Coachella Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our Dedicated Coachella Truck Accident Lawyers Offer Clear Advice For Your Legal Journey
Traffic accidents involving large trucks can result in devastating consequences. If you get injured in this catastrophic event, our Coachella truck accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and legal options. We can assist you in gathering evidence to support your claim. Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Coachella is a vibrant city located in the Coachella Valley of Riverside County. It’s the namesake of the famous seasonal music and arts festival, which stages a renowned lineup of musical performances spanning different genres. Currently, the City of Eternal Sunshine remains a historical place that embraces diverse communities and traditions while keeping pace with innovation. Growing from its agricultural roots, it features a variety of businesses and food hubs that showcase the rich tapestry of Mexican flavors and cultures.
As Coachella continues to develop, it opens up more industries that employ trucking companies and drivers. These large vehicles have played vital roles in transporting products and goods to and from nearby metropolitan areas, such as Los Angeles and San Diego. However, the increased number of trucks on the highways in Coachella has also contributed to the rise in road accidents, resulting in injuries and fatalities.
If you or someone you know is injured in this unfortunate incident, our truck accident attorneys in Coachella provide legal representation and guidance throughout the claims process. We work to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and related losses. Our lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means you won’t be charged any attorney’s fees unless compensation is obtained. Please note that case-related costs may still apply regardless of the outcome.
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
Why Hire Our Coachella Truck Accident Lawyers
Choosing the right legal team is a crucial step following a truck accident. Our Coachella truck accident lawyers offer practical legal support and a client-focused approach to help injured victims navigate the aftermath of serious collisions.
Here’s what we offer:
- Experience in Truck Accident Claims — Our attorneys handle truck accident and personal injury cases in California. We’re familiar with the laws, regulations, and insurance practices that apply to commercial vehicle collisions.
- Access to Legal Resources — We have the tools and professional connections needed to investigate complex accidents and prepare well-documented claims for negotiation or trial.
- Clear Communication Throughout the Case — Our team provides regular updates, outlines upcoming steps, and answers questions. We explain the legal process in simple language so clients can make informed decisions at every stage.
- Language Support When Needed — Our team can arrange interpreters to help clients better understand their rights and legal options in their preferred language.
- Contingency-Based Representation — We handle truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which means clients do not pay any attorney’s fees unless we obtain compensation on their behalf. However, they may still be responsible for certain case-related costs.
Our goal is to offer reliable legal representation tailored to each client’s situation. We take the time to understand our clients’ needs and guide them through the legal process.
How Our Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help Your Case
Here’s how our attorneys in Coachella work on truck accident cases and other personal injury claims:
- Case Evaluation and Legal Strategy — Our lawyers begin by evaluating the circumstances of your truck accident to identify potentially liable parties and applicable laws. Based on this assessment, we develop a legal strategy that aligns with the facts of your case.
- Investigation and Evidence Collection — We conduct a thorough investigation into the crash, gathering relevant evidence, such as photographs, surveillance footage, dashcam recordings, truck driver logs, and witness statements. When necessary, we consult with professionals in fields such as accident reconstruction, trucking regulations, and vehicle mechanics to support the claim.
- Calculation of Losses — Our legal team reviews documentation of your injuries and financial losses to estimate the value of your claim. This includes medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and projected future costs.
- Claims Management and Negotiation — We prepare and submit necessary documentation to the appropriate insurance companies and engage in negotiations on your behalf. Our goal is to present a well-supported claim that accurately reflects the extent of your damages.
- Communication With Insurance Providers — Our attorneys handle communications with insurers, helping you navigate their processes and avoiding situations where you may feel pressured to accept a settlement that does not reflect the full scope of your losses.
- Litigation When Needed — While many truck accident claims are resolved through negotiations, not all disputes are settled out of court. If necessary, our trial attorneys can initiate litigation and represent you in court, presenting a structured and evidence-based argument before a judge or jury.
- Ongoing Support Throughout the Process — We maintain clear and consistent communication with clients, providing timely updates, addressing questions, and outlining next steps at each phase of the process.
A truck accident claim can involve complex legal and procedural complexities that may be challenging to manage independently. Our truck accident lawyers in Coachella provide guidance throughout each stage of the claims process, from initial investigation to potential litigation. With a focus on thorough case preparation and informed decision-making, we assist clients in addressing legal challenges and seeking appropriate compensation for damages.
Common Types Of Truck Accidents
Unfortunate incidents caused by negligent truckers occur in a variety of ways. Among the usual types of truck accidents that our lawyers in Coachella handle are:
Rollover Accidents
Trucks are at a greater risk of rolling over due to their weight, which can reach up to 80,000 pounds when carrying cargo. Their higher center of gravity makes them challenging to steer, especially in the wrong conditions.
Rollover accidents are categorized as “tripped” if they occur when the truck drives over curbs, big rocks, or other obstacles. On the other hand, they are classified as “untripped” if no external factor is involved. They occur when drivers lose control of their vehicles due to unsecured loads, unsafe driving practices, speeding, or driving on slippery roads.
Among the areas prone to rollover incidents are:
- Exit ramps and steep declines
- Curves and bends
- Intersections
- Dilapidated roads
- Construction zones
- High-traffic streets
- Slippery pathways
- Merging lanes
If drivers can’t handle their vehicles well under these circumstances, their trucks may tip over to the side or roof. They may also collide with other vehicles, potentially causing a pile-up.
Jackknife Accidents
Trucks sometimes skid and get into jackknife accidents. These incidents sometimes happen when drivers lose control of their trucks after braking abruptly. Consequently, the trailers swing towards the cabs and form an L or a V shape, resembling a pocket knife.
Jackknife accidents are detrimental events that can occur on any road, regardless of the weather conditions. Trucks could hit other vehicles on the road in multiple lanes, resulting in significant damage, injuries, or even fatalities.
According to the Traffic Safety Facts 2021 report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 4,758 jackknife accidents involving truck tractors with trailers were recorded throughout the country. Around 112 crashes resulted in fatalities, while 1,106 collisions resulted in injuries. Meanwhile, at least 3,540 cases resulted in only property damage.
If you’ve been injured in a jackknife incident, our lawyers in Coachella can help you understand your legal options, advise you on your next steps, and guide you throughout the claims process.
Rear-End Accidents
Large trucks are significantly heavier than passenger vehicles. As such, they need more time and space to come to a complete stop. If truck drivers follow too closely, drive at high speeds, or fail to pay attention, they could collide with the vehicles in front of them.
Other factors that can lead to rear-end accidents include:
- DUI
- Misjudging the distance
- Driving in adverse weather conditions
- Encountering mechanical failures
- Unsecured cargo spilling during trips
Rear-end accidents involving large trucks can be especially dangerous for smaller vehicles. Although many passenger cars have crumple zones designed to absorb impact, these safety features may not be effective against the force of a heavy truck. As a result, occupants in smaller vehicles often suffer serious injuries and extensive damage. To reduce these risks, truck drivers must keep a safe following distance and operate their vehicles with caution.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions involving large trucks and smaller vehicles can occur for various reasons, including wrong-way driving, loss of control due to unsecured cargo, or driver fatigue. These incidents often lead to severe injuries or fatalities, particularly for occupants of smaller vehicles. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 31% of light vehicle occupant deaths in 2023 involved a large truck striking the vehicle head-on.
Underride Accidents
In underride accidents, a smaller vehicle slides beneath a large truck upon collision. These incidents typically occur when drivers operate their trucks when they’re tired or have low visibility, such as at night or in bad weather conditions. Other causes include reckless driving, failing to check blind spots, and turning without signaling.
Victims of underride accidents commonly incur the following physical harm:
- Head and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Amputations
- Fractures
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
These types of accidents often have long-term medical and financial consequences. A truck accident attorney can help identify the liable parties, gather supporting evidence, and pursue compensation for damages. Our Coachella truck accident lawyers assist clients with case evaluation, documentation, and referrals to medical professionals for proper treatment.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents occur for a variety of reasons, many of which involve human error or violations of safety regulations. In some cases, federal and state trucking laws are not followed, contributing to unsafe driving practices. For example, companies may overlook weight limits or hours-of-service rules to reduce costs or meet tight delivery schedules. This can lead to overloaded trailers and fatigued drivers, both of which raise the risk of collisions.
Fatigue is a recurring issue in the trucking industry. Long hours on the road without adequate rest can impair a driver’s judgment and reaction time, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Truck accidents also result from other factors, including:
- Distracted driving.
- Inexperienced driving.
- Tailgating.
- Driving under the influence.
- Failing to notice blind spots.
- Turning wide.
- Defects in truck design.
- Poor vehicle maintenance.
- Driving on hazardous roads with potholes, broken guardrails, faded line markings, and cracked asphalt.
- Driving in bad weather, like rain, storms, fog, and snow.
Identifying the cause of a truck accident is a critical step in building a personal injury claim. Our Coachella truck accident lawyers may work with investigators and qualified professionals to analyze evidence and determine liability.
Common Injuries In Truck Accidents
Truck collisions, regardless of their kind and nature, can result in life-altering physical damage. Our Coachella truck accident lawyers have managed claims associated with these injuries:
- Head & Brain Injuries — Victims involved in truck accidents are likely to have their heads bashed on hard surfaces. They could sustain traumatic brain injuries (TBI), from concussions to serious brain damage, which can have long-term effects on their cognitive functioning.
- Back & Neck Injuries — The strong impact of truck accidents can abruptly move a victim’s neck back and forth. It can also force the back to twist to unnatural positions. These incidents could lead to whiplash, neck and back trauma, muscle strains, or broken collarbones.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — The impact of a collision can damage the spine and spinal cord. If left untreated, these injuries could result in temporary or permanent paralysis.
- Amputations — In some accidents, severe trauma to a limb necessitates surgical removal. Traumatic amputations often occur in cases where the limb is crushed or entrapped.
- Broken Bones — Truck collisions can break the bones, particularly the ribs, arms, legs, and fingers. Fractures are painful and extremely limiting, usually requiring extended periods of immobility.
- Wrongful Deaths — In fatal accidents, family members may pursue wrongful death claims to address loss of support, funeral expenses, and other damages against liable parties.
Sustaining injuries can lead to pain, suffering, and other losses. Our attorneys in Coachella can help pursue compensation for your medical bills and other related damages.
Types Of Damages Available In A Truck Accident Case
Motor vehicle accidents can leave you physically impaired and financially challenged. However, you may be eligible to file a claim to help hold the negligent parties responsible for your damages. Depending on the specifics of your case and available evidence, our lawyers in Coachella can help you pursue the following damages:
- Economic Damages — These pertain to the tangible financial losses incurred as a result of a truck accident. These damages are quantifiable, which may include:
- Medical bills
- Follow-up checkups
- Surgeries and other treatments
- Rehabilitation and therapy expenses
- Prescription medication costs
- Missed wages during the time of recovery
- Loss of future earnings for permanent disabilities
- Repairs for damaged property
Evidence is essential in substantiating a personal injury claim, especially when seeking compensation for economic damages. Victims can present records such as medical bills, payroll documentation, employment verification, and repair invoices to demonstrate the financial impact of the accident.
- Non-Economic Damages — These refer to intangible losses that do not have a direct monetary value but significantly affect a person’s quality of life. Non-economic damages compensate for the physical and emotional impact of an injury or accident. Common examples include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- PTSD
- Disabilities and disfigurements
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Wrongful deaths
Our truck accident lawyers in Coachella work with medical providers and financial professionals to help calculate the value of your claim. We compile the necessary documentation and present a well-supported claim during negotiations with insurers or in litigation when needed.
Federal And California Laws For Truckers
To maintain the safety of all road users, truck drivers in California are subject to more stringent federal laws. They have to abide by a number of regulations covering several areas.
According to California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), truckers are required to hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL). This license demonstrates skills and physical capabilities to drive massive vehicles. Thus, truck drivers must show their familiarity with basic controls, gear shifts, speed control, space management, and vehicle inspections.
Truck drivers also have to undergo medical exams every two years. To pass the test, they must not be taking medications that could affect their safe driving skills.
Furthermore, California implements cargo securement rules designed to promote the safe transport of goods. Drivers are required to use safety devices like tie-downs, dunnage bags, and shoring bars to stabilize cargo. Regardless of who loaded the freight, drivers are responsible for inspecting it at regular intervals during transit and verifying that it remains safely secured.
Meanwhile, property-carrying truck drivers are also subject to the FMCSA’s hours of service rules. These rules limit driving to 11 hours within a 14-hour period following a minimum of 10 consecutive hours off duty.
Other applicable regulations cover speed limits, routes, and types of cargo. Our truck accident attorneys in Coachella carefully assess each case to determine whether a violation of federal or state trucking regulations may have contributed to the accident.
What To Do After A Truck Accident
Truck accidents can be overwhelming and chaotic. The actions you take immediately after the collision can have a major impact on your health, safety, and legal rights. Here are some recommended steps you can take after an incident:
- Assess the Situation and Check for Injuries — Call 911 to report the accident nd request medical assistance. Even if you feel fine, seek emergency medical care. Other injuries like TBIs aren’t always visible.
- Move to the Roadside and Away From Danger — If you’re able, move yourself and others out of the roadway to prevent further harm. However, remain at the scene until authorities arrive, as leaving could result in legal consequences.
- Obtain Information — Collect the name, contact details, license number, and other important details of the trucker and other drivers, if any. Ask witnesses for their names and phone numbers so you can contact them later if needed.
- Document the Accident Scene — Take photos and videos of the location, truck, and any other vehicles involved, as well as the injuries and property damage you sustained.
- Report to the Police and Your Insurance Provider — Provide them with the necessary details, such as the time, location, and general description of how the accident happened. Request a copy of the official police report. Be mindful not to speculate or admit fault when speaking with authorities or insurers, as your statements may impact your claim.
- Seek Legal Assistance From Arash Law — Our attorneys in Coachella are experienced at handling truck accident cases. We’ll guide you on what to do next.
How Many Fatal Truck Accidents Are There In California?
According to the 2021 data from NHTSA, California ranked second among the states with the most fatalities due to truck collisions. It logged a total of 416 fatal traffic crashes involving large trucks, leading to 437 deaths.
For comparison, 5,700 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes nationwide. This figure showed an 18% surge from 2020 and a 49% growth in the previous ten years. It also accounted for 9.3% of all vehicles involved in dangerous traffic accidents.
Throughout the country, at least 5,788 Americans have died in truck accidents. The count hiked up to 17% from 2020 and 47% from the last decade. Accordingly, 72% of the casualties were passengers of other vehicles, 17% were truck occupants, and 11% were other road users, particularly pedestrians and bicyclists. Meanwhile, 117,312 trucks were involved in collisions that resulted in injuries. This reflected a 12% increase from the record in 2020.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Truck Accidents
Which Trucks Are Commonly Seen In Coachella?
You’ll normally see the following kinds of trucks in Coachella:
- Tractor-Trailers — These are the typical big rigs or 18-wheelers that transport heavy cargo within and outside of the city. They usually have enclosed trailers where the freight is placed and secured.
- Flatbed Trucks — These heavy-duty vehicles have open trailers that don’t have sides or roofs. They are often used for carrying large and bulky items that exceed standard size limits. Since their backs are open, the cargo on flatbed trailers must be properly secured to prevent it from falling out during transit.
- Delivery Trucks — The e-commerce industry benefits from these trucks. Shipping companies like UPS, FedEx, the United States Postal Service, and Amazon use them to facilitate door-to-door deliveries.
- Dump Trucks — These are the types of trucks that carry construction materials to buildings or houses undergoing renovations.
- Tanker Trucks — Various companies utilize tanker trucks to transport large quantities of liquid cargo. Tanker trucks carrying flammable substances, like gasoline, pose a significant risk as they are prone to explosions.
- Farm Trucks — The agricultural industry relies on harvesters, livestock haulers, and other farm equipment to tow and transport farm products, live animals, and other materials.
In a truck accident in Coachella, our lawyers will assess the type of vehicle that hit you and use the details to build a case. Laws and regulations may differ depending on the trucking company’s industry.
Why Are Truck Accidents So Serious?
Trucks are much larger and heavier than most other vehicles on the road, often weighing between 20,000 and 80,000 pounds and standing up to 14 feet tall. Because of their size and weight, trucks generate significant momentum and force when accelerating. In the event of a collision, this force can cause damage to smaller vehicles and serious injuries to their occupants.
What Makes Trucks More Dangerous On The Road?
Large trucks pose a significant risk to all road users due to their limited visibility. With a width of up to 8.5 feet, trucks have blind spots that restrict the driver’s view of surrounding vehicles and pedestrians.
Moreover, trucks need more time and space to brake safely, considering their size and weight. When truckers don’t apply their brakes in time due to being distracted or misjudging distances, they might collide with other vehicles.
Accidents involving trucks often result from various factors, including driver negligence. Our Coachella truck accident lawyers can assist you in navigating the aftermath of the incident. We can help you assess your damages and seek fair compensation for your losses.
How Can I Establish Negligence In A Truck Accident?
Victims of truck crashes must demonstrate the liability of responsible parties to pursue compensation for injuries and other damages. Our truck accident lawyers in Coachella will review your case and help you establish the following elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care — All road users, including truck drivers, their employers, and vehicle manufacturers, are expected to act with reasonable care to help prevent accidents. In the context of trucking, this includes actions like following traffic laws, adhering to safety standards, and maintaining vehicles properly.
- Breach of Duty — A breach occurs when a driver or responsible party fails to meet the standard of care expected in their situation. This might include speeding, distracted driving, violating safety regulations, or failing to properly maintain the truck.
- Causation — It must be shown that the breach of duty was a direct factor in causing the accident. For instance, if a truck driver ran a red light and collided with another vehicle, the act of running the red light could be linked to the resulting crash and injuries.
- Damages — This element involves showing that the incident led to actual harm. Evidence such as medical records, repair bills, wage loss documentation, or expert evaluations can help establish the nature and extent of the physical, emotional, or financial losses experienced.
Our Coachella truck accident lawyers assist clients by thoroughly investigating the facts, collecting evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, vehicle records, and expert opinions. This helps support each of these elements to build a strong claim.
Who Is Often At Fault In Collisions Between Cars And Large Trucks?
In many truck accidents, the truck drivers are found at fault due to careless or unsafe driving. Their actions can lead to responsibility for injuries and damages resulting from the crash. However, truck drivers are not always solely or fully responsible.
California is a pure comparative negligence state. This means that if multiple parties share fault for an accident, each party is responsible for compensating the victim in proportion to their degree of fault.
Besides the truck driver, other parties that may be liable include:
- Trucking Companies
- Shipping Companies
- Truck Manufacturers
- Maintenance And Repair Service Providers
- Government Agencies
- Other Road Users
Determining liability in truck accidents can be a complex process. Our Coachella truck accident attorneys can review the facts of your case and evaluate how each party’s actions may have contributed to the accident.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations For A Truck Accident Case In California?
In California, victims may file a personal injury case within two years after the truck accident happened. For the delayed discovery of injuries, the statute of limitations would instead start from the date you discovered (or should have discovered) your injury or loss.
Plaintiffs must be aware of their deadlines, as missing them might cause the court to dismiss their claims. Exceptions and extensions may only apply for particular situations, such as when the case involves a government entity, minors, and defendants who are out-of-state, in jail, or mentally incapacitated.
If you plan to pursue a case, consider working with truck accident attorneys familiar with the legal process in Coachella. Our team can guide you through the necessary steps and assist with meeting the required deadlines.
Talk To Our Truck Accident Lawyers In Coachella
Are you wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” after a truck crash changed your life? For many injured victims, the answer is yes. Our Coachella truck accident lawyers are familiar with the complexities of trucking laws and insurance matters. We offer support to help clients navigate these challenges. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free case evaluation.
Aside from Coachella, our law firm also extends services to neighboring cities and locations, such as Anaheim, Ontario, Long Beach, Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Cathedral City, Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Twentynine Palms, Yucca Valley, Banning, East Hemet, San Jacinto, Hemet, Beaumont, and Yucaipa.
