Auburn Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our Top-Rated Auburn Truck Accident Lawyers Are Dedicated To Making You Stronger
More often than not, traffic accidents involving trucks result in catastrophic consequences and significant losses. If a negligent trucker causes your injuries, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your pain and suffering. Reach out to our Auburn truck accident lawyers so we can assist you in navigating the claims process and hold the negligent parties accountable. Call (888) 488-1391, and let’s discuss your case in a free initial consultation.
Auburn is a city in Placer County that displays a spectacular fusion of history and modernity. It is famous for hosting a challenging endurance sports event called the 100-mile Western State trail-running race. The city is also known for maintaining an organized street system. Currently, Auburn has mostly two-lane road networks except for its primary highways, which have four or more travel lanes. These include Interstate 80, Highway 49, Elm Avenue, and Auburn Folsom Road.
With its open freeways, various types of vehicles conveniently visit and leave Auburn. Not only light vehicles are seen roaming the city, but also large trucks that deliver goods to different locations. Considering this, the place is no stranger to road collisions involving them.
If you are a victim of a truck crash, contact our truck accident attorneys in Auburn. We can help you deal with the responsible parties and obtain compensation for your losses. Our law firm also operates on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about advance fees. We can handle your truck accident case with no upfront fees. We’ll ensure you have the best outcome in your fight for justice.
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 Should You Trust Our Auburn Truck Accident Lawyers For Your Case?
Hiring our truck accident lawyers in Auburn gives you higher chances of securing the fair compensation you deserve. We understand the devastating consequences of truck accidents and how they can alter your life, sometimes permanently. That’s why we aim to provide the most exceptional legal services and guidance you need to achieve your goals.
Our personal injury attorneys have worked on various truck accident cases for decades. Thus, you can guarantee that we have the expertise and skills to represent you effectively. We have also developed an in-depth understanding of the specific laws and regulations governing the trucking industry. Our truck accident attorneys will explain them to you, including the local rules in Auburn. We’ll help you understand how the laws work in your case and the options you can take.
Moreover, our truck accident attorneys in Auburn work on a contingency fee basis. The payment for our lawyers will only be deducted from the compensation you will win. This way, you can have access to quality legal services and assert what you’re entitled to without stressing about upfront costs.
We aim to surpass what you expect from us. Our legal team doesn’t just limit our services to the corners of our office. We anticipate instances that might prevent you from coming to us, like being incapable of traveling due to serious injuries. As such, we’re ready to meet you at any location convenient for you.
You can trust our Auburn truck accident lawyers, who are dedicated to winning your case and helping you get your life back. We’ll ensure you attain justice and maximum compensation.
How Our Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help You Get Maximum Compensation
Our reliable truck accident lawyers in Auburn will give you an edge in pursuing the highest compensation for your injuries and losses. We will take the following steps to help you recover what you’re owed:
- Initiate a deep investigation – Our law firm will lead an independent investigation to go through the details of the incident thoroughly. We can also work with top professionals from different fields to secure expert opinions that can support your claim.
- Establish liability – Our truck accident lawyers will do what it takes to determine the liable parties and prove their negligence. We’ll ensure they are held accountable for the damages you sustained.
- Negotiate with insurance companies – Our legal team consists of aggressive representatives who can deal with insurance providers head-on. Our truck accident attorneys in Auburn will fight for fair compensation that covers all your losses. These include medical bills, lost earnings, repairs for damaged property, and emotional distress.
- Represent you in court – When out-of-court negotiations don’t work, our trial attorneys are prepared to initiate a litigation process where we can advocate for your rights further. We’ll present compelling evidence that demonstrates the negligence of the liable parties and the worth of your damages.
It’s crucial to have a trustworthy ally in times of distress, like facing the aftermath of a truck crash. Hiring our attorneys in Auburn, who specialize in truck accident cases, will ensure you have a legal team that tirelessly fights for your best interests.
Usual Kinds Of Trucks
Large trucks have different classifications according to their specific use and industry. Some examples are:
- Tractor-Trailers – These enormous vehicles are also known by other names, like 18-wheelers, big rigs, and semi-trucks (or semis). Their trailers have their own set of classifications, depending on the cargo they’re carrying, such as:
- Flatbed Trailers – Truck companies use these open trailers with no roofs or sides to carry bulky cargo, using straps and chains to secure them.
- Tanker Trailers – These are used to deliver liquid products such as water and fuel. These vehicles often contain flammable and hazardous substances.
- Livestock Haulers – The agricultural industry uses livestock haulers to transport live animals and other farm yields.
- Refrigerated Trailers – Popularly called reefers, these containers contain perishable items like food, medicines, cosmetics, and more.
- Delivery Trucks – Shipping companies, such as U-Haul, Amazon, UPS, FedEx, and the U.S. Postal Service, rely on these vehicles to deliver products door-to-door. They often have to squeeze into tight roads to complete deliveries.
- Working Trucks – Companies often use massive vehicles, such as dump trucks, cement trucks, and furniture trucks, to complete various tasks.
In the case of a collision, our truck accident lawyers in Auburn will have to consider the type of vehicle and the cargo it’s carrying to determine which specific laws may apply.
The Dangers Of Trucks On The Road
The dynamics of trucks make them different from regular cars. These large vehicles can have a maximum height of 14 feet and a weight of 20,000 to 80,000 pounds. Apart from the higher center of gravity that frequently causes rollovers and other accidents, here are some other dangers and hazards associated with the massive size and mass of trucks:
- Limited maneuverability – Big rigs need more space to navigate turns and curves. When truck drivers are not careful, they increase the risk of accidents.
- Longer stopping distance – The sheer mass of trucks means they need more time and distance to come to a complete stop than regular passenger cars.
- Bigger blind spots – Truck trailers limit drivers’ visibility on the sides and at the back. They might not notice smaller vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians in these “no-zones” while maneuvering, leading to an accident.
- Greater force of impact – Trucks gain more momentum as they go. When they suddenly stop, their momentum translates into greater force upon impact. As a result, collisions involving these vehicles could cause extensive damage and more severe injuries. The force might even propel cars into other vehicles or roadways, creating a chain reaction.
Due to these reasons, victims are likely to face considerably substantial damages. Someone might lose a hand, permanently reducing mobility and quality of life. The loss of a limb would also affect their earning potential, as it would severely limit their employment options.
All these losses may be recoverable in a claim. Your medical bills aren’t the only damages you’re entitled to recover. Our Auburn truck accident lawyers will consider the full impact of your injuries on each aspect of your life.
Common Types Of Truck Accidents
Our Auburn truck accident lawyers have handled various cases, such as:
Jackknife Accidents
When a semi-truck skids and folds onto itself, it can result in a jackknife accident. In this type of incident, the trailer swings out to one side, forming an L or V shape that resembles a folding pocket knife. They can be extremely dangerous, as they can cause the truck to completely lose control and potentially collide with other vehicles on the road.
These are the most common causes of the jackknifing cases our truck accident lawyers have handled:
- Excessive braking
- Oversteering
- Overspeeding
- Carrying unsecured loads
- Driving over road hazards
- Driving in adverse weather conditions
Jackknifing accidents can happen anywhere, but they are more rampant in wet, slippery, or downhill areas. In these conditions, the tractor-trailer’s tires might lose traction and cause the vehicle to lose control.
Rollover Accidents
When fully loaded, trucks can easily reach 80,000 pounds. Their weight increases the risk of rollover accidents, especially when truckers drive at high speeds or on uneven terrain. Additionally, trucks have a high center of gravity, especially when the cargo is piled high or if the weight is heavier at the top. This factor makes them more challenging to steer and easier to tip over when turning or navigating sharp curves.
Rollover accidents are categorized into two types:
- Tripped rollovers occur when the tires come into contact with large road obstacles that cause the truck to lose balance.
- Untripped rollovers happen when the trucks lose balance on their own, likely due to the driver’s actions.
Truck rollover accidents, as well as other collisions involving big rigs, can lead to multiple-vehicle pileups. They can also crush smaller vehicles, resulting in severe injuries and fatalities.
Our truck accident lawyers in Auburn will determine the cause of the rollover, whichever the type. Truckers may be liable if incidents result from their negligence. These include driving too fast, braking excessively, or failing to shift gears in time when going uphill or downhill. On the other hand, if the rollover was due to road hazards, the government agency that is responsible for maintaining the streets could be found negligent.
Head-On Collisions
Massive trucks can cause devastating consequences, especially when they crash directly into smaller cars head-on. These collisions usually occur when they cross the other lane and collide with other vehicles traveling in opposite directions for the following reasons:
- Avoiding obstructions
- Distracted driving
- Fatigued driving
- Driving under the influence
- Losing control on slippery surfaces
- Encountering mechanical failures, like malfunctioning braking systems and tire blowouts
Head-on accidents put car occupants in danger, as they sometimes get ejected from their seats. If you or a loved one got harmed in these incidents, don’t hesitate to contact our Auburn truck accident lawyers. We can help you with your recovery while processing your claim against negligent truck drivers.
Rear-End Collisions
A vehicle sometimes strikes the bumper of the car in front of it, leading to rear-end collisions. Unfortunately, these accidents are tragic when they involve large trucks. The size and weight of these vehicles increase the stopping distance, so truckers must have accurate judgment when applying their brakes. They must also avoid tailgating, follow the speed limit, consider the weather conditions, and check their braking system regularly to avoid rear-ending other road users.
Imagine a scenario where you’re driving in heavy traffic, and a massive vehicle weighing up to 80,000 pounds crashes into the back of your car. Depending on the force, you could be thrown out of your car, collide with other automobiles, tip over, or hit external objects on the road.
Even for minor injuries, you might be entitled to recover compensation from the negligent parties. Talk to our Auburn truck accident lawyers today to learn about your legal options.
Sideswipe Accidents
Trucks might also collide with cars traveling parallel to them. These sideswipe accidents usually happen due to driver errors. Negligent truck drivers who fail to maintain a safe distance from other cars on either side or change lanes without signaling are likely to cause collisions. Similarly, they may hit the cars around them when they overlook blind spots or don’t check their side mirror.
Considering trucks’ massive size and weight, sideswipe accidents can have severe consequences. These incidents may cause property damage, physical injuries, and even fatalities. Our truck accident lawyers in Auburn can help you recover the costs associated with these damages, including pain and suffering, car repairs, and more.
Underride Accidents
In a catastrophic traffic accident with a semi-truck, a small vehicle might slide beneath it. This unfortunate event can happen when a trucker abruptly applies the brake, leaving the small vehicle behind or beside it with insufficient time to stop. The smaller car might then go underneath the truck. Accordingly, failing to notice blind spots, recklessly changing lanes, and running red lights can all result in this type of incident.
Regardless of the type of crash, they all lead to injuries and damages. If you’re one of these victims, you can contact our truck accident attorneys. Our office is open 24/7 to discuss your case and the options you can take to recover damages for the injuries and losses you sustained.
Most Common Causes Of Truck Accidents
Truck crashes can occur due to various reasons. Among the most common causes encountered by our Auburn lawyers for truck accident cases are:
- Traffic Violations – Some negligent truckers overlook traffic rules and regulations. They frequently ignore traffic signs and lights, overspeed, or fail to yield the right of way.
- Disobedience To Federal Laws – Many truckers also neglect federal laws to meet their employers’ strict deadlines and arrive at their destinations on time. Among the provisions they often disregard are the cargo safety rules, weight and height limits, and hours of service.
- Distracted Driving – Distracted driving can involve anything from using gadgets while driving to talking on the phone. These activities divert truckers’ attention from the road, preventing them from noticing hazards and sudden changes in traffic.
- DUI – Our Auburn truck accident lawyers have dealt with many cases where alcohol or drugs were involved. Truckers intoxicated by these substances can’t drive safely and tend to cause accidents.
- Poor Road Conditions – Roads with potholes, damaged guardrails, and pale line markings make driving challenging. Truckers who lose control under these conditions can crash into other vehicles or external obstacles like trees, traffic signs, or boulders.
- Driving During Inclement Weather – Road visibility is limited during rain, foggy conditions, or storms. Truck drivers might fail to notice vehicles around them, especially since they have larger blind spots. They are also prone to losing control of their vehicles on slippery surfaces.
- Poor Maintenance – Some truck parts might malfunction due to poor maintenance. This negligence can lead to faulty braking systems and accelerators, broken mirrors, tire blowouts, and depleted batteries.
You can’t instantly tell why truck incidents occur. This is why you must consult with our Auburn truck accident lawyers. We can lead investigations to find out the real causes of the incident that caused your injuries and damages.
Typical Injuries Sustained In Truck Accidents
Our truck accident lawyers have helped clients recover compensation for the following injuries:
- Head and brain injuries – Victims might hit their heads on hard surfaces upon the impact of collisions. They might incur damage to the skulls and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These conditions can cause long-term issues, so victims should seek medical intervention as soon as they can.
- Back injuries – The strong force of truck crashes can jolt the backs and necks of victims. During these incidents, the muscles and spine can twist unnaturally, causing sprains and strains. Victims could also experience spinal cord injuries, which may lead to paralysis.
- Neck injuries – In a collision, the neck can move vigorously in one direction, resulting in whiplash and other neck injuries. These conditions can cause long-lasting nerve damage if left untreated.
- Broken bones – Collisions may crush the bones of victims in different parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, ribs, and torso. These injuries often require casts or surgery to heal.
- Burns – Road collisions might lead to an explosion, especially if tanker trucks carrying flammable substances are involved. Victims might then incur burns ranging from the first to fifth degree. These injuries are prone to infections and cause permanent scarring, so affected individuals must receive appropriate treatments.
- Wrongful deaths – The most tragic truck accidents lead to the deaths of victims. In these cases, their legal heirs can pursue wrongful death claims to obtain compensation from the negligent parties.
If you or a loved one suffers from these injuries, consult with our Auburn truck accident lawyers. We can help you get paid for your medical expenses and refer you to excellent doctors who can support your recovery.
What Makes Truck Accidents Different From Other Traffic Crashes?
Truck accidents are among the most tragic occurrences in Auburn and the rest of the country. If people ever get into one, they may treat the accident just like how they would treat any other motor vehicle collision. However, truck accidents differ from car and other traffic crashes and are more complex for various reasons.
For one, commercial vehicles are generally owned by a company, compared to smaller passenger cars that are privately owned. Truck companies are responsible for the operation of these vehicles and their drivers, so liability may lie with them. The employer and their driver may also blame each other, further complicating things.
Furthermore, truck accidents are more severe than regular car crashes. They tend to result in life-threatening injuries and even death, thereby requiring a more aggressive and calculated legal response. Being more catastrophic in nature, injured or deceased victims and their families may require higher financial recovery.
Dealing with incidents involving these vehicles is more challenging and stressful—from the physical and emotional consequences to the complicated legal processes you need to navigate. You need the help of our truck accident lawyers in Auburn right from the start to ensure your claims process is as smooth as it can be.
Parties Responsible For Truck Accidents
In most cases, truck drivers are held responsible for traffic accidents. They have a heavy obligation to exercise reasonable care when driving to avoid harming others. When they breach this duty, such as by driving recklessly, they exhibit negligence. This breach would make them liable for the injuries and other damages sustained by victims.
However, truck drivers may not be the only ones responsible for a single incident or even at all. Some parties may also share the blame. For instance, trucking companies may be liable for accidents if they force their truckers to violate the law to meet unreasonable deadlines. The same is true if they don’t conduct meticulous screening and instead allow reckless and inexperienced drivers to operate on the road.
Our truck accident lawyers have also dealt with other liable parties, including:
- Shipping companies
- Vehicle or truck parts manufacturers
- Maintenance and repair service providers
- Government agencies
- Other careless motorists
Identifying the accountable parties is often tricky, as, by default, no one wants to admit responsibility. Victims like you can rely on our Auburn truck accident lawyers to determine liability. Our attorneys will review the details of the incident to find out every party responsible for compensating you. We can also gather proof demonstrating their negligence that caused truck incidents.
Federal And California Laws For Truckers
Our truck accident attorneys in Auburn are well-versed in specific local, state, and federal laws governing the truck industry, including:
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) mandates that truck drivers keep a CDL. This license proves that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate large vehicles safely, including proficiency in changing gears, regulating speed, managing space, and regularly inspecting their trucks.
- Medical Examination – Truckers must undergo medical tests every two years. This requirement ensures they’re physically fit to operate large vehicles and manage the physically demanding responsibilities of truck driving.
- Hours Of Service Regulations – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) also enforces hours of service rules. Property-carrying truck drivers are restricted to an 11-hour driving limit within a 14-hour window after ten hours off duty.
- Safety Loading Procedures – California law requires truckers to follow cargo security rules to ensure the load doesn’t shift or fall when transported. Even if the driver doesn’t load the cargo themselves, they are still required to inspect it before, during, and after trips.
More trucking laws are in place to regulate speed limits, routes, and kinds of cargo. Our Auburn truck accident lawyers specialize in these matters. We can help you navigate these complex legalities and use our knowledge to demonstrate the liabilities of negligent parties.
December 2016: $22M+ verdict in a mild traumatic brain injury case. The entire details of the case can be found in the public record filings by the defendant entity that sued its defense.– BRIAN BEECHER
What Damages Can You Recover In A Truck Accident?
Traffic collisions involving trucks take a huge physical and emotional toll on victims. To cope with these challenges, you may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover your expenses and other losses. Our attorneys in Auburn have assisted thousands of truck accident victims in obtaining compensation for the following damages:
- Medical bills
- Laboratory expenses
- Surgeries
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Follow-up medical consultations
- Missed wages
- Lost future earnings
- Repair costs for damaged properties
- Pain and suffering
- PTSD
- Permanent or temporary disabilities
- Disfigurements
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death
To learn more about the damages you can recover, you may talk to our truck accident lawyers in Auburn. We can compute an estimate of the worth of your case, taking into account all the losses you incurred and the potential effects of your injuries in the future.
Statute Of Limitations For Truck Accident Cases
Truck accident victims have two years from the date of the incident to file a claim, as per California’s statute of limitations. The deadline might also be tolled or paused under certain circumstances, including the delayed discovery of injuries.
If you fail to file a claim within this timeframe, your case may become invalid. To ensure your claim is processed efficiently, contact our truck accident attorneys. We can work on and submit legal requirements on your behalf. Our goal is to ease your pressure about court deadlines and allow you to have ample time for your speedy recovery.
Steps To Take After A Truck Accident
Anyone will normally feel shocked and confused after a car crash. However, our truck accident lawyers highly advise victims to stay calm, ensure their safety, and protect their legal rights by following these steps:
- Prioritize your safety and health above all else. If you have any injuries, call 911 so that you can receive medical treatment as soon as possible. A follow-up check-up is also necessary since some injuries are not immediately apparent after an incident.
- Keep a safe distance from the area to avoid further traffic incidents, but don’t flee the scene. If your car is also involved, steer it to the side of the road if possible.
- Report the accident to the police. The authorities can manage traffic and help mediate between the involved parties. Additionally, they will create an incident report that you can use later for your claim.
Auburn Police Department
Address: 1215 Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA 95603
Phone: (530) 823-4237
- Gather solid evidence. You should preserve proof of the accident by taking photos and videos of the location, the injuries you suffered, the truck and other vehicles involved, and any damaged property. If there are witnesses, ask them politely to provide testimony to law enforcement. It’s also crucial to keep a record of important information, such as the names and contact details of all parties involved, their employers, and their insurance companies.
- Inform your insurance company. Describe the accident accurately, but avoid oversharing or admitting fault. Be mindful of your words because the opposing parties can use them against you.
- Seek legal guidance from Arash Law. Our Auburn truck accident lawyers can assist you in filing your claim. We can also advise you on the best options to take to obtain compensation for your losses successfully. Call us now at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Statistics About Truck Accidents
Trucks play a significant role in the development of Auburn and the entire country. Unfortunately, they are also one of the top causes of traffic accidents. According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 5,700 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes nationwide in 2021.
Out of the 5,788 fatalities, 4,149 were occupants of other vehicles, 631 people were non-occupants, and 1,008 were truck drivers or passengers.
Meanwhile, 117,312 of these vehicles were involved in accidents that injured 154,993 individuals. Around 109,981 were occupants of other vehicles, 2,848 were non-occupants, and 42,164 were truck drivers or passengers. Moreover, 400,784 trucks got into collisions that led to property damage.
With these alarming statistics, our Auburn truck accident lawyers remain determined to participate in campaigns that help reduce the rate of injuries and fatalities. At the same time, we are committed to advocating for the legal rights of injured victims and those who have lost their loved ones due to these traffic incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents
What Evidence Can Help Prove Negligence In A Truck Accident?
To build a compelling claim, your truck accident lawyer would use the following evidence:
- Medical reports
- Police records
- Affidavits from witnesses
- Photos and videos of the incident
- Truck driver logbooks
- Truck maintenance records
- A journal where you wrote down the names and details of involved parties, their employers, and insurance companies
Apart from showing proof of the recklessness of concerned parties, you can also provide documents that establish the damages and losses you incurred. Some examples are:
- Medical bills, including hospitalization and other treatment costs
- Documents of lost earnings, like payrolls and pay slips
- Statement of account from car repair centers
Our Auburn truck accident lawyers will use these documents and other pieces of evidence to investigate your case and determine the right course of action. In case you’re having difficulties preparing all of these, leave it to us. Our personal injury law firm has ways to obtain evidence and connect with medical professionals to get expert opinions.
Can I Still Recover Compensation Even If I’m Partly At Fault For A Truck Accident?
Even if you’re partly responsible for a truck accident, you may still be entitled to recover your damages. California is a pure comparative negligence state, which allows for a proportionate distribution of liability. Under this rule, each party will be held accountable for their contribution to the accident. If the victim shares fault, the payment they’ll receive will be less than their total damages.
For example, if you have 20% liability for the accident, you may still recover 80% of the total damages from the other responsible parties.
What makes this part of the process complicated is the fact that the other parties will certainly try to reduce their responsibility or push all the blame onto you. Rely on our Auburn truck accident lawyers to protect your claim. We will gather evidence and negotiate with the at-fault parties on your behalf, advocating for the maximum compensation you are owed.
How Much Is My Truck Accident Case Worth?
No one can really provide you with the exact amount of your truck accident case. The value of your damages and losses will depend on the details of the incident, the nature of the crash, the severity of your injuries, and more. To get an estimate of how much you’re entitled to, speak to our Auburn lawyers specializing in truck accident claims today.
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Truck Accident Claim?
Reaching a resolution with all parties can take anywhere from a few months to a few years. It all depends on how fast your truck accident attorneys investigate and how long negotiations take. If the other party disputes liability, negotiations can take longer and may even proceed to court. In this case, your claim could drag on.
However, you can ensure an efficient approach by hiring the best truck accident lawyers Auburn calls for help. We have resolved most of the personal injury cases we’ve handled out-of-court. But that doesn’t mean our attorneys won’t hesitate to represent you at trial if needed.
Consult The Award-Winning Truck Accident Lawyers Auburn Trusts
Truck crashes usually cause significant damage, leaving victims to face various challenges. However, you don’t have to handle everything alone. If you’re wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” It’s time to contact our Auburn truck accident lawyers near you. We will review your case and discuss your legal options.
Our law firm also has versatile and experienced car accident lawyers who handle a wide range of cases, including motorcycle collisions, bicycle crashes, DUI incidents, hit-and-run cases, and others. We also have lawyers who specialize in workplace incidents, product liability, and other personal injury cases. Look no further, and don’t wait too long. Call us today at (888) 488-1391, and let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Aside from Auburn, Arash Law also offers legal services in nearby cities and locations, such as North Auburn, Rocklin, Lincoln, Roseville, Folsom, Cameron Park, Orangevale, Citrus Heights, Placerville, Fair Oaks, Foothill Farms, North Highlands, Grass Valley, Carmichael, and Rancho Cordova.
