A “common cause” is the thing that led to the crash. It can be a driver mistake, a bad choice, or even a road problem. Knowing the cause helps show who should be responsible. It also helps you explain what happened to insurance. If you’re unsure, a lawyer can help investigate.
Many crashes start with distracted driving, like texting, GPS use, or looking away for a second. Speeding, tailgating, and risky lane changes are also common, especially on busy roads near Highway 99. We also see wrecks caused by drunk or drug impaired drivers. In rural parts of Northern California, poor road surfaces, potholes, and faded lane lines can lead to loss of control. Weather matters too, like rain, fog, or early morning frost on the way toward Redding or Red Bluff.
First, get to a safe spot if you can and call 911. Get checked by a doctor, even if you think you’re fine, because pain can show up later. Take photos of the cars, the intersection or road, and any skid marks or broken parts. Get contact info from witnesses and the other driver. Report the crash to your insurance, but don’t give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company until you get legal advice.
A crash can hit your life fast with bills and stress. You may be able to recover money for medical care, lost pay, future treatment, and car repair or replacement. You may also be able to recover for pain and how the injury changed your daily life. Every case is different, and no specific amount is guaranteed. We can review your situation and explain what may apply to your case.
After a wreck, you shouldn’t have to fight insurance alone. Rooney Law Firm has more than 30 years of combined experience and a 95 percent success rate in contested trials. At least two attorneys review every case, so details don’t get missed. We are based in Chico, with office appointments also available in Redding and Nevada City. We help people across NorCal, including Chico, Oroville, Yuba City, and nearby areas.
We offer a free consultation so you can ask questions and get clear answers. We work on a contingency fee, which means no fees unless we win. Call (530) LAW-HELP (530-345-5678) or California toll free (800) TKO-4LAW (800-856-4529). If you’re hurt and not sure what to do next, we’re ready to talk.
In most personal injury cases, you have about two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. Some cases have different deadlines, so don’t guess. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to recover money. Talk to a lawyer as soon as you can.
Rooney Law Firm offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee. That means you don’t pay upfront and you don’t pay unless we win. The amount can depend on the case, and every case is different. No outcome is guaranteed.
No. Our main office is in Chico, and we help people across Northern California. That includes Redding, Red Bluff, Yuba City, Oroville, and nearby areas. If your crash happened in NorCal, reach out and we’ll tell you if we can help.
Tell the police what you saw and ask witnesses what they noticed. Save any dash cam footage, photos, and messages you received after the crash. A lawyer may be able to look into phone use and other evidence. That can help show what really caused the crash.
Yes, it’s smart to get checked. Some injuries, like neck and back injuries, can take hours or days to show up. A doctor visit also creates a record that connects your pain to the crash. Follow your doctor’s plan and keep your paperwork.