangerous intersections, contact our Santa Ana car accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

Medical Centers Where Santa Ana Accident Victims Are Treated

Seeking immediate medical care after a car accident is crucial for both your health and your injury claim. In Santa Ana, some of the primary medical facilities where accident victims are treated include:

• Orange County Global Medical Center
• Western Medical Center-Santa Ana
• UCI Medical Center
• Kaiser Permanente Orange County – Santa Ana Medical Offices 
• St. Joseph Hospital Orange

Obtaining medical records after receiving treatment can provide essential evidence for your injury claim. Contact our Santa Ana car accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION to learn how we can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses.

How to Request a Police Report After a Car Accident in Santa Ana

A police report can provide crucial evidence for your car accident claim by documenting the crash, identifying witnesses, and outlining any citations issued. Here’s how to request a police report in Santa Ana:

• Visit the Santa Ana Police Department’s Records Division in person at 60 Civic Center Plaza.
• Present a valid ID and pay the necessary fees. If you have more questions, then contact them at (714) 245-8600.
• Submit a request online by completing the Report Request Form.
• If the crash occurred on a state highway, contact the California Highway Patrol (CHP) office in Santa Ana for the report.

Ensure that the report includes accurate information regarding vehicle descriptions, statements from involved parties, and any citations issued. Talk to our Santa Ana car accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW to learn how a police report can strengthen your case.

Partner with Thompson Law for Proven Car Accident Representation

When a serious car accident disrupts your life, having the right legal representation can make a significant difference in your recovery. At Thompson Law, we are committed to providing top-tier advocacy for car accident victims in Santa Ana:

• We conduct thorough investigations to identify all liable parties and gather compelling evidence
• Our attorneys handle all communication with insurance companies to prevent lowball settlement offers.
• We work with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case that accurately reflects the impact of your injuries.
• Our firm negotiates strategically to secure fair compensation for you.
• We are prepared to take your case to trial if a fair settlement is not offered.

If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident in Santa Ana, speak to our Santa Ana car accident attorneys for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

FAQs About Santa Ana Car Accidents

What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit in Santa Ana?

You generally have two years (from the date of the car accident) to file a personal injury claim in California. If you’re filing a property damage claim, you have three years. However, if the claim involves a government entity, such as a city vehicle or public bus, you must file a notice of claim within six months.

What if the driver who hit me fled the scene in Santa Ana?

If the at-fault driver left the scene without providing their information, you may still be able to recover compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage or by identifying the driver through police reports and surveillance footage.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident in Santa Ana?

California follows a comparative fault rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What if the car accident involved a company vehicle in Santa Ana?

If the at-fault driver was operating a company vehicle, the employer may also be held liable under California’s vicarious liability laws. This can provide additional coverage for your injuries and losses.

How long does it take to get a police report for a car accident in Santa Ana?

It typically takes 7-10 days for the Santa Ana Police Department to complete a car accident report. You can check the status by calling the Records Division at (714) 245-8600 or by submitting an online request through the department’s website.