Indio 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 Top-Rated Indio Truck Accident Lawyers Are Personally Committed To Securing Your Justice
Because of their weight and size, large trucks are more likely to cause catastrophic accidents than other vehicles. If you get injured or a loved one is killed because of these vehicles, our Indio truck accident lawyers will help you deal with the legal process of pursuing the maximum compensation you deserve. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 today. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case.
The city of Indio, located in Riverside County, is known for its vibrant community and cultural events, such as the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. However, the city is more likely to experience traffic accidents as spectators from all across the nation swarm to attend these events.
On a related note, truck accidents are common in Indio due to its location along Interstate 10 and State Route 86. Such incidents typically lead to high medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, causing victims to struggle financially and emotionally. If you’re an injured victim, getting compensation requires truck accident lawyers in Indio who will fight for what you are entitled to.
Our attorneys have a reputation for offering exceptional legal support in difficult circumstances. We investigate every detail of each case, gathering evidence to identify liable parties and prove negligence. If you’ve been injured due to negligence, reach out to our law firm in Indio today.
Suarez v. Premium Packing (settled on 9/26/2023) – settlement involving a man who sustained multiple orthopedic injures and a mild traumatic brain injury when he was run over by a food truck.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Why Hire Our Indio Truck Accident Lawyers For Your Case
Our team of knowledgeable Indio truck accident attorneys is committed to offering the best possible legal counsel to injured victims and their families. We understand the terrible consequences a truck accident can have on your life. More importantly, we have the expertise and extensive experience to support you through the legal process and fight for your maximum compensation.
Our truck accident lawyers provide the following:
Experience And Expertise
Our Indio personal injury attorneys have decades of combined experience representing truck accident victims. We use our in-depth knowledge of the applicable rules and laws to build solid cases.
Personalized Attention
We provide each client with individualized attention depending on their specific needs and goals. We take the time to hear your story, get to know your needs, and create a well-rounded legal strategy that is unique to your situation.
Proven Results
Our track record of favorable judgments and settlements speaks for itself. We are focused on achieving the best outcomes, so you can rest assured knowing we will do the same for your claim.
Compassionate Support
Our truck accident lawyers in Indio are here to offer compassionate help and direction during the whole legal procedure. We are always available to respond to your questions and concerns, handle your worries, and offer you the legal assistance you require in order to proceed with your life and make a full recovery.
Contingency Fee Arrangement
Our attorneys work on Indio truck accident claims on a contingency fee basis. We will collect no legal fees until after we secure the compensation our clients deserve. This way, you can pursue your right to compensation without worrying too much about your finances.
Protection Against Insurance Companies
Insurance companies will find ways to minimize your payout or even deny your claim, but we’re here to protect you from them. They might appear to be helpful, but what they’re actually doing is lowering your guard. They are hoping to get some information from you that they can use against you.
What you need is genuine help, which we can provide. They won’t refer you to medical providers, advise you on what damages you’re further entitled to, or assist you in getting a rented car. But our lawyers for Indio truck accidents can do these and more for you.
The team at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., has recovered over $750 Million in compensation for thousands of our clients, helping them rebuild their lives after an injury. We take great pride in the accomplishments we have made for our clients, and we will do all in our power to achieve the same for you.
How Will Our Attorneys In Indio Win Your Truck Accident Case?
Having legal representation can increase your likelihood of receiving the maximum compensation. Your lawyers can help you navigate the legal process, file paperwork on time, and negotiate with the insurance company. Without a lawyer, you may not receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.
- Thorough Investigation – In order to present a compelling case, we will thoroughly investigate the events surrounding your truck accident. We will look over accident records, speak with witnesses, and seek expert opinions.
- Strategic Negotiation – Our truck accident attorneys in Indio are adept negotiators who will tirelessly fight for a just settlement. To make sure you get paid fairly for your losses and injuries, we will demonstrate to the insurance companies why you deserve maximum compensation.
- Aggressive Litigation – If we can’t reach a fair settlement with the insurers, our attorneys are prepared to represent you in court. We will defend your rights in front of a jury and prove the negligence of the other party, ensuring they are held accountable for your injuries.
Common Types Of Truck Accidents
Based on the observations of our Indio lawyers, these are the most common types of truck accidents:
- Rear-End Collisions – When truck drivers follow other vehicles too closely, especially in heavy traffic, they might not have enough distance to brake safely once the cars in front of them stop. This can lead to a rear-end collision.
- Jackknife Incidents – In jackknifing, the cab of a truck and its trailer fold inwards towards each other. These types of accidents usually happen when the trailer swings out to the side due to sudden, hard braking or too-rapid acceleration. Such incidents can block multiple lanes of traffic, potentially causing a pile-up.
- Rollover Accidents – Trucks are more likely to tip over than other vehicles, especially when taking sharp turns at high speeds or dealing with the shifting weight of improperly loaded cargo. Accidents involving rollovers can result in catastrophic injuries or even death.
- Underrides – When big rigs suddenly stop or run red lights, smaller vehicles going toward them may slide under the trailers. Due to the height difference between the truck and the car, these accidents are often fatal for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.
- Wide Turn Collisions – Trucks need a wide space to make turns due to the length of their cabs and trailers. If the drivers are not careful, they might collide with other vehicles or objects while maneuvering.
What Are The Usual Causes Of Truck Accidents?
Despite California having one of the best logistics infrastructures in the world, truck accidents are still common in the state. When compared to smaller vehicles, large trucks are operated in a different manner. That is to say, truckers need to be careful with every move and decision they make while driving. Sadly, negligence is one of the main factors leading to catastrophic truck collisions. Other common causes of truck accidents include:
- Insufficient or inadequate training for drivers
- Driver exhaustion
- Driver’s negligence (distracted driving, DUI, speeding)
- Failure to check for blind spots
- Dangerous road conditions
- Poor truck maintenance
- Brake failures
- Tire blowouts
- Defective truck parts
- Improperly loaded cargo
Indio’s truck accident attorneys at Arash Law will be able to determine these negligent actions, helping you make the at-fault parties responsible for your injuries and losses.
Determining Liability In A Truck Accident
Big rig collisions frequently result in tragic injuries and intricate legal situations. Depending on the specific circumstances, multiple parties may be liable. Truck drivers, trucking companies, and vehicle manufacturers can have different levels of responsibility for the incident.
Negligence laws or strict liability may apply, depending on the cause of the accident and the parties involved. Comparative fault rules will also be implemented if necessary.
Negligence Laws
State and federal laws and regulations apply to all trucking operations. Some truckers and commercial trucking companies deliberately ignore safety laws to meet deadlines and maximize profits. As a result, the drivers are under tremendous pressure, so mistakes and negligent driving are more likely to occur.
Any truck driver who is found guilty of negligence can be held liable for injuries and damages caused to another motorist. The victim can file a personal injury claim to get compensation. However, they must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the truck driver who hit them was negligent.
To prove negligence in a truck accident in California, we must establish four elements:
- There was a duty of care that the truck driver owed to the victim.
- The driver breached that duty of care by failing to act reasonably in that specific scenario.
- Their negligence directly caused or contributed to the accident.
- The victim suffered injuries and losses as a result.
These four elements must be present. Otherwise, the claim is not valid.
The majority of truck accidents are the result of careless or willful violations of safety laws by drivers. For instance, if a driver spends more than 12 consecutive hours on the road in a 24-hour period, he or she is in violation of the rule stating that only 11 hours are allowable. This is a misdemeanor, according to Vehicle Code 21702. It’s also an example of a breach of duty, as they did not adhere to the allowed driving hours. If they caused an accident, then they are likely to be found negligent.
However, note that negligence can be attributed to anyone, not just the truck driver, who might have contributed to the accident in some way. If, for instance, the trucking company forced their employee to drive longer than what’s allowed, then they would also be on the hook for compensating you.
Strict Liability
When a defective product causes a truck accident, California's strict liability laws hold manufacturers and any companies involved in its chain of distribution responsible. When determining liability in these cases, negligence is not taken into account. As long as the vehicle or a part they produced contributed to the crash, the mentioned entities can all be held liable, regardless of intention.
Here are some auto defects that may give rise to strict liability claims in truck accidents:
- Broken pedals
- Malfunctioning engines and transmissions
- Defective tires and brakes
- Weak straps or ties for cargo
Comparative Fault
The state of California adheres to a pure comparative liability system. If multiple parties caused the accident, they will be assigned a certain percentage of fault based on their respective contributions.
Under this rule, even the victim could be partially responsible for the accident if they exhibited some form of negligence. In fact, the state still allows them to claim compensation even if they are 99% at fault. The percentage of liability would lower the victim's award.
Our lawyers in Indio can better explain what laws apply to your truck accident case. Give us a call at (888) 488-1391 today.
What Are The Responsibilities Of Truck Drivers?
Every truck driver has a legal obligation to exercise reasonable caution and follow traffic laws to keep other motorists and pedestrians safe on the road. If they breach their responsibility and consequently cause an accident, they may be held accountable for damages.
Apart from following road rules, a truck driver’s responsibility would also entail the following:
Regularly Inspecting Their Truck
California’s laws mandate that truck drivers inspect and maintain their vehicles before, during, and after trips to ensure their safety and integrity on the road. Considering that big rigs have more parts than passenger cars, inspections are critical to diagnosing any potential mechanical issues early. Any concerns should be documented in writing and remedied before the driver starts or resumes driving.
Loading Cargo Securely
Before starting their journey, drivers must check their cargo for security and again within the first 50 miles. According to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), inspections should then occur every 150 miles or three hours. This ensures safe cargo movement.
Securing A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
A commercial driver’s license is required for anyone who wants to drive a commercial truck on California roads. The CDL is also a requirement for driving any trucking vehicle that weighs 26,001 pounds or more in terms of gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). It also includes any truck intended to carry more than ten people (including the driver), even if it weighs less than 26,000 pounds.
Maintaining Truck Driver Logs
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) requires all commercial drivers to maintain activity records using electronic logging devices. ELDs are synchronized with the truck’s engine, allowing them to keep track of driving times and brakes accurately.
On top of using ELDs, truckers may also manually note their activities in a log book containing information like the following:
- Date
- Duty status (on-duty, off-duty, driving, sleeper berth)
- Total hours in each duty status
- Total mileage driven
- Commercial motor vehicle identification
Speak with our Indio truck accident attorneys right away if you or a loved one has suffered injuries as a result of a truck driver’s carelessness.
Common Injuries In Truck Accidents
The main factors contributing to the devastating effects of big-rig collisions are the vehicle’s size and weight. Needless to say, truck accidents often result in severe injuries. Some of these include:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Burns
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Knee injuries
- Amputations
- Rib fractures
- Skull fractures
- Pelvic injuries
- Psychological trauma
- Paralysis
- Crush injuries
Compensation For Truck Accident Victims
If you’re injured in a big rig incident, you are entitled to recover different types of damages. In general, truck accident lawyers in Indio can pursue the following types of damages for you:
Economic Damages – These losses are easily measurable. They are the costs the victim incurred or the amount they lost as a result of the accident. A few examples include:
- Present and future medical costs
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Reduced future income
Non-Economic Damages – These damages are intangible and subjective. Their values are not as easily determined, but our Indio truck accident lawyers employ specific methods to calculate a fair amount. These losses include:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment in life
Our lawyers will consider every detail of your injury, including its long-term effects on you and your family. We will also hire experts, like economists, to help us calculate an accurate amount of all your losses.
What To Do After A Truck Accident In Indio
The best course of action following a truck accident is to remain calm. It is important to know how to speak or act during this time so that your rights are protected and you can seek accident claims as necessary. Below is a list of steps that you should take if you’re still able.
- Assess your condition. After moving to a safe location, check your injuries before checking on others.
- Call 911 & notify the authorities. Request immediate assistance to get law enforcement on the scene. Alternatively, you could also get in touch with Riverside County Emergency Operations Centers. While waiting, avoid removing anything from the area or performing any kind of cleanup until the local authorities arrive.
- Seek medical attention. Get medical assistance from the emergency responders, even if you do not personally believe that you were injured. Afterward, go to the ER to have a full assessment.
- Gather important information. Ask any involved drivers for their license and insurance details. Obtain any witnesses’ contact information as well.
- Document the accident. Take pictures of the accident scene, including the vehicles, injuries, and property damages. Take photos of traffic signals, cracked pavement, and any other evidence that may help identify the issue.
- Contact our Indio truck accident lawyers for further instructions. Before third parties could jeopardize your case, get legal protection. We will advise you on your legal options and the next steps to take.
For immediate legal assistance about a truck accident, reach out to Arash Law. We will connect you to one of our Indio attorneys, who specialize in truck accidents, over the phone or in person, 24/7.
Truck Accident Statistics In California
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), California had the second-highest number of deaths from truck accidents in 2021. Around 48 truck occupants were killed, while occupants of other vehicles and nonoccupants (such as pedestrians) accounted for 389 fatalities.
Truck accidents remain a persistent issue throughout the whole country. In the same year, these accidents led to 5,788 deaths and 154,994 injuries nationwide. These figures were a significant increase from 2020’s 4,945 fatalities and 141,613 injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Is My Indio Truck Accident Case Worth?
Truck accident settlements are usually higher compared to other types of motor vehicle accidents. However, there’s no set amount, as it depends on specific factors, such as the severity of the injury, property damages, and emotional distress, among other losses. The value would also depend on the negligent party’s insurance policy limits.
For a proper overview of how much your accident settlement is going to be, speak with one of our Indio truck accident lawyers today.
How Do I Know If I’m Qualified For A Truck Accident Claim?
Under California law, you might be eligible to file a claim if you’re injured and there’s negligence involved. You will have to prove that the at-fault party caused the truck accident because of their wrongful actions, which then led to your injuries and damages. Feel free to fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form so that we can assess your claim.
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Truck Accident Case?
The timeframe for a truck accident case can take a few months to years, depending on factors like the complexity of the case, negotiations between the parties involved, and the number of court hearings required. Some cases might be relatively straightforward, especially if there are only one or two negligent parties involved. Others might be more complicated. Reach out to our Indio truck accident attorneys today, and we will discuss your case in more detail.
Should A Truck Accident Victim Accept Their First Settlement Offer?
Insurance companies may offer early settlements after accidents, but accepting them is risky. Their offers are usually unreasonably low because they want to take advantage of the fact that the victims have not yet determined the full scope and types of damages they’ve incurred. The payouts might not cover all of their expenses, especially if their conditions require continuous medical treatment. Make sure to bring your case to our lawyers specializing in truck accidents in Indio. We will analyze the true worth of your claim and get you the highest compensation you deserve.
Who Investigates Truck Accidents In California?
The local police, California Highway Patrol, National Transportation Safety Board, or another government agency may investigate your accident, depending on the circumstances and location.
Who Will Pay For My Truck Accident?
Depending on your truck accident, you may obtain compensation from:
- Trucking company
- Trucker’s insurance company
- Truck manufacturer for parts defects
- Other companies/people who were involved with the truck company, such as loaders, owners of the cargo, etc.
How Long Do I Have To Report A Truck Accident?
The statute of limitations only gives you two years to file a claim. Considering how long it will take you to recover from your injuries, this deadline does not leave you enough time to submit all your documents. It’s vital to remember that you may lose your right to pursue compensation for your damages after the statute of limitations has passed.
Consult With The Best Truck Accident Attorneys Indio Trusts
If you or a family member sustains injuries as a result of a big rig collision, you should not delay in seeking the best lawyers. Get in touch with the Indio truck accident attorneys at Arash Law as soon as possible.
We will make sure that your story is heard. Any questions or concerns you may have will be addressed. And we will be here all the way to help you achieve the justice and compensation to which you are legally entitled.
To discuss your claim and legal options after a truck accident, contact our lawyers in Indio by calling (888) 488-1391 to arrange a free initial consultation.
Our legal services extend beyond Indio City. We are available to assist throughout Riverside County, which includes Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, La Quinta, Desert Hot Springs, Coachella, Cathedral City, and Bermuda Dunes. Outside the county, we also serve truck accident victims in the following areas: San Diego, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Jose, Menifee, Stockton, Santa Clara, and San Bernardino.
