How Often Do Truck Drivers Get Into Accidents?

Truck drivers are essential to keeping the economy moving, especially in a state like California, where goods are constantly moving through major ports, agricultural centers, and commercial hubs. However, the job comes with significant risks. Truck drivers face serious hazards on the road, including long hours, state lines, and unpredictable weather. Unfortunately, collisions involving these massive vehicles are common, and the frequency of these crashes often surprises people unfamiliar with the risks truck drivers face on the road.

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), drivers of large trucks were involved in over 120,000 crashes resulting in injuries in 2022 alone. Moreover, in the same year, nearly 6,000 fatal collisions involved large trucks, higher by 1.8% from 2021.

While many factors contribute to truck accidents, it’s important to recognize that not all collisions are the truck driver’s fault. Issues like poor vehicle maintenance, improperly loaded cargo, and the actions of other drivers can also significantly contribute to these collisions.

If you’re a truck driver who sustains an injury in a crash, you may be unsure about your legal options. The experienced truck accident lawyers at Arash Law are here to help. We fight for truck drivers who suffer injuries on the job and work on a no-win, no-fee basis!  That means, no fees unless we win your case. Give us a call at (888) 488-1391.

Now, let’s examine how often truck collisions occur and why it’s important to understand these statistics. Awareness of the risks can lead to better safety practices and prompt action to prevent future crashes, benefiting drivers and the public.

How Prevalent Are Truck Accidents?

Truck drivers face dangerous conditions daily, with truck accidents occurring every 4 minutes on American roads. The job demands traveling across state lines, through all types of weather, and dealing with other drivers on busy highways.

Sadly, truck accidents are all too common. The trucking industry is known for having a high number of fatal injuries. However, it’s essential to recognize that truck drivers are often the victims of these incidents. The following sections cover fatalities and all levels of injuries from truck crashes.

National Data On Truck Accidents

Crashes involving large trucks happen more often than many people realize, and the numbers have been rising steadily over the years. Here are some recent national data from the National Safety Council, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration:

• Fatal truck crashes are increasing. In 2022, deadly crashes involving large trucks rose by nearly 2% compared to 2021. Over the past decade, these types of crashes have gone up by nearly 50%. (Source: NSC)
• Truck-related deaths are a major portion of fatal crashes. Out of roughly 60,000 fatal accidents in the U.S. in 2022, about 5,837 involved large trucks like semis, cargo vans, and utility vehicles. That’s nearly 1 in 10 fatal crashes. (Source: NHTSA)
• Injury crashes are also on the rise. Between 2020 and 2021, injury crashes involving large trucks jumped from 105,000 to 117,000. That’s an 11% increase in just one year. (Source: FMCSA)
• Truck drivers are often among the victims. Around 19% of people killed in these crashes are the drivers or passengers of the trucks themselves. (Source: NSC)

Statewide Data On Truck Accidents

California’s highways are among the busiest in the nation, making it one of the most dangerous states for truck drivers. The data below comes from the Transportation Injury Mapping System of UC Berkeley, covering January 2023 to December 2024. These numbers show how truck accidents affect different counties, with fatalities and injuries continuing to rise.

Here are the truck accident statistics for the top 5 most populous counties in California:

*Available data from the Transportation Injury Mapping System as of April 30, 2025.

California handles more truck traffic than most states, and the crash numbers prove it. Los Angeles County reports the highest number of truck accidents and injury victims in the state. This is likely due to the area’s dense population, constant traffic, and the steady flow of freight moving through its roads.

San Bernardino and Riverside counties also report high crash volumes. These regions sit along major shipping routes like I-10 and I-15, which makes them hotspots for commercial truck activity and serious collisions.

The Risks Truck Drivers Face On The Job

Truck driving may seem straightforward, but it comes with serious risks that many people overlook. Spending long hours on the road, often in unfamiliar areas and through challenging weather, puts truck drivers in constant danger. Their job isn’t just about transporting cargo. It involves staying alert and safe while navigating heavy traffic, unpredictable drivers, and tight delivery schedules.

The physical and mental toll of being behind the wheel of a massive vehicle for extended periods can contribute to accidents and long-term health issues. In 2022, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that truck drivers experienced 1,115 fatal work injuries, more than any other single occupation.

Transportation incidents were the leading cause of these deaths, making up the largest share of fatal workplace events across all industries. These dangers highlight how demanding and hazardous truck driving can be, not only for the drivers themselves but also for everyone who shares the road with them.

Types Of Truck Accidents And Their Frequency

Collisions involving trucks can vary in severity and type, but some are more common than others. Knowing how they occur is important because each has its own set of causes and consequences.

Understanding the following types of truck accidents helps identify risk patterns and prevention strategies:

• Rear-End Accidents — These happen when a truck collides into the back of another vehicle. In 2022, rear-end crashes accounted for about 22% of deaths among passenger vehicle occupants in two-vehicle accidents involving large trucks. Speeding, tailgating, sudden braking, and reckless driving are usually the main reasons behind them.
• Underride Collisions — Few crashes are as terrifying as underride collisions. These happen when a smaller vehicle gets trapped underneath the rear or side of a large truck. The results are often deadly because the top of the smaller vehicle can be crushed on impact. Tailgating, speeding, and sudden stops all raise the risk of this kind of crash, making awareness and safe driving around trucks absolutely critical.
• Jackknife Accidents — This occurs when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming a sharp angle with the cab. In 2020, there were 4,842 fatal jackknife accidents reported. These usually happen if a driver brakes too hard or too fast. They can easily cause devastating multi-vehicle pileups on busy highways.
• Blind Spot Crashes — Trucks have large blind spots on all sides. About one-third of truck collisions happen when a car sits in those blind spots and the truck driver can’t see it while merging or changing lanes.

Driver error plays a big role in many crashes, but it’s not always the only reason these accidents happen. Mechanical failures, like brake failures or tire blowouts, can also lead to serious accidents. This is why both trucking companies and drivers need to keep their vehicles well-maintained.

Factors Contributing To Truck Driver Accidents

Several factors beyond driver error can lead to truck crashes, especially on California’s crowded highways, unpredictable weather zones, and aging road systems. Experienced truck accident attorneys know that identifying these causes is key to building a strong legal case. Below are some of the most common non-driver-related factors behind truck accidents:

• Environmental Factors — From thick coastal fog along Highway 1 to high winds through the Tehachapi Pass, California’s climate can quickly turn dangerous for truck drivers. Rain-slicked freeways, mudslides in hilly regions, and wildfire smoke that reduces visibility are all environmental hazards that often play a role in truck crashes.In many cases, poor drainage and neglected road repairs on older highways like the I-5 or I-10 can also lead to hydroplaning or loss of control.
• Vehicle-Related Factors — California’s long-distance freight routes put extreme wear on trucks. Without routine inspections and timely repairs, critical components like brakes, steering systems, and tires can fail under stress. Mechanical issues are especially dangerous on steep descents like the Grapevine, where runaway truck ramps are a common necessity. Overloaded trailers and unbalanced cargo, often seen in agricultural regions like the Central Valley, can shift unexpectedly and cause rollovers or jackknife accidents.
• External Factors — Truck drivers often share the road with impatient or distracted motorists, especially in areas like the 405 or 101 during peak traffic hours. Sudden lane changes, tailgating, or failure to yield can leave truckers with no time to react.In addition, construction zones, faded lane markings, and unclear detours, common in urban areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco, can confuse even experienced drivers and increase the chance of a crash.

Potentially Liable Parties In A Truck Accident

Determining liability is crucial for assigning responsibility and ensuring fair compensation when a truck accident occurs. While truck drivers are often at the center of these incidents, it’s essential to recognize that other parties may also share fault. Here are the different parties who might be held accountable:​

• Trucking Companies (Employers) — If the trucking company pressures the driver to break the rules, like pushing them to drive for too many hours or failing to train the driver correctly, they can also be at fault. Companies can also be responsible for not supervising drivers or setting unsafe practices.
• Vehicle Manufacturers — If a defect in the truck caused the crash, like faulty brakes or a tire blowout, the manufacturer could be at fault.
• Cargo Loaders — If the cargo is not loaded correctly, causing it to shift or fall, the loading company may be to blame.
• Maintenance Providers — If the truck wasn’t properly maintained or repaired, like if the brakes were faulty or a tire was worn down, the maintenance provider can be held responsible. This includes the trucking company’s in-house team and an external service provider accountable for the maintenance.
• Other Motorists — Sometimes, accidents happen because other drivers cut off a truck, tailgate, or drive recklessly. In such cases, those drivers can be held responsible.

Collisions involving large trucks can be complicated, with many different parties involved. A truck accident lawyer can help injured truckers understand the legal process and get the full and fair compensation they deserve.

Understanding Comparative Negligence And Vicarious Liability In Truck Accident Cases

Under California’s pure comparative negligence laws, the fault is shared proportionally between all parties involved. For example, if another driver is 70% at fault for the collision, they would be responsible for 70% of the damages. Injured victims can still recover compensation even if they contributed to the crash. However, the percentage of fault they are responsible for will reduce their recovery.

Vicarious liability is another important concept. Under this legal principle, employers (trucking companies) are legally responsible for accidents their employees cause while working. Even if the truck driver’s mistake led to the accident, their employer may also be financially accountable for damages.

The top-rated truck accident attorneys at Arash Law can investigate the cause of the crash, gather evidence, and determine who’s at fault. Even if the injured party is the truck driver, they provide the same high level of service to protect the driver’s rights and interests. They’ll handle the legal process, fight for fair restitution, and ensure you are not unfairly blamed for the accident.

Available Legal Remedies For Truck Accident Victims

Personal injury law isn’t just for people hit by trucks; truck drivers can also be victims. Our lawyers for truck accidents can assist all injured individuals in getting the maximum monetary settlement. There are two main options for injured victims to pursue:

• Workers’ Compensation Claim — Workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance system that covers medical bills and partially lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. However, it doesn’t compensate for pain and suffering. Our skilled workers’ compensation attorneys can assist you in securing the benefits that you need.
• Personal Injury Claim — If a third party, such as a negligent driver or a defective vehicle part, caused the accident, you can file a personal injury claim to claim all available damages. This type of claim is against another responsible party (not your employer) who can provide compensation for your losses.

In some cases, liability may extend beyond just another driver or manufacturer. Suppose the accident resulted from unsafe working conditions or the employer’s failure to maintain proper safety protocols. In that case, truck drivers may also be eligible to file a personal injury claim against their employer.

Victims can file both claims simultaneously in some instances since workers’ comp may not cover all aspects of the damages. Skilled truck accident attorneys can guide you through the process to ensure that you explore all your options for fair restitution.

Questions People Frequently Ask About Truck Accident Cases

Our top-notch lawyers for truck accident cases have listed and answered some of the most common questions victims ask after a crash. These answers can help you better understand your rights, the claims process, steps to take after a truck collision, and what a truck accident lawyer can do for you. If you have more questions or need immediate help, call our experienced injury attorneys today at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me?

Arash Law attorneys know that dealing with a truck collision can be stressful, and hiring a lawyer may seem like an added expense. However, we want to ensure you can focus on your recovery without worrying about legal fees.

Our attorneys for commercial truck accidents work under contingency fee agreements, meaning you won’t have to pay any upfront costs or out-of-pocket expenses to get the help you need. While there are no upfront fees, there may be other costs related to your case, like:

• Expert witnesses who provide crucial testimony to support your case.
• Expert witness fees for those who provide critical testimony to support your case.
• Investigation costs for investigators who gather evidence to establish key facts in your claim.
• Medical record-related expenses for acquiring your medical history and treatment details.
• Postage and administrative costs for handling paperwork and mailing documents.

Your truck accident lawyer usually covers these additional costs and is paid from the final settlement or verdict once the case is resolved. This fee structure allows you to access high-quality legal representation without worrying about paying upfront. It also incentivizes your lawyer to work hard to get the best possible outcome since they only get paid if you win your case.

How Long Does It Take To Settle My Truck Accident Claim?

The timeline for resolving a truck accident claim can take several months to years, depending on the case’s specifics. Generally, truck collision claims take longer to resolve than regular car crashes due to the complexity and the numerous factors involved.

Many injured victims search for “truck accident attorneys near me” who can assist them during the process. The truth is, the time it takes to settle depends on several key factors, such as:

• The severity of the injuries.
• Cooperation from the parties involved.
• The recovery timeline of the injured party.
• Whether the case goes to trial.

In short, giving an accurate timeframe is hard because every personal injury case differs. However, our goal-driven personal injury attorneys specialize in truck collisions and can manage everything efficiently and thoroughly to avoid unnecessary delays.

How Long Do I Have To File A Truck Accident Case In California?

In California, lawsuits must be filed within a certain period, known as the statute of limitations. For most personal injury cases, including truck crashes, you must file a claim within two years of the accident date.

If you don’t file your case within that two-year window, you could lose your right to seek compensation forever, regardless of your strong case. This rule applies to anyone injured in a semi-truck accident, including truck drivers.

Since the deadline is strict and missing it can cost you everything, it’s essential to speak with an attorney immediately. The lawyers who specialize in truck accidents can help you understand your rights and ensure that you file your case on time. To get started, contact Arash Law today!

How Much Money Can I Get From A Truck Accident Case?

If you’re wondering, “What is the average settlement of an 18-wheeler accident?” know there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The compensation you can recover depends on various factors unique to your case, including:

• The severity of your injuries.
• The cost of your medical treatment.
• Lost wages from time off work.
• How your injuries may affect your life.

Additional factors like your age, the pain & suffering you endure, and any long-term lifestyle changes will also impact the settlement amount.

Typically, collisions involving large vehicles result in larger settlements than standard motor vehicle accidents. Settlements often range from hundreds of thousands of dollars to millions, depending on the specifics of your case. For example, in a truck vs. auto case, we secured over $6.4 million for our client.

Every case is different, and insurance companies often try to minimize what they pay. If you ask, “Is it worth getting an attorney for a truck accident?” the answer is yes. They will handle all the legwork, from consultation to compensation. They’ll ensure that you receive the financial recovery you deserve.

Get Help From The Truck Accident Lawyers California Trusts Today!

If you’re wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” after a truck accident, the answer is yes. The truck accident lawyers at Arash Law understand the physical, emotional, and financial burden that serious injuries place on truck drivers and their families. With over $750 million recovered in settlements and verdicts for our clients, we have the experience and dedication to deliver results.

Your battle is our battle, and we don’t back down. From the moment you reach out to us, we’ll be your voice, shield, and fiercest ally. Like our car accident lawyers who fight for auto accident victims, we will do whatever it takes to obtain justice for you.

You deserve a truck accident attorney who won’t rest until your rights are fully protected. To start your journey toward justice, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form. We offer free accident lawyer advice.