Fresno’s immigrant population, while not as large as areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco, is still substantial. According to data from the United States Census Bureau, 19% of Fresno’s population consists of people born outside the United States. While many immigrants have remarkable stories, they also face incredible challenges like discrimination, language barriers, and worries about their immigration status. Consequently, if they have an accident and get injured, they may hesitate to explore their legal rights and options fully.
Maison Law Will Stand Up For Your Legal Rights in Fresno
Experiencing an injury can be incredibly challenging, both in terms of physical and financial aspects. As an immigrant, it becomes crucial to seize every available opportunity for obtaining benefits and legal support. At Maison Law, our firm is dedicated to ensuring you receive the rightful compensation you deserve.
Our experienced Fresno personal injury lawyers are ready to assist you. Feel free to contact us to learn how our firm will stand up for your legal rights. We are proud to offer free consultations for any potential client. Contact us today to set up yours.
How Does Immigration Status Impact Your Legal Rights in Fresno?
In Fresno, your immigration status usually doesn’t impact your legal rights if you get injured. The laws in the state are made to protect everyone, no matter where they’re from. If someone else’s carelessness or wrongdoing causes your injuries, you have the right to ask for money to cover the harm.
When accidents lead to injuries, the legal system focuses on understanding what happened and who is responsible, not on your immigration status. The goal is to treat everyone fairly and provide access to justice, regardless of their citizenship status.
Should You Consider Hiring a Lawyer?
When it comes to your legal options as a non-U.S. citizen, getting help from experienced personal injury lawyers can make things much smoother. At Maison Law, our team consists of dedicated and skilled personal injury lawyers who are proud to assist all clients, regardless of their citizenship status, in getting the proper care and support they deserve. We have a successful track record and provide the following legal services:
- Communicating with the responsible party’s insurance company.
- Conducting an investigation into your accident and gathering evidence to establish liability.
- Compiling and organizing your medical records and bills to demonstrate the impact of the injuries.
- Coordinating with your medical providers to obtain any missing records.
- Consulting with medical experts to provide essential medical information for your claim.
- Negotiating with lien holders, such as health insurance or workers’ compensation, to potentially reduce outstanding amounts.
- Engaging in negotiations with insurance adjusters or defense attorneys to secure a satisfactory settlement.
- Providing unwavering support for your claim throughout the legal process.
- Representing you in court, if necessary.
Remember, at Maison Law, we are here to stand by your side and fight for your rights, regardless of your background or nationality. With that said, it’s important to understand how accidents happen in Fresno, and what you can do if you’re hurt.
Common Accident Causes in Fresno
What makes accidents so difficult, aside from the injury and harm they cause, is the fact that they can occur anywhere, at any time. Still, there are certain ways in which accidents are more likely to occur, such as:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Truck accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Slip-and-fall accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Dog bites
- Construction accidents
- Medical malpractice incidents
The moments immediately following an accident are crucial for your future actions. To protect your claim for damages, it’s essential to take certain steps. Follow these important guidelines:
- Get to safety and seek medical care – Your well-being is the top priority. Move to a safe place after the accident and seek medical attention, even if you feel okay initially due to adrenaline. A medical record of your injuries will be valuable evidence for your compensation claim.
- Report the accident – In California, it’s a legal requirement to report accidents to the police, employer, or other authorities. Even if they don’t need to be called in some situations, it’s advisable to inform them. The accident report they create can support your claim.
- Gather evidence – Exchange contact and insurance details with the other involved party. If possible, talk to witnesses and check if they have any photos or videos of the incident. Make your own notes as well.
Once you’ve completed these steps, focus on assessing the extent of your injuries and other damages. It’s important to understand the different options available to you as a victim under California law. And remember, these options are available regardless of your immigration status.
How is Liability Determined in a Fresno Accident?
No matter what type of accident happens to you in Fresno, there is a specific procedure for how the legal process works. The key to determining liability for your injuries is:
- Identifying who acted negligently
Our team can assist you in understanding the damages you are entitled to. Though each case is unique, certain elements need to be proven to win your case.
In essence, you must show the judge and jury that the other person’s negligence caused the accident. Under California law, there are four elements of negligence:
- The other party had a duty to act with reasonable safety to avoid harming others.
- The other party breached that duty.
- The breach of duty caused the accident.
- The accident caused your injuries and other losses.
Once liability is determined, your next step is to file an insurance claim, which means the insurance company becomes involved.
Insurance Claim Process
The insurance adjuster may accept, counteroffer, or reject the claim. When assigned to an adjuster, the insurance company will use its resources, including gathering evidence. While each claim differs, there are benefits to negotiating with the insurance company before filing a lawsuit:
- You save money in court costs and additional attorney fees.
- You are likely to receive compensation faster.
- There is less hassle in terms of paperwork and time.
- You get a better understanding of your claim’s value.
However, settling out of court has some drawbacks:
- The insurance company may prolong the claim, leaving you in a difficult financial situation.
- The insurance company decides the value of your claim.
- The settlement offer may not cover all your damages.
Dealing with the insurance company can be burdensome, especially when you’re focused on recovery. Our Fresno personal injury lawyers are here to support you through the recovery process and help you with your claim for damages.
What Damages Can You Recover From Fresno Accident?
You are not required to accept the insurance company’s initial settlement offer, as they often aim to lowball you. With our dedicated Fresno personal injury lawyers’ assistance, you may be able to collect compensation in the form of damages from your accident.
These damages can be considered in the insurance company’s settlement offer and can also be obtained through a lawsuit. Common damages in an accident claim include:
- Accident-related medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future income if you suffer permanent injuries
- Vehicle or property damage costs
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological trauma from the accident
- Reduced quality of life
- Scarring or disfigurement
Remember, the specific amount of damages you can recover depends on the facts and circumstances of your case. Additionally, California accident law follows “comparative negligence,” which means your potential recovery is reduced based on your percentage of fault related to the accident. Still, working with our team of experienced lawyers is your best chance at getting fair compensation, even if you’re not a U.S. citizen.
Legal Guidance You Can Trust With Maison Law
We understand your dedication as an immigrant to provide a better life for yourself and your loved ones. Rest assured, California law safeguards your rights if you’ve been injured in an accident, regardless of your citizenship status.
At Maison Law, our team of committed and skilled Fresno personal injury lawyers will go above and beyond to ensure you receive the proper treatment and legal assistance you rightfully deserve. Don’t hesitate to explore your legal options fully. Contact us today to begin with a free consultation.
