If you’ve been involved in a car accident that may have been your fault, you’re likely wondering what to do next and whether hiring a lawyer is necessary. The answer is yes. Even if you believe you were responsible, an experienced attorney can protect your rights and ensure you receive the benefits and compensation you’re entitled to under California law.

At Hillstone Law, we understand that accidents aren’t always clear-cut, and being proactive can make all the difference in your case.

Determining Who Is Truly at Fault

Responsibility in car accidents isn’t always straightforward. While some crashes clearly show one driver was at fault, many involve shared responsibility. California uses comparative negligence laws, which means:

• More than one driver can be found liable for an accident
• Fault is assigned as a percentage to each party
• Your compensation is reduced based on your share of responsibility

For example, if you are found 40% responsible, you could still recover 60% of your damages. A skilled car accident lawyer can review the evidence, clarify whether you’re wholly or partially at fault, and determine your eligibility for compensation.

Why You Still Need a Lawyer If You’re at Fault

Even if you were fully or mostly at fault, having an attorney can make a major difference. Here’s why:

• Insurance Negotiations: Your insurer will assign an adjuster and attorney, but they represent the insurance company’s interests not yours. A personal injury lawyer ensures you are treated fairly.
• Accident Benefits: You may qualify for benefits like medical care, income replacement, and attendant care even if you were completely at fault.
• Minimizing Liability: A lawyer can work to reduce the percentage of fault assigned to you, potentially increasing the compensation you receive.
• Avoiding Mistreatment: Insurance companies often try to limit payouts. Having your own attorney ensures you aren’t pressured into accepting less than you deserve.

Benefits You May Qualify For

If you were injured, you may still be entitled to accident benefits, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Income: Compensation for wages missed due to your injuries.
• Attendant Care Services: Financial assistance if you require help with daily tasks like bathing, eating, or dressing.
• Pain and Suffering: In certain cases, you may still qualify for compensation, depending on the degree of fault and the severity of your injuries.

Keep in mind that if you are 100% at fault, you typically cannot sue another party for pain and suffering. However, if another driver or entity shares liability, you may still be able to recover damages through their insurance.

What If You Were Partially at Fault?

Being partly at fault is not the same as being fully responsible. In fact, many successful claims involve split liability. For example:

• If you’re found 30% at fault and the other driver is 70% at fault, you can recover 70% of your damages.
• If road conditions, defective vehicle parts, or negligent actions of another party contributed to the accident, your lawyer can pursue compensation from them.

The key is proving that another party’s negligence played a role in your accident.

Steps to Take After a Fault-Based Accident

1. Seek Immediate Medical Care – Protect your health and create documentation of your injuries.
2. Do Not Admit Full Responsibility – Avoid making statements that could be used against you later.
3. Gather Evidence – Take photos, collect witness information, and keep copies of medical records.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident promptly, but do not provide detailed statements without legal advice.
5. Contact Hillstone Law – Our attorneys will assess your case and help determine the best course of action.

How Hillstone Law Can Help

Even if you believe the accident was your fault, you should not face the process alone. At Hillstone Law, our California personal injury attorneys will:

• Review your case to determine liability and potential benefits
• Negotiate directly with insurance companies on your behalf
• Ensure you receive all accident benefits you are entitled to
• Work to reduce the percentage of fault assigned to you
• Fight for fair compensation through settlement or, if necessary, in court

If you’ve been in an accident and are worried about being at fault, don’t delay. Contact Hillstone Law today for a free consultation. We’ll review your situation, explain your options, and help protect your rights every step of the way.