Fresno Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents are a harsh reality, and Fresno is no exception. With busy streets and highways, the risk of traffic incidents in this California city is a constant concern:

• Statewide Figures: In 2021, California witnessed 3,582 fatal crashes leading to 3,904 deaths, suggesting that fatal crashes often involve multiple fatalities.
• Injury Crashes: There were 193,564 injury crashes in California in the same year, causing 277,160 injuries, averaging about 1.43 injuries per crash.

If you’ve been affected by a car accident in Fresno, it’s your right to seek just compensation. These incidents can cause physical, emotional, and financial distress. At Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, we offer a complimentary consultation to discuss your case and advise on the best course of action. We stand with you in these challenging times.

Fresno Car Accident Statistics

Driving in Fresno offers convenience but also comes with the risk of accidents, given its busy roads and highways. In 2021, California reported 3,582 fatal accidents resulting in 3,904 fatalities, highlighting the potential for multiple fatalities in a single incident. Additionally, there were 193,564 injury-causing crashes, totaling 277,160 injuries, averaging about 1.43 injuries per crash. These statistics emphasize the importance of safe driving practices in Fresno to reduce traffic incidents and their often severe outcomes.

Total Injuries & Fatalities

• 2019: 187
• 2020: 819
• 2021: 1,044
• 2022: 1,259
• 2023: 1,133

Statistics on Fatal and Injury Causing Collisions in Fresno

In examining the data on accidents causing injuries and fatalities in Fresno over the past five years, a notable trend emerges. From 2019 to 2023, there was a significant surge in these incidents, jumping by a staggering 506%. This spike highlights a concerning rise in road safety challenges within the city. Understanding these statistics underscores the importance of proactive measures to enhance traffic safety and reduce the risk of accidents on Fresno’s roads.

Primary Collision Factor

• Right-of-Way: 305
• Unsafe Speed: 220
• Traffic Signals/Signs: 191
• DUI: 100
• Improper Turning: 91
• All Other Factors: 226

Statistics on Common Causes of Collisions in Fresno

Further analysis of the data reveals a troubling trend: failure to yield the right of way emerged as the primary collision factor in a significant portion of these accidents. This finding underscores the critical need for improved driver awareness and adherence to traffic laws. By promoting responsible driving behaviors and education, we can strive towards creating safer roadways for all residents and commuters in Fresno.

Which Roads and Intersections in Fresno Are the Most Dangerous?

Car accidents in Fresno can occur in any location, with certain areas being more prone to incidents. These include:

Busy Intersections and Downtown Areas

Intersections like Blackstone and Shaw Avenues and Cedar and Shields Avenues are notorious for high collision rates involving motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. Drivers need to be vigilant and adhere to traffic laws in these areas. Some other intersections that have a high frequency of accidents are Herndon and Milburn Avenues, along with Bullard and Palm Avenues.

Major Highways

Highways like State Route 99 and State Route 41 running through Fresno are often congested, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Common causes include speeding, distracted driving, and unsafe lane changes. Some of the locations where accidents frequently occur on these highways are:

• State Route 99 and Jensen Avenue: This interchange is a major entry point to Fresno from the south and has a high volume of traffic.
• State Route 41 and Friant Road: This interchange is near the River Park Shopping Center and Woodward Park and has a lot of merging and exiting traffic.
• State Route 41 and Ashlan Avenue: This interchange is near the Fresno Yosemite International Airport and the Fresno City College and has a lot of traffic signals and cross traffic.

Residential Zones

Neighborhoods around schools, parks, and shopping areas also witness traffic incidents due to a mix of residential and commercial traffic. Drivers should observe speed limits and be cautious of pedestrians and cyclists. Some of the residential zones that have a high rate of accidents are:

• Sunnyside: This neighborhood is located in the southeast part of Fresno and has several schools, parks, and shopping centers.
• Tower District: This neighborhood is located in the central part of Fresno and has a lot of historic buildings, restaurants, and nightlife venues.
• Hoover: This neighborhood is located in the northeast part of Fresno and has a lot of apartment complexes, schools, and retail stores.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Fresno?

A car accident in Fresno can be a scary and stressful experience, but you need to act quickly and wisely to protect yourself and your future. Here are the steps you should take after a crash:

Document the Accident

Don’t throw away or lose any documents related to your car accident in Fresno. Keep all your medical bills, prescriptions, and reports in a safe place. These records will show how badly you were hurt and how hard you tried to get better. They will also help you prove your losses and damages if you decide to seek compensation.

Follow Medical Advice

Your health comes first after a car accident in Fresno. Listen to your doctor and follow their instructions carefully. Don’t skip any appointments or treatments. If you don’t take care of yourself, the insurance company or the court might think your injuries are not that serious, and you might get less money than you deserve.

Notify Your Insurance

Tell your insurance company about the car accident in Fresno as soon as you can. If you wait too long, you might lose your coverage. But don’t give them too much information or agree to anything before you talk to a lawyer. The insurance company might try to trick you into accepting a low offer or admitting fault.

Preserve Evidence

Evidence is the key to winning your car accident case in Fresno. Don’t fix your car or get rid of any damaged items until they are documented. Take pictures of the crash site, your car, and your injuries. Also, get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who saw what happened. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.

Call a Lawyer

After a car accident in Fresno, you need a good lawyer on your side. The Text Kevin Accident Attorneys is a great choice, with a history of getting great results for our clients, including millions of dollars in settlements and awards. We have many awards and honors, such as Super Lawyers 2021 and the Avvo Clients’ Choice Award. We know how to deal with insurance companies, and we are not afraid to go to court if needed. With the Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, you can trust us to handle your car accident case in Fresno. These steps will help you take care of yourself and your rights after a car accident in Fresno. Remember, the Text Kevin Accident Attorneys is here to help you and support you through this tough time.

We’ll Fight to Recover Compensation for All of Your Car Accident Injuries

If you are involved in a car accident in Fresno, you may suffer from different kinds of injuries, depending on the severity of the crash. Some injuries are mild and heal quickly, while others are serious and can change your life forever. That’s why it’s crucial to get the right medical and legal help if you or someone you love is hurt in a car accident in Fresno. This way, you can recover from your injuries and protect your rights.

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Whiplash and neck injuries are prevalent in car accidents, particularly in rear-end collisions. In Fresno, where traffic can be heavy, such sudden impacts can cause the head and neck to jerk abruptly, leading to whiplash. Symptoms typically include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches, sometimes accompanied by dizziness or blurred vision. Fresno residents must seek medical attention following a car accident, as some symptoms might only appear gradually. Treatments often involve pain relief and physical therapy, with recovery times varying from a few weeks to longer periods.

Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Concussions and more severe TBIs are serious injuries that can occur in Fresno car accidents. These injuries result from the brain being jolted inside the skull due to the collision’s impact. Symptoms can range from headaches and confusion to more severe effects like prolonged unconsciousness or permanent brain damage. The treatment for these injuries can vary significantly, from rest and medication for mild concussions to intensive rehabilitation for more serious TBIs.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Broken bones and fractures are common outcomes of car accidents in Fresno. The force of a collision can lead to fractures in various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, ribs, and hips. The severity and treatment of these injuries can vary greatly. Some may require a simple cast, while others, like complex hip fractures, might need surgical intervention and extensive recovery time.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries, resulting from damage to the spinal cord, are among the most severe injuries that can occur in Fresno car accidents. These injuries can lead to a loss of function, such as mobility or sensation, below the injury site. Treatment typically includes surgery and extensive rehabilitation, and in severe cases, these injuries can lead to permanent disabilities like paralysis.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries in Fresno car accidents are particularly concerning because they may not be immediately apparent. These injuries can be life-threatening, occurring when the collision’s force damages internal organs. Symptoms might include abdominal pain and difficulty breathing. Anyone involved in a Fresno car accident needs to undergo a medical evaluation promptly. Treatment varies based on severity and may include anything from monitoring to emergency surgery.

Psychological Trauma

The psychological impact of car accidents in Fresno is significant. Victims may experience mental and emotional distress, such as anxiety, PTSD, depression, and phobias related to driving or traveling. These conditions can profoundly affect daily life and overall well-being.

Burn Injuries

Burn injuries can occur in car accidents in Fresno, particularly in severe collisions that lead to fires or explosions. These injuries can range from minor to severe and require immediate medical attention. The risk of infection and the potential for long-term scarring and disfigurement makes these injuries particularly serious. Treatment may include pain management, skin grafts, and extensive rehabilitation.

Further Reading

• Shoulder Pain 6 Months After Car Accident
• Neck Surgery After Car Accident

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

Understanding the cost of hiring a car accident lawyer in Fresno after an accident is a common concern. Car accidents can result in considerable financial strain, including hefty repair costs, lost wages due to missed work, and mounting medical bills. Luckily, at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, we handle all cases on a contingency fee arrangement. This means you can secure legal representation without any initial out-of-pocket expenses, and we only require payment if we successfully win your case. Should we fail to secure a settlement or judgment in your favor, you will not owe us any fees.

Can I Recover Compensation if I Share Some of the Blame for a Car Accident in Fresno?

Many individuals in Fresno question if they’re eligible for compensation after a car accident, especially if they share some of the blame. It’s not uncommon to find yourself in situations where fault is shared. For instance, you might be involved in a collision with a driver on the wrong side of the road, yet you were driving without your headlights on at night, contributing to the accident’s occurrence. According to California law, you can still obtain compensation even if you were partly at fault in the accident. However, the compensation amount will be adjusted based on your share of the fault. For example, if you were found to be 2 percent at fault for the accident, you could claim 98 percent of the total damages awarded.

What Causes Car Accidents in Fresno, CA?

In Fresno, as in the rest of California, individuals injured in car accidents due to another’s negligence have the right to seek compensation. This includes compensation for injuries resulting from various forms of negligent behavior:

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a significant concern in Fresno, reflecting a broader issue across California. Engaging in any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from driving is considered distracted driving. This includes the illegal use of a cell phone for talking or texting while driving, as stated in California Vehicle Code Section 23123. Additionally, texting while driving is specifically prohibited under California Vehicle Code Section 23123.5. These laws aim to mitigate accidents caused by drivers not fully concentrating on the road.

Speeding

Speeding is a common cause of traffic accidents in Fresno. According to California Vehicle Code Section 22350, driving at a speed considered unsafe for the current conditions, which may be lower than the posted speed limit, is illegal. Drivers causing accidents due to speeding or driving too fast for conditions can be held liable for the resulting damages, as this behavior breaches the required standard of care.

Failure to Yield

Failure to yield the right of way is a common form of negligence on the roads of Fresno, especially in busy intersections and areas with high pedestrian traffic. Under California Vehicle Code Section 21801, drivers are required to yield in various situations, such as during left turns or when pedestrians are in crosswalks. Collisions often occur in Fresno when drivers ignore these rules, leading to accidents with other vehicles or pedestrians. The driver who failed to yield is typically found at fault and liable for any resulting injuries and damages.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

DUI is a major cause of car accidents in Fresno, mirroring the situation across California. California Vehicle Code Section 23152 prohibits operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both, including prescription and over-the-counter medications that impair driving ability. DUI offenses are taken very seriously due to the high risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Drivers involved in DUI accidents in Fresno are likely to face significant legal consequences and liability for damages and injuries caused.

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit-and-run incidents, where a driver leaves the scene of an accident without providing contact information or aiding the injured, pose a serious legal challenge in Fresno. As per California Vehicle Code Section 20001, drivers involved in accidents, particularly those resulting in injuries or fatalities, are legally obligated to stop and fulfill specific duties. Failure to do so can lead to felony charges. Victims of hit-and-run accidents in Fresno may find it challenging to obtain compensation, but legal options are available, and the responsible party can face severe penalties.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Under California law, applicable in Fresno as well, all drivers must have minimum liability insurance as mandated by California Vehicle Code Section 16029. Nonetheless, not all drivers adhere to this requirement, complicating situations where accidents involve uninsured or underinsured motorists. In such cases, victims might need to depend on their own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for compensation. When you or someone you care about is hurt in a car accident in Fresno, you may have to deal with a lot of legal challenges. California car accident law can be complicated and confusing, and you may not get the fair compensation you deserve. That’s why you need a skilled lawyer on your side. At Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, we can help you with your car accident case and fight for your rights.

Fresno Car Accident FAQs

Contact Our Fresno Car Accident Attorneys Today for Legal Help

If you’re involved in a car accident in Fresno, reach out to Text Kevin Accident Attorneys for a free consultation. With our skill and commitment, we’ll strive to secure the compensation and justice you deserve. Remember, we only charge fees when you win.

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