Sherman Oaks Truck Accident Attorneys
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Sherman Oaks Accident Attorneys Will Help You Make Informed Legal Decisions
An average sedan weighs about 3,000 pounds, while a fully loaded big rig weighs around 80,000 pounds. A collision between them usually results in devastating damage, especially to the smaller vehicle. If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for damages. Call the Sherman Oaks truck accident attorneys from Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation and to learn what your legal options are.
Freeway 405 and US Route 101 (Ventura Freeway) see hundreds of delivery and cargo trucks, big rigs, and tankers every day. Motorists traveling these freeways that border the Sherman Oaks neighborhood in Los Angeles should take extra precautions, as truck accidents can occur at any time.
Our law firm brings extensive experience in handling personal injury cases. With a history of representing thousands of clients across California, Arash Law has the resources and legal knowledge to support individuals facing a wide range of injury claims.
Settlement in motor vehicle collision involving commercial truck; client suffered spinal injuries– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Why Hire Our Truck Accident Attorneys In Sherman Oaks
Our attorneys bring substantial experience in personal injury law, including representing clients in truck accident cases. Over the years, we have worked on a broad range of matters, from routine vehicle collisions to more complex truck accident claims, including cases previously declined by other firms. Please note that past results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases.
Our lawyers will handle negotiations with the at-fault party and insurance companies on your behalf. In case you receive a lowball offer, we can uphold your right to fair compensation. If the negotiations fail, our attorneys can pursue your case in court.
Moreover, our team can assist you in gathering vital pieces of evidence. Sometimes, it can be challenging to get copies of police reports or CCTV footage, but we can manage the request process on your behalf. We can also speak with witnesses and obtain their statements to support your claim.
Our Sherman Oaks truck accident attorneys are available to discuss your case and help you understand your legal options. Our firm offers a complimentary case evaluation to determine if you may have valid grounds for pursuing a claim for damages.
Cases Our Sherman Oaks Truck Accident Lawyers Handle
We handle accidents involving semi-trucks, delivery trucks, dump trucks, tractor-trailers, and other large 18-wheeler vehicles. Our dedicated attorneys represent victims and their families in their legal disputes with truck drivers, trucking companies, and insurance providers.
Our truck accident attorneys in Sherman Oaks handle the following cases:
Head-On Truck Accidents
Head-on collisions happen when the front end of a truck collides with the front end of another vehicle. These accidents often result in fatalities, especially in smaller vehicles.
A head-on truck accident is considered the scariest and deadliest type of crash. A truck’s impact and weight are often too much for even an airbag to withstand, often causing severe injuries or death.
Jackknife Truck Accidents
A jackknife accident happens with any commercial vehicle that has two separate parts: the cab and the trailer. Tractor-trailers, also known as big rigs, often get involved in these types of accidents.
When a driver loses control or abruptly hits the brakes, the trailer can swing to the side, creating a V-shape with the cab. When the trailer swings, it has the potential to collide with nearby vehicles, resulting in multiple vehicle accidents and heavy traffic jams.
Moreover, jackknifing trucks could result in T-bone accidents if the rear-end vehicles slam into the derailed trailer. This way, a T-bone crash can be as deadly as a head-on collision.
Rear-Impact Truck Accidents
Rear-end truck accidents occur when a truck collides with the back of the vehicle in front of it. The common reason for this accident is tailgating or distracted driving, where drivers fail to brake in time.
Rear-end collisions are not typically serious for smaller vehicles. But because of the truck’s weight and size, its effect can easily be catastrophic, especially when the driver is also speeding.
Rollover Truck Accidents
Speeding on curved roads is the usual cause of a truck rollover. The truck leans away from the curved road because of centrifugal force and the weight of the trailer. An accident involving a truck rolling over affects nearby vehicles. In some cases, the truck can crush other cars and their occupants.
Sideswipe Truck Accidents
A sideswipe accident happens when the side of the truck hits or scrapes the side of another vehicle. It is less lethal compared to the accidents mentioned above, but could still result in serious injuries to the other vehicle’s occupants.
In addition to causing severe injuries to people, sideswipes can cause massive damage to smaller vehicles because trucks are bigger and made of stronger materials. If you find yourself harmed due to a big rig accident, our truck accident lawyers serving Sherman Oaks can advise you on how to proceed with your claim.
What Are The Common Causes Of Truck Accidents?
Driver errors are the primary cause of truck accidents on the road. Our attorneys in Sherman Oaks come across the following factors that contribute to truck accidents:
Driver Fatigue
Most trucking trips are between states and can last several days. As truckers spend most of their time on the road, they inevitably experience fatigue due to insufficient sleep. The exhaustion makes them more prone to errors, despite their experience driving bigger vehicles.
When a driver is tired, they may fall asleep at the wheel, especially on a straight highway with few other vehicles. Even a brief microsleep can lead to a driver being involved in an accident with devastating consequences.
Each year, at least 328,000 drowsy or fatigued driving accidents occur, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). About 109,000 of those accidents resulted in injuries, while 6,400 were fatal.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the major causes of motor vehicle accidents in the United States. Distractions can divert the driver’s attention away from driving safely. They also affect a driver’s reaction time.
Truck drivers may be more susceptible to distraction as they need to stay awake after long hours of driving. Thus, more truckers are using their cell phones to:
- Browse social media.
- Watch videos.
- Select music to listen to.
- Call or text someone.
- Check maps or GPS.
Similarly, truckers can become distracted by various factors, including those other than their phones. These include:
- Eating and drinking while driving.
- Looking at outdoor advertisements.
- Checking for stalled vehicles or accidents on the other side of the road.
Speeding
Due to their size and weight, larger blind spots, and longer braking distances, trucks are only allowed to cruise at 55 mph in California, despite the 65 mph speed limit. It is further decreased to 45 mph during poor weather conditions. Reducing their speed helps prevent accidents.
Maintaining the required speed can save innocent lives. Speeding affects a driver’s reaction time in hazardous situations, which can lead to accidents. For example, maintaining proper speed can avoid rear-end collisions, as drivers can stop on time.
Impaired Driving
In California, operating a commercial vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or more is illegal, according to the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Alcohol can impair a driver’s coordination, cognitive skills, and decision-making.
A total of 12,429 fatalities were reported in auto accidents involving drunk drivers in the United States in 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Meanwhile, at the state level, California had 1,355 alcohol-impaired fatalities in 2023, as per the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS).
Traffic Law Violations
Even professional truck drivers intentionally disobey traffic laws to make their jobs easier, but at the expense of other motorists’ safety. Making illegal turns, failing to use their signals, running red lights, and not yielding the right of way are some of the offenses truckers can commit.
Inexperienced Truck Drivers
Truck drivers are required to obtain a special license known as a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). It usually comes with a truck driver’s training course to promote road safety.
However, some truckers may pass all the requirements but still lack experience on the road, especially with heavier truckloads. Such inexperience can lead to the accidents mentioned earlier.
To address this concern, new truck drivers should initially handle lighter loads before transitioning to 18-wheelers and tankers, which are more challenging to maneuver. Moreover, trucking companies should give them regular training.
Contact our Sherman Oaks truck accident attorneys if you believe a negligent truck driver caused your injury. We will work to hold them and other responsible individuals accountable for the injuries and losses you suffered.
Common Injuries Sustained In Truck Accidents
Lacerations and contusions are among the most common injuries associated with truck accidents. However, we also had clients who suffered life-threatening injuries and needed more time for recovery. In the event your initial medical assessment is inadequate, our truck accident lawyers can help connect you with medical experts in Sherman Oaks.
Among the severe injuries we have encountered are:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Internal Injuries
- Broken Bones
- Head Traumas
- Mental Traumas
- Wrongful Death
Health-wise, if you suffer an injury in a truck incident, you should seek medical attention for a full assessment, as some injuries are not immediately evident. Visiting a doctor promptly can also help protect your long-term health.
Steps To Take After A Truck Accident In Sherman Oaks
In the event of a truck-related accident, your safety must be the priority. Here are the steps you can follow after a crash:
- If possible, relocate to a safer area, preferably along the roadside. Move your car, if possible, to the side to avoid traffic jams. Call 911 and wait for the authorities to arrive.
- Locate any pain or soreness in your body. Check for wounds, fractures, and any other injuries. Seek immediate medical attention once EMTs arrive.
- Call the cops even if the injury or damage to your vehicle seems minor. A police report is a must when filing a claim.
- Never admit fault or say sorry to anyone. Apologizing may be deemed an admission of guilt and may put your claim at risk.
- Get the truck driver’s information, including their complete name, phone number, address, and insurance details. Take photos of their IDs as well.
- Take photos or videos of your injuries, car damage, and surroundings. This visual evidence can be used in your claim.
- Find available eyewitnesses. Get their personal information and permission to testify.
- It is essential to seek further medical attention to fully assess your health condition. A medical record will be just as important as a police report for your claim.
- Seek legal advice from our truck accident lawyers in Sherman Oaks to protect your rights and assist you in your claim process.
Our personal injury attorneys can help you collect other essential evidence, submit your claims, and manage your case on your behalf.
What Compensation Can I Recover In A Truck Accident Claim?
As an injury victim, you may have grounds to pursue economic and non-economic damages. These include medical fees and emotional distress.
Economic damages are anything that is quantifiable and has a monetary value, such as:
- Medical expenses.
- Lost salary wages.
- Loss of earning capacity.
- Rehabilitation expenses.
- Property damage.
- Household services.
- Miscellaneous out-of-pocket expenses.
Non-economic damages refer to loss or damage that does not have an exact monetary value. They include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of pleasure in activities
- Loss of companionship
- Worsening of previous injuries
Although non-economic damages are more challenging to quantify, we can estimate their financial value based on their severity and impact on your life.
Our attorneys can help you pursue damages for the losses you sustained following your truck accident in Sherman Oaks. We will work to seek a fair settlement on your behalf.
Determining Liability After A Truck Accident
For the injured victim to pursue compensation, they must gather proof of the potential negligence or strict liability of the other party.
Negligence
Negligence is the failure to exercise reasonable care in any circumstance, resulting in injury, damage to property, or death.
For example, a truck is approaching a crosswalk on Clark Street on Kester Avenue when the stoplight turns red. Vehicles stop, but the truck keeps going and eventually runs over a pedestrian. Because the driver failed to stop like other vehicles to give way to pedestrians, the trucker is responsible in this case.
To prove negligence, our Sherman Oaks injury law firm establishes these four elements:
- Duty of Care — Truck drivers must exercise reasonable care and follow traffic rules to prevent harm to others.
- Breach of Duty — Violating traffic rules or actions, such as speeding and aggressive driving, is a breach of that duty.
- Causation — The driver’s negligence directly caused the accident that resulted in the victim’s injury.
- Damages — These are the losses the victims are suffering from.
Strict Liability
Strict liability is a legal doctrine under which a party can be held liable for damages without the need to prove negligence or intent to harm. Liability is based solely on the nature of the activity or the product involved, rather than the conduct of the defendant.
One example is when a defective part causes an accident. The manufacturer of that part can be held accountable, whether they intended for the component to malfunction or not.
If you have questions regarding negligence and strict liability, our Sherman Oaks truck accident attorneys will explain these concepts further in relation to your case.
Who Is Liable For A Truck Accident?
Whenever a truck accident occurs, it is common to assess the driver’s liability first. However, aside from the driver, other parties may also have indirect involvement in an incident. These are:
Trucking Company
Every trucking company is responsible for maintaining a high standard of service for its clients and the general public, promoting satisfaction and safety.
In line with this, the trucking company is responsible for:
- Training its drivers regularly on road safety rules.
- Inspecting its trucks before and after trips.
- Monitor driver activity to detect and prevent alcohol or drug impairment.
- Maintaining active insurance coverage for all vehicles.
- Verifying that all drivers are properly licensed and qualified.
If the truckers are involved in an accident, their employers may also be held liable for their misconduct. Therefore, companies must comply with government-mandated standards to prevent any accidents.
Manufacturer
Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their trucks are free of defects before releasing them. They should recall defective units and replace them with quality ones.
Maintenance Company
The majority of trucking businesses outsource their units’ repairs to third-party maintenance companies to save costs on labor and equipment. It is the responsibility of maintenance companies to diagnose any possible problems with the trucks, perform necessary repairs, and replace any damaged parts.
By failing to do these tasks, they can be deemed negligent in the event of a truck accident and may be liable for any injuries or damage sustained by the victims.
Driver’s Liability
The trucker is liable for an incident that occurs because of their reckless behavior, such as drinking and driving.
Knowing whether the truck belongs to a trucking company or whether the driver himself owns it is also essential. People sometimes hire independent contractors to deliver their products. If the driver gets into an accident and also owns the truck, he may be solely liable for the victim’s injuries and property damage.
Although there is no law prohibiting a truck accident victim from independently filing a claim, it is advisable to consult a lawyer from the beginning. The entire process can be challenging and often involves multiple parties, which can make it harder for victims to focus on their recovery.
Our Sherman Oaks lawyers can handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on recovery.
How Long Do I Have To File A Truck Accident Claim?
Injured victims only have two years to file a claim, according to California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1. Missing this deadline can result in losing the right to seek compensation.
It’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney soon after the accident. Early legal guidance can help preserve evidence, meet important deadlines, and reduce the stress of communicating with insurance companies.
Our Sherman Oaks truck accident attorneys provide guidance throughout the claims process, including case evaluation, negotiation, and preparation for litigation if necessary.
Truck Accident Statistics
According to the NSC, 5,375 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes in 2023. This is an 8.4% decrease from the previous year. The number also represented 9% of all fatal vehicle crashes. Additionally, California recorded 392 deaths in 2023 due to truck accidents.
Meanwhile, 114,552 trucks were involved in accidents that led to injuries. Most of the injuries were caused by occupants of other vehicles, followed by occupants of trucks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents
The Trucking Company’s Insurer Offered Me A Settlement. Should I Take It?
If you’ve received a settlement offer from the trucking company’s insurer, it may be helpful to speak with a personal injury attorney before deciding how to proceed. Initial offers are sometimes made early in the process, before the full extent of injuries or damages is known.
Throughout our years of assisting accident victims, we have found that many initial settlements are often offered in undervalued amounts. In some instances, the insurer informs our client that they are ineligible for claims because they are at fault.
Aside from shouldering the legal legwork so you can focus on your rehabilitation, our other role in this partnership is to caution you from accepting any lowball offers. We aim to pursue fair compensation for your damages.
How Much Are Most Truck Accident Settlements?
The settlement amount varies from case to case. No case is the same, and every truck accident circumstance is unique based on our experience. However, certain factors may impact your settlement. These factors include your age, the kind of injury, the impact of the injury on your daily life, and your capacity to support your family after the truck incident.
If you want to know more about the potential value of your Sherman Oaks truck accident claim, speak with our lawyers. We can assess whether you may have a valid case and help estimate the potential value of your compensation claim.
Contact Our Truck Accident Attorneys In Sherman Oaks
Truck accidents can be traumatic for victims and their families. Our team at Arash Law has extensive experience handling these types of cases and is well-versed in the challenges involved. We work to help victims understand their rights and legal options for pursuing compensation for the damages they have suffered.
Our lawyers will work with you on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not owe us any attorney’s fees unless compensation is obtained. This fee structure provides you with access to legal assistance, regardless of your economic status. Although you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs, you can request a review of your fee arrangement or consult us for any cost-related inquiries.
To discuss your case, complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form here. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation. We have lawyers handling a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, premises liability claims, motorcycle accidents, and dog bite cases.
Our attorneys serve clients in California, including neighborhoods surrounding Sherman Oaks, such as Van Nuys, Valley Glen, North Hollywood, Magnolia Park, Toluca Lake, Encino, Tarzana, Woodland Hills, Reseda, and Lake Balboa.
Latest Traffic Reports in California
