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Fresno County Car Accident Lawyer Larry H. Parker

LHP Fresno Car Accident Lawyer

At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we understand that a car accident can instantly disrupt your life, leaving you overwhelmed and uncertain about the road ahead. That’s why our Fresno car accident lawyers are steadfast in their commitment to helping injured victims regain control, recover fully, and secure the compensation they rightfully deserve. Whether your case is straightforward or complex, our experienced legal team is ready to advocate for you with determination and precision.

Unfortunately, Fresno is no stranger to car accidents. In fact,  from 2017 to 2021, the county had 22,292 injured and fatal victims from auto collisions.

If you are grappling with mounting medical expenses, lost wages, and the overwhelming prospect of dealing with insurance companies after a car accident, know that you do not have to go through this process alone. Our team is here to manage the complexities on your behalf, standing by your side every step of the way and relentlessly pursuing the justice and compensation you deserve.

Allow us to shoulder the burden so you can focus on your recovery and rebuilding your life. Contact us today at 866-986-4488 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

Why Hire Car Accident Lawyers from The Offices of Larry H. Parker

Imagine being in a car accident caused by someone else. You are left with injuries to heal from, medical bills to pay, and lost wages from missing work. While you can file a claim to receive compensation, dealing with the aftermath of the crash is already stressful enough. How can you recover and handle the complexities of your case simultaneously?

Our mission as Fresno car accident lawyers is to provide ease and peace of mind to our injured clients, ensuring their financial needs are met while they recover. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we are more than just legal advocates—we are your unwavering partners in the fight to reclaim your life after a car accident.

From carefully piecing together evidence to standing firm against insurance companies, we take care of every detail so you can focus on healing. Thousands of Fresno residents have trusted us with their cases, and here’s why:

Relentless Dedication
 To us, your case isn’t just paperwork—it’s personal. We dive deep, building strategies that reflect your unique story because no two cases are identical.

Client-Centered Care
 You’re not just another file in a cabinet. You’re our priority. From start to finish, we’re here with clear communication, compassionate support, and a commitment to making this process as stress-free as possible.

No Win, No Fee Guarantee
 Justice should never be out of reach. That’s why you won’t pay a dime unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, no risks—just results.

Accessible Representation
 Whether you’re in Fresno, Long Beach, Phoenix, or somewhere in between, we’re always within reach. We can meet you wherever you are with nearby offices and virtual support.

Proven Results
 For over 50 years, we’ve helped more than 100,000 clients recover over $2 billion. Behind every settlement is a story of resilience, justice, and lives rebuilt—and yours could be next.

You’ve been through enough. Let us take the weight off your shoulders. Contact us today for a free consultation, and together, we’ll create a clear path toward recovery, resolution, and hope.

Do I Need a Car Accident Lawyer?

After a car accident, many victims place their trust in their insurance companies, hoping their losses will be fully covered. But the truth is, insurance providers often prioritize their bottom line over your recovery. Their quick settlement offers may cover immediate costs, like medical bills and vehicle repairs, but they rarely reflect the full extent of your damages. This can leave you grappling with unresolved expenses, lost income, and emotional hardship.

That’s where an experienced car accident lawyer can make all the difference. With a skilled auto accident attorney, you can ensure that every aspect of your losses—now and in the future—is accounted for. From future medical expenses to lost wages and emotional suffering, your attorney will fight for the compensation you truly deserve, not just what the insurance company wants to offer.

Here’s how a car accident lawyer can help you:

Expert Legal Guidance
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can feel overwhelming, but experienced attorneys have the expertise to handle the legal complexities and safeguard your rights every step of the way.

Comprehensive Claim Valuation
Attorneys for accident claims will investigate and evaluate the full scope of your losses—not just the obvious ones like medical bills but also lost income, emotional distress, and long-term expenses that insurance companies often ignore.

Skilled Negotiation on Your Behalf
Insurance companies are trained to minimize payouts, but a car accident lawyer is qualified to push back. They’ll advocate for a fair settlement that reflects your true damages.

Stress-Free Legal Management
Recovering from an accident is hard enough without the added burden of legal paperwork, court filings, and insurance disputes. With an attorney managing the details, you can focus entirely on your recovery.

Strong Representation in Court
 Having a seasoned attorney in your corner can make all the difference if your case goes to trial. They’ll build a compelling case and confidently present it to fight for the outcome you deserve.

No Financial Risk
Many car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront, and they only get paid if you win. This ensures that legal support is accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances.

While hiring a lawyer isn’t legally required, working with our Fresno car accident attorneys significantly improves your chances of obtaining the maximum compensation possible. We take the burden of negotiations, paperwork, and evidence collection off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on what matters most: healing and moving forward.

Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you secure the recovery you need to rebuild your life.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Fresno 

A car accident can be a life-altering experience, leaving you shaken and unsure of what to do next. While feeling overwhelmed is normal, taking the proper steps immediately can protect your health, rights, and future.

Here’s what you should do to regain control:

  1. Prioritize Your Health

Your well-being comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention right away. Visiting a nearby hospital in Fresno ensures that your injuries are properly diagnosed and documented. 

  1. Call the Police

Dial 911 and have a Fresno police officer come to the scene. Their official accident report will be invaluable in determining fault and strengthening your case.

  1. Gather Evidence

Take photos and videos of the accident scene, your vehicle, and any visible injuries if you can. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and don’t forget to collect details from witnesses. Every piece of evidence counts when building your claim.

  1. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

Once you’ve addressed your medical needs, contact an experienced car accident lawyer in Fresno, CA. They’ll handle the complex legal process, deal with insurance companies that may undervalue your claim, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Why Do Car Accidents Happen?

One of the most common accidents that result in personal injury is auto crashes. More often than not, such an incident happens due to driver’s behavior, where individuals fail to follow traffic laws and act negligently on the road.

Here are the most common causes of car accidents resulting in injuries and wrongful death:

  1. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents. In 2021, 140 lives were tragically lost in California due to crashes involving distracted driving, marking a staggering 27.3% increase. Whether it’s texting, eating, using GPS, or even talking to passengers, taking your eyes or mind off the road for even a few seconds can have devastating consequences.

  1. Speeding

Did you know that 34% of 3,600 traffic fatalities and 13,000 serious injuries in California are related to speeding and aggressive driving annually? Driving above the speed limit reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. Speeding is especially dangerous in areas with high traffic, sharp turns, or unpredictable road conditions. 

  1. Drunk or Impaired Driving

Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction times, making it a deadly combination behind the wheel. In 2021, 1,370 people lost their lives in alcohol-involved crashes across California, reflecting a devastating 16% increase from 2020. 

  1. Reckless Driving

Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and running red lights put everyone on the road at risk. Reckless driving often leads to high-speed crashes and severe injuries.

  1. Weather Conditions

Rain, fog, or slippery roads from snow or ice can make driving treacherous. Reduced visibility and poor traction often lead to accidents during inclement weather.

  1. Failing to Obey Traffic Laws

Ignoring stop signs, running red lights, or failing to yield the right of way are common mistakes that lead to accidents, particularly in intersections.

  1. Fatigue

Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Fatigue slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and increases the likelihood of falling asleep behind the wheel. Preliminary data from the California Highway Patrol’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System reveals that in 2023, more than 4,000 crashes in California involved a drowsy driver. 

  1. Vehicle Defects

Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, can cause accidents. Proper vehicle maintenance is essential to avoid these risks.

  1. Poor Road Conditions

Potholes, debris, lack of signage, or inadequate lighting can make driving hazardous, particularly in high-traffic areas.

  1. Inexperienced Drivers

Teenagers and novice drivers are more likely to make errors, misjudge traffic situations, or panic in emergencies, increasing the likelihood of accidents. The number of teen drivers involved in fatal crashes (ages 15-20) increased by 14.8% from 413 in 2020 to 474 in 2021.

Understanding these common causes of car accidents can help drivers make safer choices and reduce risks on the road. Always stay alert, follow traffic laws, and prioritize safety—for yourself and everyone around you.

What Injuries Result from Auto Crashes?

Car accidents have the unfortunate ability to leave both physical and emotional scars, ranging from minor inconvenience to life-altering injuries. Here are some of the most common injuries you might encounter:

  • Whiplash
  • Fractures and Broken Bones
  • Head Injuries
  • Back and Spinal Injuries
  • Cuts and Bruises
  • Internal Injuries
  • Soft Tissue Injuries
  • Psychological Trauma

Even if you think your injury is minor, seek medical attention immediately. Timely treatment not only speeds up recovery but also provides essential documentation, which becomes vital if you decide to pursue a legal claim. Your health and future deserve that attention—because, in the end, you matter. 

When Can I Receive Compensation for a Car Accident?

After a car accident, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim if another driver’s negligence caused the crash. This claim is designed to help you recover expenses for the damages you’ve suffered, but how do you prove negligence in an auto accident?

In California, all drivers are legally required to follow traffic laws to keep everyone on the road safe. When someone fails to uphold this duty, like running a red light or speeding, they may be considered negligent.

However, proving negligence is more than just showing that the other driver was at fault. To successfully pursue a claim, you must demonstrate that you suffered injuries, property damage, or even the loss of a loved one due to the accident. And to back up your claim, you need solid evidence.

You can prove negligence by showing the following:

  1. The driver had a duty to drive safely.
  2. They breached that duty by acting negligently, putting others at risk.
  3. Their breach directly caused the accident.
  4. The accident led to injuries or damages.

Gathering the necessary evidence to prove negligence often includes:

  • Medical bills
  • Property damage receipts
  • Police reports
  • Witness statements
  • Expert testimony

However, collecting all this evidence while recovering from your injuries can feel overwhelming. That’s where our experienced car accident attorneys come in. We handle the legal aspects, such as gathering evidence, building your case, and ensuring every detail is covered so you can focus on healing. 

What Damages Can I Include in My Car Accident Settlement?

When filing a personal injury claim after a car accident, it’s easy to focus on tangible damages, like medical bills and vehicle repairs. However, this approach often misses out on the full spectrum of losses you’ve endured. Many victims fail to recognize the emotional and psychological toll that follows an accident, which can be just as debilitating as physical injuries.

Imagine suffering severe back injuries in a crash. Now, certain parts of your body no longer move as they once did, profoundly altering your life. Beyond the physical pain, the emotional distress and even Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can be a lasting burden. These non-financial losses are just as important as the visible ones and should be included in your settlement.

Recognizing the full extent of your damages is crucial to ensure you’re not shortchanged. If you’re looking to maximize your claim, be sure to consider both economic and non-economic damages, as well as punitive damages, if applicable:

Economic Damages

These are financial losses that can be quantified, such as:

  • Medical expenses (including future treatments and necessary equipment)
  • Costs for ongoing care
  • Vehicle repair or replacement
  • Lost wages
  • Potential loss of future earnings

Non-Economic Damages

These represent the emotional and psychological losses from an accident, including:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Diminished quality of life
  • Loss of companionship or affection

Punitive Damages

The court imposes additional penalties for egregious actions, such as reckless or intentional behavior.

While you can claim these damages, non-economic losses are often the hardest to quantify and are sometimes overlooked in the rush to settle. This is where a skilled personal injury attorney can help. They will evaluate your situation thoroughly, ensuring that every aspect of your suffering is accounted for—leading to a higher, more comprehensive settlement.

At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we don’t just fight to win cases; we fight to secure more than the initial settlement offer. Reach out today, and let us help you understand the full scope of your damages, ensuring you get the compensation you truly deserve.

Should I Get a Lawyer for a Minor Car Accident?

While minor accidents like fender benders often seem manageable and don’t typically require a lawyer, it’s important to remember that even a minor collision can lead to serious consequences. If the damage is limited to minor scratches or dents, drivers might choose to settle the matter without legal help. However, the real danger lies in the injuries that may not be immediately visible.

Even a low-impact crash can cause significant harm, especially to sensitive areas like the neck, spine, and head. Whiplash, for example, may seem like a minor injury at first but can lead to persistent pain, limited mobility, and ongoing discomfort. 

Additionally, adrenaline can mask the severity of injuries, making it easy to overlook or underestimate the harm done. This natural rush can temporarily dull pain, causing victims to feel fine, only to realize later that their injuries are more serious than they appeared at first.

Taking the time to see a doctor and monitor your symptoms after an accident isn’t just about addressing physical pain; it’s about protecting your health and your future. Early treatment can prevent complications and help ensure that you have the proper documentation if legal action becomes necessary down the road. 

However, when you fail to document your injuries, the insurance company may insist that they aren’t caused by the accident, potentially dismissing your case. This is why hiring an auto accident lawyer who can connect you to the right health professionals, determine the full scope of your injuries, and prove them to establish your case is crucial. 

Remember, you deserve to be fully compensated for all the damages and suffering caused, even if the accident initially seemed minor. Taking care of yourself now can prevent bigger challenges in the future.

Questions You May Ask

Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Car Accident Claim?

In California, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim.

Remembering this deadline is crucial, as failing to do so could result in forfeiture of your right to seek compensation. If you file after the statute of limitations has passed, the other party may ask the court to dismiss your case.

What Happens if I Was Not Wearing a Seat Belt During the Crash?

In California, not wearing a seatbelt is considered a violation of the law and can impact your liability in a car accident. While this breach of the law may influence your ability to file a claim, it doesn’t necessarily mean you lose your right to compensation altogether.

If the absence of a seatbelt does not cause your injuries, you can still pursue compensation, but you’ll need to prove that the injuries resulted from another party’s negligence, not from your seatbelt violation.

Under California’s pure comparative negligence rule, you can still claim compensation even if you are partially at fault for the accident. However, your settlement will be reduced in proportion to your level of fault. For example, if you are found to be 10% liable for the crash, you may receive 90% of the settlement amount, while the other party could seek 10% compensation.

How Often Do Car Accidents Happen in Fresno, CA?

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, San Jose experienced a troubling number of traffic accidents in 2021.

  • Total Fatal and Injury Victims: 5,243
  • Alcohol-Involved Crashes: 797 victims
  • Motorcycle-Involved Crashes: 227 victims
  • Pedestrian Crashes: 241 victims
  • Bicycle-Involved Crashes: 95 victim
  • Speed-Related Crashes: 968 incidents 
  • Nighttime Crashes (9:00 pm – 2:59 am): 577 collisions
  • Hit-and-Run Crashes: 349 accidents

Will My Car Accident Case Go to Trial?

Most car accident cases are resolved without ever stepping foot in a courtroom, with settlements being the more common outcome. However, sometimes, the insurance company may deny your claim or offer an unfair settlement, and that’s when a trial might be the next step.

While going to court can feel time-consuming and resource-heavy, it also offers the chance for greater compensation if the court rules in your favor. The decision to settle or pursue a trial is entirely yours, and we’re here to ensure you’re empowered with all the information you need to choose the best path forward.

At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we believe in your right to make the final decision and will be there every step of the way, offering unwavering support and expert guidance, no matter what direction you choose. You’re not in this alone—we’re by your side, fighting for the justice you deserve.

Contact Our Fresno Car Accident Lawyers Today

Car accident cases can quickly become complicated, especially when multiple parties are found liable for the crash. While your top priority should be focusing on your recovery, we understand that dealing with the financial and legal aftermath can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in. Let our experienced Fresno car accident lawyers handle everything—from filing your insurance claim to pursuing a lawsuit, if necessary.

If you choose to work with us, we’ll start on your case immediately. With our contingency fee structure, you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case. Your recovery, both physically and financially, is our priority.

Contact us today to take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve. Let us fight for you while you focus on what matters most—healing.

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Directory

Here are essential pedestrian accident resources in Fresno, CA, that can help you in case of accident emergencies:

Emergency Rooms

Urgent Care Centers

Local Courthouses

Disclaimer: We do not endorse these companies or profit from listing them on our website.