If you’ve been hurt in a car crash in Orange County, you deserve more than just legal help — you deserve a team that puts your recovery first. At Kubota & Craig, our award-winning Orange County car accident lawyers bring over 50 years of combined experience and a proven track record of multi-million dollar results.
We’ve earned recognition from top legal organizations and, more importantly, the trust of thousands of clients across Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, and beyond. As a local, client-centered firm, we fight for justice — and we’re here to fight for you.
Injured in a crash? We take immediate action — investigating the scene, dealing with insurance companies, and building a strong case while you focus on healing. With our no win, no fee policy, you pay absolutely nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
Why Choose Kubota & Craig for a Car Accident Case
When it comes to protecting your rights after an auto accident, the attorney you choose matters. Here’s why Kubota & Craig stands out in Orange County:
Decades of Experience
Our legal team has over 30 years of combined experience specifically in personal injury and car accident cases. We know the intricacies of California accident law and have a long track record of favorable outcomes for our clients. As seasoned trial lawyers, we aren’t afraid to take a case to court if that’s what it takes to secure justice.
Client-Focused Service
At Kubota & Craig, you come first. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can take, so we make your well-being our priority. Our attorneys and staff are compassionate, accessible, and responsive – we keep you informed at every step, promptly address your questions, and provide personalized guidance tailored to your needs.
Proven Results
We have a history of winning significant settlements and verdicts, including multi-million dollar recoveries for victims of serious car crashes. Insurance companies know our reputation for aggressive advocacy and top industry results, which often leads to better offers for our clients.Local Trial Lawyers
As an Orange County-based firm (located in Irvine), we have deep local knowledge. We’re familiar with the local roads, accident hotspots, and courts throughout Orange County. This local insight, combined with our trial experience, gives us an edge in preparing your case. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, you’ll have award-winning trial attorneys ready to fight for you in court.No Win, No Fee Promise
We believe everyone should have access to top legal representation without upfront costs. Our contingency fee arrangement means you pay nothing unless we win. We even offer a free initial consultation, so you can understand your rights and options with no obligation.
Choosing Kubota & Craig means choosing a team that truly cares about your outcome. We handle all the legal heavy lifting – from investigating the crash to negotiating with insurers – so you can focus on what matters most: recovering and rebuilding your life.
Common Car Accident Types We Handle
No two car accidents are exactly alike. Our experienced attorneys have handled all types of motor vehicle accidents, including but not limited to:
Rear-End Collisions
These common accidents often occur in stop-and-go traffic or at red lights, frequently resulting in whiplash and other neck/back injuries. We fight to hold tailgating or distracted drivers accountable.
Intersection & T-Bone Crashes
Side-impact collisions (often at intersections when a driver runs a red light or stop sign) can cause severe injuries. We have extensive experience with high-impact T-bone accidents and intersection crash cases.Head-On Collisions
Head-on crashes at speed are among the most devastating accidents. Our team pursues maximum compensation for victims of head-on impacts, which often cause serious head, chest, or spinal injuries.Rollover Accidents
Rollover crashes (especially with SUVs or trucks) can result in catastrophic injuries. We investigate factors like vehicle design, road conditions, or tire failures that may contribute to rollovers and hold the responsible parties liable.Hit-and-Run Accidents
If you were injured by a driver who fled the scene, we can help. We coordinate with law enforcement and leverage uninsured motorist coverage to ensure you aren’t left footing the bill when a hit-and-run driver can’t be found.
DUI & Distracted Driving Accidents
Accidents caused by drunk drivers, texting drivers, or other negligent behavior are entirely preventable. We aggressively pursue claims against intoxicated or distracted drivers, seeking not only compensation for victims but also justice for such reckless conduct.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups
Crashes involving multiple cars (common on freeways in heavy traffic) can be complex when determining fault. Our attorneys are skilled at untangling multi-car accident liability and dealing with multiple insurance companies to protect your rights.
Other Motor Vehicle Accidents
Our firm also handles crashes involving motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians, buses, and commercial trucks. If your injury involves a vehicle, chances are we’ve successfully handled a similar case.
No matter how your accident happened, our legal team has the expertise to investigate it and identify who was at fault. From fender-benders to fatal crashes, Kubota & Craig has helped clients in all types of accident scenarios get the justice they deserve.
Where Crashes Happen in Orange County
Orange County recorded over 12,600 crashes in a recent year, and certain roads see more accidents than others:
Danger Zones
Santiago Canyon Rd, Laguna Canyon Rd, and Ortega Highway (SR-74) are all notorious for severe crashes.
Busy Freeways
The 5, 405, 91, and 55 freeways regularly experience congestion-related rear-end and multi-vehicle collisions.
Risky Intersections
Accidents are common at the following intersections:
- Harbor Blvd & Orangethorpe Ave (Fullerton)
- Beach Blvd & Ball Road (Anaheim)
- Chapman Ave & Harbor Blvd (Fullerton)
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Car Accident?
After a car accident injury, victims are often burdened with many unexpected expenses and losses. California law allows you to seek compensation (known as damages) for all the ways the accident has harmed you financially, physically, and emotionally. While every case is unique, here are the common types of compensation our Orange County car accident lawyers fight to recover:
Medical Expenses
This includes all medical bills related to your injury – emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgery costs, doctor appointments, medications, medical devices, and rehabilitation/physical therapy. You can also claim future medical expenses if you’ll need ongoing treatment or care due to the accident.
Lost Wages & Earnings
If your injuries force you to miss work, you can recover the income lost during your recovery. For more serious injuries impacting your long-term ability to work, we also pursue compensation for loss of future earning capacity or job opportunities missed.
Pain and Suffering
Accident victims deserve compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress they endure. While harder to quantify, these non-economic damages are often a significant component of a settlement. This category covers things like chronic pain, mental anguish, trauma/PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident.
Property Damage
You can recover the costs to repair or replace your vehicle (or other property) damaged in the crash. This includes reimbursement for vehicle damage, towing, rental car costs, or totaled vehicle value. We’ll help ensure the insurance fully covers your property losses.
Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Any other accident-related costs can be claimed as well. For example, transportation to medical appointments, modifications to your home or car due to disability, or hiring help for household chores you can’t perform while injured.
Wrongful Death Damages (if applicable)
If a loved one was tragically killed in a car accident, immediate family members can pursue a wrongful death claim. While no amount of money can replace a life, damages can include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and the value of household services the deceased provided.
In some cases involving egregious negligence or misconduct – such as a drunk driver causing a catastrophic injury – punitive damages may also be available. Punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault party for especially wrongful behavior and deter others, but they are awarded in only rare cases. Our attorneys will advise you if punitive damages could be pursued based on the facts of your case.
Ultimately, our goal is to maximize every category of compensation you are entitled to. We thoroughly document your losses and work with medical and economic experts when needed to demonstrate the full extent of your damages. Kubota & Craig fights for the absolute maximum compensation to help you rebuild your life after an accident – covering not just your bills, but also recognizing your pain, your lost time, and the impact on your future.
What to Do After a Car Crash in Orange County
Being involved in a car accident is overwhelming and stressful. In the moments and days following a crash, it’s important to take certain steps to protect your health, your rights, and any future injury claim. Here’s what to do after a car accident in Orange County:
Stay Safe & Remain at the Scene
First, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call for medical help immediately. If it’s safe, move vehicles out of traffic. California law requires drivers to remain at the scene of an accident involving injury or significant damage.
Call the Police (Dial 911)
Always report the accident to the police, especially if there are injuries or substantial property damage. Request that an officer come and make an official police report. The police report will document important details and can be valuable evidence for your insurance claim or lawsuit. Cooperate with the officers and stick to the facts when describing what happened.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel “okay,” get a medical evaluation as soon as possible – ideally at the scene or immediately afterward. Some injuries (like concussions or internal injuries) may not be obvious right away. Prompt treatment is not only critical for your health, but it also creates documentation connecting your injuries to the accident. Follow all medical advice and keep records of your treatment.
Exchange Information
Obtain contact and insurance information from the other driver(s) involved. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy details. If there are any witnesses, try to get their names and contact info as well. Do not discuss fault or apologize for the accident – simply exchange the necessary info.
Document the Scene
If you can, gather evidence at the accident scene. Take photos or videos of the vehicles’ damage, the positions of the cars, skid marks, debris, traffic signs or signals, and any visible injuries. These images can be invaluable later. Also, jot down details about the location, weather, and what you remember happening. This evidence may fade or be cleaned up quickly, so capturing it immediately is best.
*Notify Your Insurance & Consult an Attorney
Report the accident to your own auto insurance company as soon as reasonably possible (most policies require prompt notification). However, before giving a detailed statement or if the other party’s insurer contacts you, consider consulting a car accident lawyer.
An experienced attorney will advise you on your rights and communicate with insurers on your behalf to prevent any missteps. Contact Kubota & Craig for a free consultation before dealing with adjusters – we’ll guide you on the next steps to take.
In the aftermath, avoid admitting fault to anyone (police, other drivers, or insurance representatives). Even saying “I’m sorry” could be misconstrued as admitting liability. Fault determination can be complex, and the investigation may reveal you were not responsible or only partially responsible. It’s best to let the evidence speak for itself and let your attorney handle discussions of fault with the insurance companies.
Following these steps can help protect both your health and your legal rights. Once you hire Kubota & Craig, we take over the heavy lifting – investigating the crash, preserving evidence, handling all communications, and making sure deadlines are met. Your job is to focus on recovering; our job is to handle everything else.
Choosing the Right Car Accident Attorney
With so many lawyers out there, how do you choose the right car accident attorney for your case? It’s an important decision. The quality of your legal representation can significantly affect the outcome of your claim. Here are key factors to consider when selecting an Orange County car accident lawyer:
Experience with Car Accident Cases
Look for an attorney (or firm) that specializes in personal injury law and has extensive experience handling car accident claims similar to yours. An experienced lawyer will know how to investigate accidents, deal with insurance tactics, and build a strong case for compensation.
Proven Track Record
Ask about their case results. A reputable firm should be able to point to examples of successful outcomes, such as settlements or verdicts obtained for past clients. A strong track record – especially with serious injury or high-value cases – can give you confidence that they know how to win.
Knowledge of Local Courts and Roads
A lawyer who practices in Orange County will be familiar with the local court system, judges, and opposing lawyers, as well as the common accident locations in the area. This local insight can be a strategic advantage. Our team, for instance, knows Orange County communities and accident hotspots firsthand, which helps in investigating and presenting your case effectively.
Willingness to Fight (Trial Experience)
Not all personal injury lawyers are trial attorneys. Insurance companies sometimes low-ball victims if they suspect your lawyer won’t take the case to court. Choosing trial-tested attorneys (like the team at Kubota & Craig) ensures that if a fair settlement isn’t offered, your lawyer can confidently file a lawsuit and present your case to a jury. This leverage often leads to better settlement offers as well.
Client Communication & Reputation
You want a lawyer who will treat you with respect and keep you informed. Read client testimonials and reviews to gauge their reputation. Past client experiences can tell you a lot about how you’ll be treated. Does the firm promptly return calls? Do they explain things clearly? At Kubota & Craig, we pride ourselves on our communication and the trust we build with clients (see our testimonials below). Choose an attorney you feel comfortable with and who demonstrates genuine care for your situation.
No-Fee Guarantee
Most car accident lawyers work on contingency, but confirm the fee structure. You shouldn’t have to pay any upfront fees or hourly rates. The standard (as we provide) is no fee unless and until the lawyer recovers money for you. This arrangement aligns your lawyer’s interests with yours and removes the financial risk for you.
Take advantage of free consultations to talk to a prospective attorney about your case. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, learn how they would approach your claim, and see if you feel confident in their abilities.
The right attorney will offer honest advice, not make unrealistic promises, and will genuinely want to help you, not just sign you up.
Bottom line: choose a car accident lawyer with the experience, skill, and dedication that your case deserves. Kubota & Craig meets all these criteria – and more – but we encourage you to do your research and make an informed decision.
Your attorney should give you peace of mind that your case is in capable hands. If you have any questions, we’re always here and happy to explain how we can help.
Client Testimonials
Nothing speaks louder about our service and results than the words of our clients. We are proud to have helped many individuals and families in Orange County get back on their feet after serious accidents. Here are a few client testimonials that highlight the Kubota & Craig difference:
“Yoshi and Cynthia really care about you, and about making sure you get treatment for your injuries! They are experienced, fearless, and kind. I highly recommend them if you’ve been hurt in a car accident or other accident. They really fight for what you need after you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence.”
Jen H.
“Kubota & Craig’s team was exceptional in handling my complex case with the utmost professionalism and efficiency. Throughout the process, they were always available to answer any questions or concerns I had, making dealing with insurance adjusters completely stress-free. Their dedicated team worked tirelessly to ensure my case was resolved in my favor. I’m grateful for their assistance and thankful to have had such a great group of people by my side during a difficult time. For anyone seeking a reliable car accident lawyer in Orange County, I highly recommend Kubota & Craig.“
Vickie S.
These are just a couple examples of the feedback we’ve received. We invite you to read more reviews on Google, Yelp, and our website to see why clients trust Kubota & Craig when it matters most. Our commitment to excellence, empathy, and results shines through in every case we handle.
FAQ – Car Accident Claims in California
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident injury lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you have up to two years to file a lawsuit for personal injury (and up to three years for property damage claims). There are a few exceptions – for example, claims against a government agency have a much shorter deadline (often 6 months to file a formal claim). It’s best not to delay. Important evidence can disappear with time, so contacting an attorney soon after the accident will help protect your right to recover compensation before deadlines pass.
Is California a no-fault state for car accidents?
No, California is not a no-fault state. California follows a fault-based (tort) system for car accidents. This means the driver who is responsible for causing the accident is liable for the damages. As an injury victim, you have the right to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver (typically through their insurance company) for your losses. You are not required to first use your own insurance (as would be the case in a no-fault state). In California, establishing the other party’s fault is critical to your claim – which is why gathering evidence and possibly witness statements is so important. Our lawyers will thoroughly investigate to prove who was at fault in your crash.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
California follows a rule of pure comparative negligence. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault – your settlement or verdict would just be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault for an accident (perhaps you were slightly speeding) and the other driver is 80% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your damages. Unlike some states, California does not bar recovery even if you’re more than 50% at fault; theoretically you could be 99% at fault and still recover 1% of your damages. In practice, if fault is disputed, our attorneys work hard to minimize any blame placed on you. We gather evidence to show the other party’s negligence was the primary cause of the crash. Even if you suspect you were partly to blame, don’t assume you can’t recover anything – talk to us first. We’ve handled many cases with shared fault and still obtained significant compensation for our clients.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?
At Kubota & Craig, it costs nothing upfront to hire our car accident attorneys. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means our fee is a percentage of the settlement or award we obtain for you. If we don’t win, you don’t pay. There are no retainer fees or hourly bills. This arrangement allows anyone, regardless of financial situation, to get high-quality legal representation. We also advance all case costs (for things like investigators or experts) and only recoup those if we win. The bottom line: you can get top-notch legal help with no out-of-pocket cost. Our interests are aligned – we only get paid when you get paid, and the more we recover for you, the better for everyone.
Should I accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer?
It’s generally not advisable to accept the first offer from an insurance company without consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters often offer a low settlement early on, hoping you’ll take quick cash in exchange for signing away your rights. These initial offers typically don’t reflect the true value of your case – especially if you have ongoing medical treatment or don’t yet know the full extent of your injuries. Once you accept an insurance settlement, you usually can’t go back for more. We recommend letting an experienced car accident lawyer review any offer before you accept. Our attorneys can calculate a fair value for your claim, considering future costs and pain and suffering, which insurance companies often undervalue. If the offer is too low (as it often is initially), we will negotiate aggressively for a higher amount. Remember: the insurance company’s goal is to save money, whereas our goal is to get you every dollar you deserve. We have the experience to know what a fair settlement looks like for your situation.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or leaves the scene?
Unfortunately, Orange County does see accidents involving uninsured drivers or tragic hit-and-run scenarios. If you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, or a driver who can’t be identified, you still have options. First, you can file a claim through your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if you carry it (this coverage is optional in California, but many drivers have it). UM coverage can compensate you for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering up to the limits of your policy when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough insurance. Our lawyers can assist with filing a UM/UIM claim and make sure your insurer treats you fairly. If the at-fault driver was identified but has no insurance, we can also investigate their personal assets to see if it’s worth pursuing a direct lawsuit against them (though most individuals without insurance have limited assets). In hit-and-run cases, the police will try to locate the driver – if they are found, we can pursue a normal claim against them; if not, it effectively becomes an uninsured motorist situation. Don’t lose hope – even in these challenging scenarios, we’ll use every available resource (insurance policies, victim compensation funds, etc.) to get you compensation.
Have other questions about car accident claims in California? We’re here to provide answers. Contact us at any time if you need further clarification or want to discuss the specifics of your case. Our goal is to be a helpful legal resource for accident victims, from day one through resolution.
We Serve All Of Orange County
Kubota & Craig is based in Irvine and proudly serves clients throughout Orange County and Southern California. Our car accident lawyers frequently assist injured victims in communities such as:
Irvine
Our home base in the heart of Orange County, from which we serve the entire region.
Santa Ana
Helping residents of Orange County’s largest city after serious auto accidents.
Anaheim
Representing accident victims near Disneyland, the Anaheim Convention Center, and beyond.
Huntington Beach
Fighting for those injured on Beach Blvd, the 405, PCH, and other busy Surf City roads.
Orange
Serving the city of Orange, including accidents near the 55 freeway and Orange’s busy intersections.
Tustin
Providing legal help for Tustin and North Tustin motorists injured in traffic collisions.
Lake Forest
Advocating for clients in Lake Forest and nearby communities in the Saddleback Valley.
Mission Viejo
Assisting accident victims in Mission Viejo and South Orange County neighborhoods.
San Clemente & San Juan Capistrano
Serving the South County coastal communities after car and freeway accidents.
Buena Park
Representing injured drivers and passengers in Buena Park and the surrounding area.
Newport Beach & Costa Mesa
Handling auto accident claims in coastal Orange County, from Jamboree Road to the 55/73 interchange.
This is not an exhaustive list – we serve all cities and areas around Orange County, as well as cases in local Orange County car accident lawyer. No matter where your accident happened in California, our team is ready to help.
Wherever you are located, choosing a local Orange County car accident lawyer can make a big difference. We can meet with you in person – at our Irvine office or even at your home or hospital if needed. Our familiarity with the local communities we serve means we understand the context of your accident and can respond quickly. When you work with Kubota & Craig, you get the firepower of a large firm and the personal touch of a hometown team.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Recovering from a car accident is hard enough – dealing with legal and insurance issues doesn’t have to be. Let the experienced attorneys at Kubota & Craig take the burden off your shoulders. We offer a 100% free, no-obligation consultation to evaluate your case and explain your rights.
During your consultation, we will listen to your story, answer your questions, and give you an honest assessment of your options. If you choose to hire us, we immediately start working for you: investigating the crash, preserving evidence, and handling all communications with insurance companies and opposing parties. Remember, you pay nothing upfront and absolutely no fees at all unless we win compensation for you.
Take the next step toward justice and healing. Call us today at 949-218-5676 or fill out our quick online contact form to schedule your free consultation with an Orange County car accident lawyer. We are responsive 24/7 and can make arrangements to accommodate your needs.
Don’t go through this difficult time alone. With Kubota & Craig, you’ll have a trusted team of award-winning trial lawyers by your side, every step of the way. We fight tirelessly for our clients – and we’re ready to fight for you. Contact us now and let us put our experience, skill, and dedication to work to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Your road to recovery starts with a single call, and we’re here to help you every mile of the journey.
Your partners in justice,
Kubota & Craig – Orange County’s Trusted Car Accident Attorneys