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Car Accident Attorney in Orange County CA
If you or a loved one were injured and are looking for a car accident attorney in Orange County CA, call Megeredchian Law at (866) 359-0807. Our team has the experience, knowledge, and resources to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. You may be able to recover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and more.
Do you want to know if you qualify for compensation? Answer these quick questions and know the answer in a few seconds!
You can visit Megeredchian Law in Orange County at our Anaheim office — walk-ins are welcome!
Megeredchian Law Orange County Office Location
Address: 2400 E Katella Ave Suite 800 Anaheim, CA 92806
Office Hours: 8am – 11:30pm
Hire an Experienced, Aggressive Car Accident Attorney in Orange County CA
A car accident can leave you in pain, confused, scared, and facing serious financial challenges. Medical expenses are costly—especially if you don’t have insurance. Add to that the cost of car repairs or replacement if your vehicle was totaled. And if you lost a loved one in a crash, you may also face burial and funeral expenses, not to mention the overwhelming emotional toll.
You don’t have to face all of this alone. You shouldn’t have to suffer the consequences of someone else’s negligence.
By hiring a local car accident lawyer in Orange County, CA from Megeredchian Law, you can pursue compensation to cover these losses through a car accident claim. When you work with us, you’ll benefit from:
- Direct, personal communication with Alex Megeredchian — Director and Owner of Megeredchian Law.
- 24/7 availability — we’re always here to answer your questions.
- Speak directly with your attorney — no call centers, no virtual assistants, no middlemen.
- Zero risk, all reward — we work on contingency fees, meaning if we don’t win your case, you don’t pay us.
- Rental car assistance — get a rental while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced.
- No medical insurance? We can connect you with a trusted local physician to evaluate your injuries.
- Experienced, aggressive representation — we know the insurance companies’ tactics and how to beat them.
- Empathetic, family-like support for you and your loved ones.
Find More Useful Information in These Original Articles:
Types of Car Accidents We Handle
legal representation. With nearly two decades of experience, hundreds of hours in court, and a proven record of successful case results, our firm has become the go-to choice for anyone in need of an auto accident attorney in Orange County.
In addition to standard two-vehicle collisions, we can assist you with car accidents involving:
Orange County T-Bone Accident Attorney
Orange County Rear-End Accident Attorney
DUI Accident Attorney Orange County
Other Accident Cases We Handle in Orange County
Orange County Truck Accident Attorney
Orange County Big Rig Accident Attorney
Motorcycle Accident Attorney Orange County
Uber Accident Attorney Orange County
Lyft Accident Attorney Orange County
Orange County Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney
Orange County Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Orange County Bicycle Accident Attorney
Orange County Slip and Fall Accident Attorneys
Orange County wrongful death lawyer
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What to Do After a Car Accident in OC
What to Do After a Car Accident in OC
Check for Injuries and Ensure Safety
Your first priority is everyone’s safety. Check yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Turn on your hazard lights and move to a safe location away from traffic if possible.
Call the Police and File a Report
Always report the accident to law enforcement, even if it seems minor. The police report is crucial evidence for your claim. Get the responding officer’s name, badge number, and a copy (or case number) of the report.
Exchange Information With All Parties
Gather contact and insurance details from all drivers involved. Include names, phone numbers, license plates, and policy numbers. Be polite, but never admit fault or discuss details about the crash.
Document the Scene Thoroughly
Take photos and videos of everything — vehicle damage, skid marks, injuries, street signs, and traffic lights. Visual evidence helps your lawyer build a stronger claim later.
Collect Witness Statements
If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information and a short description of what they saw. Independent witnesses can provide valuable testimony if the case goes to court.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not show symptoms right away. Visit a doctor or urgent care center to get examined. Keep all medical records and bills; they’re key for your compensation claim.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Orange County, CA
Before reporting the crash to your insurance company, consult with an experienced attorney. Your car accident lawyer in Orange County, CA will handle all communications with insurers, ensure your rights are protected, and help you pursue maximum compensation for your damages.
What NOT to Do
Don’t Leave the Scene
Leaving the site of a crash — even a minor one — can be considered a hit-and-run. Stay at the scene until law enforcement arrives and allows you to leave. Failing to do so could result in criminal charges.
Don’t Admit Fault or Apologize
Avoid saying “I’m sorry” or admitting any level of responsibility. Even polite apologies can be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Let investigators and your attorney determine who is truly at fault.
Don’t Neglect Medical Care
Many accident victims skip the doctor if they don’t feel immediate pain. This is a big mistake. Some injuries, like concussions or whiplash, appear hours or days later — and a delayed exam can weaken your claim.
Don’t Discuss the Case With Insurance Adjusters
Never speak directly with insurance companies or sign any documents without legal advice. Your car accident lawyer in Orange County, CA should handle all communications to protect you from lowball settlements or misleading questions.
Don’t Post About the Accident on Social Media
Avoid sharing photos, opinions, or updates about your accident online. Insurers and defense attorneys can use your posts against you, even if they seem harmless. Keep all details private until your case is resolved.
Don’t Delay Contacting a Lawyer
Time is critical after a crash. Evidence fades and witnesses forget details. Reaching out to a lawyer right away ensures your rights are protected and your case is handled properly from the start.
Why Calling a Lawyer Early Matters
Getting legal help as soon as possible can make the difference between a strong case and a denied claim. A seasoned attorney will immediately secure critical evidence — like traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness statements — before they’re lost or altered. Your lawyer can also prevent costly mistakes, such as speaking to insurance adjusters or signing releases too soon.
By contacting an auto accident attorney in Orange County early, you ensure every step is handled strategically to maximize your compensation and protect your rights from day one.
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How Long After Car Accident Can You Claim Injury?
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the car accident to file a personal injury claim under the state’s statute of limitations (California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1).
However, there are exceptions: if the accident involved a government vehicle or public agency (like a city bus or utility truck), you must file an administrative claim within six months of the crash — and missing that deadline can permanently bar your right to compensation.
That said, it’s best not to wait. Insurance companies often require immediate or prompt notice of the accident, sometimes within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the policy. To avoid jeopardizing your case, contact a car accident lawyer in Orange County, CA as soon as possible. Your attorney can meet all deadlines, handle the insurance reporting correctly, and preserve the medical and legal evidence needed to prove your injury claim.
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How to File a Car Accident Claim in Orange County, CA
1. Case Evaluation and Evidence Review
Once you hire your attorney, they will start by reviewing all the evidence from the crash — including police reports, photos, witness statements, and medical records. This initial evaluation helps determine liability, the extent of your damages, and the potential value of your case.
Estimated time: 1–2 weeks after hiring your lawyer.
2. Medical Documentation and Treatment Coordination
Your lawyer will ensure that your medical treatment is properly documented. Accurate records of every diagnosis, procedure, and medical bill are crucial to prove your injuries and justify the compensation you’re seeking.
Estimated time: Ongoing throughout treatment, typically 2–8 weeks.
3. Calculating Damages and Building the Claim
The next step is calculating both economic and non-economic damages, such as medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. An auto accident attorney in Orange County will compile all supporting documentation to present a strong, evidence-based claim.
Estimated time: 1–3 weeks after completing medical documentation.
4. Submitting the Claim to the Insurance Company
Your attorney will file the claim directly with the at-fault party’s insurance provider, attaching all evidence and a formal demand for compensation. This process ensures the insurer receives a clear and professional presentation of your case.
Estimated time: Within 1 week after the claim package is finalized.
5. Negotiation and Settlement Discussions
Once the claim is filed, your lawyer handles all communication and negotiations with the insurance company. Skilled Orange County car accident attorneys know how to counter low offers and push for a fair settlement that fully covers your losses.
Estimated time: 4–12 weeks, depending on the insurer’s response and case complexity.
6. Litigation if a Settlement Isn’t Reached
If the insurer refuses to settle fairly, your lawyer will file a lawsuit in civil court. From there, your attorney will guide you through discovery, depositions, mediation, and trial preparation to secure the best possible outcome.
Estimated time: 6–18 months, depending on the court schedule and negotiations.
7. Receiving Your Compensation
After a settlement or verdict, your lawyer ensures all medical liens, legal fees, and expenses are handled correctly. The remaining compensation is then disbursed to you — closing your case and allowing you to move forward with financial relief and peace of mind.
Estimated time: 2–4 weeks after the settlement or judgment is finalized.
Disclaimer
The timelines provided above are general estimates and can vary depending on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the complexity of your case, and the responsiveness of insurance companies or the courts. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, contact Megeredchian Law at (866) 359-0807.
How Long Does a Car Accident Claim Take?
The length of a car accident claim in California varies depending on factors like the severity of injuries, the clarity of liability, and how cooperative the insurance company is. Straightforward claims with clear evidence and completed medical treatment can often settle within three to six months, while cases involving serious injuries, disputed fault, or lawsuits may extend to a year or longer.
Working with an experienced auto accident attorney in Orange County helps expedite the process by ensuring deadlines are met, evidence is organized, and negotiations move efficiently toward a fair settlement.
What Expenses Can I Claim After a Car Accident?
After a car accident in California, you may be entitled to recover two primary types of compensation: economic damages and non-economic damages. These cover both your financial losses and the personal impact the crash has had on your life.
Economic Damages
Non-Economic Damages
Economic damages include all measurable financial losses resulting from the collision. These are based on bills, receipts, and verifiable income records. In car accident cases, they typically cover medical care, vehicle damage, and lost income due to missed work. Your attorney will gather medical invoices, employment records, and repair estimates to calculate the full value of these losses.
Examples of economic damages include:
- Medical expenses: ER visits, surgeries, hospital stays, ambulance costs, physical therapy, medication, and follow-up appointments.
- Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle, car seat replacements (if a child was involved), and any damaged personal items like laptops or cell phones.
- Lost wages: Missed workdays, reduced hours, or the inability to perform your previous job duties.
- Future medical costs: Long-term rehabilitation, chronic pain treatment, or future surgeries related to the crash.
- Transportation expenses: Rental car costs or ride-share fees while your vehicle is being repaired.
Non-economic damages refer to the intangible effects of the accident — the physical pain, emotional distress, and psychological impact that don’t have a fixed dollar amount but are very real and compensable under California law.
These damages are often higher in cases involving severe injuries or wrongful death.
Examples of non-economic damages include:
- Pain and suffering: Chronic pain, discomfort, and loss of mobility caused by the crash.
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or sleep problems following the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Being unable to engage in hobbies, sports, or daily activities you previously enjoyed.
- Disfigurement or disability: Permanent scars, amputations, or paralysis affecting your appearance or ability to function.
- Loss of consortium: The strain or loss of companionship and support between spouses or family members.
How Much is a Car Accident Claim in Orange County?
The value of a car accident claim in Orange County depends on the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the insurance coverage involved.
Minor accidents with soft-tissue injuries may settle for $5,000 to $25,000, while moderate cases involving fractures or surgery can range from $50,000 to $250,000. Severe or catastrophic injuries — such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or wrongful death — can exceed $1 million, especially when long-term care or loss of income is proven.
Local factors, like Orange County jury trends and medical costs, also influence settlement amounts.
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Car Accident Statistics in Orange County, CA 2024/2025
- Speeding was involved in approximately 6,085 of those serious or fatal crashes.
- Distracted driving caused around 833 of the reported accidents.
- Driving under the influence (DUI) contributed to roughly 1,593 serious or fatal collisions.
- Preliminary 2025 estimates indicate that Orange County accounts for about 928 of California’s 17,000+ serious and fatal crashes statewide.
- The most affected areas in Orange County include Santa Ana, Anaheim, Fullerton, and Garden Grove, where high-traffic zones and freeway interchanges see a majority of incidents.
- The majority of crashes occurred on major routes such as I-5, SR-55, and SR-22, with peak collision times between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
- Roughly 35% of all reported injury crashes involved at least one driver under age 30.
- Pedestrian and bicycle collisions made up around 7% of the county’s total accidents.
Most Frequent Car Accidents in the OC
Rear-End Collisions
These are the most common crashes in Orange County, especially on congested routes like I-5 and SR-55. They usually result from tailgating or distracted driving, often causing whiplash and neck injuries.
T-Bone (Side-Impact) Accidents
Common at busy intersections in Anaheim and Santa Ana, these occur when a driver runs a red light or stop sign. Because the side of a car provides little protection, these crashes can cause serious passenger injuries.
Head-On Collisions
Among the deadliest accident types, often caused by wrong-way driving, fatigue, or DUI. They tend to happen on highways and rural roads and frequently lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups
Frequent on high-speed freeways like I-405 and SR-22 during rush hour or poor weather. These chain-reaction crashes can involve several cars, making fault and insurance claims more complex.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
A growing issue across the county, particularly in pedestrian areas and at night. Even if the at-fault driver flees, victims can still pursue compensation through uninsured motorist coverage or legal action.
Rollover Accidents
Often involving SUVs and trucks, rollovers occur when a vehicle loses control, strikes a divider, or is hit at high speed. These accidents are typically severe due to roof crush and ejection risks.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Collisions
Frequent in dense areas like Santa Ana, Orange, and Garden Grove. They often happen at intersections or crosswalks when drivers fail to yield or are distracted.
Cities, Streets, and Intersections with Most Car Accidents
Cities with Most Car Accidents
- Santa Ana – One of the highest collision rates in the county due to dense traffic, frequent pedestrian activity, and major intersections like Bristol Street and 1st Street.
- Orange – Heavy traffic from Chapman Avenue, Katella Avenue, and freeway access points makes this city a frequent accident zone.
- Irvine – Despite planned road design, constant commuter traffic and freeway merging near the 405 and 5 Interchange increase crash frequency.
- Fullerton – Known for frequent collisions around Commonwealth Avenue and Harbor Boulevard, especially during evening rush hours.
- Huntington Beach – High beach tourism, DUI incidents, and Pacific Coast Highway congestion lead to numerous vehicle and pedestrian crashes.
Most Dangerous Roads and High-Risk Areas
- Laguna Canyon Road – Winding lanes, poor lighting, and frequent lane drift incidents make it one of the most dangerous routes.
- Santiago Canyon Road – Sharp curves and speeding are common contributors to serious collisions.
- Ortega Highway – High-speed rural stretch prone to head-on and single-vehicle crashes, especially at night or in bad weather.
Intersections with the Highest Crash Frequency
- Santa Clara Avenue & Tustin Avenue – One of the top accident intersections in the county, with recurring side-impact and rear-end collisions.
- Orangethorpe Avenue & State College Boulevard – Heavy commuter traffic and multiple turning lanes make this a frequent crash point.
- 1st Street, Bolsa Avenue & Hoover Street – Congested intersection with a mix of local and through traffic, leading to frequent minor and major collisions.
- Campus Drive, Dorothy Lane & State College Boulevard – Complex lane merging and limited visibility increase collision risks here.
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FAQs Car Accidents in OC
Yes, an undocumented person can file a car accident claim in California. Documented or not, you have the same rights to report the crash, file with insurance, and seek damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The state’s laws clearly allow undocumented individuals to pursue compensation for injuries and property damage caused by someone else’s negligence. California law prohibits courts and insurance companies from using immigration status as a factor in civil personal injury cases.
Law enforcement generally won’t notify ICE when you report an accident, and filing a personal injury or insurance claim will not trigger deportation. If you suffer a car accident, nothing impedes you from calling the police to file their accident report, documenting injuries and evidence, and submitting your claim.
Is it Mandatory to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
No, it’s not legally required — but it’s highly recommended. An attorney ensures your rights are protected, gathers evidence, negotiates with insurers, and maximizes your compensation. Without legal help, you risk settling for far less than you deserve.
Can Illegal Immigrants File a Car Accident Claim?
Yes. Immigration status does not affect your right to compensation in California. Undocumented victims can file insurance claims or lawsuits for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering just like any other driver.
What Happens if I Was Partially At-Fault for the Accident?
California follows comparative negligence law, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partly responsible. Your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of fault.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Orange County, CA?
Most lawyers work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay nothing upfront. The attorney only collects a percentage of your settlement or verdict if they win your case.
The Insurance’s First Offer Sounds Fair. Should I Take It?
Usually not. Insurers often start with low offers to close the case quickly. Always let your lawyer review the offer — once you accept, you can’t reopen the claim later.
What Happens if I Need to Go to Court?
Your lawyer will handle all filings, court appearances, and negotiations. Most cases settle before trial, but if it proceeds, your attorney will represent you and fight for the full value of your claim.
Hire the Right Car Accident Attorney in Orange County CA
Having legal representation by your side can greatly increase your chances of obtaining maximum compensation after a car accident. It can also prevent you from missing important deadlines, accepting lowball offers, or facing counterclaims from other parties involved. A skilled car accident attorney in Orange County CA can help you gather all the necessary information and evidence to successfully resolve your claim.
Call Megeredchian Law at (866) 359-0807 to schedule a free consultation and get the aggressive, experienced representation you deserve.