Daniel Carter | April 8, 2025 | Car Accidents near Fresno, CA
You might be tempted to handle a car accident claim or lawsuit in Fresno, California, on your own, especially if it was considered “minor.” However, there are many reasons this is not a good idea. An experienced attorney can bring legal knowledge, access to expert witnesses, helpful resources, and, perhaps most importantly, give you time to rest and recover after you are injured in a car accident.
While hiring an attorney will benefit you in almost every case, there are certain scenarios in which seeking legal help is essential. You should reach out to a car accident lawyer as soon as possible if:
You Suffered Severe Injuries
If you or a loved one suffered severe injuries in a Fresno car accident, you are probably facing high medical bills, costs for long-term treatment, and potentially permanent disability as a result of your injuries. An experienced car accident lawyer can accurately assess the full extent of your economic and non-economic damages, ensuring your compensation reflects the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life.
When you have an attorney on your side, the insurance company knows you mean business. They’ll be less likely to challenge you or undervalue your serious injury claim, and even if they do, your lawyer can fight back, ensuring you have the best chance at maximizing your compensation. Don’t be tricked or forced to accept a lowball offer–help is available.
Liability is Contested
Sometimes, liability in car accident cases isn’t straightforward. Maybe multiple parties were involved, maybe the other driver was on the clock, or maybe you share some responsibility yourself. Factors like these increase the likelihood of the insurance company denying your claim or placing all of the blame on you. Your attorney will be able to evaluate all of the circumstances of your case, gather evidence supporting your side, and determine which parties might be liable for your injuries.
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means that your compensation could be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 40% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 40%. A lawyer who is on your team can help defend you from allegations of fault and try to get you compensated for all of your injuries and losses.
Damages are Contested
Even when the insurance company acknowledges that you’re entitled to compensation, they may still dispute how much they’re willing to pay. They may deny or diminish the injuries you suffered or contest your pain and suffering. Issues that are widely disputed include:
- Medical expenses: Insurers may argue that your treatment was unnecessary or that your injuries were pre-existing.
Lost wages and future earning capacity: They might question whether your injuries truly impacted your ability to work, now or in the future. - Pain and suffering: These non-economic damages are harder to quantify, and insurance companies will often offer far less than what is fair.
- Emotional distress and reduced quality of life: These damages are just as real but often dismissed unless strongly backed by evidence.
An experienced attorney will know exactly how to prove each of your damages and ensure that they can’t be swept under the rug. They can gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and more to make sure you get compensated.
How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help After an Accident
Handling a case alone is risky. Even if you “win” and secure compensation, it might be less than you deserve. While it’s always wise to consult with an attorney after a car accident, you should especially avoid handling your case alone if you’ve suffered serious injuries, if liability is unclear, or if the insurance company is disputing your damages. These are just a few of the many situations where legal guidance can make a critical difference.
A car accident attorney can make sure the insurance company takes you seriously, bring their own knowledge and resources to the table, give you valuable time to rest and recover, and give you the best chance at maximum compensation. If you or a loved one have been in a car accident in Fresno, California, reach out to an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and preserve your claim.
Visit Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Fresno, CA
Carter Law Group
2445 Capitol St #105, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
(559) 485-1212
