If you were injured in a car accident in Irvine that was not your fault, you have important legal rights to fair compensation and protection. Understanding these rights helps you make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls with insurance companies. Here’s what you need to know about your rights after a car accident in Irvine, CA.
Your Key Legal Rights After a Car Accident
Right to Medical Treatment
You have the right to necessary medical care for your injuries, regardless of fault. This includes emergency treatment, follow-up care, rehabilitation, and future medical needs related to the accident.
Right to Compensation for All Damages
California law allows you to seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Property damage (vehicle repairs/replacement)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Right to Fair Insurance Settlement
You have the right to reasonable settlement offers from insurance companies. They cannot pressure you into accepting low offers or deny valid claims.
Right to Legal Representation
You can hire a lawyer to protect your interests, negotiate settlements, and represent you in court if needed.
How California’s Fault Laws Affect Your Rights
Pure Comparative Negligence
California follows pure comparative negligence, meaning:
- You can recover damages even if partially at fault
- Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
- Even 99% fault allows 1% recovery from the other party
Statute of Limitations
You have 2 years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit in California.
Common Insurance Company Tactics to Watch For
- Lowball settlement offers immediately after accidents
- Requesting recorded statements to use against you
- Delaying claims to pressure for quick settlements
- Claiming “pre-existing conditions” for legitimate injuries
Protecting Your Rights After an Irvine Car Accident
- Document everything: photos, police reports, and medical records
- Seek medical attention promptly, even for minor injuries
- Don’t discuss fault with insurance companies without a lawyer
- Contact an attorney within days of your accident
- Keep detailed records of all expenses and impacts
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be blamed for an accident that wasn’t my fault?
Insurance companies may try to shift blame. A lawyer protects your rights with evidence.
Do I have to accept the first insurance settlement offer?
No. Most first offers are significantly lower than your case’s true value.
What if the at-fault driver is uninsured?
Your uninsured motorist coverage may apply; your lawyer can help you claim it.
Experience the Difference with Ghassemi Law Group
Since 2022, Ghassemi Law Group has protected the rights of Irvine car accident victims, ensuring fair compensation and justice. Call +1 949-868-8686 or email info@ghassemilawgroup.com immediately. Visit 3 Park Plaza, Suite #480, Irvine, CA 92614 for your free consultation. Trust Irvine’s experienced accident lawyers to safeguard your legal rights.
