AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS HELPING THOSE INJURED IN ACCIDENT SINCE 1992
- Our Fresno personal injury lawyers have been fighting for justice on behalf of car accident victims for over two decades.
- An honest and aggressive lawyer can handle the negotiations to ensure you receive a fair compensation.
- Our award-winning law firm is proud to represent clients in Central California including Madera, Tulare, Kingsburg, and Hanford counties.
- We have flexible hours, so you can meet with a top car accident attorney when it’s convenient for you.
- Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to their clients, which is one of the several reasons why we are recognized as one of the best law firms in California and have a rating of 4.7/5.0 stars – based on 33 reviews.
- There are a number of written reviews and video testimonials that will tell you more about what it’s like to work with us.
Since 1992, the auto accident attorneys at the law firm of Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian have sought justice for the victims of automobile accidents. If you have been involved in an injury due to a traffic crash because of another person’s negligent driving, discuss your case promptly with an experienced fresno car accident lawyer.
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
- Handling children
- Exhibiting road rage
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving while over-fatigued
- In too much of a big hurry
Insurance companies invariably try to pay auto accident victims as little as possible and sometimes nothing at all. We make insurers play by the rules and pay you the full compensation you deserve. If defective auto parts or poor road conditions were a factor in your car accident injuries then, those responsible may also be pursued for damages.
WHAT TO DO WHEN A FRESNO TRAFFIC ACCIDENT HAPPENS
If you are injured in an auto accident in Fresno, CA, seek medical treatment immediately. Try to take pictures of your injury, the accident scene, and the license plates of all vehicles involved. Get the name, address, and insurance information of the other driver(s), and the names and contact information of any witnesses. Keep and copy any documents – such as police reports and medical bills – pertaining to the car accident and injury.
Don’t sign any admission of fault or even make a statement. Don’t accept any settlement from an insurance company before speaking to an experienced Fresno auto accident lawyer with Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian.
The most devastating personal injuries in car crashes – such as brain and spinal injuries and lost limbs – require a considerable amount of compensation. Let an experienced Fresno car accident lawyer handle your case and suggest the most ideal legal actions for your specific situation. You may be compensated for the loss of income, medical expenses and earning capacity, suffering, pain, and more.
WHY DO TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS OCCUR?
Almost always Fresno auto accidents occur because of human error; someone ran a stop sign or red light, someone failed to yield at a left turn, someone failed to see a car stopped or slowing in front of them and rear ends that car. It is fairly rare to have a car component fail and cause an accident; it happens, but it is quite uncommon.
- 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 accidents.
- Inexperienced drivers: Lack of experience, knowledge of traffic laws, or proper training increases the likelihood of accidents, especially among young drivers.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, lack of signage, or poorly maintained roads contribute to 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 and cause accidents.
- Aggressive driving behaviors: Engaging in aggressive behaviors like honking excessively, making rude gestures, or cutting off other drivers can escalate situations and lead to accidents.
- Failure to obey traffic laws: Disregarding traffic signals, stop signs, or speed limits increases the likelihood of accidents and endangers everyone on the road.
CAN YOU SETTLE CAR COLLISIONS WITHOUT INSURANCE?
Yes, but your recovery is limited to your property damage, wage loss, and reasonable and necessary medical bills. If this is your situation, it is advised to speak with a Fresno car accident attorney as soon as possible.
HOW ARE 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 the at-fault driver bought. Normally, 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 responsible for resolving the personal or bodily injury aspects of the claim. The car accident attorney will negotiate with the bodily injury adjuster to resolve the case. If no agreement can be reached, then a lawsuit must be filled.
WHEN TO HIRE A FRESNO CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY FOR A CAR ACCIDENT CASE
Hiring a Fresno car accident attorney should be at the top of your list. Don’t give the at-fault insurance company adjusters any recorded statements or sign any paperwork they send. You can rest assured that anything you say to the insurance company will be used against you when it comes time to resolve your case.
Recorded statements and signing papers can always be done later–after you consult with a car accident lawyer. Remember, it is free to speak with an attorney about your car accident claim and there is never such an urgency that you must give a recorded statement to the driver’s insurance company who is at fault before speaking with an attorney.
WHAT ARE THE FEES?
Fees depend on your type of case and your age. Normally, 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 if after suit is filed. If you are a minor, the car accident attorney fees are normally much less.
WHY IS HAVING AN AUTO ACCIDENT LAWYER RECOMMENDED?
Having a Fresno car accident attorney by yourself will give you peace of mind. Not to mention, having an expert handle the legal areas and details of auto accident will allow you to focus on recovering physically and mentally. To protect your rights and make sure you receive the compensation you should for your injuries.
I greatly appreciate the outstanding service and commitment by Paul Pimentel and his staff at Tomassian, Pimentel, & Shapazian Law Firm. The insurance company did not make things easy with my case but I always felt represented and confident that I had chosen the right attorney to assist me. – Robert Kim
- Legal expertise: Car accident lawyers are knowledgeable about relevant laws, regulations, and procedures related to personal injury claims. They 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. They can gather crucial evidence such as 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: Car accident lawyers 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 true value of your claim and pursue appropriate compensation.
- Legal representation in court: If your case goes to trial, having a car accident lawyer by your side is crucial. 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’re recovering from injuries or facing financial hardships. Hiring a car accident lawyer 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 that you receive fair treatment and just compensation for your injuries and losses.
WHAT SHOULD I ASK CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS FRESNO PRIOR TO HIRING?
There are various questions that you should keep in mind during your first meeting with a personal injury attorney. Good Fresno car accident attorneys will usually cover most of the questions, but it’s still ideal to go prepared.
- What is your experience handling car accident cases in Fresno? Inquire about the 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. This 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 lawyer you’re 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 it’s 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 case 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’s like to work with the attorney.
- How long do you anticipate my case will take to resolve? While it’s 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 important 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 some possible ‘cross-over’ personal injury law cases, for example possible medical malpractice, family or estate type issues, probate, or car accident claim.
SET UP A CONSULTATION NOW WITH ONE OF THE BEST CAR ACCIDENT LAW FIRMS IN FRESNO, CA
Our Fresno car accident lawyers keep their hours flexible to accommodate your scheduling needs, and we strive to return every call promptly. We 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 speaks Spanish and French, so don’t let a language barrier keep you from seeking the legal help you deserve and need to get you 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.
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