Fresno Car Accident Statistics 2024

Fresno drivers face many risks on the road, and it is important for all drivers to know the most common causes of accidents so they may reduce their risk of causing harm to others. When accidents happen in Fresno and throughout the state, the driver at fault for the accident assumes responsibility for the resulting damages. Various agencies and organizations collect traffic accident data from each county in California and regularly publish reports of their findings. Reviewing the most recent accident data can potentially help Fresno drivers stay safer behind the wheel.

If you are hurt in an accident, a Fresno car accident attorney is the ideal resource to consult when it comes to determining your most viable options for legal recourse against the at-fault driver. The right attorney can offer comprehensive legal guidance for each stage of your case, from identifying the at-fault driver and proving liability to gathering the evidence needed to show the full extent of your claimable damages.

Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Fresno

The car accident rate in Fresno is relatively consistent with the national average. While there are other areas that are statistically more dangerous, it is still important for Fresno drivers to know the most common causes of car accidents in the area so they can hopefully avoid them or at least avoid causing accidents themselves. The most recent car accident reports indicate that the most common contributing factors to accidents in the Fresno area include:

• Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and drugs. DUI is not only illegal but also incredibly dangerous for the intoxicated driver and everyone around them. A driver who causes an accident because of a DUI faces increased penalties for conviction if they hurt or killed anyone with their actions. DUI is a major contributing factor to both the total number of accidents and the number of fatal accidents reported in Fresno each year.
• Speeding consistently ranks as a leading cause of accidents and traffic fatalities in Fresno and throughout the state each year. Accidents that happen at high speeds have a greater chance of causing catastrophic or fatal injuries. Excessive speeding can also lead to a reckless driving charge for the driver, especially if they cause an accident.
• Distracted driving. Anything that diverts a driver’s attention away from the safe operation of their vehicle can easily cause an accident. Throughout the United States, distracted driving is a top-reported cause of accidents each year. The state has banned the use of cell phones behind the wheel without the use of hands-free devices, but texting while driving continues to be one of the most commonly reported causes of accidents throughout the state each year.

While it’s not always possible to predict other drivers’ actions on the roads, knowing the risks you face behind the wheel can potentially help you avoid causing accidents and absorbing liability for others’ damages. Ultimately, recovering from any car accident can be difficult, but the right attorney can help maximize the compensation you obtain through your recovery efforts.

FAQs About Fresno, CA Car Accident Statistics

Which County Has the Most Car Accidents?

Los Angeles County reports the highest countywide accident rate in the state by a large margin. In 2021, Los Angeles County reported more than twice as many accidents as San Bernardino County, which ranked second for most countywide accidents that year. That same year, Fresno County ranked ninth in the state for total accidents.

What State Has the Most Car Accidents Per Year?

California consistently ranks among the top states for the total number of car accidents reported each year. However, it is important to note that the state has a much larger population than most other states; therefore, there are more vehicles on the road. When assessing statewide car accident rates, it is important to compare the total number of accidents to the total number of drivers, evaluating the percentage of drivers reporting an accident.

Can I File an Auto Insurance Claim After a Car Accident in Fresno?

Yes, the law requires every driver to have auto insurance, and filing an insurance claim is generally the first step in recovering from a car accident. California uses the fault rule, so an at-fault driver is liable for the damages they cause others. However, if the at-fault driver does not have insurance, the injured driver must make a claim against their own uninsured driver coverage. If they have not purchased this type of insurance coverage, they will need to file a personal injury claim to recover their damages.

How Do I Prove Fault for a Car Accident in Fresno?

Proving liability for a car accident will often require multiple forms of evidence. You may need digital evidence like the at-fault driver’s cell phone records, their vehicle’s computer data, and recordings from traffic cameras situated near the accident site. Eyewitness testimony can also be invaluable if anyone saw the accident happen firsthand. If liability is contested, an attorney may consult expert witnesses to help clarify the most complex details of your recent accident and firmly establish liability.

Do I Need an Attorney to Recover From a Car Accident in Fresno?

Technically, no, you do not need to hire legal counsel to file an auto insurance claim or a personal injury case in Fresno. However, doing so will significantly improve your chances of success with your claim. An attorney can help file an auto insurance claim, and if this does not fully compensate you for your damages, they can help you build a personal injury claim to seek compensation for the rest of your losses. You are not only more likely to prove liability with an attorney’s help but also more likely to secure maximum compensation for the losses you suffered from your recent accident.

The Law Offices of David Davidi, APLC, can provide the comprehensive legal counsel you need after a car accident that was not your fault. We know how traumatic and damaging a car accident can be, and we know how to help you recover from your damages as fully as state law allows. Contact us today and schedule your free consultation with an attorney you can trust with your recovery efforts.