Apple Valley Truck Accident Lawyers
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Apple Valley Truck Accident Lawyers Offering Practical Legal Help To Injured Victims
Truck accidents are more likely to result in catastrophic consequences, like serious injuries, loss of life, and severe property damage. If you or your loved ones were injured in such incidents, consider consulting with our Apple Valley truck accident lawyers. We can help study, file, and support cases that uphold your right to pursue compensation under California law. Call (888) 488-1391 for a free first case review.
If you get injured in a truck accident, you can get in touch with our attorneys in Apple Valley. We can assess whether you have a case and help you file a claim to seek damages. Our personal injury lawyers have gained experience in various practice areas, including complex truck accidents, so we can assist with your case. You won’t have to worry about upfront fees because our law firm in Apple Valley offers a contingency-based service. This means our clients only pay attorney fees if they’re awarded a settlement. Our lawyers can walk you through the case-related costs that may still apply.
Settlement in a case where a client was injured while unloading commercial truck; client sustained crush injuries to legs– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
How Can Our Apple Valley Truck Accident Lawyers Assist With Your Case?
Our lawyers in Apple Valley aim to support truck accident claims, leveraging our knowledge of personal injury law when building claims. Our law firm also assists clients with their cases in the following ways:
- Communicate with all parties involved to obtain more necessary information for supporting a solid case.
- Gather proof, like photos and footage of the accident scene, witness testimonies, and other reports that may help establish the liability of the responsible parties.
- Hold dialogues with insurance companies where we can discuss your interests and claims for compensation.
- Present cases to court if insurers don’t agree to a fair settlement.
We understand that unwanted incidents caused by large vehicles can significantly impact your life. That’s why our Apple Valley truck accident lawyers will work to discover what victims can do to seek damages. We offer a personalized approach that aims to engage clients in the process and keep them updated on our progress with their case.
If you’re a victim, you can complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form so we can discuss your legal options.
Common Types Of Trucks
The majority of industries in the town rely on different types of trucks to transport loads across the town. In various truck accident cases our Apple Valley lawyers have handled, these are the most commonly involved types:
- Tractor Trucks – These are also known as bobtail trucks. These enormous vehicles consist of only the front part, where the engine and driver’s cabin are found. Tractor trucks are difficult to maneuver, making them dangerous even without cargo or flatbed trailers. Their full weight goes entirely on their wheels, and they have less friction.
- Big Rigs – These commercial trucks come with many names, like 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, and tractor-trailers. These large vehicles often operate on flatbeds or closed trailers to secure their cargo.
- Tanker Trucks – Big trucks of this kind usually carry liquid and flammable substances like water and gasoline. Because of these types of loads, tanker trucks are prone to explosions when they get into an accident.
- Delivery Trucks – Transportation and e-commerce companies, such as Amazon, UPS, FedEx, and the United States Postal Service, use delivery trucks to transport different products to specified locations.
- Utility Trucks – These heavy-duty vehicles serve various purposes. They can be beneficial in residential and commercial areas, rescues and emergencies, and even on agricultural sites. Utility trucks may include the following:
- Street Cleaning Trucks
- Emergency Vehicles
- Waste Disposal Trucks
- Farm Trucks
Common Kinds Of Truck Accidents
As Apple Valley transforms into a thriving transportation hub, it also becomes a hotspot for various types of truck accidents, such as:
Jackknife Accidents
These occur when large trucks skid and their trailers swing out of their cabs, forming a 90-degree or acute angle like a pocket knife. Jackknife incidents are extremely hazardous for all road users, as the involved trucks may block multiple lanes of traffic, causing chaos and potential pile-ups. The primary causes of these situations include:
- Speeding
- Improper braking
- Inexperienced driving
- Adverse weather conditions
- Mechanical failures
As per the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a total of 4,842 fatal jackknife accidents happened in the U.S. in 2020. These incidents injured 107,000 people and damaged 327,000 properties.
Rear-End Collisions
Big trucks may also be involved in rear-end collisions, especially when truckers tailgate or drive with less attention. Their vehicles’ enormous size and weight prevent them from stopping immediately and usually lead them to crash into the vehicle in front. Their occupants may also sustain minor or severe injuries, like:
- Whiplash
- Head injuries
- Internal injuries
- Fractures
- Permanent disfigurements or disabilities
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end collisions commonly occur at intersections where two or more highways meet. These crossroads witness various vehicular activities, such as turning in different directions and crossing over. With this level of activity, the chances of large trucks and light automobiles colliding with each other also increase.
Rollovers
An FMCSA study explains that large vehicles, like tractor-trailers, are susceptible to truck rollover crashes due to their innate properties. When they travel along curved paths or their wheels touch external obstacles, their outward force and unstable freight may cause them to swerve too much from the road and flip over.
Over the years, reports of rollover accidents have continued to persist in California. Reckless driving behaviors, such as taking wide turns, speeding, and distracted driving, usually contribute to these concerning issues.
Truck accidents may differ, but they can all potentially injure both truck drivers and other road users. Our truck accident lawyers in Apple Valley can assess the nature of the accident you were in and evaluate whether negligence was involved.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents
Different causes of truck crashes contribute to the incidents mentioned above. Cases managed by our Apple Valley truck accident attorneys usually involve the following:
- Speeding – Aside from the regular speed limits adhered to by other road users, truckers must follow strict speed limits for semi-trucks imposed by California law. Failure to adhere to these rules by either type of driver may lead to accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) – Truckers who are intoxicated can’t drive safely, as these substances impair their judgment, reaction, and coordination skills.
- Driver Fatigue – Though drivers of any vehicle may cause accidents when fatigued on the road, truckers are held under stricter standards when behind the wheel. According to the standard hours of service for truckers, they are only allowed to drive for up to 11 hours and within 14 hours. Despite this clear rule, several of them still drive for longer periods because of time pressure. Some truck drivers then experience fatigue, causing them to lose focus on the road and collide with oncoming traffic.
- Distracted Driving – Gadgets like mobile phones have become the primary source of distraction for drivers. They use these devices to track time, their routes, and communications from their employers. Other kinds of distractions also take their attention away from driving, resulting in accidents.
- Reckless Driving – Inexperienced and negligent driving behaviors cause truck accidents. Some careless drivers often overlook blind spots, reverse too much, tailgate, overtake, or take wide turns.
- Unsecured Loads – Truckers must observe the basic cargo safety rules to secure their shipment. Otherwise, the cargo could move inside the truck, causing the balance to shift or potentially getting thrown off the trailer.
- Inadequate Vehicle Maintenance – If drivers, as well as truckers and their companies, are not up-to-date with inspections, they might not detect auto defects. Worn-out brake pads, accelerators, tires, and lights may fail during trips and cause accidents.
- Inclement Weather – Heavy rains, snow, fog, and strong winds can significantly increase the possibility of truck accidents. These conditions can reduce visibility, affect road conditions, and make vehicles difficult to maneuver.
- Poor Road Conditions – Poorly maintained roads and pathways are prone to accidents involving big trucks. Potholes, obstructions, and slippery surfaces could make the driver lose control of their vehicle.
What Damages Can You Seek Through A Truck Accident Case?
Victims of truck crashes may have legal grounds to pursue compensation when filing a claim against negligent parties. Our personal injury lawyers in Apple Valley can help you compute the economic and non-economic damages you incurred. These may cover:
- Emergency room expenses
- Hospital visits
- Follow-up therapies and treatments
- Over-the-counter medications
- Missed earnings
- Medical equipment
- Repairs to damaged property
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disabilities
- Disfigurements
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Wrongful deaths
Apart from the monetary settlements, courts in Apple Valley may also award punitive damages. In very rare cases, these apply to accidents caused by gross negligence or malicious intent.
Typical Injuries In Truck Accidents
Our Apple Valley lawyers frequently encounter the following types of injuries in truck accidents:
- Head & Brain Injuries – Victims may hit their heads against dashboards, steering wheels, and other surfaces during violent collisions involving large trucks. They may also be harmed by flying debris and broken glass. Incidents like these may cause traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), skull fractures, contusions, and other head injuries.
- Neck & Back Injuries – Victims may also sustain herniated discs, whiplash, and spinal cord injuries. These occur when the strong impact of collisions forces the neck and back to twist, bend, or compress.
- Internal Injuries – Vessels and organs may be ruptured and impaired by the force of a truck collision. These injuries might not be immediately apparent and might take some time to be discovered. However, they could be fatal if not treated right away.
- Broken Bones – Large commercial trucks crashing into smaller vehicles can generate devastating force, which could cause the bones to break or shatter. Fractures may be minor or severe. In some cases, victims may need surgery to heal from these injuries.
- Lacerations – Various objects, like flying debris, sharp metal edges, and broken glass, can cause cuts on the skin. Some wounds are deep, requiring immediate medical attention and surgical intervention.
- Wrongful Deaths – In these cases, surviving family members may be within their rights to file a claim seeking to prove a victim’s wrongful death in a preventable accident.
Determining Liability In A Truck Accident Case
Establishing liability in truck accident cases can be challenging. Several elements need to be considered to demonstrate the negligence of responsible individuals. In many cases, truckers may be held accountable for such accidents. However, this assumption does not always hold true. California law states that all drivers must exercise reasonable care to prevent harming other road users. When they breach this obligation, they become negligent and must answer for damages and losses incurred by victims.
Some common liable parties our Apple Valley truck accident lawyers identify include:
- Trucking companies
- Truck manufacturers
- Insurance providers
- Government agencies
- Other road users
The involvement of multiple parties can make a claim even more complicated. In these cases, we can assist with assessing liability and potentially taking legal action against those responsible.
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
Steps To Take After A Truck Accident
The consequences of a truck accident aren’t easy to handle, but our Apple Valley lawyers encourage you to remain calm and be wary of your surroundings. Some steps that may help you safeguard your well-being and legal rights after an accident include:
- Check for injuries and get immediate medical aid. Even if you feel fine after the accident, it can be crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible. Other injuries, such as whiplash or TBI, may not produce immediate symptoms. However, these can have serious consequences if left untreated.
- If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location to prevent any further accidents or injuries. Use hazard lights, warning triangles, or flares.
- Call 911 to get law enforcement on the scene. An official police report can provide important details about the accident and help determine liability.
- Document the accident scene. If possible, take shots and videos of the vehicles involved, damages sustained, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs. This documentation can serve as valuable evidence later on.
- Exchange information with the involved parties. Note their names, contact numbers, and insurance details. It’s important to gather as much information as possible for insurance purposes and potential legal actions. You can also collect the contact details of witnesses if there are any.
- Notify the insurance companies about the accident. Provide the necessary details, but don’t overshare or admit your fault. Be careful of every word you say, as opposing parties may use it against you.
- Contact our truck accident lawyers in Apple Valley. We can review your case and potentially help you initiate a settlement claim. We’re ready to negotiate with insurers and take cases to trial if necessary.
Truck Accident Statistics
Truck accidents throughout the country continue to persist as each year passes by. According to 2021 data from the NHTSA, California had the second-highest number of fatalities due to truck collisions. In the same year, 117,312 big trucks were involved in accidents nationwide, which reflects a 12% increase from 2020. These cases led to 5,788 fatalities, an 18% increase from the prior year and a 49% gain in the last ten years.
Another report mentioned that 72% of the 439,206 large trucks that got involved in police-reported traffic crashes in 2020 weighed more than 26,000 pounds. That year, 4,965 people were killed, of whom 71% were occupants of other vehicles. Meanwhile, 146,930 victims were injured.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Truck Accidents
How Much Are Most Truck Accident Settlements?
Settlements for truck accident cases may differ depending on the type and causes that led to such incidents.
There is no way to accurately determine how much the compensation for personal injury claims may be worth. Its value will instead depend on a few factors, including the type and extent of the damages you incurred.
However, our Apple Valley truck accident lawyers can help estimate the amount of compensation warranted by your claim. They may use this approximation when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court if a settlement cannot be reached. We’re ready to answer any questions and concerns you may have about this matter.
What Are My Deadlines For Filing A Truck Accident Lawsuit?
Truck accident victims pursuing cases must follow specific timelines set by the statute of limitations. Under this doctrine, plaintiffs have two years from the date of the incident to file their claims. If they don’t immediately discover their injuries, they have one year from the date of discovery to initiate their lawsuits. Apart from these general provisions, exceptions and extensions may also apply in specific instances.
If victims fail to meet these deadlines, their case will likely be dismissed. Reach out to our Apple Valley truck accident attorneys to learn about how the statute of limitations may impact your case and see whether we can help you submit documentary requirements in a timely manner.
Contact Our Experienced Truck Accident Lawyers In Apple Valley
If you get injured in a truck accident, our team of Apple Valley lawyers is here to support you. We understand the difficulties you are facing, and that’s why we’re committed to advocating for your rights after such incidents. Our team is dedicated to helping clients pursue fair compensation for the losses they’ve incurred.
Call (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation. Our lines are open to address your concerns.
Our law firm also serves neighboring cities and locations, such as Victorville, Hesperia, Adelanto, Crestline, Big Bear Lake, Highland, San Bernardino, Barstow, Rialto, Colton, Redlands, Loma Linda, Fontana, Bloomington, Grand Terrace, Los Angeles, Bakersfield, San Gabriel, Lancaster, Palmdale, Pomona, Santa Clarita, and Orange County. You can also consult with our attorneys about other personal injury accidents that take place elsewhere in California.
