How To Establish Fault For Causing Car Accidents in Orange County
Every year California is the scene of many car accidents that cause it to rank among the highest of the fifty states in vehicle related injuries and deaths. In 2010 Orange County recorded 19,018 individuals were injured or killed in car accidents. Because these accidents resulted in the loss of life, personal injuries and property damage, it is only natural that there is a need to establish fault for each event.
Steps for Establishing Fault in Orange County
1. Gather other driver’s information
2. Report accident to Police
3. Gather eyewitnesses contact information
4. Note location of accident, time of day, speed and conditions of roadway (Photograph accident scene, signage and vehicles)
Establishing fault for an automobile accident in Orange County must begin with these steps. The first step is to gather the other driver’s information: Name, address, phone number, license plate number, insurance information, car make, model, color, etc. After reporting the accident to the police, try to obtain the eye-witnesses’ information before the witnesses leave the scene. Ask the witnesses for their contact information. Get their names, addresses and phone numbers. Your last resort is to jot down license plate numbers of potential witnesses if you are unable to obtain their contact information at the scene. You may be able to locate your witnesses through the DMV.
Police reports may also support you in claiming your car accident settlements in Orange County. If the police report notes alcohol was used by the other driver or the driver was in the wrong lane, etc., then the other driver is likely to be found at fault. Always keep a copy of the police report and save the name of the reporting officer for future reference.
There are countless reasons and combinations of reasons for an accident. There could be unsafe roadway conditions, improper signage, poor roadway design, slippery roads or simply bad weather. The driver could be have been driving irresponsibly by speeding, driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving while distracted or running stop signs or red lights. Another common cause of accidents is vehicle malfunctions.
Step three is to document the accident as thoroughly as possible. It’s important to have a experienced Orange County accident attorney to make sure your accident is handled properly. Take photos to prove the conditions of the vehicles, the road, the weather, signage and the vehicle placement during the accident. Use your camera phone, SLR or digital camera if you have one handy. Ask a witness if they can document the accident with their camera if you don’t have one available.
Orange County is just like every other county in the United States. Victims of car accidents and truck accidents in Orange County have to prove they are indeed victims of someone else’s negligence before they will be compensated for injuries, loss of income, mental anguish and property damage. Establishing fault is essential before an acceptable award for damages suffered will be paid. The primary responsibility for obtaining this evidence should be assumed by the victim. Victims should follow steps one through four and to insure they are adequately compensated for damages suffered.