(657)-216-6966
(657)-216-6966
Experienced Auto Accident Attorneys in Santa Ana, California
At Hanning & Sacchetto, our Santa Ana car accident lawyers represent residents and visitors injured by negligent California drivers across the city’s just over 27 square miles.
Unfortunately, with nearly 310,000 people living in Santa Ana, auto accidents are not uncommon here or in the surrounding Orange County. Last year, there were 11,951 car accidents in Orange County. In fact, Orange County ranked number one in the state for drunk driving arrests and collisions, according to the California of Traffic Safety.
Throughout California, traffic fatalities increased approximately 7.6% to 4,285 last year from 3,980 the previous year. Over the same period, 269,031 people were injured in crashes statewide.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a collision caused by a negligent driver, contact our skilled Santa Ana car accident attorneys today to discuss your claim during a free consultation.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Santa Ana, CA
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, the immediate aftermath can be chaotic and confusing. However, there are several important steps you should take to protect your health and legal rights:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured right away, it’s important to see a doctor as some injuries may not manifest until later.
Report the Accident: Call the police to report the accident. A police report can serve as crucial evidence when pursuing a claim.
Collect Evidence: If possible, gather evidence at the scene, including photos of the accident, contact information from witnesses, and details from the other drivers involved.
Contact an Auto Accident Attorney: As soon as possible after the accident, consult with an auto accident attorney in Santa Ana to discuss your case and understand your legal options.
What are the Most Common Causes of Auto Accidents in California?
There are multiple causes of auto accidents in California, but two of the most common are the hardest to understand because they are entirely preventable.
The California Office of Traffic Safety reported:
- Alcohol-impaired driving fatalities — fatalities in crashes involving a driver with a blood alcohol concentration, or BAC, of 0.08 or higher — increased 16% from 1,180 to 1,370 last year.
- Over the same period, 52.9% of all drivers killed in motor vehicle crashes who were tested were positive for legal and illegal drugs.
Additional common causes of auto accidents in California include, but are not limited to:
- Distracted Driving
Using mobile phones, texting, or other distractions while driving is a leading cause of accidents. Distraction diverts attention from the road and increases the risk of collisions.
- Speeding
Driving at speeds higher than the posted limits or too fast for road conditions reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
- Reckless Driving
Aggressive and reckless driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and aggressive overtaking, can lead to accidents.
- Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Failing to obey traffic signals and signs can result in dangerous intersections and T-bone collisions.
- Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions, including rain, fog, and limited visibility, contribute to accidents. Drivers may struggle to navigate slippery roads or adjust to changing weather conditions.
- Fatigue
Drowsy or fatigued driving can impair a driver’s ability to concentrate and react quickly, leading to accidents.
- Failure to Yield
Accidents often occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way at intersections, during lane changes, or when merging onto highways.
- Inexperienced Drivers
Inexperienced or young drivers may lack the skills to navigate complex traffic situations, increasing the risk of accidents. Teen drivers involved in fatal crashes (age 15-20) increased 14.8% from 413 to 474 throughout the state last year.
- Tailgating
Following other vehicles too closely reduces the driver’s reaction time and increases the likelihood of rear-end collisions.
- Failure to Signal
Failing to use turn signals or giving inadequate signals can lead to confusion and accidents, especially during lane changes or turns.
- Illegal Maneuvers
Making illegal U-turns, improper lane changes, or disregarding traffic rules contributes to accidents.
If you have been injured in a traffic collision caused by a negligent driver, contact our Santa Ana car accident attorneys for help today. We will outline your eligibility to file a claim and present your legal rights and options in straightforward language that allows you to make informed decisions about the direction of your case.
Types of Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to life-altering conditions. Some of the most common injuries we see in car accident cases include:
- Whiplash: A common injury in rear-end collisions, whiplash occurs when the neck is forcefully whipped back and forth, causing damage to the soft tissues.
- Broken Bones: Fractures can occur in the arms, legs, ribs, or other areas of the body upon impact.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head injuries can range from concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries, which may lead to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life.
- Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs, which may require emergency surgery.
- Lacerations and Burns: Cuts, scrapes, and burns are common injuries in accidents, especially if there is broken glass or a fire.
If you have suffered any of these or other injuries in a car accident, it’s important to seek immediate medical care. Afterward, our team of car accident attorneys in Santa Ana can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Why Do Injury Victims Need an Auto Accident Attorney in Santa Ana, California?
In California, injury victims hurt in vehicle collisions caused by negligent drivers may benefit from hiring a car accident attorney for several reasons.
Here are some key considerations when evaluating the attorneys at Hanning & Sacchetto:
- Legal Expertise
Car accident laws and regulations can be complex. Our Santa Ana attorneys specialize in personal injury and car accident cases and know the relevant laws, court procedures, and legal strategies. Our expertise can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system.
- Case Evaluation
Our experienced auto accident attorneys in Santa Ana can assess the strength of your case by considering factors like liability, damages, and the circumstances surrounding the accident. We will provide an immediate and informed opinion on the likelihood of success in pursuing a claim.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Our attorneys have the resources and skills to conduct thorough investigations. This includes gathering evidence from the accident scene, interviewing witnesses, obtaining accident reports, and working with accident reconstruction experts if needed.
- Communication with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. Our attorneys will handle all communication with the insurance adjusters, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you do not inadvertently say or do anything that could harm your case.
- Maximizing Compensation
We can help identify all potential sources of compensation and work to maximize the amount you receive. This may include compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Negotiation Skills
Our experienced Santa Ana car accident attorneys settle most crash claims during negotiation to achieve a fair and just settlement on your behalf.
- Litigation Representation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, we can represent your best interests in court. If necessary, we will file a lawsuit, navigate the legal process, and present your case before a judge and jury to produce the best outcome.
Our car accident attorneys in Santa Ana work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win your case. This fee is a predetermined percentage of the settlement or court award, making legal representation accessible to all accident victims in Santa Ana without upfront costs.
Compensation You May Be Entitled to After an Auto Accident in Santa Ana, California?
Victims of car accidents in Santa Ana may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the specifics of the accident and the injuries sustained. Some of the damages our auto accident attorneys in Santa Ana can help you recover include:
Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical bills related to your accident, such as hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: In addition to physical injuries, you may experience emotional distress, anxiety, or depression following a car accident. Compensation for pain and suffering can help address these non-economic damages.
Wrongful Death: If a loved one tragically lost their life in a car accident, our auto accident attorneys in Santa Ana can assist you in filing a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for car accident claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit if you were injured in a car accident. For property damage claims, the time limit is also two years. However, if the accident involves a government vehicle or entity, you must file a claim within six months of the accident date.
It’s crucial to adhere to these timelines, as failing to file within the statute of limitations can result in losing your right to seek compensation. If you have been involved in a car accident, it’s advisable to consult with a knowledgeable car accident attorney in Santa Ana as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed on time and your rights are protected.
Why Choose Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP in Santa Ana, California?
At Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP, we are committed to providing personalized legal representation to each of our clients. We understand the unique challenges that car accident victims face and are dedicated to helping you secure the best possible outcome for your case. Our team is:
Experienced: With years of experience handling car accident claims in Santa Ana, we have a deep understanding of California’s traffic laws and personal injury regulations.
Compassionate: We recognize that car accidents can have a profound impact on your life, and we are here to provide the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.
Results-Driven: Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, whether through a negotiated settlement or courtroom litigation.
We Also Focus on the Following Practice Areas in Santa Ana:-
Contact Our Accomplished Car Accident and Injury Attorneys at Hanning & Sacchetto
If you have been hurt by another driver’s negligence in California, contact our experienced Santa Ana car accident and injury attorneys at Hanning & Sacchetto today to schedule a free consultation by calling (657)-216-6966.
