Four Common Personal Injury Accidents in Fresno That Could Happen to You
Thousands of people are injured each year in California in personal injury accidents. Personal injury covers a wide variety of accident from motor vehicle crashes and bicycle accidents to product liability and medical malpractice.
Below are four of the common types of accidents that cause injuries in Fresno County each year.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents are everyday occurrences in the Central California Valley Area. Most accidents are preventable because driver error is the most common cause of traffic accidents. When a driver causes an accident, that driver is liable for any damages caused by the crash.
If you are involved in a traffic accident, do not leave the scene. Call 911 to request police and emergency medical services. Avoid discussing the accident with anyone other than the police officers.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can result in severe injuries. Many people think a fall just causes a few bumps and bruises or a broken bone is the worst injury. However, falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Thousands of people suffer brain injuries each year; some injuries result in permanent disabilities or death. If your fall was due to the negligence of the property owner, you might recover damages under a premises liability claim. Make sure to report the fall immediately to the property owner, get the names and contact information of any witnesses, and seek medical attention immediately.
Pedestrian Accidents
During 2015, pedestrians killed in traffic-related accidents increased by 9.5 percent from 2014. Almost 70,000 pedestrians were injured and 5,376 pedestrians were killed in traffic-related accidents during 2015. Distraction causes most pedestrian accidents, either on the part of the driver, the pedestrian, or both parties. A driver has a duty of care to avoid accidents with pedestrians, but you also have a duty of care to take steps to protect yourself. To learn more about pedestrian safety, visit the pedestrian safety page on the AAA Exchange website.
Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents also increased in 2015 to 818 riders. Another 45,000 bicyclists were injured in traffic-related accidents. More people are turning to bicycles as an inexpensive form of transportation and recreation. With more cyclists on the road and distracted driving increasing as a cause of accidents, it is not a surprise that we see an increase in this type of accident. Just like pedestrians, bicyclists must take steps to protect themselves even though driver owe them a duty of care not to cause an injury. AAA Exchange also has a safety page for bicycling that provides tips on riding skills and safety measures.
Always Seek Medical Care
Even if you do not believe you are seriously injured, you should seek immediate medical care after any accident. Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable. Only a medical professional is qualified to examine and diagnose any injuries. It is important to your health and your accident claim. Delaying medical treatment gives the insurance company for the negligent party the chance to argue that your claims are not valid because you did not see a doctor after your accident.
Fresno And Central California Valley Personal Injury Attorneys Helping Injured Victims
In addition to seeking medical treatment, you need to consult with a personal injury lawyer too. You have the right to seek compensation for your damages from the negligent party; however, your time for filing a claim is limited. Failing to act promptly can jeopardize your right to receive money for your claim.
Contact Torem & Associates by telephone at (888) 500-5000 or online by using the contact form on our website to schedule a free consultation with a Fresno personal injury attorney.
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