California Car Accidents: What You Need to Know About Fault, Claims & Compensation

A car accident can happen in the blink of an eye, but its impact can last for weeks, months, or even a lifetime. From medical bills and car repairs to lost income and emotional distress, the aftermath of a crash can feel overwhelming.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in California, it’s important to understand how fault is determined, how the claims process works, and what compensation you may be entitled to. Knowing your rights can make all the difference in your recovery. 

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we help accident victims across California navigate these challenges and fight for the compensation they deserve. Here’s what you need to know.

📞 For immediate help, call us at 844-844-9119 for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.

Fault in California Car Accidents: How It’s Determined

California is a fault-based state when it comes to car accidents. This means the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for any damages resulting from the crash.

To determine fault, insurance adjusters and investigators will look at:

• Police reports filed at the scene
• Traffic laws (e.g., was a driver speeding, running a red light, or failing to yield?)
• Witness statements
• Photos or video evidence (dashcams, surveillance cameras, etc.)
• Expert analysis (like accident reconstruction reports)

Sometimes, the fault is clear-cut. But in many cases, both drivers share some level of responsibility.

What If You’re Partially at Fault?

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault, but your percentage of fault will reduce your recovery.

For example:
If you’re found 20% at fault for the accident and your total damages are $100,000, you could still recover $80,000.

An experienced car accident lawyer can help make sure you’re not unfairly assigned more blame than you deserve.

Filing a Car Accident Claim in California

After an accident, you typically have two options for seeking compensation:

1. File a Claim With the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance

California law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:

• $15,000 for injury or death to one person
• $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person
• $5,000 for property damage

You can file a claim with the other driver’s insurer for damages.

2. File a Claim With Your Own Insurance

Suppose you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or other optional policies. In that case, you may be able to recover compensation from your insurer, especially if the at-fault driver is uninsured or fled the scene (hit-and-run).

Deadlines Matter

California’s statute of limitations for most car accident injury claims is two years from the date of the crash. For property damage, you have three years. Missing these deadlines could bar you from recovering any compensation.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Car accident victims in California may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages, including:

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, rehab, medication)
• Lost wages if you’re unable to work
• Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to the same job
• Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress
• Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
• Punitive damages in cases of extreme negligence (e.g., DUI crashes)

Every case is unique, and the value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the available insurance coverage.

Why You Should Consider a Car Accident Lawyer

While it’s possible to handle a car accident claim on your own, there are risks (especially if the crash involved serious injuries, multiple vehicles, or disputes over fault). Insurance companies are focused on protecting their bottom line, not paying you fairly.

Here’s how a lawyer can help:

✅ Investigate Your Case Thoroughly
We gather police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony to build a strong case.

✅ Handle Insurance Companies
We negotiate with insurers on your behalf and protect you from lowball offers or unfair blame.

✅ Calculate the True Value of Your Claim
We factor in future medical costs, lost earning potential, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

✅ Go to Court if Needed
If the insurance company refuses to settle fairly, we’re prepared to take your case to trial.

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we fight tirelessly for accident victims because we know how much is at stake.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in California

If you’re involved in a car accident, taking these steps can protect your health and strengthen your claim:

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
   Get medical help for anyone injured and ensure police respond to the scene.
2. Document the Scene
   Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and injuries.
3. Exchange Information
   Get the other driver’s name, contact info, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
4. Get Witness Contact Information
   Witnesses can provide valuable testimony later.
5. Seek Medical Attention
   Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately.
6. Avoid Admitting Fault
   Stick to the facts when speaking to police or insurance companies.
7. Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
   The sooner you involve an attorney, the better they can protect your rights.

Call Our Team of California Car Accident Lawyers from Countrywide Trial Lawyers Today

A car accident can leave you with many questions and uncertainty about what to do next. Navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we’re dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

Our experienced team will take the time to explain your options in detail and provide you with the guidance you need to make informed decisions about your case. 

We understand that what you need most right now is support and reassurance as you focus on healing and recovery. That's why we're committed to fighting tirelessly on your behalf to secure the compensation you need to move forward. 

📞 Call us now at 844-844-9119 for a free consultation.