Anaheim, CA (March 16, 2026) – Two officers were hurt on Saturday, March 14, after a crash involving a wrong-way driver near Gene Autry Way and the northbound Interstate 5 Freeway in Anaheim.

Authorities said the incident began shortly after 2 a.m. when dispatchers received reports of a vehicle traveling the wrong direction on the eastbound 91 Freeway.

At about 2:24 a.m., a patrol vehicle encountered the driver, and the two vehicles crashed near Gene Autry Way along the northbound I-5 corridor.

Emergency units responded to the scene and evaluated those involved. Officials said the two officers suffered mild injuries and were treated at the location.

The driver of the other vehicle was taken to a nearby hospital. Officials have not released details about that person’s condition.

Video from the area showed beer cans on top of the car involved in the crash. Investigators are reviewing whether alcohol may have played a role in the incident. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash.

Our thoughts are with those injured as they recover.

Can On-Duty Police Officers Receive Compensation After a Crash in Anaheim?

Yes, a police officer can claim compensation after a crash in California, but the type of compensation available usually depends on the circumstances of the accident and whether it occurred while the officer was performing job duties. In many cases, injured officers rely on workers’ compensation benefits first, though additional legal options may exist if another driver caused the crash.

Under California law, police officers are considered public safety employees, and they are generally covered by the state’s workers’ compensation system if they are injured while working.

This means that if an officer is hurt in a car crash while on duty, such as during patrol, emergency response, or another job-related activity, they may be eligible for benefits that cover medical treatment, disability payments, and other costs related to the injury.

In addition to workers’ compensation, a police officer may sometimes pursue a separate personal injury claim if another party was responsible for the crash. For example, if a civilian driver caused the accident through negligence, the officer may have the right to file a third-party claim seeking damages that workers’ compensation does not cover, such as pain and suffering or certain financial losses.

However, workers’ compensation systems and government employers may have rules about reimbursement or liens on those settlements, which can affect how compensation is distributed.

It is also important to note that not every injury automatically qualifies for benefits. Officers must usually report the injury to their employer and follow the proper claim procedures, and each claim is reviewed to determine whether the injury is work-related and eligible for compensation under California law.

Because these cases can involve both employment law and personal injury law, officers injured in vehicle crashes often consult legal professionals to better understand their rights and the types of compensation that may be available.

A car accident lawyer can review the police report to identify details that may support an injury claim. A lawyer can also gather additional records, communicate with insurers, and explain the next steps after a crash.

Our team at Saleh Law Group has years of experience reviewing personal injury cases after all sorts of collisions in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, contact us at (949) 431-6371 today.

Newhall, CA (March 1, 2026) – Two people died in a two-vehicle crash on Sunday, March 1, at the intersection of Newhall Avenue and Sierra Highway in Newhall.

Authorities received reports of the collision around 6:50 a.m. Officials confirmed that three people were involved in the crash. Two victims died at the scene, while a third person was evaluated and found not injured.

One of the deceased victims was trapped inside a vehicle after the impact. Emergency crews freed the individual from the wreckage before clearing the scene.

Paramedics assessed the third person at the location and determined hospital transport was not required. Officials have not released the identities of the victims.

Crews remained at the scene for several hours, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. The Los Angeles County Fire Department continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the deadly collision.

We extend our sincere condolences to the families of those who lost their lives during this challenging time.

How Wrongful Death Claims Work in California

Wrongful death claims in California allow certain family members to pursue financial recovery after a fatal accident. State law permits close relatives to file a civil claim against the party believed to be legally responsible. These cases focus on measurable financial losses tied to the person’s death.

A surviving spouse, domestic partner, or children generally have the first right to file. In some situations, others who relied on the deceased for financial support may also qualify. California statutes define who may bring the claim and how the process must move forward.

Compensation may include funeral and burial expenses, along with lost income and employment benefits. Families may also seek recovery for the value of household services once provided by the deceased. Courts review documented proof to determine appropriate damages.

To succeed, the claim must show that another party acted negligently or wrongfully. Evidence often includes crash reports, witness statements, medical records, and financial documentation. Judges rely on clear facts when deciding liability and awarding damages.

California law generally provides two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. Filing within this time frame preserves the ability to seek recovery. Missing the deadline can prevent the case from moving forward.

Insurance companies often conduct independent evaluations after a fatal collision. Adjusters review liability, examine records, and estimate potential damages before discussing settlement terms. Careful review of any proposed agreement remains important before signing.

When more than one eligible family member exists, the claim is usually filed as a single action. This approach helps avoid inconsistent outcomes and ensures any recovery follows state distribution rules. Coordination among claimants supports an orderly legal process.

An auto accident attorney can review available records and explain eligibility requirements. A lawyer can also organize documents and communicate with insurers.

Saleh Law Group works with families who have lost loved ones in crashes across Southern California. We have years of experience reviewing wrongful death claims and explaining available legal options. 

To discuss your case and learn more about your available options, contact Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371.