According to a report from KCRA 3 News, a three-vehicle collision was recently reported on the northbound lanes of Interstate-5 in Stockton. Medics from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) were called to the scene of the accident. The extent of the injuries were not immediately clear. The crash remains under investigation by law enforcement.
Accidents on highways have the potential to be especially dangerous. High speeds and heavy traffic can create hazardous conditions. At Redkey Gordon Law Corp, we fight for justice for car accident victims. Within this article, our Stockton car accident attorney highlights the key things to know about interstate crashes in California.
Interstate Highway Crashes Can Be Extremely Dangerous
A serious car crash can happen in virtually any situation, including in a relatively quiet residential neighborhood. With that being said, interstate highway crashes can be especially dangerous due to the high speeds, heavy traffic, and relatively frequent presence of large commercial trucks. As any person who has driven on the highway of California knows well, not all other motorists take proper care. Crashes on interstate highways in California often involve multiple vehicles. They can result in severe or even catastrophic injuries. The aftermath can also be chaotic.
What to Do After a Crash On the Highway in California
Following a crash on an interstate highway in the Stockton area, it is normal to feel stressed, overwhelmed, or even terrified. Knowing what to do can help to relieve some of the burden. Here are five steps to take after an interstate highway crash in Stockton:
- Get Vehicle to a Safe Stop (If Possible): If your vehicle is drivable, you should carefully move it to the shoulder or a nearby safe area to avoid blocking traffic and reduce the risk of a secondary collision. You should also turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Call the Police to Report the Crash: All interstate highway collisions should be reported to law enforcement. By law, all injury-collisions must be reported to the police. You should report the crash to the California Highway Patrol or a local law enforcement agency.
- Get Immediate Medical Attention: All car accident injuries should be evaluated and treated by a doctor. Emergencies require immediate care. Notably, some common injuries—such as whiplash and TBIs—may be more severe than they initially seem.
- Document the Highway Crash: You should try to take photographs of all vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any key details. You should also exchange names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: You should inform your auto insurer about the crash as soon as reasonably possible—even if you were not at fault for the crash. Most often, your auto insurance policy will require prompt notice of the provider after a crash.
- Speak to a Lawyer Before Giving a Statement: Prior to making a detailed statement to an insurance company, you should consult with a top Stockton auto accident attorney. Your lawyer will protect your rights and your interests.
California is a Fault-Based Car Accident Liability State
California is a fault-based motor vehicle accident state, including for crashes that happen on interstate highways. What does that mean? The at fault party—driver or otherwise—can be held legally responsible for an accident on the interstate. Every crash on the highway in Stockton or elsewhere in Central California should be thoroughly investigated. Evidence matters. Fault is determined based on evidence—from police reports to witness statements to photographs.
Our state uses a pure comparative fault standard. If you were involved in a multi-vehicle crash, you have the right to seek compensation if you were partially to blame for your own collision. With that being said, you will be held liable for your proportional “share” of the fault. For example, imagine you were involved in a crash on the interstate in Stockton. If you suffered $50,000 in damages but were found 25 percent liable, you will be responsible for $12,500 of your own damages.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for an Interstate Highway Crash in California
Highway crashes can cause devastating, even catastrophic harm. It is imperative that victims and families are able to get full and fair compensation after a bad crash on the interstate. Unfortunately, insurance companies cannot be relied upon—especially after a bad crash. They fight hard to pay out as little as possible to injured victims. Along with other types of damages, car accident victims in California may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Property damage, including vehicle repairs;
- Ambulance costs and emergency room care;
- Hospital bills and other medical expenses;
- Physical therapy and other rehabilitative services;
- Loss of wages and diminishment of earnings;
- Pain and suffering & mental anguish;
- Long-term physical disability;
- Permanent scarring or impairment;
- Reduced quality of life; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
How Our Stockton Auto Accident Attorney Can Help
Were you hurt in a crash on an interstate highway in California? It is imperative that you take immediate action to protect your rights and your interests. At Redkey Gordon Law Corp, we fight tirelessly for justice. With millions of dollars in compensation recovered for victims and families, our case results show what we can do for car accident victims. Our Stockton auto accident lawyers hold insurance companies accountable in even the most complex of claims. An initial consultation with our top-tier Stockton auto accident lawyer is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.
Schedule a Free Case Review With a Stockton Car Accident Attorney Today
At Redkey Gordon Law Corp, our Stockton motor vehicle accident attorneys fight tirelessly for justice for victims and families.We fight for the maximum compensation for victims. If you or your loved one was hurt in a crash on an interstate highway, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free case review. With an office in Stockton, our firm handles semi-truck accident cases throughout the wider region, including in Lodi, Manteca, Galt, Sacramento, and Sutter Creek.