If you were seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident, your entire life could be turned upside down. You should not be stuck going through the fallout of the collision on your own. Those responsible for causing your injury should be held accountable and compelled to compensate you for the total value of your damages.
With help from a dedicated San Clemente car accident lawyer from Crockett Law Group, you can fight for the compensation you deserve. Spend more of your time healing and rebuilding your life while our personal injury team handles the legalities of your case. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation today and learn more about how car insurance claims work, what your damages could be worth, and what to expect from the claims process.
San Clemente Car Accident Statistics
Car accidents are a significant concern in San Clemente, impacting hundreds of residents and visitors each year. Analyzing collision data helps identify patterns and contributes to local efforts to enhance road safety. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), there were 141 total injuries and fatalities related to car accidents in San Clemente in 2021.Other notable stats include:
16 alcohol-involved accidents
Nine motorcycle accidents
11 pedestrian accidents
19 bicycle accidents
72 DUI arrests
16 speeding accidents
12 hit-and-runs
But how does this compare to previous years? Data trends indicate that while overall road safety efforts have improved statewide, local challenges persist. With 16 alcohol-involved accidents reported, driving under the influence continues to be a leading cause of severe collisions. Since pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists accounted for nearly 30% of all accidents, there is a clear need for targeted safety measures in these high-risk areas.
Reducing car accidents is not just about numbers, it’s about saving lives and preventing injuries. Policymakers, law enforcement, and safety advocates can use this data to identify the most dangerous areas and implement changes, such as improved signage, traffic calming measures, and public safety campaigns.
Which Roads and Intersections in San Clemente Are the Most Dangerous?
San Clemente’s picturesque views and coastal charm attract locals and tourists alike, leading to high traffic volumes that can increase the likelihood of accidents. Certain roads and intersections in the area are particularly prone to collisions due to heavy congestion, complex layouts, or driver negligence. Here are some of the highest-risk areas and what you need to know when traveling through them.
Avenida Pico & Interstate 5 (I-5)
As one of the busiest intersections in San Clemente, Avenida Pico & I-5 sees significant traffic throughout the day. The combination of local commuters, out-of-town visitors, and access to a major freeway creates a hotspot for rear-end collisions, side-impact crashes, and merging accidents. Inadequate signage and aggressive lane changes are common contributors to collisions here. When moving through this intersection, maintain a safe following distance and avoid last-minute lane changes to reduce your risk of a collision.
El Camino Real & Avenida Pico
This intersection is a known trouble spot due to high pedestrian activity and frequent congestion during peak hours. Drivers often fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, leading to dangerous situations. Left-turn accidents are also common, as drivers may misjudge oncoming traffic speeds.
Cristianitos Road & Interstate 5 (I-5)
Cristianitos Road provides access to popular recreational areas, resulting in a mix of local and out-of-town drivers. The merging lanes onto I-5 are short, leaving little room for error, and high speeds on the freeway increase your risk of severe bodily injury or death. Use your turn signals well in advance and accelerate to match the flow of traffic when merging onto the freeway.
El Toro Road
El Toro Road is another high-risk area, especially near its connection with Interstate 5. The combination of steep grades, sharp curves, and limited visibility contributes to frequent accidents, including rollovers and single-vehicle crashes. Be sure to reduce your speed and stay alert for sudden stops or debris on this roadway.
Alicia Parkway
Alicia Parkway sees a heavy volume of traffic daily, particularly near shopping centers and residential areas. Distracted driving and sudden stops are common causes of rear-end collisions in this area. Stay focused and avoid distractions such as texting while driving. Be prepared for sudden braking from other drivers.
By being aware of these hazardous areas and adopting safe driving practices, you can reduce your risk of being involved in an accident. If you do find yourself in a collision on one of these dangerous roads, contacting an experienced San Clemente car accident attorney from Crockett Law Group can make all the difference in securing the fair compensation you deserve.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in San Clemente?
Knowing what to do immediately following a collision can help you secure maximum compensation for your damages and suffering. Here’s a general overview of the steps you should take immediately after your collision:
Step 1: Call Emergency Responders
Your first priority after an accident should always be safety. If you are seriously injured, call emergency responders as soon as possible. Even if the injuries appear minor, a medical review is essential, as some conditions, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not be as obvious as you might expect. Additionally, having a police officer on the scene ensures that an official report is filed, which can serve as crucial evidence for your claim.
Tip
When speaking with law enforcement, stick to the facts. Avoid admitting fault or speculating about what happened, as this can be used against you later.
Step 2: Document the Accident Scene
Take the time to gather as much evidence as possible at the scene. Use your phone to take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information, as their statements could support your version of events.
Pro Tip
Note details like the weather, time of day, and any traffic violations you observed. These small details can help paint a clearer picture of how the accident occurred.
Step 3: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine initially, schedule a medical evaluation as soon as possible. The adrenaline can mask your pain, and delayed symptoms are common after car accidents. A thorough examination not only protects your health but also establishes a detailed medical record that links your injuries to the accident.
Step 4: Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in San Clemente
The claims process can be complex, and insurance companies may attempt to minimize your compensation. Having a top-rated San Clemente personal injury lawyer from Crockett Law Group on your side ensures your rights are protected. Our team can handle communications with insurers, gather evidence, and build a powerful case while you focus on your recovery.
Note
Do not post anything on social media after the car accident. You do not want to share something that the defense could use to get your settlement reduced.
We’ll Fight to Recover Compensation for All of Your Car Accident Injuries
Crockett Law Group understands how devastating car accident injuries can be. Whether you’re dealing with minor harm or catastrophic trauma, your injuries may require extensive medical care, prevent you from returning to work, and alter your quality of life. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to pursuing every dollar you’re entitled to recover. Some of the most common types of injuries our clients have reported include:
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Neck injuries
Concussions
Whiplash
Internal injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Back injuries
Paralysis
Amputation
Tip
Keep detailed notes of the various ways your injuries are affecting your life. This way, you have powerful evidence to support your compensation demands.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
You can hire a car accident attorney in San Clemente from Crockett Law Group on contingency. We charge nothing for our legal services unless or until we recover compensation for your damages. Your contingency fee will never be more than 40% per Rule 1.5 Fees for Legal Services by the State Bar of California.
Can I Recover Compensation if I Share Some of the Blame for a Car Accident in San Clemente?
Recovering compensation after a car accident can be challenging, especially if you share some of the blame for the collision. Fortunately, California’s pure comparative negligence laws allow you to recover damages even if you are partially at fault.
Under California Civil Code 1714, pure comparative negligence allows accident victims to recover compensation based on their percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% responsible for the collision, you can still recover 80% of your total damages.
Local Result
Detainee Received $1,045,000 Settlement for Head Injury During Police Car Accident While Being Transported in Los Angeles
Case Type
Car Accident
Location
California
Settlement
$1,045,000
What Causes Car Accidents in San Clemente, CA?
Car accidents in San Clemente occur for various reasons, often stemming from negligence, environmental factors, or mechanical failures. Figuring out how your collision occurred can help us identify who may be responsible for your injuries and what steps we need to take to get the most out of your claim. Some of the most common causes of car accidents in San Clemente include:
Driver negligence – This is one of the leading causes of car accidents, often involving distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, or reckless behaviors like aggressive lane changes or tailgating. Drivers have a legal obligation to prioritize safety, but even minor lapses in judgment can lead to severe collisions.
Defective vehicle parts – Faulty brakes, malfunctioning airbags, and tire blowouts are just a few examples of defective vehicle components that contribute to accidents. When these issues arise, liability may fall on the manufacturer or mechanic responsible for maintaining the vehicle.
Hazardous road conditions – Poorly maintained roads, such as those with potholes, uneven pavement, or inadequate signage, can increase the likelihood of accidents. In these cases, government entities responsible for road maintenance could share liability.
Irresponsible dram shops – Establishments that overserve alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons may be held accountable for accidents caused by drunk drivers who leave their premises per California Business and Professions Code 25602.1.
It is not uncommon for multiple parties to share responsibility for a single-car accident. For instance, a speeding driver may collide with a vehicle that has defective brakes, or hazardous road conditions may exacerbate an already dangerous situation. When multiple parties contribute to your accident, each may share financial liability for your damages. Our team will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the cause of your motor vehicle wreck. This way, anyone and everyone who shares culpability for your damages is brought to justice to compensate you for the full value of your damages.
Pro Tip
Do not be surprised if multiple parties share blame for your injuries. Your case may be more complicated, but with multiple liable parties sharing the financial obligation, you have a greater chance of maximizing your award.
How Car Accident Insurance Claims Work in San Clemente
The insurance claims process can be one of the most frustrating things to deal with after a car accident. While insurance companies may seem eager to help, their primary goal is to minimize payouts. Understanding how they handle claims can prepare you for potential challenges and help you protect your right to an insurance settlement. Insurance companies typically:
Investigate the accident – Insurers will review police reports, photos, and witness statements to determine fault. They may also request recorded statements from you, which can be used against you later.
Evaluate your injuries – The insurance adjuster may attempt to downplay the severity of your injuries or argue that they were pre-existing to reduce the value of your claim.
Offer a quick settlement – Initial settlement offers are often far less than what your claim is worth. Insurers may hope to resolve the claim quickly before you consult with a San Clemente catastrophic injury attorney or fully understand the extent of your damages.
Recoverable Damages in a San Clemente Car Accident Claim
After a car accident, determining the value of your claim is imperative. We cannot move forward until we know how much compensation you should be awarded. There are two main categories of damages that are typically awarded in San Clemente car accident claims. These include:
Economic damages – These are tangible, financial losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damages. For example, you may be entitled to compensation for past and future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and loss of earning capacity if you cannot return to work.
Non-economic damages – These cover intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. For instance, if your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed, you may qualify for non-economic compensation.
San Clemente Car Accident FAQs
The car accident claims process can be intimidating. Many injury victims find themselves holding back from getting the legal help they need because they are worried their case will not be taken seriously or they may have many preconceived notions about how the car accident claims process will unfold.
In the hopes of boosting your confidence and getting any of the answers you need when you need them most, we have compiled a quick FAQ detailing some of the most common questions accident victims have had regarding their claims. When you have additional questions we do not answer on this page, do not hesitate to contact our law office for personalized answers.
California is a fault insurance state. This means under California Insurance Code – INS § 11580.1, the individual or entity who caused the accident will be expected to compensate the victim for the full value of their losses. Generally, this applies to auto insurance claims.
Every motorist is required to carry auto insurance coverage per the California Department of Insurance, which may lead you to believe you file a claim with your own auto insurance provider after a collision. However, since California is a fault insurance state, you file a claim with the liable party’s insurance company instead.
After being involved in a car accident, your vehicle will lose value. You may be able to get the vehicle repaired and back in working order, but even with the highest quality repairs, your vehicle will be worth less after it has been involved in a collision. This is known as diminished value. This is a type of loss you can seek compensation for as part of your car accident claim in San Clemente.
Most diminished value claims are filed in conjunction with your insurance claim. However, if the insurance company is engaging in bad faith tactics or otherwise refuses to settle your claim reasonably, we may need to take further legal action in court.
When filing a car accident lawsuit, your claim must be initiated within two years of the accident date according to California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. The personal injury statute of limitations deadline is in place to ensure claims are filed in a timely manner.
While two years is the maximum deadline, every case is different, and you may find yourself with more time than you were expecting, particularly if you have a minor child who was in a car accident or your injuries were not diagnosed until days, weeks, or even months after the wreck.
When this happens, the statute of limitations countdown will temporarily pause. This is known as “tolling” the statute of limitations. If you are unsure how much longer you have to file your car accident lawsuit, do not hesitate to connect with our catastrophic injury attorneys to get the clarity you need.
No, it is almost never in an injury victim’s best interest to accept a lump sum settlement offer from the insurance company. Remember, insurance companies are self-serving. They only make money by paying out as little as possible on claims while bringing in as much as possible in premiums.
Insurance adjusters are often responsible for picking apart claims to look for reasons to deny them. When you receive a lump sum settlement offer from the insurance company, it is almost always because the insurance company sees the true value of your damages and does not want to be responsible for the costs.
By making you a lump sum settlement offer, they can absolve themselves from future liability. The offer of quick cash is often tempting for injury victims who are struggling to stay afloat financially. However, if your condition rapidly deteriorates and requires further medical expenses, the insurance company will not be expected to pay out anymore if you have accepted a lump sum settlement.
You can seek punitive damages in your car accident claim, but you cannot sue for them. Punitive damages are not a loss you are entitled to recover the way you are entitled to compensatory relief. Under California Civil Code Section 3294, punitive damages will only be awarded in limited circumstances.
The defendant’s actions must have been egregious, malicious, intentionally harmful, or grossly negligent for a punitive damages award to apply. For example, if the driver who hit you was intoxicated and has a history of drunk driving on their criminal record, punitive damages may be appropriate. However, if the driver who hit you did so because their tire blew out, punitive damages would not apply.
Life is better now!
Its going to be tough to thank Kevin enough! His guidance, support and optimism from day one helped me get thru the arduous process of appointments and treatments required to recover from my injuries and pay the bills.
My calls were returned promptly, I always felt he “truly” cared about me, my case and the outcome. I know he fought hard and brought my case to a very successful conclusion (the Max).
“OH” and can’t forget, His support team gets 5 stars as well.
Thank you Kevin, Thank you!
Rob Peltier San Clemente, CA Accident
Contact Our San Clemente Car Accident Attorneys Today for Legal Help
When you have been critically injured in a serious motor vehicle wreck, taking action against the at-fault party should be a top priority. We understand you may be overwhelmed, exhausted, traumatized, and unsure of what to do next. Let us point you in the right direction and help you navigate the claims process while you heal.
Your highly experienced San Clemente car accident lawyer from Crockett Law Group will work tirelessly to maximize your compensation. We are not afraid to negotiate with insurance companies or bring your case to trial if that is what it takes to get the most out of your claim. Fill out our secured contact form or call our office to schedule your no-cost, risk-free consultation today.
San Clemente FAQs
Getting medical attention as soon as possible after your accident in San Clemente should be one of your top priorities. Here are some of the top-rated urgent care facilities, medical groups, and hospitals nearby:
The emotional distress of your collision may be too much to bear. Speaking with a counselor or therapist can do wonders for your mental health. Here are some of the most reputable therapists located in San Clemente, CA:
San Clemente is approximately an hour and a half from Los Angeles. If you take CA-73 South for approximately 69 miles, you will get there in just over 90 minutes. Here is the most direct route from San Clemente to Los Angeles:
Kevin received both his bachelor’s degree and law degree from the University of California, Irvine. He is the managing partner of Crockett Law Group and is recognized as a standout in plaintiffs’ litigation for personal injury law by Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected legal peer-review publisher. Kevin has written for several law magazines and is an award-winning car accident lawyer in California.
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I'm Kevin Crockett, your Irvine based personal injury lawyer at Crockett Law Group. Specializing in various accidents, we secure victories for our clients with a proven track record. You only pay when we win. Serving Spanish speakers, we offer free 24/7 consultations for reliable legal support in Orange County.
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Kevin received both his bachelor’s degree and law degree from the University of California, Irvine. He is the managing partner of Crockett Law Group and is recognized as a standout in plaintiffs’ litigation for personal injury law by Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected legal peer-review publisher. Kevin has written for several law magazines and is an award-winning car accident lawyer in California.
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