How Do You Know Which Firm Has The Better Truck Accident Lawyers?

Truck accidents can be extremely traumatic. They can lead to severe injuries and financial burdens. The settlement process is another grueling element to consider that can add stress.

Truck accident attorneys from Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., assist injured victims in navigating the legal process. We work to pursue compensation they may be eligible for. Our truck accident lawyers in California can handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on recovery.

There are important factors to consider when hiring a lawyer to represent you. The key to getting a semi-truck accident lawyer for your case is to do your research. We have some tips on what to look for before committing to a firm.

Extensive Truck Accident Legal Experience

The California truck accident lawyers you work with must be familiar with truck accident cases and all the applicable laws and policies. Truck wrecks differ from car accidents. Insurance policies are more complicated, varying from state to state. Additionally, trucking companies have teams of lawyers that defend their claims. Their insurance adjusters and lawyers prioritize their business interests. A qualified semi-truck lawyer in California can advocate for your rights and work to pursue compensation on your behalf.

While experience does not guarantee a win for your case, it can help increase your chances. The more knowledge a California truck accident lawyer has, the better. With more experience, they can better argue the case and identify negotiation strategies. It also helps find issues during litigation. It is also important that they have trial experience. Viewing both sides of the case can help build a strong argument for you.

So, how do you know if a semi-truck lawyer in California has experience? Consider the firm’s established date and when the attorney began practicing law. You can also ask how many similar cases they’ve worked on. Aside from working on similar cases, knowing how many were won is essential. The more in all categories, the better your chances.

Experience In Relevant Cases

Experience in relevant cases matters just as much as general legal experience. Arash Law has decades of experience handling truck accident cases and other related claims.

Transportation accidents fall into different categories, including:

Each of these categories has different factors to consider. While you see truck accidents on this list, that doesn’t mean they are handled like a boat accident. The same goes for the California personal injury lawyers you work with. Having experience in one area does not guarantee experience in the others.

When looking for the best truck accident lawyers in California, find one who focuses on truck accidents. Truck drivers have specific laws to follow. Your California semi-truck lawyer must be familiar with these laws. Hiring a lawyer with relevant experience can be an advantage to your case.

The Cost Of Hiring A Truck Accident Lawyer

Cost is often a major concern for accident victims seeking legal help. Understanding how your attorney charges for their services can help you determine if they’re the right fit. Most transportation and personal injury attorneys charge on a contingency fee basis, where the client doesn’t pay any fees upfront. Instead, legal fees are deducted from your settlement or court award.

At Arash Law, our truck accident attorneys work under this payment structure. This means clients don’t need to pay the attorney’s fees if compensation is not recovered. However, they may still be responsible for certain case-related costs, regardless of the outcome, and this will be discussed during your consultation. Contingency arrangements allow injured victims to access legal representation without upfront financial risk.

California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers

Finding which firm has better truck accident lawyers can be essential to your case. Truck accidents are far more complex than typical car collisions. They often involve multiple parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and even manufacturers or maintenance providers, each of whom may share legal responsibility.

Truck drivers are also overworked and travel unfamiliar roads all day. Semi-trucks can weigh 20 to 30 times more than passenger vehicles. These and other factors are why hiring semi-truck accident lawyers with focused experience is critical.

At Arash Law, our legal team has the resources and experience necessary to handle the challenges of truck accident cases. We are familiar with the industry standards, common violations, and how to build well-supported cases on behalf of injured victims. We’ve represented clients across California in both settlement negotiations and courtroom trials, working to pursue available compensation for injured clients.

What To Do At The Truck Accident Scene

The scene of a truck accident can be overwhelming, but your actions in those first moments are critical in protecting your health and legal rights. If you’re still at the scene, here are some steps you can follow:

• Remain calm.
• Turn on your hazards.
• Check for any injuries.
• Call 911.
• Seek medical attention.
• Do not leave the scene.
• Get the contact information for everyone in the accident and potential witnesses.
• Get the names and badge numbers of all responding police officers.
• Take photographs of your vehicle, the truck, and your injuries.
• Never admit fault.
• Do not discuss the collision with anyone.

If you’re no longer at the scene, you can still use this list to review what steps you took and what information you gathered. Identifying any missing details early can support your case. Take time to write down everything you remember while it’s still fresh.

What To Do Following A Truck Accident In California

Your stress does not end when you get home from the hospital. There are important steps you can take to help strengthen your claim. In the days following your accident, consider the following:

• Get a copy of the police report.
• Get an estimate of the property damage.
• Keep track of your doctor’s visits and treatment.
• Keep a pain journal.
• Get copies of test results, prescriptions, treatments, etc.
• Keep a list of out-of-pocket expenses.
• Record days off work.
• Refrain from accepting a settlement without your lawyer present.

Some of these actions are ongoing. Keeping a pain journal and a schedule of your appointments will continue until you finish treatment. Getting the police report and other items is a one-off thing. Your lawyer can tell you other steps to help your case.

How Can You Protect Your Rights After A Truck Accident?

After a truck accident, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. However, trucking companies and their insurers often have significant resources dedicated to defending claims. Because of this, it’s important to take steps to protect your rights.

Avoid giving recorded statements or signing documents without seeking legal advice first, as these can sometimes be used against you later. Instead, focus on documenting your injuries and the details of the accident. Consulting with a California semi-truck accident lawyer can provide guidance on how to navigate the claims process and protect your interests.

What Makes Semi-Truck Accident Cases Unique

Size, laws, insurance companies, and more make truck accidents complex. There are several parties involved in the process, which complicates liability issues. Every aspect of operating the truck is the responsibility of a different entity. A California truck accident lawyer can conduct an investigation for you. Some concerns Arash Law can address include the following issues:

Defects And Malfunctions

The truck company and owner are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the semi-truck. They should meet all safety standards. They are responsible for scheduling regular maintenance, handling repairs, and checking equipment. Failing to adhere to these schedules constitutes negligence that can lead to a collision.

Additionally, there can be hidden defects or malfunctions with parts or equipment, creating a safety hazard. If a critical component like the brakes fails, it can lead to death. Defects are the responsibility of the distributor or manufacturer. Sometimes the mechanic can be liable for these errors.

Truck Company Negligence

Trucking companies have many obligations regarding the truck and its drivers. They must screen and test drivers upon employment. Drivers must keep logs of their driving and rest breaks. It is the company’s duty to monitor these records and schedule drivers in compliance with state and federal regulations. These documents can be vital to your case as evidence of negligence.

Inadequately Maintained Roads

Not all streets nationwide can accommodate a semi-truck. Highways must be adequately marked so drivers do not get lost or stuck. Overpass height and bridge weight limits must also be clearly marked. These warnings are essential for truck driver safety. Truckers can get stuck or lose control of the vehicle without these labels.

State and federal organizations must also maintain the roads to keep them clear of potholes. Labeling blind curves, upcoming intersections, and construction is also the government’s responsibility. When these actions are not taken, they can cause a truck crash.

Negligent Truck Driver

Truck drivers are required to operate their vehicles with caution and adjust their driving based on current road and weather conditions. For example, during heavy rain, even if the posted speed limit is 55 mph, a safe speed might be significantly lower due to reduced visibility and traction. When drivers fail to adjust to conditions or engage in dangerous behaviors like driving while drowsy, distracted, inexperienced, careless, or under the influence, they may be considered negligent. These types of driver errors are a leading cause of serious truck accidents.

Other Careless Motorists

Motorists must also drive safely around semi-trucks in California. Sometimes they do not, which can lead to a crash. If another driver is careless, it forces the trucker to respond. The chaos can lead to a subsequent accident with someone else on the road. You can drive safely when another motorist forces a truck into a defensive maneuver. Their actions result in your injuries.

Liability

Liability in a truck accident is often shared among multiple parties, depending on the circumstances. In addition to the truck driver, other potentially responsible parties may include the trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, maintenance provider, loading company, or even other motorists involved in the collision. Each party plays a specific role in truck operation and safety, and identifying who is at fault requires a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident.

Insurance Policies

Insurance coverage in truck accident cases is often more complex than in standard car accidents. Commercial trucking policies typically carry higher coverage limits and involve detailed terms and conditions. After a crash, insurance companies may respond quickly with legal teams working to limit their liability.

If multiple parties are involved, such as a driver, trucking company, or cargo handler, you may be dealing with several insurance providers at once. Navigating these overlapping policies requires careful legal guidance to avoid jeopardizing your claim.

Serious Injuries

Truck accidents are known for causing severe injuries to victims. Many are life-altering. Some injuries lead to death. The worse the damage, the more medical treatment is necessary. That can lead to more significant medical bills and is factored into settlement requests.

Size matters when it comes to vehicles. An 18-wheeler can weigh upwards of 80,000 pounds. It is easy to blame the truck driver for their role, but there are other factors to consider. Drivers cannot drive more than 10 hours a day. It is also advised to seek a California commercial truck accident lawyer after a collision.

Differences Between Truck And Car Accidents

Passenger vehicle accidents are straightforward. There are two or more cars in a crash. The insurance companies represent their insured, and liability is simple. These cases often resolve more quickly, as they involve fewer parties and have lower insurance limits.

In contrast, commercial truck accidents involve multiple layers of responsibility. Beyond the truck driver, potentially liable parties may include the trucking company, maintenance providers, cargo loaders, or even vehicle manufacturers. Each may carry separate insurance policies, which means dealing with several insurance companies and legal teams.

It is beneficial to hire a California truck accident lawyer who can handle all communications with the insurance companies and opposing parties’ lawyers. Work with a lawyer who can conduct investigations and manage negotiations. Essentially, they must handle the legal process on your behalf.

Why Semi-Truck Accidents Happen In California

Tractor-trailer wrecks can happen in numerous ways. Often, it is due to the reckless actions or negligence of someone involved in a truck operation. Common actions that lead to semi-truck accidents are:

• Driver fatigue
• Aggressive driving
• Speeding
• Ignoring reduced truck speed limits
• Impaired driving
• Distracted driving
• Failure to inspect the vehicles

This is not an exhaustive list, and accidents can happen for many other reasons not listed here. There are 333,000 commercial truck wrecks annually nationwide. These collisions resulted in 3,921 deaths and 104,000 injuries. The cause is essential to your case because it determines liability. Your tractor-trailer accident lawyer in California will investigate the cause.

Nationwide Truck Collision Statistics

Truck accidents can be catastrophic, and it is mentally devastating knowing so many people are impacted. Commercial vehicles can weigh between 20% and 30% more than passenger vehicles. Safety controls are limited and challenging to maneuver. The space and time they need to break are also more complex.

Due to the complexity and catastrophic results of these accidents, a lot of research has been done on them. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety and the U.S. Department of Transportation are the lead agencies that collect data and statistics.

Data from 2019 shows the following:

• Of the 4,119 people who died in truck crashes, 16 percent were truck occupants. The other 67 percent were passenger vehicles. The final 155 were bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorcyclists.
• Truck crashes happen on 52 percent of major roads, with 32 percent on interstates and freeways. Only 15 percent occur on smaller roads.
• Truck crashes made up 11 percent of all transportation crash deaths.

People in passenger vehicles have a higher probability of suffering an injury. They are also at risk of fatal injuries. After a truck crash, speak with a California truck accident attorney to understand your legal options and rights.

Identifying Responsible Parties In Truck Accidents

Truck drivers usually have high insurance policies in the millions. Their employers also have policies that can help. Identifying the various insurance policies is vital. Your California commercial truck accident attorney will look at different parties who can be responsible. Some of these parties include the truck driver, trucking company, truck manufacturers, and others.

Truck Driver

In many cases, the truck driver is primarily responsible. They are likely the direct cause of the collision. The driver may be held liable for any negligence, careless actions, and regulatory violations.

Trucking Company

A trucking company employs the driver. The company has vicarious liability for its employees. The company can be held liable for the driver’s actions. They are responsible for background checks, scheduling, and driver information. They are also liable if they contribute to the accident by lacking maintenance or overloading the vehicle.

Truck Manufacturers

When there is a mechanical failure or a faulty part, the manufacturer may be liable. If a mechanic or another party is aware of the defect and fails to fix it, it is also a mechanical defect. Liability will be complex in these instances.

Third Parties

The trucking industry is full of processes. Many companies hire third parties. Some of those are brokers who connect transportation companies to drivers. When third parties are involved, it can further complicate liability. It is crucial to investigate how much control they have over the driver.

Commercial truck accidents are very complex. If one of the above parties is liable, it will impact your case. All of these parties have individual insurance policies. These can be difficult to navigate. You can get compensation from multiple sources. Consider speaking to a California tractor-trailer accident lawyer from Arash Law to help you understand the insurance coverage available for your case and pursue compensation for damages.

Establishing Negligence After A Truck Accident

Proving negligence is a vital part of a truck accident claim. You will need evidence showing the truck driver was negligent and responsible for the collision. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim. Using the evidence we uncover, we can show a breach of duty, the cause of the accident, and the severity of your injuries. Breach of duty is vital and can vary. Examples of breaches of duty include:

• Driving longer than 10 hours without rest.
• Improperly maintained logbook.
• Discrepancies in hours driven.
• Driving under the influence.
• Not documenting rest breaks and hours of service.
• Improper truck loading.

Drivers and trucking companies can make many other mistakes if they breach their duty of care. To seek compensation for your injuries, you must establish that negligence contributed to the accident. Proving negligence can be complex, but an experienced truck accident attorney knows what evidence to gather and how to present your case to insurance companies.

Unlawful Hiring Practices And Truck Crashes

State and federal regulations set strict standards for commercial truck operations, including requirements related to vehicle maintenance and driver hiring. Trucking companies that fail to screen and evaluate their drivers properly may be found liable for unlawful hiring practices. This includes conducting thorough background checks, verifying employment history, and providing drivers with adequate training.

During an investigation, your California semi-truck accident lawyer will collaborate with experts to identify any negligent hiring practices. They will know which questions to ask and where to look for evidence, which can include:

• Rest breaks.
• Training and employment history of the driver.
• Maintenance logs.
• Criminal records.
• Background checks.

Gathering this evidence often involves reviewing the company’s hiring documents and policies. Demonstrating negligent hiring can be complex, but it is crucial, as it may indicate broader safety violations by the trucking company. Your attorney will carefully examine all relevant company practices and work to build a well-supported case on your behalf.

Semi-Truck Accidents And Losses

Victims suffer different losses after a truck accident. The California semi-truck accident lawyers at Arash Law consider the unique factors of each case. You can get a personalized estimate of your losses. We can review your current and potential future losses. Depending on the circumstances, a truck accident claim can include the following:

Medical Bills

Medical expenses related to injuries from the collision can include hospital stays, emergency transportation, surgery, testing, CT scans, X-rays, therapy, and rehabilitation appointments. It will also include doctor’s visits, medical devices, and medications. Transportation expenses like gas, mileage, and rideshares are also included here.

Lost Wages After A Truck Collision

You will likely take time off immediately following the collision. Keep track of these days off so you can include them in your compensation claim. We include these losses if your injuries are severe and require additional time off. If your injuries prevent you from working, that is a significant element of your compensation claim. We can calculate the differences if you can work but must take a lower-paying job. Future income can also be calculated.

Property Damage From The Truck

The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle includes any property inside the car that you lost, like clothes, jewelry, electronics, etc. You must keep receipts of the replacements to include in your claim.

Pain And Suffering From Injuries

Injuries and trauma from the accident can lead to mental and physical pain. The mental distress can impact your physical recovery. To address these hardships, you can request pain and suffering damages.

Punitive Damages

The court rarely awards these. They are meant to punish the at-fault party. They do not consider any losses the victim suffers. When actions are regarded as severe misconduct, they can lead to these additional penalties.

Arash Law’s semi-truck accident lawyers in California can help calculate losses. We can take a detailed inventory of the losses you suffered. We will consider how the accident impacted your life and will do so in the future. Understanding your life before and after the accident is vital to calculating fair compensation.

How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit After A Truck Wreck?

Many victims assume that catastrophic accidents allow for a long time to take legal action, but this is not the case. It’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Early legal representation is crucial because evidence can be lost or destroyed over time, which may weaken your case.

In truck accident cases, the statute of limitations to file a lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you’re filing a claim against a government agency, you only have six months from the date of the injury to file a formal claim. Other conditions can also toll or pause the deadline, such as when the victim is a minor or mentally incapacitated.

To be sure about the deadlines that apply to your case, consulting an attorney can be beneficial. They can help you keep track of all relevant time limits and guide you through the legal process.

Choosing The Best California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer

After you have an initial consultation and consider the truck accident lawyers’ experience, reputation, and consultation, it is time for the next step. Hire an attorney when you trust your lawyer and are confident in your decision. You should follow up with the firm if you have any lingering questions. You can have your questions answered by a supervisor, legal assistant, or semi-truck accident lawyer. It is a team effort.

When you decide to move forward, you will need to review some documentation. The truck accident law firm will provide you with a contract and a variety of other reading materials. You should read through everything and ask any questions you may have. When you have answers and understand your contract, then sign it. While you focus on your physical healing, your California semi-truck accident attorney can handle the legal matters of your case.

Seven Factors To Consider When Choosing Your California Truck Accident Lawyer

When hiring truck accident lawyers, there are seven factors to consider.

Reputation

One of the things to consider is their reputation. Their success rate and how they work with opposing counsel are vital to showing their reputation. Sometimes you can get word-of-mouth referrals from family, friends, or coworkers. Happy clients are usually a good sign.

Experience

Read the commercial truck lawyer’s online bio. It will indicate their school and how many years they have been practicing law. Verify if they have experience handling truck accidents. Personal injury lawyers can handle many different kinds of cases. Some will include notable cases and case results.

Resources

Truck accidents are very complex, and they require a lot of resources. Sometimes you will need experts like:

• Medical specialists
• Traffic engineers
• Accident reconstructionists
• Financial experts
• Industry experts

An attorney who works with a roster of experts is a good choice. You can ask how often they collaborate with these experts and how it helps your case.

Negotiation Skills

Negotiations are where many cases settle. It is a critical element of your case. You want a lawyer with experience presenting the facts, using strategies, and creating a solid argument. When offers come, your lawyer can counter.

Dedication

A law firm’s dedication is crucial. Even the most experienced attorney cannot provide quality representation if they are overburdened with cases. You can gauge their commitment by their responsiveness, availability for appointments, and willingness to answer your questions during the consultation.

Comfort

This one is based on your gut. You will want someone you can trust. The accident will impact you in many ways, and you can discuss these with your lawyer. You will have to share deeply personal issues, and you want to be comfortable with the team handling your case.

Payment

Choosing a semi-truck lawyer you can afford is important. At Arash Law, our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any attorney’s fees upfront unless compensation is obtained. Please note that you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs.

You can find information about the lawyer online, in news articles, through references, and more. Consider the good and the bad, and decide if they are the right person for the job.

Speak To A California Truck Accident Attorney

Truck accidents can be frightening to experience, and many victims do not know their rights. Some also do not know the cost of their injuries and future losses. Someone who can help you determine these factors is a California truck accident lawyer.

Take time to choose a truck accident lawyer by evaluating their experience with similar cases, client reviews, communication style, and clarity during consultations. Avoid rushing the decision, but don’t delay seeking legal guidance if you’re considering a claim. The ideal truck accident lawyer is one you feel comfortable with and can trust to handle your case.

Arash Law has decades of experience handling truck accident cases. Once you work with us, we can advise you of your legal rights and options. We assist injured individuals from Los Angeles, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Diego, Bakersfield, Fresno, and the rest of California. Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.