Fresno Car Accident Lawyer

A car crash can turn your life upside down in seconds—leaving you injured, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do next. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we’re here to help you pick up the pieces. If you were injured in a car accident in Fresno, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Our Fresno car accident lawyers are experienced in standing up to insurance companies, building strong cases, and fighting to get victims the justice they deserve.

Call us now at (213) 927-3700 or fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7, and you won’t pay a dime unless we win your case.

Why Choose West Coast Trial Lawyers After a Car Accident in Fresno?

When everything feels overwhelming, the lawyer you choose can make all the difference. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we bring the experience, dedication, and results that Fresno car accident victims need to move forward—and we do it with care.

Here’s why more people in Fresno trust us after a crash:

Hands-On, Personalized Representation
Unlike some firms that pass you off to assistants, our attorneys personally handle your case. We dig into every detail—from crash reports to treatment records—to fight for every dollar you’re owed.

We Take On Insurance Companies—and Win
Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts by downplaying injuries or blaming you. We know their playbook. Our team pushes back hard and isn’t afraid to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to secure real compensation.

Legal Authority with National Recognition
Our attorneys are respected legal commentators featured on major news outlets. We bring that same credibility, strategy, and authority into every Fresno case we handle.

Elite Legal Training, Real-World Success
Educated at top-tier law schools like Harvard, our team pairs world-class training with proven courtroom experience to provide the highest level of representation in California.

A Proven Track Record- Over $1.7 Billion Recovered
We’ve helped thousands of injury victims recover over $1.7 billion in verdicts and settlements. When we say we get results, we mean it.

No Upfront Fees. No Surprises.
You won’t pay a dime unless we win your case. We work on a contingency fee basis—no hidden charges, no upfront costs, no financial risk.

Local Service, Dedicated Support
We proudly serve clients across the Central Valley, and we treat every Fresno client like family. From the first call to the final settlement, you’ll always know where your case stands.

Ready to Go to Trial if Needed
We build every case with trial in mind. That preparation gives us the edge in negotiations—and ensures we’re ready to fight in court if the insurance company won’t do what’s right.

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we know the road to recovery isn’t easy. But you don’t have to walk it alone. We’re here to lift the burden, protect your rights, and help you rebuild your future—one step at a time.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Fresno

During the chaotic moments after a car accident, staying calm and taking specific actions is essential for protecting your rights and health. Start by calling 911 to report the accident, ensuring prompt assistance for any injuries and proper documentation of the incident.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

After an accident, seek medical attention even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Prompt medical evaluation helps identify injuries that might not be visible initially. Seeking medical care as soon as possible after a car accident is vital for your health and strengthens your personal injury case.

Endorphins released during an accident can mask pain, making it essential to seek medical attention even if no immediate symptoms are apparent. Documenting injuries early on supports your case and ensures you receive the necessary treatment

Documenting Your Accident

Comprehensive documentation of your accident is crucial for a successful personal injury claim. Collect detailed documentation, such as accident reports and medical records, to support your case. Keep copies of your medical bills and save receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident. Request a copy of the police report for filing an insurance claim.

During the documentation process, obtain the names and badge numbers of responding police officers at the scene to ensure accurate records. Take photographs from various angles to capture the damage to all vehicles involved. Collect contact details from witnesses to support your account of the incident.

Stay organized by keeping a record of all communications with the insurance adjuster for clarity during negotiations.

When speaking to the police at the accident scene, avoid admitting fault and only state facts you know to be true. Taking these immediate steps can protect your rights and preserve compensation claims. Failing to follow proper procedures could jeopardize your well-being and legal rights, whereas following the right steps helps establish a solid foundation for your claim. Personal injury attorneys can guide you through these immediate steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your damages.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Fresno

Knowing the common causes of car accidents in Fresno can help you stay vigilant and potentially avoid such incidents. Distracted driving, especially due to cell phone use, is a significant contributor to accidents in the area. Speeding, which accounts for about one-third of fatal vehicle crashes nationwide, is another major cause. In Fresno, exceeding speed limits often leads to severe collisions.

Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs is a leading factor in many car accidents, hampering a driver’s reaction time and decision-making abilities, and increasing the likelihood of a crash. Understanding these causes can help drivers adopt safer habits and potentially reduce their risk of being involved in an accident.

Typical Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some with long-lasting effects. Here are some common types of injuries:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), often caused by impact to the head, can lead to serious long-term disability or even death.
• Spinal cord injuries are also common, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis.
• Back injuries, which may manifest later, can result in chronic pain and significant disability.

Knee injuries, such as cartilage tears, can occur when the knee makes forceful contact during a collision. Burns may result if a vehicle ignites or if skin contacts hot materials, sometimes requiring surgical intervention. Internal injuries from blunt force trauma can lead to emergencies like internal bleeding. Fractures, including broken bones in limbs and pelvis, are common in car accidents, with varying degrees of severity.

Facial injuries from crashes can result from impacts with various surfaces, potentially leading to disfigurement requiring cosmetic surgery. Whiplash, a common soft tissue injury from rapid neck movement, can cause chronic pain. Recognizing these injuries can help accident victims seek appropriate medical treatment and support for their recovery.

Navigating Car Insurance Claims

Navigating the insurance claims process after a car accident can be daunting. You can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurer or pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Notify the at-fault insurance company about the accident. During initial communications with insurance adjusters, remain calm and professional to foster a positive negotiation environment.

Avoid signing any admission of fault or making voluntary statements to the other party’s insurance company. Providing a statement soon after an accident can result in inaccuracies that may harm your claim. Be prepared to counter initial low settlement offers with documented evidence supporting your claim, as insurance adjusters aim to minimize compensation payouts.

Quick settlement offers may not consider future needs and could be less than your claim is worth. If negotiations become challenging, seeking assistance from a personal injury attorney can help secure a more favorable settlement. Understanding the insurance claims process enables accident victims to better advocate for their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.

Understanding Driver Negligence

Driver negligence is a critical concept in personal injury cases. In California, a driver is considered negligent if they fail to act with the same caution a reasonable person would under similar circumstances. Whether the driver acted with reasonable care is essential for establishing fault in car accident cases.

California follows a pure comparative negligence system, meaning compensation can be reduced based on the driver’s percentage of fault. For instance, if the injured party was not wearing a seatbelt, this can impact the percentage of fault assigned and reduce the compensation.

Understanding these principles can help accident victims navigate the legal complexities of their personal injury claims.

Wrongful Death Claims in Car Accidents

Tragically, some car accidents result in fatalities, leading to wrongful death claims. In California, wrongful death is defined as a death caused by another party’s negligence. Families can seek a wrongful death claim when a victim dies due to negligence. Only certain individuals, such as a spouse, children, or domestic partners, are eligible to file these claims.

Surviving family members can claim damages such as lost financial support and funeral expenses. California imposes a two-year limit for filing wrongful death claims related to car accidents. Even if no criminal charges are pursued against the negligent party, wrongful death claims can still be filed.

To recover damages, families of wrongful death victims should consult an experienced Fresno car accident attorney.

Types of Compensation Available

After a car accident, victims have the right to seek compensation for their losses. Claims can cover a range of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These are categorized into economic and non-economic damages. Knowing the types of compensation available ensures that accident victims receive fair and maximum compensation for their injuries.

Economic damages cover measurable financial losses directly linked to the accident, such as medical expenses and lost wages. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, refer to compensation for intangible losses that affect a victim’s quality of life, such as pain and suffering and emotional distress. By seeking appropriate compensation, accident victims can address both their financial and personal losses.

Economic Damages

Economic damages encompass measurable financial losses resulting from a car accident, including out-of-pocket expenses like medical costs and rehabilitation. Future medical expenses are also considered when calculating economic damages for long-term injuries.

Lost wages due to injuries cover both immediate income loss and potential future earnings reduced by the accident. Out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident, such as transportation to medical appointments, are also part of economic damages.

Accurately calculating damages, including medical expenses and lost wages, is crucial for determining the value of your claim.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages refer to compensation for intangible losses that affect a victim’s quality of life. Emotional distress, including anxiety and depression stemming from the accident, is included in this category.

Loss of enjoyment of life, where victims can no longer participate in cherished activities, is another non-economic damage. These damages address the emotional and psychological impact of a car accident on the victim’s life.

Why You Need a Fresno Car Accident Lawyer

Consulting a Fresno car accident lawyer provides invaluable guidance for navigating the claims process effectively. Hiring a lawyer brings essential legal knowledge to handle the complexities of personal injury claims. They manage communication with insurers to build your case effectively. Additionally, seeking help from Fresno car accident lawyers can further enhance your chances of a successful outcome. Enlisting the help of experienced Fresno personal injury attorneys is crucial for navigating the legal complexities and maximizing compensation. A Fresno personal injury attorney can also provide valuable support throughout this process.

Filing a lawsuit can encourage insurers to reach a fair settlement, potentially leading to better compensation for the claimant. Lawyers gather evidence to support your case, especially if there’s conflicting testimony. Consulting a car accident lawyer helps determine legal options that suit your needs and improves your chances of receiving maximum compensation.

Hiring a car accident attorney provides peace of mind during the car accident claim process. Car accident attorneys and car accident lawyers can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

How Long Does a Personal Injury Case Take?

The length of a personal injury case can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case and the willingness of the insurance company to settle. In general, a personal injury case can take anywhere from a few months to several years to resolve. Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer is crucial, as they can guide you through the process and ensure your case is resolved as quickly and efficiently as possible. An experienced personal injury lawyer will handle all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Speak To Expert Fresno Personal Injury Lawyers For Free

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you deserve more than just sympathy—you deserve action. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our law firm is committed to helping Fresno car accident victims file strong personal injury claims and fight for the fair compensation they’re owed. We understand how overwhelming this process can be, especially when you’re dealing with pain, medical bills, and lost income.

That’s why our attorneys handle everything for you—communicating with insurance companies, gathering evidence, and building a case that puts your needs first. We don’t just aim for quick settlements—we fight for what’s right.

Call us today at (213) 927-3700 or fill out this contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation with a trusted Fresno car accident lawyer. We’re available 24/7, and you won’t pay anything unless we win your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fresno Car Accidents

How Much Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge in California?

In California, car accident lawyers generally work on a contingency fee basis, meaning their payment is a portion of the settlement amount a client secures. This portion aligns with the standard practice for their services in these situations, ensuring clients have access to legal representation without upfront costs.

How Much to Expect From Car Accident Settlement California?

The amount of a car accident settlement in California can vary greatly based on the specific circumstances of the case. It is best to consult with a legal professional for an accurate estimation.

Can Someone Sue You for a Car Accident if You Have Insurance in California?

Yes, having insurance in California does not prevent someone from suing you for a car accident. It’s important to understand that car insurance is not comprehensive protection against being sued for an accident.

Who Determines Fault in an Auto Accident in California?

Insurance companies play a significant role in determining fault and liability in car accidents in California. They investigate the accident and determine fault based on factors like police reports and witness statements.