San Francisco 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
San Francisco 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys Representing Your Legal Interests
Large trucks, particularly 18-wheelers, travel across San Francisco daily to deliver goods. While they help keep the economy moving, their sheer size and weight pose a significant risk to the motorists they share the road with. If an 18-wheeler accident causes you injuries, you may be able to file a claim to hold the negligent parties accountable. Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys can help advocate for your rights. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
San Francisco captivates visitors with its undeniable charm. Tourists are often filled with awe as they gaze upon its Victorian architecture, cable cars, rich coastline, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The city is also a culinary paradise, boasting savory and highly recognized cuisine. Michelin-starred restaurants, such as 7 Adams, Acquerello, and Atelier Crenn, cater to the discerning palate.
Given San Francisco’s vibrant environment, it’s no wonder that trucks are a constant presence around the city. Many big-box chains, for instance, utilize 18-wheelers to deliver food ingredients, kitchen supplies, and other essentials. These heavy-duty vehicles also transport commercial equipment, consumer goods, raw materials, and fuel.
Unfortunately, 18-wheeler accidents can result in severe injuries, especially when safety precautions are not followed. If you or a loved one is injured in such an accident, consulting with a San Francisco attorney experienced in these cases can help you understand your options for seeking compensation to support your recovery and related expenses. While financial compensation cannot undo the trauma, it can offer assistance to address the losses you and your family have incurred.
What Is An 18-Wheeler Accident?
An 18-wheeler accident isn’t like a typical motor vehicle crash. It involves a massive truck that poses a higher risk of severe or fatal harm. Sadly, 18-wheeler accidents are a recurring problem in cities like San Francisco that accommodate heavy truck traffic.
For instance, a pedestrian was killed after being struck by a commercial truck in Tenderloin, San Francisco, on May 23, 2024. The San Francisco Police Department said the victim was transported to the hospital but died due to injuries sustained. The investigation is still ongoing, but what’s clear is that nothing will ever be the same again for the victim’s family.
Legal cases involving 18-wheeler collisions tend to be more complicated than the average car accident. Determining liability can be challenging, as it often involves multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, and the parts manufacturers. Negotiations and litigation also demand knowledge and skills. Furthermore, various federal and state laws, such as the hours-of-service and weight limit regulations, may further complicate matters.
Due to these circumstances, handling claims for compensation can be particularly challenging for victims who are still in the process of recovery. Consider consulting with a legal representative who has experience handling personal injury claims and can help you navigate the process. Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys are committed to guiding you through the legal aspects of your case during this difficult time.
Why Choose Our San Francisco 18 Wheeler Accident Attorneys
Navigating the legal system after an 18-wheeler crash can be challenging for injured victims. Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys will advocate for your rights and work to pursue a favorable outcome for your case in accordance with California law. Our San Francisco personal injury attorneys have decades of combined experience handling claims against truck drivers, shipping companies, and other parties potentially liable in an 18-wheeler collision. We have a deep understanding of the legal nuances and relevant federal and state regulations that may apply. We have experience building well-supported cases and negotiating settlements in complex accident claims, including those involving 18-wheelers and other large commercial vehicles. Our San Francisco lawyers are prepared to manage the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on your health. While outcomes vary with each case, we’re committed to guiding you through the process with clear communication and consistent support.How Can Our 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyers Help With Your Case?
Our San Francisco lawyers can investigate the facts surrounding your 18-wheeler accident to determine if you have a viable claim and help explore your legal options. We are dedicated to helping pursue accountability against the at-fault party for the harm they have caused. Here’s how we can help you with your case:- We will leverage our knowledge of the laws governing the trucking industry to navigate the complexities of truck accident claims.
- Our injury law firm will assist in investigating the incident and gathering sufficient evidence to substantiate your claim.
- We will work to identify potentially liable parties for the accident and assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain & suffering, and property damage.
- Our accident lawyers handle communication and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf, working to reach a fair resolution based on the details of your case. It’s not uncommon for initial settlement offers to fall short of covering the full extent of injuries and damages. We’re here to help you understand your rights and advocate for compensation that reflects your losses.
- If out-of-court negotiations fail to reach a settlement, our 18-wheeler accident attorney in San Francisco is prepared to take your case to court.
Common Types Of 18-Wheelers In San Francisco
Our truck accident lawyers have handled cases involving the following types of vehicles:
- Semi-Trailer Trucks — The logistics industry utilizes semi-trailer trucks to carry stackable loads weighing up to 53,000 pounds. Unloading them is also easy, as truckers only need to remove the trailer’s tent cover from the top, side, or rear.
- Flatbed Trucks — As their name implies, flatbed trucks are large vehicles with open and flat cargo beds. They don’t have roofs or sides, so they can conveniently haul heavy cargo like pipes, lumber, building supplies, and carts.
- Jumbo Trailer Trucks — These 18-wheelers share similar qualities with semi-trailers, only that they have a G-shaped floor and smaller wheels. Their lightweight and spacious characteristics make them perfect for moving large items.
- Tail Lift Trucks — These trucks are distinct due to their lifting device, which efficiently loads and unloads shipments. Despite their relatively smaller size, they can carry as much as 4,400 pounds. Tail lift trucks are particularly well-suited to distribution operations.
- Refrigerated Trucks — These large vehicles can regulate their inner temperature, allowing them to transport perishable items like agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, fruits, and vegetables.
Hurt in an 18-Wheeler Accident?
Types Of San Francisco 18-Wheeler Accidents
Due to their size and weight, commercial trucks, including 18-wheelers, carry inherent risks. Their drivers must exercise extreme caution since even a small mistake can cause collisions that might result in catastrophic injuries and even deaths.
Our San Francisco attorneys have handled the following types of 18-wheeler accidents:
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife accident happens when an 18-wheeler’s trailer swings out to the side, creating a 90-degree angle. These incidents mainly occur due to a negligent truck driver mishandling the vehicle’s 80,000-pound weight across the trailer.
For instance, a distracted trucker does not notice a road obstacle ahead until the last minute. To avoid a collision, the driver must come to a full stop or steer clear of the road hazard quickly. However, abruptly applying his brakes can cause the trailer to skid and jackknife.
Although these unfortunate events can occur anywhere, they typically happen on off- and on-ramps, curved highways, or any location where a truck could potentially fishtail. That’s why it’s important to be careful when passing through the following routes:
- I-80 or Father Junipero Serra Freeway.
- I-480 or Embarcadero Freeway.
- I-80 westbound off- and on-ramps at 5th and Harrison streets.
- U.S. 101 southbound on-ramp at 10th and Bryant streets.
- U.S. 101 northbound off-ramp at 9th/Bryant streets.
- I-80 westbound off-ramp at 8th Street.
Unfortunately, a jackknifed 18-wheeler can violently swerve out of control, sweeping multiple vehicles and causing severe injuries and property damage.
T-Bone Accidents
Crashes may occur when an 18-wheeler’s front end collides with the side of another vehicle, forming a “T” shape. These incidents, called T-bone or broadside collisions, often send smaller cars spinning out of control or flipping over.
Most T-bone accidents occur at intersections, including those along Harrison, Stillman, Bryant, Taber, and Federal Streets. If a trucker does not yield to oncoming traffic or disregards traffic signs, T-bone collisions can happen.
Broadside collisions are disastrous for the occupants of smaller vehicles, especially since the sides of cars lack safety features that protect those seated there. As a result, victims often suffer catastrophic injuries and substantial property damage.
If you sustain injuries in a T-bone incident, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Medical expenses can quickly add up, so it’s important to understand your options for seeking compensation. Consulting with experienced San Francisco 18-wheeler accident lawyers can help you explore potential avenues for recovering these costs.
Rollover Accidents
An 18-wheeler weighs thousands of pounds and has a higher center of gravity than a smaller car. While these features are beneficial in navigating rough terrain, they also affect the vehicle’s stability and make it prone to rollovers.
There are two types of rollover accidents:
- Tripped Rollovers — An 18-wheeler topples over after colliding with a curb, road barrier, overpass, or stationary object.
- Untripped Rollovers — The large truck crashes without touching any external obstacle. Slippery surfaces, poor steering, or excessive speed can cause an 18-wheeler to lose control.
Regrettably, rollover accidents may result in catastrophic bodily harm and even fatalities, especially when the 18-wheeler lands directly on smaller vehicles. Victims often require immediate medical attention, extensive surgical operations, and a lengthy recuperation period.
If you find yourself in this situation, our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys can assist you in filing your claim for compensation so you can focus on your recovery.
Underride Accidents
- Speeding.
- Distracted driving.
- Reduced visibility.
- Absence of underride guards in trucks.
- Slippery surfaces.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of accidents in San Francisco and the rest of California. These occur when an 18-wheeler collides with the back of the car ahead of it.
Rear-end crashes between trucks and other vehicles can happen anywhere, but these incidents frequently occur in traffic-congested areas. Due to their immense size and weight, large trucks require significant stopping distances. Distracted or speeding truck drivers may be unable to brake in time, striking the leading vehicle’s bumper.
The force created by a crashing 18-wheeler is enough to cause serious injuries, pain, and suffering to the occupants of the smaller vehicle. Victims may need long periods of medical care and rehabilitation to recover fully. This healing process can lead to missed work and lost wages.
Our San Francisco truck accident lawyers will work to help you establish the negligence of the truck driver, their employer, and other potentially liable parties. Reaching out early allows us to begin building your case while the details are still clear.
Why Do 18-Wheeler Accidents Happen?
Accidents involving 18-wheelers may occur due to different contributing factors. Some might be the trucker’s fault, while others are attributed to the negligence of other parties. Here are the most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents:
- Driver Error — Most truck collisions occur due to driver error. When truckers speed or drive when they’re distracted or fatigued, they might be unable to spot road hazards and stop promptly. Our DUI accident lawyers have also handled cases involving intoxicated truck drivers.
- Overloading — Although the federal government strictly requires truckers to adhere to cargo securement rules, others still don’t. When truckers disregard weight regulations, overload their vehicles, or fail to secure cargo properly, loads can shift or spill during transit. Cargo displacement can lead to loss of control and mechanical failure.
- Poor Truck Maintenance — Truck companies must regularly inspect their 18-wheelers’ tires, engine fluids, lights, and other vehicle components. Inadequate maintenance increases the likelihood of mechanical failures.
- Driving During Inclement Weather — Despite having year-round sunny weather, San Francisco does experience adverse weather conditions. Rain and storms can significantly reduce truck drivers’ visibility, and wet and slippery roads increase the risk of 18-wheeler accidents.
- Dangerous Road Conditions — Highways with potholes, bumps, and uneven surfaces pose a significant risk to truckers. Inexperienced drivers may easily lose control while passing through these dangerous roads.
Common Injuries Sustained In An 18-Wheeler Accident
Our 18-wheeler accident lawyers in San Francisco have helped clients in a wide range of personal injury cases involving the following injuries:
- Head & Brain Injuries — Unrestrained passengers could get thrown out of the vehicle and knock their heads on hard ground in an 18-wheeler crash. This incident may cause them to sustain concussions or serious head trauma that leads to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Back Injuries — 18-wheeler accidents often result in severe back injuries, including strains, sprains, and herniated discs. These injuries can cause chronic pain, limited mobility, and, in severe cases, spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis.
- Internal Injuries — The blunt force trauma sustained by 18-wheeler crash victims may lead to organ damage, internal bleeding, and ruptured blood vessels. These injuries may not be immediately apparent and can worsen without prompt medical attention.
- Burns — Collisions involving 18-wheelers can result in fires or explosions, causing severe burns to victims. These injuries can lead to excruciating pain and permanent scarring. They also often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Fractures — A strong 18-wheeler collision may break the bones of victims. Fractures may require surgery, depending on their severity. Severely crushed limbs may have to undergo amputation to avoid complications.
- Wrongful Deaths — Our semi-truck accident lawyers in San Francisco have handled cases that involved the untimely deaths of victims. These tragic incidents not only result in immense emotional suffering for families but also significant financial losses.
Who Can Be Held Liable In An 18-Wheeler Accident?
Establishing liability in an 18-wheeler collision is more complicated than in a regular traffic accident. One successful trip entails the efforts of multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle maintenance providers, and cargo loaders.
Our attorneys in San Francisco work to help you determine whose negligence caused and contributed to the 18-wheeler accident. Potentially liable parties may include the following:
Truck Drivers
Most 18-wheeler crashes happen due to the truck driver’s negligence. Some hit the road impaired or distracted, while others blatantly violate traffic rules. If their recklessness causes an unfortunate incident, they may be held accountable for the injuries and damages sustained by the victims.
Truck Companies
In San Francisco and throughout California, truck companies and other “for hire” motor carriers maintain a non-delegable duty. They can be held responsible for the negligent actions of their on-duty truck drivers, even though these drivers may be classified as independent contractors. If a truck driver causes an accident, the trucking company may share responsibility.
Aside from their truckers’ recklessness, companies may also be held liable in the following ways:
- Neglecting regular vehicle inspection.
- Lax hiring and screening process for truck drivers.
- Failing to provide sufficient training.
- Imposing unrealistic delivery deadlines.
If an 18-wheeler accident causes you injuries, consulting with a San Francisco lawyer can help with investigating the incident and identifying all potentially responsible parties, including the driver and the trucking company. Reviewing factors such as the driver’s record and company policies may provide insight into liability and support the process of pursuing any available compensation.
Cargo Loaders
Federal law mandates that truck drivers and shipment companies follow cargo securement rules to avoid incidents like jackknifing and rollovers. However, some disregard this strict protocol. If this neglect of duty causes a truck to lose control and tip over, cargo loaders may face liability for the damages suffered by the victims.
Truck Manufacturers
Truck manufacturers may be held accountable for 18-wheeler accidents caused by defective parts. The following components are critical to vehicle safety:
- Tires.
- Brakes.
- Lights.
- Windshield wipers.
- Underride guardrails.
- Fuel tanks.
- Hydraulics.
Even a small manufacturing flaw can lead to major truck accidents. For instance, a defective windshield wiper may cause the driver to lose vision and crash into oncoming traffic.
If you suspect that a defective truck part contributed to your 18-wheeler accident, our San Francisco attorneys will investigate the cause of the accident and work to help you hold the responsible manufacturers accountable for your injuries.
Government Offices
Depending on the specifics of the case, victims may also file a claim against government offices, particularly in cases arising from the following:
- Dangerous road conditions.
- Construction zones.
- Deficient traffic management.
- At-fault vehicles steered by government employees.
To determine whether you have a valid case, our 18-wheeler accident lawyers in San Francisco will thoroughly assess the specifics of the incident and identify legal options for seeking compensation.
Establishing Negligence In An 18-Wheeler Accident Case
18-wheeler accident victims must establish negligence to hold someone liable for the harm they’ve sustained. To establish that the defendant was negligent, it’s important to demonstrate the following elements:
- Duty of Care — First, it’s crucial to show that the responsible party owes you a duty of care. This legal obligation requires drivers to exercise reasonable care to prevent harming others on the road. For instance, truckers are responsible for stopping at red lights to avoid hitting other vehicles.
- Breach of Duty — Next, demonstrate that the defendant disregarded their legal obligation. They might have breached their duty by failing to do what a reasonably careful person would in a similar situation. A driver who runs a red light has breached their duty of care to other motorists.
- Causation — Show that their breach of duty caused the accident and your injuries. Following the previous example, the truck driver who disregarded the red light ended up colliding head-on with your car, causing a traumatic brain injury.
- Damages — Finally, demonstrate that the injuries you sustained in an 18-wheeler accident resulted in life-altering damages. These damages may include medical bills, lost wages, and property damages. You can support your claim by presenting evidence, such as:
- Photos and videos of the accident scene.
- Witness interviews.
- Police report.
- Reconstructionists testimonies.
- Bills and invoices.
Establishing negligence can be a complicated process. Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys can handle the legal intricacies for you. With many decades of experience, we are ready to help you address issues that often arise during the process, such as low settlement offers and disputes over liability. We work to build a well-supported case for our clients.
Available Damages In An 18-Wheeler Accident Claim
An 18-wheeler accident often results in catastrophic injuries and significant financial losses for victims. However, California law allows accident victims to pursue compensation from negligent parties. Common types of available damages include:
- Hospital bills.
- Future medical treatments.
- Missed earnings.
- Loss of potential income.
- Property damage.
- Pain and suffering.
- Disfigurements.
- Disabilities.
- Loss of quality of life.
- Loss of consortium.
- Funeral and burial expenses.
In addition to compensatory damages, a judge may award punitive damages in rare cases involving gross negligence or willful intent. These damages aim to punish the offender and discourage others from committing the same.
The damages you may be able to pursue depend significantly on the circumstances and evidence presented to the insurance company or court. Our 18-wheeler accident attorneys in San Francisco can review your case thoroughly and help assess the losses you’ve incurred and work to help you seek compensation based on your injuries and losses.
What To Do After An 18-Wheeler Accident In San Francisco
The actions you take following an 18-wheeler collision may affect the outcome of your claim. Although it’s normal to be shaken up, it’s important to be cautious about what you do. Here are some steps you can take after an 18-wheeler accident:
- Stay at the Accident Site — California law requires each individual involved in a traffic incident to stop and cooperate with the authorities and other parties. If someone flees, our hit-and-run accident attorney can review your situation and discuss possible next steps.
- Check for Injuries — Call 911 if you or someone else needs immediate medical attention. After that, visit your doctor. You might not know it, but you might have suffered injuries that don’t exhibit symptoms immediately.
- Call the Police — Notify the California Highway Patrol or local police within 24 hours and get a copy of the accident report. If the incident resulted in injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,000, notify the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Document the Accident — Secure photos and videos of the crash site, your injuries, and damaged properties if you can. You may also request written statements from witnesses if there are any.
- Collect Information — Get the involved parties’ names, contact numbers, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance details. Take note of the truck driver’s employer as well.
- Notify Your Insurance Company — Provide them with basic details about the accident, but don’t share any personal opinions about what happened or admit fault. Keep in mind that what you say may be used in evaluating your claim.
- Contact an Injury Law Firm — Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident lawyers are ready to provide legal assistance in pursuing compensation from the responsible party.
Statistics On 18-Wheeler Accidents
Accidents involving 18-wheelers pose a significant threat to road safety. According to the National Safety Council, roughly 5,900 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes in 2022. This figure rose by 1.8% compared to 2021 and 49% in the last ten years, accounting for 6% of all involved vehicles.
In the same year, more than 120,000 were involved in injury crashes, marking a 2.5% increase from 2021. Since 2016, the number of these accidents has climbed by 18%, while the rate of incidents per 100 million large truck miles driven has risen by 5.7%.
These figures show how fatal and injury-causing 18-wheeler crashes continue to rise at an alarming rate despite efforts to improve road safety. Our lawyers in San Francisco are committed to providing compassionate legal services to 18-wheeler accident victims. We have the experience and resources to handle complex cases and assist you in seeking compensation for injuries and losses after a collision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About 18-Wheeler Accidents
Do I Need A Lawyer In Filing An 18-Wheeler Accident Claim?
After an 18-wheeler crash, you might ask, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” Whether you need a lawyer to file an 18-wheeler accident claim depends on your specific circumstances. While you are not required to have legal representation, these types of cases can be complex. Legal assistance from San Francisco 18-wheeler accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and potential options for seeking compensation under the law.
The injuries you sustained in the incident can have serious and long-term consequences. However, you might find holding someone accountable for your pain and suffering challenging, especially when multiple parties are involved. Determining the potential value of your claim can also be complicated. Additionally, initial settlement offers don’t often reflect the full extent of your damages.
Arash Law is ready to help. Our San Francisco lawyers can help you address challenges arising from 18-wheeler accident claims. We will handle the legal legwork for you and advocate for your rights throughout the process.
Can I Sue For My 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries Even If I Was Partially At Fault?
Yes, you may still be eligible to pursue a claim despite being partially responsible for an 18-wheeler collision. California’s legal system works under a pure comparative negligence rule. This doctrine allows plaintiffs to seek compensation for their losses even if they contributed to the accident. However, the percentage of fault assigned to them by the court will reduce the amount they would receive. For example, if you’re 21% at fault for a rollover accident, your recovery will be reduced by that same percentage.
Unfortunately, while the law offers recourse for partly liable victims, insurance companies may evaluate claims differently based on each party’s level of responsibility. This can sometimes make the claims process more complex. San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys can deal with claim adjusters on your behalf and provide clear legal guidance to help you make informed decisions about your claim.
How Long Should I File An 18-Wheeler Accident Case?
According to California’s statute of limitations, victims of 18-wheeler accidents should file their cases within two years of the incident. While the court strictly implements this time limit, it may grant exceptions depending on the circumstances.
Consulting with a lawyer in San Francisco can help clarify which deadlines apply to your situation and guide you on important time frames to keep in mind.
Can Undocumented Immigrants File For Personal Injury Claims After An 18-Wheeler Accident?
In California, undocumented immigrants may still pursue an 18-wheeler accident case. The law emphasizes that residency status shall not influence a victim’s right to sue a negligent party. The same protection applies to wrongful death claims, regardless of the deceased’s immigration status.
If you’re an undocumented immigrant injured in an 18-wheeler accident, you can speak with a San Francisco attorney to learn more about your legal options and available support.
Can I Still Get Legal Assistance In San Francisco Even If I Don’t Speak English?
Yes. Language should not be a barrier to seeking legal help. If you prefer assistance in a language other than English, please let us know. Our staff may be able to provide language support.
At Arash Law, we are committed to providing compassionate and accessible legal services. We also operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t owe us any attorney’s fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your case. Please note that you may still have to cover certain case-related costs, regardless of the outcome.
Reach Out To Our 18 Wheeler Accident Attorneys In San Francisco
Accidents involving 18-wheelers can make a significant impact on an individual’s life. If you are injured in one, our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys at Arash Law are available to help. Our lawyers provide legal representation and support to accident victims and their families.
We apply our legal knowledge and experience to handle each case thoughtfully and professionally. We can manage the legal matters of your case while you focus on healing. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Our San Francisco lawyers also handle accident claims involving cars, pedestrians, Uber, Lyft, motorcycles, and bicycles. We also work on dog bite cases, slip-and-fall accidents, and more.
We also serve clients in Daly City, Tiburon, Alameda, Oakland, South San Francisco, San Bruno, Albany, Berkeley, Piedmont, Mill Valley, Pacifica, Richmond, Corte Madera, Millbrae, Larkspur, Tiburon, Alameda, South San Francisco, San Bruno, and across California.
Latest Traffic Reports in California
