Are Car Accidents on the Rise in California?

If you’ve noticed more traffic incidents on California roads lately, you’re not alone. Many drivers across the state are asking whether car accidents are becoming more frequent, and the data paints a concerning picture. Understanding current trends in motor vehicle collisions can help you stay safer on the road and know what to do if you’re involved in an accident. Whether you’re commuting through Fresno, traveling Highway 99, or navigating rural routes in the Central Valley, these statistics affect everyone who shares California’s roadways.

What the Numbers Tell Us

California has seen fluctuating accident rates over recent years, with certain periods showing significant increases. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, the state reported over 200,000 injury crashes in recent years, with fatal collisions remaining a persistent concern. While pandemic-related lockdowns temporarily reduced traffic volumes in 2020, subsequent years have witnessed a troubling rebound in both collision frequency and severity.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that California consistently ranks among the states with the highest total number of traffic fatalities, though this partially reflects the state’s large population and extensive road network. More concerning is the rate at which serious and fatal accidents are occurring, which has increased in certain regions despite advances in vehicle safety technology.

Contributing Factors Behind Rising Accident Rates

Several factors contribute to the increase in California car accidents. Distracted driving remains a leading cause, with smartphone usage behind the wheel creating dangerous conditions. Despite hands-free laws, many drivers continue to text, browse social media, or use navigation apps while driving, taking their attention away from the road at critical moments.

Impaired driving also plays a significant role. Whether involving alcohol, marijuana, or prescription medications, driving under the influence continues to cause devastating accidents throughout California. The state’s legalization of recreational marijuana has raised additional concerns about drugged driving incidents.

Speed-related crashes have also increased, particularly on highways and rural roads. Drivers exceeding posted limits or traveling too fast for conditions significantly increase both the likelihood of accidents and the severity of resulting injuries.

Infrastructure challenges compound these issues. California’s aging roadways, congested urban areas, and high traffic volumes create conditions where accidents become more likely. Construction zones, poorly maintained roads, and inadequate signage contribute to collision risks in many communities.

Regional Concerns in the Central Valley

Fresno and surrounding Central Valley communities face unique challenges. Agricultural traffic, including slow-moving farm equipment on rural highways, creates hazards when faster vehicles attempt to pass. Fog season brings severely reduced visibility that contributes to multi-vehicle pileups on major routes like Interstate 5 and Highway 99.

The region’s growing population has also increased traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. More vehicles on the road naturally create additional opportunities for accidents, especially at busy intersections and highway interchanges.

Protecting Your Rights After an Accident

If you’re involved in a car accident in California, taking proper steps immediately afterward can protect both your health and your legal rights. Seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries seem minor, some serious conditions don’t present symptoms immediately. Document the scene with photos, gather witness information, and file a police report.

California’s insurance system can be complex, and insurance companies often prioritize minimizing their payouts rather than fully compensating injured parties. Many accident victims find themselves facing medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses that exceed initial settlement offers.

How Nunes Law, Inc. Helps Accident Victims

At Nunes Law, Inc., we understand the challenges that Fresno-area accident victims face. With nearly two decades of experience handling motor vehicle accident cases, our firm has helped countless clients navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and recover the compensation they deserve.

We handle various collision cases, including rear-end accidents, head-on collisions, hit-and-run incidents, and crashes involving distracted or drunk drivers. Our approach involves thorough investigation of what really happened, building strong cases based on evidence, and refusing to back down when insurance companies attempt to delay or deny valid claims.

California personal injury law allows victims to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, decreased earning capacity, pain and suffering, and more. We fight to ensure our clients receive full compensation for all applicable damages, not just what insurance companies initially offer.

Take Action Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, time matters. California’s statute of limitations restricts how long you have to file a personal injury claim, and waiting too long can jeopardize your right to compensation. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and insurance companies gain leverage when you delay seeking legal help.

Contact Nunes Law, Inc. today at (559) 206-3783 to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options in clear terms, and help you understand what compensation you may be entitled to receive. Our firm serves clients throughout Fresno and the Central Valley, providing dedicated representation focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for accident victims and their families.