Los Banos Truck Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Skilled Los Banos Truck Accident Lawyers Are Dedicated To Your Legal Journey
Truck accidents can have serious consequences. However, you needn’t be suffering from losses if the crash was caused by another’s negligence. Our truck accident lawyers in Los Banos understand what you may be going through and offer practical support to help you navigate your legal options after the accident. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
On the west side of Merced County, Los Banos stands as a vibrant community with a population of over 45,000. Many Los Banos residents use Interstate 5 to travel to Sacramento or Stockton. Although the idea of a truck accident does not always cross their minds, they are always at risk since these large vehicles pose a significant danger on our highways.
Our team is dedicated to representing injured clients and helping them seek compensation. We operate on a contingency fee basis, so clients can get the help they need without paying any upfront fees. Though some other case-related costs may still apply, they only have to pay our attorneys if they’re able to collect compensation.
If you’re seeking skilled representation after a truck accident, our team of Los Banos truck accident lawyers is ready to review your case.
Paz v. Airfax Logistics (settled on 5/26/2020) – settlement in a case involving a client who was involved in a trucking accident and sustained a traumatic brain injury and other trauma.– TINA ESHGHIEH
How Can Our Los Banos Truck Accident Lawyers Manage Your Case?
In terms of legal support, Arash Law has handled accident cases throughout California, including truck accidents involving tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, and other powerful commercial vehicles.
Here’s how our dedicated and experienced truck accident attorneys in Los Banos can help:
- Advocate for Your Interests — Our experienced lawyers are committed to helping you pursue any compensation you may be entitled to. They can leverage their knowledge of personal injury law concerning motor vehicle collisions in advocating for your rights inside and outside the court. They can gather and analyze evidence to build a well-supported claim and assist you with settlement negotiations and litigation, if necessary.
- Extended Support — Even if not directly affected, family members of victims who are recovering from severe injuries or have died due to the accident may need legal representation. Our Los Banos truck accident lawyers offer clear guidance throughout the claims process. For example, we can help you learn if you’re eligible to file a wrongful death claim.
Why Consult Our Los Banos Truck Accident Lawyers?
Our Los Banos truck accident lawyers are here to help manage your case so you can focus on your well-being. Here are some reasons to consider our lawyers for your case:
- We Have Experience With Similar Claims — Our attorneys have decades of combined experience handling injury cases, including truck accidents. They understand the unique challenges involved, from complex regulations to litigation.
- We Conduct Independent Investigations — We gather evidence and consult outside experts so that we can build a substantiated case for your compensation claim.
- We Have a Supportive Legal Team — We are dedicated to offering you comprehensive legal assistance. From investigating to negotiating with trucking and insurance companies, we will work to help establish liability in valid claims.
- We Offer Personalized Strategies — Because every case is unique, we tailor our strategies to fit your specific situation. Regardless, our goal is to help you seek the compensation that may be available to you.
- We Provide a Client-Centered Approach — With an emphasis on clear communication and understanding, we aim to guide you through the claims process with transparency. Clients who enlist our services can expect to receive updates on their cases as they progress. They can also reach out to our lawyers so we may address any questions and concerns about their claims as they arise.
Leading Causes Of Truck Accidents In Los Banos, CA
Truck accidents that involve big vehicles like semi-trucks or 18-wheelers happen due to various factors, including driver fatigue and improper loading of cargo. Whatever the cause, the significant size and weight of these trucks compared to other vehicles often result in severe consequences.
Here are several factors why a truck accident happens in Los Banos, California:
- Driver Fatigue — Truck drivers often spend long hours on the road. Despite regulations limiting consecutive driving hours, some drivers might ignore these rules due to delivery pressures. Unfortunately, insufficient sleep impairs focus, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Speeding — Delivery deadlines may push truck drivers to exceed speed limits. However, speeding compromises reaction times and control, putting everyone on the road at risk.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance — The extensive daily mileage of commercial trucks leads to faster wear and tear, increasing the chances of equipment failure. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent accidents caused by issues like worn brake pads or tires.
- Distracted Driving — Long hours on the road may tempt truck drivers to engage in risky behaviors like texting or changing radio stations. Even a momentary distraction can result in an accident.
- Alcohol & Drug Use — Impaired driving due to substance use poses a severe risk, affecting reaction times and focus on the road.
If you’re injured in a truck collision caused by a negligent driver, consult with our Los Banos truck accident lawyers. They can assess your case for free during your first meeting and see if you have grounds for a claim.
Common Types Of Truck Accident Injuries
In contrast with typical car crashes, even truck accidents tend to cause catastrophic injuries due to their size and weight. Common types of truck accidents include:
- Rollover Accidents — Caused by factors like speeding or sharp turns, trucks rolling over pose a serious risk to nearby vehicles.
- Jackknife Accidents — Rapid braking can cause the truck to fold, forming a 90-degree angle, potentially leading to collisions and road blockages.
- Wide Turn or “Squeeze Play” Accidents — Incorrectly executed right turns can trap or squeeze vehicles between the truck’s front and back.
- Underride Accidents — Small vehicles or motorcycles can collide with and get trapped under the back of the truck’s trailer, often resulting in deadly incidents.
- T-Bone Accidents — T-bone crashes often occur when a driver runs a red light, resulting in a collision with the side of another vehicle. It’s especially dangerous when involving trucks.
- Blind Spot Accidents — Trucks have significant blind spots, and drivers in these areas are at risk of deadly collisions.
- Truck Tire Blowouts — Neglecting tire maintenance can lead to sudden tire blowouts, posing a severe risk to other motorists and road users.
- Rear-End Truck Accidents — Even at low speeds, rear-end collisions with large trucks may cause significant damage.
- Head-on Truck Accidents — Collisions between commercial trucks and smaller vehicles are likely to be fatal.
- Brake Failure Accidents — Brake failure can occur due to poor maintenance or improper installation, leading to potential multi-party liability.
- Incorrectly Loaded Cargo Accidents — Poorly loaded and unsecured cargo can fall off trucks, causing serious accidents with other drivers.
Our Los Banos truck accident lawyers can look into what caused your accident to identify who may be responsible for causing your injuries and other losses.
What To Do After A Truck Accident In Los Banos, CA
Following a truck accident, it’s crucial for victims to take immediate and informed action. Here are some examples of steps you can take to both ensure your safety and potentially support a truck accident claim in the future:
- First, if you are able and conscious, check your own conditions after a crash. Call for medical help if needed. Don’t compromise safety.
- Call the police and report the accident, even if it seems minor. Gather necessary information and ensure the police report is filed to document the incident.
- Seek medical attention for yourself and any passengers, even if you feel fine. Document evidence at the scene safely, including photos and information from others involved.
- Collect contact details of witnesses. Even if they don’t provide statements immediately, having their information can be crucial later.
- Have your vehicle assessed before repair. Ensure the repair estimate is part of your insurance claim and follow your insurer’s guidelines.
- Watch your words after an accident. Avoid admitting fault. Instead, keep a cool head to refrain from saying things that could harm your case.
- Avoid posting on social media about the accident. Even seemingly innocent posts may weaken your claim during legal proceedings.
- Call our Los Banos truck accident attorneys, whether you’re the injured party or supporting a loved one who is. Our lawyers can guide you through the claims process and assess whether you have a valid case to file.
How Can A Trucking Company Be Negligent In A Truck Accident?
A truck accident may occur if companies fail to follow safety regulations, putting other drivers and passengers at risk. There are a number of issues that trucking companies might face, including:
- Hiring Unqualified Drivers — A shortage of truck drivers may result in hiring inexperienced ones, posing risks on the road. Lack of training and improper licenses can lead to accidents.
- Failing to Report Violations — Some companies overlook or ignore driver violations like DUI, speeding, or overloading. This act of negligence can potentially put everyone on the road in danger.
- Inadequate Truck Maintenance & Inspection — Regular vehicle inspections and maintenance are crucial to prevent mechanical failures. Neglecting these responsibilities can lead to accidents.
- Noncompliance With Federal Regulations — Federal rules mandate rest periods for truck drivers to prevent fatigue-related issues. Truck companies might be considered negligent if they give delivery assignments that force some drivers to exceed their recommended work hours.
- Improper Truck Loading — Failure to properly load trucks increases the risk of cargo coming loose or causing an imbalance. Companies neglecting safety measures are likely to contribute to accidents and harm other road users.
If you suffered a personal injury due to a truck company’s negligence, consider making a personal injury claim. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to file a claim for the damages you’ve suffered. Consult with our Los Banos truck accident lawyers for legal assistance.
April 2019: $14M settlement in a traumatic brain injury case involving a defective piece of equipment at a factory.
– BRIAN BEECHER
Seeking Compensation After A Los Banos Truck Accident Injury
Knowing how to pursue compensation after a truck accident is essential for those affected. The following are different forms of damages victims can seek after a truck accident in Los Banos. It includes economic, non-economic, punitive damages, and wrongful death claims.
Economic Compensation
After a truck crash, there are tangible costs like medical bills and lost wages, which are considered economic damages. Property damage and transportation-related expenses may also be part of these losses.
Non-Economic Compensation
Apart from out-of-pocket costs, victims may face intangible losses from incidents involving large trucks. Non-economic damages aim to compensate for the pain and suffering arising from such experiences.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are a less common form of compensation that focuses on punishing reckless behavior rather than directly relieving victims of their losses. While rarely awarded, they serve as a preventative measure against dangerous conduct.
Wrongful Death Claims
This type of compensation seeks to address the emotional and financial losses resulting from the loss of a loved one. An attorney can guide families through the claims process during this challenging time.
Our experienced Los Banos truck accident lawyers can offer personalized assistance by evaluating the specifics of your case and helping you understand your options for seeking compensation. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a free initial consultation.
FAQs About Truck Accidents In Los Banos, California
Does Insurance Cover Truck Accidents In Los Banos, CA?
Big trucks, like semi-trailers, can be over 70 feet long and weigh up to 80,000 pounds. If there’s an accident at high speeds, these huge machines can cause severe damage. That’s why they need significant insurance.
In California, trucks weighing more than 10,000 pounds must have at least $750,000 in liability insurance coverage. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry nationwide. While it has the same minimum limit, the required coverage might be more, depending on the truck type and what it’s hauling. For instance, if a truck carries hazardous materials, it often needs at least $1 million in liability coverage.
How Long Do I Have To File A Truck Accident Claim?
In California, the time limit for filing a truck accident claim varies based on the claim’s nature and the involved parties. Generally, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim is two years from the date of the crash. Some exceptions may extend or shorten this deadline, depending on the specifics of your case. If you file a claim after two years from the crash date, it might not be heard in court and could be dismissed, no matter its merit.
Our Los Banos truck accident lawyers can help you make informed decisions by explaining how the statute of limitations applies to your case so you can file a valid claim on time. We also offer a free case review during your first meeting with our attorneys.
Why File A Claim For Compensation Following A Truck Accident Injury?
Filing a truck accident claim may help establish accountability for the responsible party. It will have to have them compensate you for your losses. Doing so might also help prevent similar accidents and encourage others to come forward.
Compensation can potentially help cover expenses and losses resulting from your injury. Whether it’s medical expenses or lost wages from time off work, a personal injury claim is meant to help mitigate the financial impact of a truck accident.
Depending on your case, you may be eligible to pursue compensation. You can talk to our Los Banos truck accident lawyers to learn whether you have a valid claim.
Truck Accident Statistics
Large trucks are involved in an alarming number of accidents. Five hundred and twenty-three thousand large truck accidents occurred across the country in 2021 alone. Several of these truck accidents resulted in death or serious injury. Approximately 101,000 truck crashes caused injuries in that year, and 4,444 caused fatalities. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), California saw 437 truck accident-related deaths in 2021.
Call Our Experienced Los Banos Truck Accident Attorneys.
If you’ve suffered a serious injury or lost a loved one due to preventable circumstances, you can reach out to an experienced attorney to learn how to recover financially. When trucks are involved, the resulting cases are likely to be complex. The whole process will involve thorough investigation, strategy, negotiation, and knowledge of the evolving legal and trucking landscapes.
Our Los Banos truck accident lawyers have experience handling various types of accident cases across California. We’ll aim to leverage our knowledge and skills in handling truck accident claims to handle the legal side, so you can concentrate more on your recovery. Give us a call at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation, and we’ll get started reviewing your case.
We offer our services beyond Los Banos, including Volta, Trent, Brito, Santa Nella, Ingomar, Gustine, Newman, Hills Ferry, Stevinson, Dos Palos, El Nido, and Hamburg Farms, as well as throughout California.
