Two people were injured in an Orange County car accident early morning on February 5, 2010 after the car they were in struck a traffic pole. The Orange County Register reports the crash occurred at the intersection of Main Street and Katella Avenue in Orange. Firefighters had to free the driver and passenger from the mangled vehicle. Both were taken to a local hospital for treatment of injuries. Orange police officials said the vehicle was going west on Katella. But once the vehicle approached the intersection, it hit the traffic signal pole in the northwest corner. Police do not know yet whether speed or alcohol were factors in this collision.

It is not clear whether these victims were seriously injured here. However, I sincerely hope they did not sustain any major injuries in this car accident.

Car Accidents

According to California Highway Patrol's 2007 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 10 deaths and 814 injuries involving Orange car accidents. Countywide, car accidents claimed 178 lives and caused 14,185 injuries during the same year.

Car Accident Causes and Liability Issues

This report is not clear on how or why this accident occurred. Officials say they are still looking into whether drugs or alcohol might be involved. However, in such cases, it is also important to look into other factors, which may have caused or contributed to the car crash. These factors include a vehicle defect, a dangerous roadway or the involvement of another vehicle.

The liability in a car accident case depends on whose fault the accident is. If the driver was at fault for the accident, the passenger can claim compensation for injuries and damages from the driver who is at fault. If there was a dangerous roadway condition, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway can be held liable. Any such claim against a California governmental agency must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury. If another driver is found to have been responsible, then, his or her insurance company would end up paying for the damages.

If the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, the victim's own car insurance policy should step in and compensate. However, this can be a lengthy and frustrating process. It would be in the best interests of accident victims to seek the legal counsel of a reputed Orange County personal injury lawyer, who will make sure that the negligent parties are held responsible and that the victims are fairly compensated for their injuries, damages and losses.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

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