Fresno Car Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, you need a skilled Fresno car accident lawyer who can protect your rights and ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries. At SSD Law Firm PC – Star Accident Injury and Immigration Law Firm, we understand how deeply a car accident can affect your life—physically, emotionally, and financially. Our legal team will stand by your side to navigate complex insurance claims, hold negligent parties accountable, and pursue the compensation you’re legally entitled to under California law.

With decades of experience in personal injury law, our Fresno attorney provides strategic, results-driven representation tailored to the unique facts of your case. Whether you were involved in a rear-end collision, a high-speed crash, or a hit-and-run, we guide you through the claims process with professionalism, clarity, and care.

Why Choose SSD Law Firm PC for Your Car Accident Claim?

The outcome of your case can depend significantly on the experience and commitment of your legal team. At SSD Law Firm PC – Star Accident Injury and Immigration Law Firm, we are steadfast advocates for car accident victims and deliver strategic, results-oriented legal representation.

Our team brings deep knowledge of Fresno’s legal and traffic landscape, allowing us to build tailored strategies that reflect local conditions. We’ve secured significant settlements and verdicts for clients, demonstrating our ability to handle even the most complex claims.

What sets us apart is our client-first approach. We take the time to fully understand your situation and craft a legal strategy based on your specific needs. Unlike firms that treat clients like case numbers, we believe in direct communication, transparency, and accessibility from start to finish.

Here’s what you can expect when working with SSD Law Firm PC – Star Accident Injury and Immigration Law Firm:

• Local legal insight – In-depth familiarity with Fresno’s road laws, court systems, and insurance landscape.
  
• Personalized representation – Your case is handled with care and attention to your unique circumstances.
  
• Proven results – A track record of strong case outcomes, including high-value settlements and verdicts.
  
• Clear communication – Consistent updates and a direct line to your legal team throughout your case.
  
• No upfront fees – We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you.
  
• 24/7 services. Available to discuss your case at any moment.

With SSD Law Firm PC – Star Accident Injury and Immigration Law Firm on your side, you can focus on recovery while we handle every legal detail.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Fresno

Fresno County continues to face serious traffic safety challenges, consistently ranking among the highest in California for traffic fatalities. According to the Fresno County Department of Public Health, many of these deadly collisions are preventable and often linked to reckless or negligent driving behavior. The most common contributing factors include driving under the influence, distracted driving, and excessive speed—all behaviors that significantly impair reaction time, reduce situational awareness, and increase crash severity.

Demographic data shows that drivers most frequently involved in fatal crashes tend to be males between the ages of 18–35 or in their 50s, a pattern that aligns with statewide trends. This underscores the need for more focused driver education and stricter enforcement of traffic safety laws.

Distracted driving has become an increasingly dangerous problem, especially with the rise of smartphone use. Even brief attention lapses can lead to devastating consequences. Similarly, impaired driving—whether due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both—continues to be a leading factor in fatal crashes.

Fresno County’s Local Road Safety Plan (LRSP) has identified high-risk corridors and is implementing data-driven solutions, including public awareness campaigns and infrastructure improvements, to reduce injury rates. These efforts highlight the importance of accountability and the critical role legal representation plays in protecting victims affected by negligent drivers.

Frequent Types of Car Accidents

Car accidents vary widely in type, cause, and severity—but certain patterns are more common, especially on Fresno’s busy roadways. Understanding how these accidents occur not only helps clarify fault but also underscores the importance of legal guidance when pursuing compensation. Below are the most frequently occurring types of collisions in the Fresno area, each presenting unique legal and medical challenges.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end accidents are among the most common types of crashes and often result from driver inattention. In Fresno, this may include distractions such as texting, adjusting in-car technology, or following too closely in traffic. Poor visibility, heavy congestion, and sudden braking can all amplify the risk.

While some rear-end collisions cause only minor vehicle damage, others—especially those involving higher speeds—can result in significant injuries, including whiplash, herniated discs, traumatic brain injuries, or spinal cord trauma. Legally, the driver who strikes the vehicle in front is usually presumed at fault, but exceptions exist if the lead driver stops abruptly or has malfunctioning brake lights. Establishing liability requires a detailed review of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and witness statements.

T-Bone (Side-Impact) Collisions

T-bone accidents frequently occur at intersections when one driver runs a red light, fails to yield, or misjudges the speed of oncoming traffic. The impact occurs at a 90-degree angle, often into the driver or passenger side of the vehicle, where protection is most limited.

In Fresno, busy intersections such as Blackstone Avenue or Shaw Avenue are common sites for side-impact crashes. These collisions tend to cause serious injuries, including pelvic fractures, head trauma, and internal bleeding. Proving fault may involve reviewing traffic signal data, intersection camera footage, and potential roadway design flaws.

In some cases, liability may be shared with the municipality if traffic signals malfunctioned or visibility was obstructed by unmaintained foliage or construction signage.

Head-On Collisions

Though less common, head-on crashes are among the most catastrophic. They typically occur when a vehicle crosses into oncoming traffic due to driver fatigue, intoxication, distraction, or poor road markings. Rural roads in Fresno County, especially during fog season, are especially vulnerable to these types of collisions.

The force of two vehicles traveling in opposite directions creates an extremely high impact, often resulting in fatal injuries, multiple fractures, organ damage, or long-term disabilities. Legal cases involving head-on collisions often require accident reconstruction to demonstrate fault and accurately represent the severity of harm for compensation purposes.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run crashes are especially traumatic, as victims are often left without immediate assistance or the information needed to file a claim. These incidents commonly occur at night or in areas with limited surveillance. Injuries may be worsened by delayed emergency care, especially in the case of internal trauma or head injuries.

California law allows victims to pursue compensation through their uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, but recovery is rarely straightforward. Identifying the fleeing driver through witness accounts, surveillance footage, or forensic evidence becomes crucial. Legal representation helps ensure that victims navigate both the investigative and claims processes with proper support.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups

Pileups typically occur on freeways such as Highway 99 or Interstate 5, where high speeds and dense traffic leave little room for error. Poor weather conditions like fog or rain, common in Fresno County, can drastically reduce visibility and lead to chain-reaction collisions involving three or more vehicles.

These accidents often cause a wide range of injuries, from soft-tissue damage to critical trauma, and can complicate emergency response efforts. Legally, they are complex because liability may be shared among several drivers, commercial entities, or even government agencies responsible for road maintenance.

Investigations in pileup scenarios involve multiple insurance carriers, accident reconstruction specialists, and detailed scene analyses. For this reason, injured parties should seek legal counsel immediately to preserve evidence and establish clear liability before settlement discussions begin.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, from temporary discomfort to permanent disabilities. The type and severity of injuries often depend on the nature of the collision, speed, safety restraints, and vehicle design. Below are some of the most common injuries sustained in Fresno-area car accidents:

• Whiplash
  Caused by the sudden, forceful motion of the neck—especially in rear-end collisions—whiplash can result in stiffness, chronic pain, headaches, and reduced range of motion. It may require ongoing physical therapy for full recovery.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
  From mild concussions to severe brain trauma, TBIs can impair memory, concentration, mood, and overall cognitive function. High-impact crashes are often to blame and may require long-term neurological care.
• Spinal Cord Injuries
  Injuries to the spine can lead to partial or full paralysis. Even less severe damage, such as herniated discs, can severely affect a victim’s mobility, independence, and quality of life.
• Fractures and Broken Bones
  Common in high-speed and side-impact crashes, broken bones in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis may require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation, impacting a victim’s ability to work or perform daily tasks.
• Internal Injuries
  Damage to organs or internal bleeding may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening. Quick diagnosis and treatment are essential.
• Emotional and Psychological Trauma
  Many victims experience anxiety, nightmares, or symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a serious accident. These effects can interfere with daily life and may require professional counseling or therapy.

After any collision, immediate medical attention is critical—even if you feel uninjured at the time. Documenting injuries promptly strengthens both your recovery plan and any potential legal claim for damages.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Fresno

Taking the right steps immediately after a car accident can significantly influence your safety, medical recovery, and ability to pursue compensation. The moments following a crash are often stressful, but knowing what to do can protect both your health and legal rights.

1. Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Do not attempt to move injured individuals unless there’s an immediate danger, such as fire or oncoming traffic.
   
2. Contact law enforcement and request a police officer to respond to the scene. An official accident report is often required when filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action. In some cases—such as non-injury collisions—you may be eligible to file a report using the Fresno Police Department’s Online Reporting System, which allows residents to document incidents conveniently when no emergency response is required.
   
3. Exchange information with all involved drivers, including names, insurance details, license plate numbers, and contact information. Avoid discussing fault or making speculative statements.
   
4. Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, visible injuries, skid marks, and road conditions. This evidence may become crucial later.
   
5. Speak to witnesses, and record their statements and contact information if possible. Third-party accounts often strengthen your claim.
   
6. Seek medical evaluation, even if you feel fine. Many serious injuries—such as whiplash or internal bleeding—may not show symptoms right away.
   
7. Consult a Fresno car accident lawyer before engaging with insurance adjusters. Early legal guidance helps you avoid common pitfalls, such as accepting a low settlement or unintentionally admitting partial fault.
   

Properly reporting the accident and building early documentation strengthens both your recovery process and the legal foundation for any compensation claim you pursue.

Herido en un accidente de auto en Fresno, California? Hablamos español:

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Car Accident in Fresno?

Determining liability after a car accident can be complex, especially when multiple parties may have contributed to the crash. While a negligent driver is often the primary source of fault, other individuals, entities, or organizations may also be held responsible depending on the circumstances.

The most common parties who may share liability in a Fresno car accident include:

• Negligent drivers – Those operating a vehicle while distracted, impaired, speeding, or violating traffic laws.
  
• Vehicle or parts manufacturers – In cases where a defect—such as brake failure, tire blowouts, or faulty airbags—contributed to the accident.
  
• Employers or commercial carriers – When a driver causes a crash while performing job duties in a company-owned or operated vehicle.
  
• Government agencies or municipalities – When poor road maintenance, inadequate signage, malfunctioning traffic signals, or dangerous road design contribute to a collision.
  

Fresno County’s roadways are actively being evaluated for safety risks through infrastructure planning efforts. The Fresno Council of Governments (Fresno COG) administers the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP), which identifies local roadways in need of safety enhancements, signal upgrades, and design improvements. These projects are selected based on regional crash data and long-term transportation safety goals.

When an agency or contractor fails to address a documented hazard, it may become legally accountable for resulting injuries. An experienced car accident attorney can evaluate the totality of the circumstances, determine all potentially liable parties, and build a case that reflects the full scope of responsibility.

Compensation You Can Claim After a Fresno Car Accident

A serious car accident can leave victims facing not only physical injuries, but also financial strain, emotional distress, and long-term life changes. If your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation under California personal injury law.

The value of your claim will depend on several factors, including the type and extent of your injuries, who was at fault, and how the crash has impacted your day-to-day life. Here are the most common types of compensation you may be eligible to recover:

• Medical Expenses
• Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
• Property Damage
• Pain and Suffering
• Punitive Damages
  

Medical Expenses

Medical costs are often the most immediate and overwhelming consequence of a car accident. Compensation may cover emergency care, hospital stays, diagnostic tests, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescriptions, medical equipment, and follow-up care. For serious injuries, we also pursue recovery for future medical expenses, including ongoing treatment and long-term support needs.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income. This includes not only missed paychecks but also future earning potential if your injuries limit your ability to return to your previous occupation. We carefully evaluate long-term income losses based on your work history, current limitations, and future earning potential—including cases involving self-employed individuals and gig economy workers.

Property Damage

Compensation for property damage includes the cost to repair or replace your vehicle, as well as towing fees, rental car expenses, and any other out-of-pocket costs related to the damage. In some cases, you may also recover for diminished vehicle value, even after repairs are made.

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering damages address the physical and emotional impact of the crash—things like chronic pain, emotional trauma, anxiety, PTSD, sleep disturbances, and loss of enjoyment of life. These are non-economic losses, but they’re just as real. Our team makes sure these deeply personal consequences are factored into the value of your claim.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages may be available in cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct. These damages are not meant to compensate you directly but to punish the at-fault party and deter others from engaging in similar behavior. Common examples include drunk driving, street racing, or hit-and-run accidents.

How Our Fresno Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You

At SSD Law Firm PC – Star Accident Injury and Immigration Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a car accident can be—physically, emotionally, and financially. That’s why our legal team is committed to handling every aspect of your claim with professionalism, compassion, and attention to detail so you can focus on your recovery while we focus on results.

As highlighted throughout our firm’s website, we take a personalized approach to every case. We don’t treat clients like numbers. We take the time to listen to your story, understand the impact of your injuries, and craft a legal strategy that reflects your unique situation.

Here’s what you can expect when working with our Fresno car accident attorney:

• Detailed Investigation
  We gather police reports, medical records, photographs, and witness statements to build a detailed and accurate understanding of how the accident occurred and the extent of your damages.
  
• Negotiation with Insurance Companies
  Insurers often attempt to reduce or deny claims. We handle all communication and use strategic advocacy to pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
  
• Trial-Ready Preparation
  While we aim to settle cases efficiently, we prepare every case as if it will go to court. If necessary, we’ll litigate aggressively to protect your rights.
  
• Transparent Communication
  You’ll always know where your case stands. We maintain direct communication with clients and keep you informed at every step.

SSD Law Firm PC – Star Accident Injury and Immigration Law Firm is proud of our strong record of results and dedication to standing up for accident victims throughout California. Let us help you move forward.

Contact a Fresno Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case will be. Contact SSD Law Firm PC – Star Accident Injury and Immigration Law Firm today for a free consultation. 

Our experienced Fresno car accident lawyer, Attorney Sarwinder Dhanjan, is ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Visit us at 2170 N Winery Ave, Fresno, CA 93703, United States, or call us at (559) 342-2000 to get started.

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Other Areas We Serve:

• Personal injury lawyer in Fresno
• Motorcycle accident lawyer in Fresno
• Truck accident lawyer in Fresno
• Wrongful accident lawyer in Fresno
• Bicycle accident lawyer in Fresno
• Dog Bite Lawyer in Fresno
• Brain injury lawyer in Fresno
• Spinal cord lawyer in Fresno
• Pedestrian lawyer in Fresno
• Slip and fall lawyer in Fresno

Visit our office in Fresno, California.

At SSD Law Firm PC – Star Accident Injury and Immigration Law Firm, we help victims of personal injuries all around the Fresno, California, area. We have an office at 2170 N Winery Ave, Fresno, CA 93703, United States, and we provide 24/7 service. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 36.769953447603704, -119.73066635783323

Client Reviews

What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

Jamie N.

January 2025

In December 2023 a woman completely blew a stop sign and nailed me on my bicycle in Old Fig Garden (Fresno, Ca.). This was my first experience dealing with this type of incident, and due to my injuries it was advised I seek legal representation. Mr. Sarwinder Dhanjan agreed to take my case. He clearly explained my case in a way that easy to understand and assured me that he would fight for a fair conclusion. His team stayed in contact with me throughout the process until its conclusion in October 2024. I was very happy with how his team handled my case and would recommend his team to anyone who is going through a similar situation.

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