Bellflower Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our Reliable Bellflower Truck Accident Lawyers Are Here For You When You Need Us Most
Truck accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries and significant property damage. If you were recently injured in a truck collision, our truck accident lawyers in Bellflower can assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve. We’ll work tirelessly to prove negligence and hold the responsible parties accountable for your losses. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 today for a free initial consultation.
Bellflower is a developing city in the southeastern part of Los Angeles County. It’s well-known for its rich history, humble beginnings, and rapid success. The city was primarily a dairy farming community that strived to spark economic growth. As more settlers began to arrive, the city began to progress and diversify.
In an effort to attract more businesses, Bellflower has continuously invested in infrastructure and development projects. These projects, in turn, led to a significant increase in truck traffic on major routes like Interstates 105 and 605 and Highways 19 and 91. However, the growing number of these vehicles on the roads has also led to an increase in truck accidents.
If you or someone close to you is injured in a truck accident, approach our attorneys in Bellflower right away. We understand that financial constraints can be an issue, which is why our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. Our Bellflower law firm won’t ask you to pay any fees unless we win your case.
A farm worker, suffered multiple broken bones and other orthopedic injuries resulting from an auto accident where the defendant driver attempted to make a left turn in front of our client in heavy fog.– ARASH KHORSANDI
Why Should You Hire Our Truck Accident Attorneys For Your Claim?
Our truck accident lawyers are committed to securing a favorable outcome for your case. We understand that truck accident claims can be complex and challenging for most people. Our team has decades of experience dealing with these cases. We’ll explain everything in clear language so you understand your rights and options throughout the process. Our Bellflower truck accident lawyers will make sure you’re never left in the dark so you can make informed decisions about your case.
Moreover, our law firm has recovered over $500 Million worth of compensation for injured victims. We’ve recently secured $5 Million for our client, who sustained a mild traumatic brain injury after a large truck struck him in the crosswalk. The trucking company tried to blame our client, claiming that he was looking down at his phone at the time of the accident. Our team relentlessly fought for our client’s rights, firmly believing it was unjust to lay blame on an individual who suffered severe injuries in the accident.
Our lawyers will leave no stone unturned in gathering and presenting evidence. We will meticulously examine every aspect of your case, ensuring no detail goes unnoticed during our investigation. Our team will also work closely with other experts to assess the full extent of the damages you’ve suffered. We can also connect you with trusted medical professionals who can provide the necessary treatment for your injuries. While you focus on recovery, we’ll handle negotiations with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary.
Our truck accident attorneys in Bellflower will actively engage with you in the fight for your rights. We’ll keep you informed about any updates on your case. While it’s difficult to predict how long the process will take, we’ll do our best to address your concerns promptly and efficiently.
Common Types Of Trucks
- Tractor-Trailers – These are commonly called semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, and big rigs. While these vehicles typically use enclosed trailers for secure transport, the cabs can also be attached to different kinds of trailers, such as:
- Flatbed Trailers – These are open trailers with no roofs, sides, or doors, so cargo must be secured properly to prevent it from falling off.
- Tanker Trailers – These are used to transport liquid cargo, such as water, oil, and certain chemicals. They often carry flammable materials.
- Livestock Haulers – These trailers transport farm animals, commonly seen near livestock farms.
- Refrigerated Trailers – Also known as reefers, these are known for their cold storage capabilities. They use built-in temperature control to keep perishables like food, medicine, and cosmetics fresh during transport. If the refrigeration fails, drivers might be under pressure to deliver goods quickly.
- Delivery Trucks – Companies like Amazon, UPS, FedEx, and the US Postal Service use these trucks to transport packages directly to their customers’ doors. Their frequent stops in residential areas increase the risk of accidents with pedestrians and other vehicles.
- Work Trucks – These heavy-duty vehicles include dump trucks, garbage trucks, tow trucks, and cement trucks. They involve several risks, such as obstructing traffic, spilling heavy materials on the road, and tipping over.
Types Of Truck Accidents Our Attorneys Handle
Truck accidents are a leading cause of severe injuries in motor vehicle accidents. Collisions between commercial trucks and smaller vehicles often result in fatalities or catastrophic injuries. Our Bellflower attorneys have extensive experience handling cases involving the following types of truck accidents:
Head-On Accidents
One of the most devastating traffic accidents is when heavy-duty trucks collide with light vehicles head-on. The immense size and weight of these trucks create a tremendous force during impact, especially at high speeds. Victims are more likely to sustain severe injuries, such as paralysis or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Blunt-force trauma can also occur when car airbags fail to deploy properly. As a result, passengers are left vulnerable to hitting their heads on hard surfaces like the dashboard and windows. Unfortunately, not all victims survive this tragedy and might die instantly.
If you have lost a loved one in a recent head-on collision, don’t hesitate to contact our truck accident lawyers in Bellflower. We understand that no amount of money can make up for the death of a loved one. However, we can assist you in pursuing a wrongful death claim to secure maximum compensation from the responsible parties. This compensation can help ease the financial burden and allow you and your family to focus on healing during this difficult time.
Rollovers
Large vehicles weighing up to 80,000 pounds are prone to rollover accidents. Their high center of gravity can easily cause them to flip on their sides or roofs. These incidents may happen when drivers lose control of their trucks due to tire blowouts and driving errors, such as speeding, abrupt braking, and taking wide turns.
Rollover accidents commonly occur in the following areas:
- Exit and freeway ramps
- Curves and bends
- Intersections
- Steep declines
- Dilapidated roads
- Construction zones
- Traffic-congested areas
- Merging points
- Roads with slippery surfaces
Like other types of accidents, rollovers involving large trucks also pose a serious threat to motorists. These accidents can result in serious injuries or even death. Our truck accident lawyers in Bellflower are here to assist if a rollover has injured you or a loved one. We can take care of your legal concerns while you focus on your recovery.
Jackknife Accidents
Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out at a sharp angle relative to the cab, resembling a folding pocket knife. This type of accident happens when drivers lose control and the trailer skids sideways, often due to excessive braking or taking a sharp turn too quickly. These incidents can be incredibly dangerous, causing the truck to block multiple lanes of traffic or collide with nearby vehicles.
Jackknife accidents have continued to rise in the United States. In 2020, the Federal Carrier Motor Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported that 4,842 jackknife accidents resulted in fatalities. Additionally, these accidents caused 107,000 injuries and 327,000 property damage incidents.
If you were injured in this type of truck accident, call our experienced attorneys in Bellflower right away. We can help you obtain justice and recover the damages you deserve from the responsible parties.
Underride Accidents
Trucks typically have high ground clearance, which allows them to travel on uneven terrain, even when carrying heavy loads. However, this large gap underneath poses a risk to other road users. If an accident happens, smaller vehicles can slide under a truck, especially if the latter lacks rear guards.
Since the underside of a truck lacks crumple zones and other safety features designed to absorb impact, the full force of the collision transfers directly to the car’s roof, windshield, and pillars. As these car parts crumple, they can crush the passengers inside, causing catastrophic injuries from contact with the collapsing roof or windshield. The force of the impact can also push the car frame upwards. This upward contortion can strain or even sever the spinal cord and cause internal organ damage.
If you are grappling with the repercussions of an underride accident, we will guide you through the process of filing a compensation claim. Our truck accident lawyers will ensure that the settlement covers all your losses, including any necessary future treatments and procedures.
Sideswipe Accidents
Accidents can occur when large vehicles unintentionally collide with the sides of automobiles traveling parallel to them. Sideswipe accidents often arise when trucks attempt to shift lanes or avoid obstacles.
Driver errors can also contribute to truck collisions. These errors leave other drivers little time to react, resulting in collisions that cause property damage and injuries. The cost of repairs and medical bills can quickly reach thousands or even millions of dollars.
Our Bellflower attorneys specializing in truck accident cases will determine the full extent of damages a victim may have suffered. Insurance companies may offer settlements far below the actual value of your claim. Our team will counter any lowball offers with documented evidence that justifies a higher settlement. We’ll ensure that you receive compensation that fully covers the extent of your losses.
Rear-End Accidents
Large and heavy trucks require greater stopping distances than other vehicles on the road. If truck drivers fail to brake in time, they risk rear-ending the vehicles in front of them.
While rear-end collisions might seem minor compared to other types of accidents, they can be surprisingly dangerous. Even though car manufacturers design car backs to absorb impact, collisions with vehicles weighing thousands of pounds can still cause serious injuries.
Victims of such accidents may suffer whiplash, fractures, or other bodily harm. Depending on the severity, these injuries can prevent them from working and lead to lost wages.
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision with a truck, especially if you’re a family provider, don’t let the responsible party go unaccountable. Our truck accident lawyers can help establish liability in your case. We can present evidence of your losses, such as medical bills or paychecks, to demonstrate the extent of the accident’s impact.
Most Common Causes Of Truck Accidents
There are a variety of factors that contribute to road crashes involving large vehicles. Our Bellflower attorneys have determined these leading reasons for truck accidents:
Violation Of Federal & State Laws
The trucking industry operates under a strict set of laws and regulations. However, some truck drivers disregard these rules in an attempt to reach their destinations faster. Others are also forced to meet strict deadlines. The following are some truck laws and regulations commonly violated by truck companies and truckers:
- Hours of Service – The law allows truck drivers to operate large vehicles for a maximum of 11 hours only after being off-duty for 10 consecutive hours. They are also required to take a 30-minute break after driving for eight cumulative hours.
- Size & Weight Limitations – Trucks should not exceed a maximum height of 14 feet and a weight of 80,000 pounds. The length should not exceed 40 feet for single-unit vehicles and 65 feet for semi-trucks.
- Cargo Securement Rules – Truckers must use securement devices like tie-downs, shoring bars, and dunnage bags to ensure the load is safe and won’t fall out.
Driver Errors
Accidents often occur due to the errors committed by truck drivers. They display negligence when they do the following:
- Distracted driving
- Driving while fatigued
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Violating traffic rules, such as ignoring stop signs and running red lights
- Driving without adequate training
- Failing to notice blind spots
- Taking sharp turns
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Truck drivers have an obligation to keep their vehicles in good working order. Failing to maintain their vehicles properly can lead to mechanical failures, which significantly increase the risk of accidents.
Adverse Weather Conditions
Bellflower is known for its pleasant year-round weather. However, it also experiences rain and strong winds that typically accumulate dust and give rise to haze. These conditions may reduce truck drivers’ visibility, causing crashes.
Understanding the cause of a truck collision is vital to securing a strong legal basis. You can approach our truck accident lawyers in Bellflower, who are adept at identifying the causes and instances of negligence in each case.
Injuries Commonly Sustained In Truck Accidents
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, your health should be your top priority. Seek immediate medical attention first. Our Bellflower truck accident lawyers have experience helping clients who sustained the following injuries:
- Head & Brain Injuries – The immense force of truck collisions can cause a victim’s head to slam onto a rigid surface, like the dashboard or the ground. The resulting impact can cause serious head injuries, like skull fractures or traumatic brain injuries, to the occupants of the small vehicle.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – The bundle of nerves connecting the brain and lower back is also vulnerable during truck incidents. Spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis from the waist or neck down.
- Neck Injuries – Victims of truck accidents may incur whiplash and other related injuries when a violent impact forces their necks to move in one direction. While most whiplash cases heal after a few weeks, severe ones can escalate to long-term pain and discomfort or nerve damage.
- Amputations – The immense weight of trucks can cause severe crushing injuries to a victim’s limbs in a crash. Doctors may need to remove the affected body parts to avoid infections. Amputation can lead to permanent disabilities and significant challenges, affecting both the victim’s physical capabilities and emotional well-being.
- Burns – Trucks often haul flammable materials like gasoline, chemicals, or even certain industrial products. If a collision damages the container, these materials can ignite and cause significant burns. The severity of burn injuries varies depending on the heat source, duration of exposure, and affected body area.
- Fractures – The powerful forces created during truck collisions can also break the bones of victims. Fractures may recover over time, but severe cases may require surgery to heal completely.
Who Is Liable In A Truck Accident?
Unlike car accidents, which often involve just two drivers, truck accidents can involve multiple parties who could be liable for damages. Depending on the specifics of the case, our truck accident lawyers in Bellflower can help you hold the following parties accountable:
- Truck Drivers– This might seem obvious, but driver negligence is a major cause of truck accidents. Factors like fatigue, distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence can all play a role.
- Truck and Shipping Companies – Truck and shipping company owners and managers could be liable for accidents if they pressure their drivers to meet tight deadlines or hire drivers with negative records. It’s the companies’ responsibility to conduct proper screening of their employees to ensure they are capable of safely operating large vehicles.
- Truck Manufacturers – Truck design flaws or defective parts can sometimes cause truck accidents. Under product liability laws, manufacturers should create products that are safe to use. They might be liable for accidents caused by their defective products.
- Maintenance Service Providers – Truck companies usually hire a separate team responsible for keeping their large vehicles in good condition. The mechanics and shops that perform truck maintenance can also be responsible if faulty repairs or missed issues during inspections contribute to an accident.
- Government Offices – Not all accidents are due to driver error. In some cases, road defects, like potholes, uneven surfaces, missing guardrails, and faded markings, might play a role in a truck accident. Victims may sue the government agencies responsible for the upkeep.
After a truck accident, contact our attorneys in Bellflower to ensure all negligent parties are held accountable. We can conduct a thorough investigation to establish negligence.
Compensation Truck Accident Victims Can Recover
Truck accidents usually yield far-reaching damages and losses. Under California law, victims have the legal right to seek compensation from responsible parties. Our truck accident lawyers in Bellflower have successfully recovered the following damages for countless clients:
- Medical expenses
- Follow-up consultations
- Surgery and therapy sessions
- Laboratory utilization fees
- Medication purchases
- Lost wages and loss of future earnings
- Property damage repairs
- Pain and suffering
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Temporary or permanent disabilities
- Physical disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Funeral and burial expenses
Aside from compensatory damages, courts may also award punitive damages for cases involving gross negligence and malicious intent. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter others from similar conduct.
Steps To Take After A Truck Accident
Following a truck accident, our Bellflower lawyers firmly encourage you to stay calm and be conscious of your next actions. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Check for injuries. Your health should be your top priority. If you or anyone around you is injured, call 911 immediately. Don’t wait to get medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as whiplash and TBIs, take time to show symptoms.
- Get to a safe spot. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further traffic incidents. However, don’t leave the scene of the accident, even if you’re not injured. Wait for help to arrive.
- Report to the law enforcement authorities. Reporting the accident to the police is crucial. They’ll document the scene, gather witness statements, and create an official accident report. This report will be a vital piece of evidence for your potential claim.
- Document the accident scene. While you wait for help, collect evidence. Use your phone to capture photos and videos of your injuries, the damage to your vehicle, the truck involved, and the surrounding area. Note important information, such as the name, plate number, and contact details of all concerned parties. If there are witnesses, ask for their statements about what they saw.
- Notify the insurance companies. Provide them with all the details you have gathered, but avoid admitting fault. Be mindful of every detail you relay, as the insurance providers might use it against you in the future.
- Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391. Our team of experienced truck accident lawyers in Bellflower can assist you in filing your personal injury claim. We will ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages and losses.
Statistics Regarding Truck Accidents
Road accidents involving large trucks have been a persistent issue in California and throughout the U.S. over the years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that in 2022, these incidents resulted in 5,936 fatalities, which increased by 115, or 2%, from 2021. Of these casualties, 1,097 were truck occupants, while 4,839 were other road users.
Moreover, authorities reported that in the same year, 160,609 people were injured in truck crashes. This recent count rose by 5,795, or 3.7%, compared to the previous year. Their record also showed that 41,874 of those who sustained bodily harm were truck passengers, while 118,735 were motorists and pedestrians.
Based on the Injury Facts posted by the National Safety Council (NSC), the majority, or 53.98%, of fatal truck accidents occurred in rural areas, and 46.02% happened in urban locations. Fatal truck accidents are also more likely to occur during the day. Statistics show that 61.3% of these incidents happened during daylight hours, while 38.7% happened at night.
These truck accident statistics show how prevalent and catastrophic truck accidents can be. If you or your loved one was injured in one, our Bellflower truck accident lawyers can help during this difficult time. We will take care of all the paperwork, deadlines, and legal hurdles so you can focus on healing and getting your life back on track.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Truck Accidents
Can I Still File A Claim If I Am Partially Responsible For A Truck Accident?
In California, victims of truck accidents still have the right to pursue claims, even if they share some of the blame. The state follows the comparative negligence rule. Under this legal doctrine, the court will assess the degree of liability for each party involved in the incident. If victims are partially liable, their compensation will decrease in proportion to their level of fault. For instance, if the judge finds you 20% responsible for a truck crash, you will only be entitled to up to 80% of the total compensation.
The state government enforces this system to ensure that victims are not unfairly penalized for their involvement in the accident while still holding all parties accountable for their actions. Sadly, some insurance companies may try to exploit this rule by shifting blame to the affected people. This tactic allows them to offer lower compensation for the damages and losses incurred in crashes.
If you believe that you’re partially responsible, it’s best to consult with our truck accident lawyers in Bellflower. We can thoroughly evaluate the incident and gather all the necessary evidence to determine the percentage of fault for which you’re liable. We’ll also prevent claims adjusters from taking advantage of you and pressuring you into accepting a lowball offer.
Should I Accept The Settlement Offer From The Trucking Company?
After a truck accident, the pressure to settle quickly can be immense. Trucking companies might offer what seems like a generous sum. However, these settlements may not cover the full extent of your damages, especially serious injuries or property damage. Accepting an offer too quickly could mean missing out on the compensation you’re entitled to receive.
Instead of accepting a quick settlement, consult truck accident attorneys in Bellflower first. We can help you evaluate the offer and determine whether it’s sufficient to cover all the damages you’ve suffered. If the initial offer is insufficient, we will negotiate for the compensation that you duly deserve. Remember, the goal is to recover and move forward. A settlement that doesn’t fully cover your losses can hinder your healing process.
How Much Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth?
While some truck accident settlements reach very high figures (up to $80 million), the average payout in the US is around $40,000. However, determining the exact value of your claim requires a closer look at the specifics of your case.
Generally, the value of your claim will depend on several factors, including the following:
- Severity of injuries and damages
- Level of negligence by the drivers involved
- Applicable federal and state laws
- Value of expenses and losses incurred
Our truck accident lawyers can evaluate every detail of the incident and help you understand your case better. We’ll provide a clear picture of your case’s potential value and fight to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
How Long Does A Truck Accident Lawsuit Usually Last?
Unfortunately, it’s difficult to determine how long a truck accident lawsuit will take. It may take months or years for cases to get their verdicts. Here are some factors that can affect the timeline of your case:
- Evidence Gathering – Building a strong case relies on collecting evidence like police reports, medical records, witness testimonies, and truck maintenance logs. Depending on the availability of this evidence, the process can take time.
- Case Complexity – Straightforward cases with minor injuries and clear liability typically resolve quicker. However, complex cases with severe injuries, multiple parties involved (like multiple truck drivers or companies), or disputed liabilities can take much longer to investigate.
- Settlement Negotiations vs. Trial – Negotiations with insurance companies can take weeks or months, depending on their willingness to offer a fair settlement. If a settlement can’t be reached, the case goes to trial, which can add a significant amount of time (potentially a year or more) as the case progresses through the court system.
- Severity of Injuries – The extent of your injuries directly affects the case’s value and complexity. For example, a case involving a minor back sprain will likely settle faster than one with a permanent disability. More severe injuries often require ongoing medical treatment and documentation, which can extend the lawsuit timeline.
Our truck accident attorneys will file all necessary paperwork on time, preventing delays caused by missed deadlines. We’ll make sure the time spent on your case is used productively and efficiently.
What Evidence Can I Present To Support My Truck Accident Case?
Presenting relevant and compelling evidence is crucial to building a strong case for your truck accident lawsuit. This evidence helps establish the facts of the incident, prove liability, and demonstrate the extent of your damages. Here are some key pieces of evidence to gather:
- Incident report from law enforcement authorities
- Medical records
- Witness testimonies
- Photos and videos of injuries sustained, properties damaged, and trucks involved
- Affidavits from professionals and experts in different fields, like reconstruction officers and doctors
- Electronic control modules (ECMs), event data recorders, or black boxes that record the speed of the truck
- Dashcam footage
- Electronic logging devices
- Trucking company records
Our Bellflower truck accident lawyers can conduct an independent investigation to uncover all the key details surrounding the incident. We are skilled at identifying and preserving critical evidence that may otherwise be overlooked or lost over time. Furthermore, our lawyers can connect with our network of experts in various areas, who can provide additional insights and resources to strengthen your case.
What Is The Deadline For Filing A Claim?
According to California’s statute of limitations, victims of truck collisions can pursue a claim within two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can significantly limit your ability to seek compensation for your damages.
Our truck accident lawyers in Bellflower can explain the specific details of your case and the applicable deadlines. We’ll act quickly to gather and preserve vital evidence to support your claim. We’ll also ensure all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and within the legal timeframe.
Call The Truck Accident Lawyers Bellflower Looks To For Expertise
Injured in a truck accident and want to pursue a claim? Our team of award-winning Bellflower truck accident lawyers will be your advocates during this challenging time. We are dedicated to providing quality legal services. We’ll thoroughly explain your case, fight aggressively on your behalf, and secure the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
You don’t need to handle everything on your own. At Arash Law, we understand the unique aspects of truck accident cases. We have the experience and resources to stand up to unhelpful insurance companies. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Our law firm also extends assistance to residents living in nearby areas, such as Compton, Downey, Cerritos, Carson, Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Santa Ana, Irvine, Long Beach, Hawthorne, Pasadena, Glendale, Fullerton, Covina, Alhambra, Culver City, and Westminster.
