Understanding California’s Fault Laws in Car Accident Cases

A major crash on Highway 50 in Sacramento caused significant traffic delays on Saturday morning, according to the California Highway Patrol. The accident happened around 10 a.m. on the eastbound side of the highway, just past Howe Avenue. Initially, three lanes were blocked, creating heavy congestion. A photo from the scene showed an Amazon delivery truck involved in the crash, coming to a stop across multiple lanes. CHP reported that the #1 and #2 lanes on eastbound Highway 50, along with one lane on the westbound side, would remain closed while crews worked to repair a damaged concrete barrier. The closures were expected to last about six hours. By 11:40 a.m., one of the eastbound lanes had reopened, helping to ease traffic. Caltrans confirmed that the crash had caused damage to the highway’s concrete barrier, requiring immediate repairs. Officials have not yet determined what led to the crash or whether anyone was injured. No further details have been released at this time. Drivers in the area were advised to expect delays and use alternate routes while crews continued their work. Experience unparalleled legal representation with Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, the esteemed recipients of the CAOC Trial Attorney of the Year award. With over two decades of dedicated service, our team has consistently delivered record-setting results for accident victims in Northern, Central, and Southern California. Enjoy peace of mind with our no upfront fees policy. Contact us today at 888-888-0566 or through our website www.penneylaw.com for a FREE consultation. Frank Penney Injury Lawyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we sympathize with the victim and their families in this time of crisis.

If you’ve been injured in a car or motorcycle accident, you deserve fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, many accident victims unknowingly make mistakes that can weaken or even ruin their personal injury claims. To help you protect your rights and maximize your settlement, here are five common mistakes to avoid after an accident. 1. Not Seeking Medical Attention Right Away Even if you feel fine after an accident, it’s crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries—like whiplash or internal bleeding—may not show symptoms right away. If you delay treatment, the insurance company may argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident. Always get checked out and follow your doctor’s recommendations. 2. Admitting Fault or Apologizing After an accident, emotions run high, and it’s natural to want to say, "I’m sorry." However, even a simple apology can be used against you. Insurance companies might twist your words to claim you admitted fault. Instead, stick to the facts when speaking to the other driver, police, or insurance adjusters. 3. Not Gathering Enough Evidence The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim. If you’re able to, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions. Get contact information from witnesses and request a copy of the police report. The more details you collect, the harder it is for the insurance company to dispute your claim. 4. Accepting the First Settlement Offer Insurance companies often offer quick settlements that are far lower than what you truly deserve. Once you accept an offer, you can’t go back and ask for more money—even if your medical bills keep piling up. Before agreeing to anything, consult with a personal injury attorney who can negotiate for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to. 5. Not Hiring an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Navigating a personal injury claim on your own can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies that try to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney will fight for your rights, handle negotiations, and ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve. In cases involving serious injuries—like traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, or wrongful death—having strong legal representation is essential. Injured in an Accident? We Can Help! At Frank Penney Injury Law, we’ve successfully handled over 6,000 personal injury cases and recovered nearly $500 million for our clients. With over 25 years of experience, Frank Penney is recognized as the 2023 California Consumer Attorney of the Year and is dedicated to fighting for accident victims' rights. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The content presented is not tailored to any specific case or set of facts and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal counsel. Every personal injury case is unique and requires an individualized assessment by a qualified attorney. We strongly encourage you to consult with a competent attorney to address your specific legal needs and circumstances. This blog makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or relevance of the information provided, and we disclaim any liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content herein.