Fresno 18-Wheeler 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.
Dedicated Fresno 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyers Who Advocate For The Injured
Injured in a collision with a large truck? Our Fresno 18-wheeler truck accident lawyers are here to help. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to discuss your case. We’ll explain your options and see how we might help you pursue the compensation that may be available to you.
Truck accidents involving 18-wheelers can cause catastrophic injuries, potentially leaving victims facing long-term pain, medical bills, and financial hardship. We understand how difficult this can be, and we’re here to guide you through what to do next. Our experienced lawyers know what it takes to hold negligent parties accountable.
As an established personal injury law firm in California, Arash Law provides personalized legal support for each of our clients. That’s why we’ll take the time to listen to your story, understand your unique situation, and create a strategy tailored to your needs.
Reach out for a free initial consultation. Whether by phone or in person, we’re here to offer the support and guidance you may need during this challenging time.
Why Work With Fresno 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyers From Arash Law
After an 18-wheeler truck accident, you may be facing mounting expenses, including vehicle repairs, medical bills, and lost wages. The financial strain can be distressing, especially when someone else’s negligence caused the accident. You may have the right to seek compensation, but without representation, navigating the claims process can be challenging. That’s where the dedicated attorneys from our Fresno injury law firm can step in to help.
Here’s why you may wish to work with our Fresno 18-wheeler truck accident lawyers:
- Focused Practice — Our lawyers focus on handling 18-wheeler truck accidents, and we can bring that experience to your case. We know the ins and outs of trucking laws. Our team also conducts independent investigations, including accident reconstruction and technical analyses, to build well-supported truck accident claims.
- Strategic Litigation — We know how stressful dealing with insurance companies might get. Our strategic litigation approach considers the right time to bring a case to court if negotiations with them prove unproductive in helping you pursue a settlement. We’ll work to advocate for your needs following an accident when presenting your case.
Settlement in a heavily disputed Truck v. Truck case. Our client was blamed by the insurance company from day one and was always told that they would never take responsibility for the collision that injured our client’s lower back. After years of litigation, Benny and the team were able to secure the full policy limits for our client months before trial.– BENNY KHORSANDI
How Our 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys Can Help You
One of the most common questions victims ask is, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” While hiring one is not required, working with the right attorney can help in different ways.
Our experienced Fresno attorneys are knowledgeable in the federal and state regulations designed to protect 18-wheeler truck accident victims. If you have a case, here’s how our lawyers can help you throughout the claims process:
- Independent Investigation — Our lawyers can assist with a number of investigative tasks, from gathering evidence at the crash scene to obtaining video footage and eyewitness statements. We can then work to identify key evidence that may be used to support your claim.
- Access to Medical Evaluation — We may connect you with medical specialists who can evaluate the extent of your injuries and estimate the compensation to pursue for necessary treatments and future medical needs.
- Proving Liability — Our attorneys can obtain and assess black box information, maintenance records, and driver history to study who may be responsible for the crash.
- Expert Witnesses — We’ll bring in accident reconstruction specialists and other experts if they can help support your claim.
- Assess Your Eligibility for Compensation — Our injury lawyers can study whether you can seek compensation and estimate the amount you may be able to pursue for both current and future expenses.
- Court Representation — Most cases are resolved out of court, but if a settlement is not possible, our accident lawyers can provide court representation and work to present your case effectively.
If you’re searching for “18-wheeler truck accident attorneys near me,” consider exploring how our skilled attorneys can help you handle the legal aftermath of your injuries. Reach out to us, and let’s discuss your case.
Typical Causes Of 18-Wheeler Accidents
Due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles, accidents involving 18-wheelers are more likely to result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and even fatalities. Common types of truck accidents include jackknifing, tire blowouts, and multi-car collisions.
Truck collisions may occur due to negligence or failure to adhere to safety regulations. Some of the most common reasons why 18-wheeler accidents occur include:
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance — Faulty brakes, worn tires, or malfunctioning lights can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle or fail to stop in time.
- Improperly Secured Cargo — Unsecured or unevenly distributed cargo can shift during transit, causing a truck to become unbalanced. This situation can lead to rollovers or the driver losing control of the vehicle.
- Inexperienced Drivers — Inexperienced or inadequately trained drivers may lack the skills needed to handle emergencies, make sound judgments, or operate vehicles safely.
- Distracted Driving — Activities like texting, eating, or using a GPS can divert a driver’s attention.
- Driver Fatigue — Truck drivers frequently work grueling schedules, with some even violating hours-of-service (HOS) regulations to meet tight deadlines. Fatigued driving slows reaction times and increases the likelihood of accidents.
- Drunk Driving — People who drive under the influence put lives at risk. Drinking causes impaired judgment, delayed reaction times, and reduced coordination, which can be detrimental behind the wheel.
Accidents caused by these factors often leave victims dealing with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. Our dedicated Fresno truck accident attorneys have the skills to investigate these complicated cases, identify the responsible parties, and pursue the compensation that may be available to you. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to learn more about how we can help.
How Our 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyers Prove Negligence
To hold someone responsible for an 18-wheeler truck accident, our Fresno lawyers must prove that their negligence caused the crash. We do this by demonstrating the following four key elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care — The at-fault party had a duty to observe the highest level of care. For instance, a truck driver must follow traffic laws and drive responsibly to keep others safe on the road.
- Breach of Duty — The at-fault party failed to meet this duty of care by behaving recklessly. Examples include speeding, driving under the influence, or violating safety regulations.
- Causation — To prove causation, we gather evidence like accident scene photos, video footage, black box data, and driver logs. This evidence helps us establish a clear link between the driver’s actions and the crash.
- Damages — Finally, we show that you suffered harm because of the accident. Our team will gather all necessary evidence, such as medical bills, doctors’ reports, and records of any treatments you’ve received. We can also collect proof of lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses you’ve faced as a result of the accident.
Our car accident lawyers, who also work on cases involving 18-wheelers and commercial trucks, can discuss how you may be able to hold the liable parties accountable. Call us at (888) 488-1391, and we’ll review your case.
Possible Liable Parties In An 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Case
Determining who is at fault in an 18-wheeler collision can be complicated. Several parties could be held liable for the crash, and understanding who they are is essential to building a strong case. Our Fresno 18-wheeler truck accident attorneys may hold one or more of the following parties responsible:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The truck manufacturer
- Other drivers
- Third-party loaders
- Maintenance providers
Reach out to us if you feel that the negligence of one or more of the above parties caused your accident. Our experienced big-rig accident attorneys in Fresno are here to assess who might be liable for your losses. We’ll investigate the accident, gather evidence, and use our findings to inform your decisions on how to proceed.
Available Compensation In 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Claims
The law doesn’t place a cap on the amount of payment victims can pursue in 18-wheeler truck accident cases, so you may be able to seek various types of damages you’ve incurred as a result of the incident. Your eligibility for compensation will depend on your case’s circumstances.
Here are some of the damages our Fresno 18-wheeler truck accident lawyers may be able to help you pursue:
- Medical Expenses — The costs of doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, physical therapy, and any future medical treatment required.
- Lost Income — Wages lost due to missed work or reduced capacity to work due to injury.
- Property Damage — Repair or replacement costs for vehicles or other personal belongings damaged in the accident.
- Emotional Distress — This compensates for the emotional and psychological trauma victims may experience after an accident, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life — Compensation for injuries that prevent you from participating in hobbies or activities that were once meaningful to you.
- Punitive Damages — If the defendant acted in a grossly negligent or recklessly indifferent manner, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct. These are only rarely given out, so ask one of our lawyers if punitive damages may be necessary given the circumstances of your accident.
The severity of your injuries is one of many key factors that can influence the amount of compensation available for a given claim. More serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or amputations, may involve more substantial compensation claims, but this isn’t a hard and fast rule.
Our Fresno personal injury lawyers can help you understand what damages may be available in your case and work to pursue compensation on your behalf. Fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form so we can evaluate whether you have a viable claim and begin assessing your estimated damages.
Steps You Can Take After An 18-Wheeler Accident
If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, taking the right steps can protect your safety, preserve evidence, and support your case. Here’s a sample list of what you can do:
- Never leave the scene of the accident if possible. Remain there to cooperate with authorities and gather information.
- If you’re able, move the damaged vehicles to the side of the road to prevent more accidents and clear up traffic. If not, wait for emergency services to arrive.
- Assess yourself and others in your vehicle for injuries. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request emergency assistance if anyone is hurt.
- Document the scene with as many photos and videos as possible. Capture your injuries, damage to vehicles, skid marks, weather conditions, road conditions, and anything else that could be important.
- Gather details from the truck driver, including their license, vehicle information, and insurance details. Also, get the name and contact information of their employer and any witnesses.
- Request a copy of the police report. It can help determine who was at fault and be useful for your case.
- Regardless of whether you feel injured, visit a doctor as soon as possible, as some injuries, like internal ones, may not show up immediately.
- Don’t share information about the accident on social media. The content of your posts may be misinterpreted as admitting fault or showing that your injuries are not as severe as stated in your claim.
- Contact our 18-wheeler truck accident lawyers in Fresno at (888) 488-1391. They can help you understand your rights, explain the claims process, and potentially help you pursue compensation.
Paz v. Airfax Logistics (settled on 5/26/2020) – settlement in a case involving a client who was involved in a trucking accident and sustained a traumatic brain injury and other trauma.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Time Limits For Filing 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawsuits
California has a time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is called the “statute of limitations.” You have two years from the date of your accident to take legal action against the party responsible for your injuries. After that, you may not be able to file a claim at all.
However, there are exceptions where you may have more time to file your case. If you were under 18 when the accident occurred, you have until you turn 20 to start the claims process. Additionally, if you later discover an injury that wasn’t immediately obvious after the accident, your 2-year statute starts from the time you should have reasonably become aware of your injury.
That said, consider talking to our Fresno car accident lawyers, who also take 18-wheeler truck accident cases, soon after you’ve been injured. They can guide you through the process so you don’t miss any important deadlines.
Truck Accident Statistics
Truck accidents are a serious concern in California and across the nation. According to UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System, Fresno recorded 59 crashes involving large trucks in 2022. These collisions resulted in 6 people killed and 76 others injured. Of these incidents, 50.8% (30) occurred on state highways. Pedestrians were involved in 8.5% (5) of the crashes, bicycles in 3.4%(2), and motorcycles in 1.7% (1).
Nationally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that there were a total of 4,764 people who died in large truck crashes in 2022. Of these, 17% were truck occupants, 66% were passengers in cars and other vehicles, and 16% were pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorcyclists. Alarmingly, the number of fatalities from large truck crashes was 51% higher in 2022 than in 2009, and the number of truck occupant fatalities increased by 83% during the same period.
Moreover, large truck accidents accounted for 11% of all motor vehicle crash fatalities in 2022. It was found that 96% of people killed in two-vehicle crashes involving passenger vehicles and large trucks were passengers in smaller vehicles.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a catastrophic collision, don’t wait to seek help. Speak with our experienced truck accident lawyers in Fresno to discuss your case and explore your options for compensation. Call us at (888) 488-1391.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need To File A Police Report After A Fresno 18-Wheeler Accident?
You need to file a police report if your 18-wheeler accident caused injuries or fatalities. California law requires drivers to report accidents involving death or injury within 24 hours.
Filing a police report isn’t just a legal requirement; doing so may also help you obtain further documentation of your accident. The report often includes photos of the scene, witness contact information, and details of any traffic violations. These facts might help establish fault and support your claim.
Our experienced Fresno 18-wheeler truck accident lawyers can help by gathering the police report, analyzing its details, and using it to prove negligence.
Can I Settle My 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Case Without Going To Court?
It is possible to settle without going to court. Most cases are resolved through negotiations, where your lawyer works with the insurance company to agree on a settlement offer that aims to cover your losses. Lawsuits are only filed if these discussions prove unproductive. Our Fresno 18-wheeler truck accident attorneys can help handle these negotiations and represent you in court when necessary.
Should I Accept An Initial Settlement Offer?
After an 18-wheeler crash, you may feel tempted to accept the first settlement offer and move on. However, it’s important to be cautious, as you may not yet understand the full extent of your injuries and future expenses, like medical bills and lost wages, when you receive that offer. Let our Fresno 18-wheeler truck accident lawyers evaluate if it can adequately cover all your current and future needs. We’ll review your case to help you decide whether to counter or sign it.
Can I Still File A Lawsuit If The Truck Driver Or Trucking Company Is From Another State?
If the accident occurs in California, you may file a lawsuit against the truck driver or trucking company, even if they are from another state. California courts can exercise personal jurisdiction over out-of-state companies that conduct business within the state. The state’s courts have the authority to hear cases involving these companies if their actions contributed to the accident.
Our experienced Fresno attorneys handling 18-wheeler truck accident cases can assist you in establishing jurisdiction and protecting your rights.
How Long Will It Take To Get Paid By The Defendant After My 18-Wheeler Truck Accident?
Even if you have a valid claim to file, there’s no guarantee that you will be paid by the defendant. The time it takes to pursue compensation after an 18-wheeler truck accident also varies. If you agree to settle, your case may be resolved sooner. However, taking the case to trial might take longer.
Each case is unique, and the specifics of the situation and your goals will inform the strategy used to seek damages. Your 18-wheeler truck accident attorney in Fresno can help guide you through the procedure and keep you informed about what to expect.
How Much Do 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyers Near Me Cost?
There is also no way to know how much a truck accident lawyer will charge you. Their fees will again depend on the details of your case, such as how many defendants may be involved and whether litigation is necessary.
What you can be certain of, however, is when you have to pay an attorney. Our Fresno lawyers for 18-wheeler truck accident cases work on a contingency fee basis. Clients don’t have to pay anything up front; they only pay attorney fees if they’re awarded compensation. However, case-related costs may still apply.
Some other case-related costs may still apply, which we discuss with them before taking on their case. You can consider this option for obtaining legal representation, as it’s meant to make our services more accessible to injured victims facing financial challenges after a truck accident.
Speak With Experienced 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyers In Fresno
At Arash Law, our experienced Fresno 18-wheeler truck accident lawyers are here to help you pursue the compensation that may be available in your case. Whether the negligence lies with the truck driver, the trucking company, or the other parties, we’ll advocate for your rights to seek damages. We know how to investigate even complex cases and assist with establishing liability.
Serving not just Fresno but also accident victims in Mendota, Kerman, Madera, Chowchilla, Clovis, Lemoore, Selma, Sanger, Kingsburg, Parlier, and Hanford, we are ready to help victims in the immediate area and throughout California. We also handle other types of personal injury cases, including ridesharing incidents involving Uber and Lyft, motorcycle crashes, hit-and-run collisions, DUI accidents, and premises liability claims.
Contact Arash Law by filling out our online form or calling (888) 488-1391. We are available to answer your questions and offer the support you need. We’re dedicated to making the legal process more accessible to victims and can meet you at another pre-arranged location if necessary.
