An Orange County car accident resulted in injuries for five people the afternoon of August 9, 2010, The Orange County Register reports. The collision happened at the intersection of Newport Boulevard and Hospital Road in Newport Beach when a vehicle went off the roadway and then, into opposing lanes of traffic, where it struck another vehicle head-on. Five people were transported to area hospitals with what were believed to be "moderate injuries." An investigation is ongoing.

I sympathize with everyone who was injured in this crash. I hope no one suffered major injuries and pray that they recover quickly and completely.

Car Accidents

There were 152 deaths and 13,414 injuries involving car accidents in Orange County, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Also, during the same year, six people died and 439 were injured as a result of Newport Beach car accidents.

Causes and Liability Issues

This news report does not clearly state why the driver of one of the vehicles operated erratically. I trust officials are looking into whether this driver was impaired, distracted, speeding, driving recklessly or if he or she suffered a medical condition. If the driver of the out-of-control vehicle is determined to have been at fault, then he or she could be held liable for the victims' injuries and losses. Victims in such cases can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and other related damages.

A skilled Newport Beach personal injury lawyer will be able to advise injured victims about their legal rights and options. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also advise victims about how their auto insurance policy might apply to an incident where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.

What defensive driving tips would you give to other motorists, based on your own driving experience?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.