A car accident is one of the most catastrophic events a person can experience. The personal injuries, emotional distress, and other damages can have long-lasting and even permanent impacts on how you live your life, which can cause anxiety about your future. A Santa Ana car accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation that can mitigate the negative impact of a car accident on your life and help you regain control.
Why Choose Gonzales Law Offices
Gonzales Law Offices has been representing car accident victims for over a decade. Recovering over $1 million in compensation, we are passionate about ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve after a crash. A client-focused perspective drives us to make each person feel heard during a car accident claim, answering questions along the way and personalizing the legal strategy to meet the unique needs of each person.
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Unfortunately, car accidents are not uncommon. In 2023, 1,972 crash victims were injured or killed in Santa Ana. Intersections such as Edinger Ave and Orange Ave, or high-speed routes like I-5, have a high risk of accidents. Regardless of where an accident occurred, a Santa Ana car accident lawyer can help you file a claim against the at-fault driver.
Many factors lead to car accidents in Santa Ana. Some leading factors that increase the risk of accidents are:
Distracted driving. Causing 3,275 fatalities nationwide, distractions commonly include cell phone use, eating or drinking, or distractions from other passengers.
Alcohol-impaired driving. In Santa Ana, 109 victims were left injured or dead due to alcohol-related crashes.
Speeding. Improper speeds increase the risk of poor driving maneuvers and decrease the ability to observe and react to surroundings, including other vehicles.
Reckless driving. Reckless or aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, unsafe lane changes, or failing to exercise caution, can all result in an accident.
Receiving Compensation for Damages in a Car Accident Claim
Compensation is one of the biggest reasons to file a car accident claim. To receive compensation, your lawyer can examine your case to determine what damages you have suffered and their severity. They can also calculate a fair award that would cover your losses and negotiate with the at-fault party and their insurance so you receive sufficient compensation.
Some common damages that can increase the amount of compensation you receive are:
Medical costs. Necessary medical treatments for car accident injuries are often expensive, such as emergency medical services, surgical procedures, medication, or rehabilitation services. The cost of these treatments can be included in your compensation.
Property damage. Property damage can include your vehicle, as well as any other personal valuables, such as personal electronics or clothing. The cost of fixing or replacing damaged property can be covered by compensation.
Lost wages. Losing out on income during recovery is not uncommon, as physical injuries, medical appointments, and legal proceedings all require time and attention. Compensation can include lost wages after a crash, allowing you to afford the costs of recovery on top of routine expenses.
Emotional trauma. Car accident survivors often experience stress, a lower quality of life, or psychological disorders, with 32.3% of survivors reporting PTSD and 17.4% of survivors reporting depression. Compensation can be increased to include the emotional distress caused by a car wreck.
Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
A Santa Ana car accident lawyer can make the claims process easier to navigate, allowing you to focus on recovery after a car wreck. While California’s car accident laws can be confusing, a lawyer can explain relevant laws and statutes and ensure you feel confident about the legal process. They can use their knowledge of car crash laws and evidence surrounding your case to build a unique legal strategy that argues for increased compensation for your recovery.
Meet Attorney Mark Gonzales, Esq.
Lead Counsel, Gonzales Law Offices
Since 2007, Mark has represented injured clients across Southern California in car, motorcycle, and truck accidents, traumatic brain injuries, wrongful death, and premises liability. His time in insurance defense gives him inside perspective he uses to help clients take on powerful carriers. He has recovered over a million dollars for clients in difficult cases.
Bar: State Bar of California
Affiliations: CAALA, LACBA
Education: University of La Verne College of Law
Offices: Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, Ontario
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No, not all car accident claims go to trial. A lawyer can negotiate with the at-fault party for a settlement without going to court. However, a trial may be necessary in instances where the other party is unwilling to negotiate, does not agree to enough compensation, or if there is a dispute over who is at fault. If you hire a car accident lawyer, they can represent you when reaching a settlement or in court.
What Evidence Do You Need to File a Car Accident Claim?
To file a car accident claim in Santa Ana, your lawyer can gather necessary evidence to prove what damages the accident caused and who can be held liable for those damages. A variety of evidence may be used, but common types include:
Police reports
Witness testimonies
Dashcam or surveillance camera footage
Photos and videos from the scene of the accident and of the damage
Medical records
Pay stubs
Journals or pain logs
What Is California’s Pure Comparative Negligence System for Car Accidents?
California’s pure comparative negligence system for car accidents describes the system used to assign fault to different parties involved in a car crash. Under this system, a percentage of fault is given to each party, whether shared between multiple individuals or 100% of fault given to one driver. If you have less than 100% responsibility for the crash, you can file a claim against the other driver, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How Soon Should You Contact a Car Accident Lawyer?
You should contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash. Contacting a lawyer soon after the accident occurs improves their ability to recover evidence from the scene of the accident, such as witnesses and photo evidence, that may not be available as more time passes since the accident. Early access to a lawyer can reduce your stress by advising you on what to do and representing you in communications with law enforcement or the at-fault driver.
Learn How a Santa Ana Car Accident Attorney Can Help File a Claim
Car accidents can cause injuries from which it is difficult to recover. If you are looking to pursue increased compensation while ensuring your voice is heard, Gonzales Law Offices can help. Contact us today to learn how we can support your recovery through a claim.
Santa Ana Car Accident Lawyer Reviews
★★★★★
“On April 9th 2024, I was in a very severe accident caused by a reckless driver. I had contacted Gonzalez law firm in which Mrs. Marilyn explain the procedures, and helped me through process. They were very responsive and answered any questions that arose. They were very attentive and if I needed any additional help, they were willing to get me the necessary help I needed. They were very helpful and would highly recommend this law firm.” – Carmen Villalobos
★★★★★
“I am extremely pleased with Gonzalez law. Mr. Mark Gonzalez himself is a very well rounded and educated lawyer in his field. He was communicative, concise, and efficient with handling my personal injury case. I am grateful to have him as my lawyer. His staff was informative and helpful with getting through my process and the he decision to choose this firm was the best decision I could have made. Thank you Mr. Gonzalez and your team! Continue to serve the community well. It is very much appreciated!” – Roza Keflom
★★★★★
“Great Experience. Once I entered you can feel they care. They talk with Experience and knowledge. Thankful to be represented by this law firm! Will recommend.” – Edward SerranoWB
I could not be more happy with the help Mark Gonzales provided. He was there for me every step of the way. He explained each step in a way that was easy for me to understand. He was available to me when ever I had a concern. His staff made me feel like I was family. I highly recommend Mark to anyone who needs legal help!
Robert R.
Mark helped me recover all my expenses due to my car accident. The insurance company tried to slow the process and doubted that I was even injured. Mark fought for me and gave me peace of mind. I felt like I had an army on my side since his staff worked tirelessly for me. They got the insurance company off my back and helped me get back on my feet faster than I expected.
April F.
Mark did a fantastic job for me when I slipped in a restaurant. I owner had the nerve to claim it was my heels, when clearly the floor was damaged and caused me to fall. He tried to make himself look like the victim of a scam. Mark put an end to that real fast. He took control of everything for me. He helped me get my medical costs paid as well as compensation for the lost time at work.
Dottie F.
The Law Office of Mark Gonzales was a smooth experience people were great and professional !! I would recommend them to anyone and if I ever need an injury attorney again I will definitely come back. THANK YOU.
Vanessa M.
The people working here are very nice and helped make a bad experience better. They made the process go smoothly and were always willing to help and answer my questions. The attorney was very personable and willing to help. The office makes sure you are comfortable and that you understand the process. I highly recommend them.
Elizabeth R.
I would like to thank the attorney Mark Gonzalez and his staff for the prompt results representing my family with our case, I would highly recommend his office, thank you in advance.
Jose G.
I want to highly recommend the lawyer Mark Gonzalez due to his great work. He took my case and won it even though another lawyer had said it was a lost case. Very friendly environment especially with the secretary at the front desk. Thank you!
Marelena R.
Mr. Gonzales did an amazing job in solving my case. I was feeling helpless and all hope lost, but him and his staff got me through it. I wouldn’t consider any other attorney than Mr. Gonzales himself. 100% recommended!
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