Fresno Auto Accident Attorneys

Fresno Car Accident Lawyers Representing Auto Injury Victims Since 1992

Since 1992, the auto accident attorneys at the law firm of Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian have sought justice for the victims of automobile accidents. Car accident victims are often suddenly faced with costly medical expenses while they are unable to work due to their injuries.

Sadly, in other instances, accident victims suffer significant injuries that can leave them permanently disabled. Individuals who suffer catastrophic injuries typically require ongoing medical care that can quickly take a financial toll on families.

Our personal injury lawyers recognize the numerous issues that injured victims are forced to deal with after an auto accident. Our mission is to provide legal representation for accident victims to ensure they receive a financial recovery that will sufficiently provide for their needs.

If you have been injured due to another person’s carelessness on the road, you may be able to recover compensation that will pay for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you have been injured in a traffic crash due to another person’s negligent driving, it is always best to discuss your case promptly with an experienced Fresno car accident lawyer. Contact Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian immediately to schedule a free initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer who will gladly review your case and determine what legal options suit your needs.

What Should I Do if I Am Involved in a Fresno Traffic Accident?

If you or a family member has been involved in a Fresno traffic accident, you must take several steps to ensure your safety and ability to file a car accident claim. Failure to follow proper procedures could jeopardize your well-being and any legal right you may have to pursue an auto accident claim.

If you’ve been in a Fresno traffic crash, be sure to do the following:

Remain on the accident scene
If possible, move disabled vehicles to the shoulder of the road out of the path of oncoming traffic to ensure the safety of all parties involved
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If there are injuries, contact 911 immediately to report the traffic crash and request emergency medical responders
Gather information from all parties involved in the traffic collision, including their driver’s license, registration, and insurance details
Thoroughly document the accident scene by taking numerous photos and videos. Evidence may include vehicle damage, skid marks, terrain, lighting, and weather conditions. Try to take pictures of your injury and the license plates of all vehicles involved
Collect the names and contact information of bystanders who may have witnessed the accident
Be sure to request a copy of the police report for your records. In most accident cases, police reports can help to determine who was the at-fault driver and other vital information. Keep and copy police reports and medical bills – about the car accident and injury
If you have suffered injuries, seek medical attention immediately. However, even if you do not think you have been injured it is always wise to be examined by a medical professional. Many insurers will try to deny personal injury cases if there is no medical documentation to support their claims
Do not post or discuss the details of the accident on social media. Insurers can use any public statements you make to try and deny or underpay claims
Finally, immediately consult with a car accident lawyer who will advise you of your rights and assist you with the legal process involved in filing an insurance claim

If you have suffered a personal injury in a Fresno car accident, contact our law offices to schedule a free consultation so that we may answer your legal questions.

Why Do Traffic Accidents Occur?

Fresno auto accidents almost always occur due to human error. Frequently, motorists run stop signs or red lights, fail to yield at left turns, or notice cars stopped or slowing in front of them, causing rear-end collisions.

However, several other commonly cited factors contribute to accidents, including:

Distracted driving: Activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio can divert attention from the road
Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents
Impaired driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication significantly impairs judgment and coordination
Reckless driving: Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and ignoring traffic signals contribute to Fresno car accidents
Fatigue: Driving while tired or drowsy can impair cognitive abilities and decrease alertness, leading to accidents
Poor weather conditions: Rain, snow, fog, or ice can create hazardous driving conditions, reducing visibility and traction
Mechanical failures: Malfunctioning brakes, tires, steering systems, or other vehicle components can lead to loss of control and result in auto accidents
Inexperienced drivers: Lack of experience, knowledge of traffic laws, or proper training increases the likelihood of accidents, especially among young, inexperienced drivers
Poor road conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, lack of signage, or poorly maintained roads are contributing factors in Fresno car accidents
Failure to yield: Ignoring right-of-way rules or failing to yield to pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles at intersections leads to collisions
Tailgating: Following other vehicles too closely reduces the time available to react to sudden changes in traffic flow
Inadequate lighting: Poorly lit roads, especially at night, can make it difficult for drivers to see obstacles or hazards, increasing the risk of accidents
Distractions outside the vehicle: External factors such as roadside advertisements, pedestrians, or wildlife can distract drivers, causing them to lose their focus on the roadway
Aggressive driving behaviors: Engaging in aggressive behaviors like honking excessively, making rude gestures, or cutting off other drivers can escalate situations, leading to dangerous collisions
Failure to obey traffic laws: Disregarding traffic signals, stop signs, or speed limits increases the likelihood of accidents and endangers everyone on the road

Regardless of what factors may have caused your traffic collision, you need a well-qualified lawyer like Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian to review your car accident case. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

What are the Most Common Car Accident Injuries in the Fresno Area?

Car accident injuries can range from very minor, such as scrapes and bruises, to more severe trauma, such as spinal cord injuries. As a result, common injuries resulting from car accidents in Fresno can vary widely, but some frequently seen include:

Whiplash: Sudden jerking of the neck upon impact, causing soft tissue damage
Head injuries: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or skull fractures due to the force of impact
Back injuries: Sprains, strains, herniated discs, or spinal cord damage, leading to chronic pain or paralysis
Broken bones: Fractures of the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis from the impact or being thrown within the vehicle
Cuts and lacerations: Broken glass, twisted metal, or airbag deployment can cause cuts, bruises, or deep wounds
Internal injuries: Damage to organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs due to blunt-force trauma
Psychological trauma: Anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from the emotional distress of the accident
Soft tissue injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, or tendons causing pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility
Burns: Contact with hot surfaces or flames, especially in motor vehicle crashes involving fires or explosions
Seat belt injuries: Bruising or internal trauma caused by the restraint system during the collision

The most devastating personal injuries in car crashes are catastrophic injuries, such as brain injuries, spinal injuries, and lost limbs. Traumatic injuries sustained in car accidents may impact victims’ physical health, emotional well-being, and financial stability. As a result, catastrophic injuries typically require a considerable amount of compensation. Our Fresno personal injury lawyers have extensive experience helping accident victims recover maximum compensation so they can look forward to the future with confidence.

Seeking medical attention and legal guidance after an automobile accident is crucial for ensuring proper treatment and pursuing compensation for damages. Let an experienced Fresno car accident lawyer handle your case and suggest ideal legal actions for your situation.

How are Car Insurance Claims Processed?

When you have been involved in an auto accident, it is important to understand how insurance claims are processed. First, the at-fault insurance company is notified that their insured has been in a car wreck. After that, it really is a question of the types and amount of coverage held by the at-fault driver.

Typically, the insurance company assigns an adjuster to handle the property damage portion of the claim, which is typically very quickly resolved. A second adjuster is then responsible for resolving the personal or bodily injury aspects of the car accident claim.

A car accident attorney negotiates with the bodily injury adjuster to resolve the case. If no agreement can be reached, a lawsuit must be filed. Insurance companies will often try to pay auto accident victims as little as possible – sometimes nothing at all.

One of the most common tactics insurers use is to offer Fresno auto accident victims quick settlements. Insurance providers know that many injured parties cannot work and make settlement offers that are less than the claim is worth. It is important to remember that although a quick settlement offer by the insurance company may seem appealing, it most likely does not consider your future needs.

In other instances, an insurance adjuster may ask you to make a recorded statement providing accident details. Adjusters often tell claimants they need the statement to close out the case. However, insurers have the legal right to use your statement against you to try and deny, delay, or underpay your claim.

Therefore, you should never sign any admission of fault or even make a voluntary statement with the other party’s insurance company. Even more importantly, do not accept any settlement from an insurance company before speaking to an experienced Fresno auto accident lawyer with Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian.

At Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian, our personal injury attorneys make insurers play by the rules and pay you the total compensation you deserve.

Can You Settle Fresno Car Collisions Without Insurance?

Often, accident victims ask if they can settle auto accident cases without involving the insurance company. No law specifically states that motorists involved in traffic accidents must notify their insurance companies.

Although settling a car accident case without insurance is possible, it is not recommended. Even though the case can be settled, there are specific limits on the damages that can be recovered, including lost wages, property damage, and necessary medical bills.

Only single-car accidents or accidents involving minor vehicle damage may be settled without insurance coverage. If you are considering settling a car accident without insurance, there are several steps involved that you must consider, which include:

Obtaining quotes for the cost of vehicle repairs
Working out a settlement between you and the other party
Both parties signing the settlement agreement
Making sure that all payments are traceable so neither party can claim they did not receive payment

Regardless of the damage aspect of the accident, anyone involved in a motor vehicle accident should be hesitant to settle a case without insurance. Individuals often discover injuries that need medical attention not provided for in their negotiated settlement.

If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident and need clarification regarding the advantages of filing an insurance claim, contact Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian today to schedule a meeting with one of our highly experienced accident lawyers.

When Can a Driver Be Considered Negligent for Causing an Auto Accident?

Several legal factors must be present to prove that a driver was negligent and responsible for causing an auto accident. California law stipulates that when a driver fails to act with the same cautions that another reasonable person would do under the same circumstances, they can be held liable for an accident.

The legal elements of negligence include:

The driver has a duty of care to prevent harm or injury to others
The driver breached their duty of care
The driver broke a rule of the road

At Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian, we are ready to help you fight for the maximum possible compensation. Drivers may be negligent when they are:

Texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting a GPS device
Exhibiting road rage
Speeding
Disobeying traffic laws
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Driving while fatigued
Recklessly operating their motor vehicle

To seek compensation for a car accident, the claimant must have suffered an injury or monetary loss. If you have been injured by a negligent driver in Fresno, CA, you must hire an attorney who can prove all necessary legal elements and protect your rights. Contact our auto accident attorneys today to schedule a free case review.

What Type of Financial Compensation Can I Seek After Being Injured in a Car Accident?

The most pressing question for anyone who has been injured in a car accident regularly centers around what type of compensation they can recover for damages. California law states that individuals injured in auto accidents have the legal right to seek compensation for out-of-pocket expenses and non-monetary losses. That being the case, you may be compensated for the loss of income, medical expenses, loss of earning capacity, suffering, pain, and more.

Finally, families of auto accident victims who have died as a result of another driver’s negligence may also be able to recover damages by filing a wrongful death claim.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are granted to injured victims to repay them for out-of-pocket expenses incurred due to their auto accident. Economic damages may include:

Past and future medical bills
Lost wages
Loss of earning potential
Property damage

In cases where an individual needs additional compensation for medical costs, it pays to have a skilled personal injury attorney who will evaluate the claim to ensure that it provides enough compensation. If you have suffered severe auto accident injuries, you may require additional compensation that covers the cost of physical therapy and rehabilitation. Our attorneys will thoroughly evaluate your personal injury case to determine how much compensation suits your needs.

Non Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are awarded to auto accident victims to compensate them for intangible losses with a dollar value. If non-monetary losses are awarded, they are based on the facts surrounding the accident and should never be compared with other personal injury cases, as settlements will vary. Commonly awarded non-economic damages include:

Pain and suffering
Loss of enjoyment of life
Emotional trauma
Permanent disfigurement and scarring

Wrongful Death

If your loved one has been killed in a car accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim in civil court to try and recover damages. However, due to the legal intricacies associated with wrongful death claims, it is always best to consult a knowledgeable attorney to ensure your case qualifies. It should also be noted that only a qualifying immediate family member or personal representative can file a wrongful death claim on behalf of the decedent’s estate.

Families of wrongful death victims may be able to recover damages that include:

Compensation for medical expenses incurred by the decedent attributed to their fatal accident
Lost income
Loss of future wages the victim would have earned in the future
Loss of household services
Loss of companionship and emotional support
Emotional trauma

If you have been injured in a car accident, contact our Fresno auto accident attorneys so we can review your case and determine the type of compensation that is right for you. Not all car accident cases are the same. You need a Fresno car accident lawyer who will fight to help you obtain the maximum compensation that will allow you to face the future with confidence.

When Should I Consider Hiring a Fresno Car Accident Attorney?

Hiring a Fresno car accident attorney should be at the top of your list if you have been involved in a crash. The insurance company will often try to pressure you into accepting a quick settlement. Never give the at-fault insurance company adjusters any recorded statements or sign any paperwork they send you. Anything you say to the insurance company will likely be used against you when it comes time to resolve your case.

Speaking with one of our attorneys regarding your car accident claim is free. As a result, there is never such an urgency that you must give a recorded statement to the driver’s insurance company before speaking with an attorney.

In today’s economy, many clients are concerned about the cost of legal fees. Fees depend on your type of case and your age. Usually, the attorney fees for a motor vehicle accident are one-third if a case happens to be resolved prior to filing suit or if 40% of the gross recovery occurs after the suit is filed. The car accident attorney fees are usually much less if you are a minor.

If you have been injured in an accident, you should not hesitate to hire an attorney who will fight to protect your rights. The insurance company will have attorneys working hard to find ways to pay less than your claim is worth. Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian of Fresno, CA, is a law firm with years of experience dealing with insurance providers and is familiar with their tactics. Contact our law offices today and allow us to help you begin the legal process involved with filing a claim.

Why Do I Need to Hire an Auto Accident Lawyer to Help Me With the Claims Process?

After you have been involved in a Fresno auto accident, one of the best steps you can take is to hire a Fresno car accident attorney. Hiring a qualified attorney will help you have peace of mind as you go through the claims process. Having an attorney to handle the legal areas and details of the auto accident will allow you to focus on recovering physically and mentally. At Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian, we aim to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for the harm and emotional distress you have endured.

Some of the top reasons to hire an auto accident lawyer include:

Legal knowledge: Fresno car accident lawyers know relevant laws, regulations, and procedures related to personal injury claims. Experienced lawyers can navigate the complex legal system on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.
Investigation and evidence gathering: Car accident lawyers have the resources and expertise to conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding your accident. Furthermore, accident attorneys can gather crucial evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony to support your claim.
Negotiation with insurance companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Car accident lawyers are skilled negotiators who can handle discussions with insurance adjusters on your behalf, advocating for fair compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.
Assessment of damages: Fresno car accident attorneys can accurately assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and future financial needs. They can help you understand the actual value of your claim and pursue appropriate compensation.
Legal representation in court: A car accident lawyer is crucial if your case goes to trial. They can present your case persuasively to a judge and jury, using compelling evidence and arguments to advocate for your rights and interests.
Peace of mind: Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially if you are recovering from injuries or facing financial hardships. Hiring Fresno car accident attorneys can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that a skilled legal professional is handling your case and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Overall, having a car accident lawyer can level the playing field against insurance companies and ensure you receive fair treatment and just compensation for your injuries and losses.

What Questions Should I Ask When Looking to Hire Car Accident Lawyers?

There are various questions that you should consider asking a car accident lawyer during your first meeting with a personal injury attorney. Experienced Fresno car accident attorneys will usually answer most of these questions, but it is still ideal to go prepared.

Questions that should be posed to car accident lawyers include:

What is your experience handling car accident cases in Fresno? Inquire about the car accident lawyer’s experience, specifically with car accident cases in Fresno. You want someone familiar with local laws, courts, and procedures.
What is your track record of success with car accident cases? Ask about the lawyer’s past results, including settlements and verdicts obtained for clients in car accident cases. Learning about an attorney’s record for winning cases can give you an idea of their ability to achieve favorable outcomes.
Will you personally handle my case, or will it be assigned to another attorney or staff member? Ensure that the car accident lawyer you are speaking with will be directly involved in handling your case rather than delegating it to someone else.
What is your fee structure? Understand how the Fresno car accident lawyer charges for their services, whether on a contingency fee basis (where they only get paid if you win your case) or through hourly rates. Clarify any potential costs or expenses associated with your case.
How will communication be handled throughout the process? Discuss how often you can expect updates on your personal injury claim and the preferred method of communication (email, phone calls, in-person meetings). Clear communication is essential for a successful attorney-client relationship.
What is your approach to resolving car accident cases? Learn about the Fresno car accident lawyer’s strategy for handling car accident cases, including negotiation tactics with insurance companies and willingness to go to trial if necessary.
Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients? Request references from previous clients who have worked with the lawyer on car accident cases. Hearing about their experiences can provide valuable insights into what it is like to work with an attorney.
How long do you anticipate my personal injury claim will take to resolve? While it is challenging to provide an exact timeline, the Fresno car accident attorney should be able to give you an estimate based on the specifics of your case and their experience handling similar matters.
What steps should I take now to protect my legal rights? Ask for guidance on what you should do immediately following the accident to preserve evidence and protect your legal interests.

Some essential questions to keep in mind are related to how the auto accident happened, treatment and witnesses, and your injuries. Some less obvious questions could include possible ‘crossover’ personal injury law cases, such as possible medical malpractice, family or estate type issues, probate, or car accident claims.

Why Should I Hire Your Fresno Car Accident Lawyers to Help Me With My Insurance Claim?

When individuals have been involved in car accidents, they need time to heal and focus on their recovery. One of the last issues accident victims want to deal with is the process involved with filing a claim.

Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian is a law firm in Fresno, CA that takes pride in helping auto accident victims through the complex claims process and will act as a legal advocate for the insurance company.

When you come to us for help with your car accident claim, we take time to discuss your needs and determine what type of financial recovery is in your best interests. Many other Fresno car accident attorneys claim to be able to win significant settlements for clients. However, many accident lawyers need more training and courtroom experience when dealing with personal injury claims.

Our personal injury lawyers have comprehensive experience handling all aspects of accident claims. Unlike other attorneys, who often try to settle claims quickly to avoid going to court, our dedicated legal team has years of trial experience and is fearless when facing insurers.

Our Fresno car accident lawyers keep their hours flexible to accommodate your scheduling needs. We strive to return every call promptly and fight to get you the best possible outcome for your auto accident case.

Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian represents our clients in Fresno, Madera, Tulare, Kingsburg, and Hanford counties. Our staff is fluent in Spanish and French, so do not let a language barrier keep you from seeking the legal help you deserve to help you obtain the best possible outcome. Contact our Fresno car accident lawyers today by calling us at 559-545-0383. You can also contact us online to schedule a consultation.