Car Accidents

At a moment’s notice, a car accident can change the life of an unsuspecting victim, as well as the lives of the people closest to them. On average, someone is killed in a California car accident about every two hours, and someone is injured about every two minutes. While some accidents cannot be avoided, most car accidents result from a driver’s negligence. Thus, these accidents would not have happened had the driver taken the necessary precautions. At Krolikowski Law, Orange County car accident lawyer Adam Krolikowski represents people who have sustained serious injuries on the road. With over 15 years of experience, Attorney Krolikowski has helped thousands of clients obtain the compensation that they deserve.

California drivers have a legal obligation to safely operate their vehicles at all times and follow the Rules of the Road (Cal. Vehicle Code § 21000 – 23336). Of course, this includes obeying road signs and following traffic laws, but drivers also have a duty to use sound judgment while behind the wheel. The following behaviors are common causes of California car crashes:

• Distracted driving
• Driving while intoxicated
• Drowsy driving
• Speeding
• Aggressive or reckless driving

California law allows people who have been injured in a collision to pursue a claim for compensation against the at-fault party. This requires showing the liability of the at-fault party through evidence such as a police report, witness testimony, and photos of the scene. In some cases, experts can help explain the mechanics of the accident or the scope of the victim’s injuries. Orange County car accident attorney Adam Krolikowski is experienced in bringing all types of car accident claims, and he knows how to negotiate with insurance companies to maximize his clients’ recovery.

When someone is seriously injured in a car accident, they will often need immediate hospitalization. Depending on the type and extent of their injuries, there may be a need for follow-up surgeries, doctors’ appointments, and physical therapy. Victims may not be able to work while they recover, and they must deal with the emotional stress related to being involved in an accident. In some cases, an accident victim may never fully return to the life that they enjoyed before the accident.

Understanding this reality, California law provides two types of compensatory damages for people injured due to someone else’s negligence: economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are damages that can be determined with a reasonable amount of certainty. For example, past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage are common types of economic damages. Non-economic damages are damages to which it is harder to assign a value, due to their somewhat subjective nature. They may vary greatly depending on the skill of the victim’s attorney in describing the impact of the accident on their life. Non-economic damages include emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.

For the most part, California law does not impose any limit on the recovery of damages after a car crash. Victims should work with a car accident attorney in Orange County who can help them maximize the total amount of both economic and non-economic damages to ensure that they are fairly compensated for their injuries.

As with other personal injury claims, car accident cases are subject to a statute of limitations. This means that a California resident has only two years to file a lawsuit after an accident. In addition, a delay in filing can result in the decay or loss of vital evidence. A victim therefore should explore their legal options as soon as possible after an accident.

If you or someone you love has recently been injured in a Southern California car accident, contact Attorney Adam Krolikowski at Krolikowski Law. Since 2004, Attorney Krolikowski has been committed to helping victims pursue compensation for their injuries so that they can move forward with their lives. He takes a practical yet compassionate approach to his representation, providing honest advice and sound guidance at every step of the legal process. To discuss your case with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Orange County, contact Krolikowski Law at (949) 274-9915 to schedule a free consultation today.