Encino Truck Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Dedicated Encino Truck Accident Lawyers Represent The Injured
Thousands of truck accidents occur in Encino and throughout California every year. Although not all incidents result in fatalities, the risk of serious injuries increases when large vehicles are involved. If you get injured in one, consult our Encino truck accident lawyers.
Encino is a thriving neighborhood in Los Angeles located in the southern San Fernando Valley region. Its well-organized streets and elegant residences create a welcoming, small-town feel, making it ideal for families. The community has become home to several high-profile celebrities, including rapper Wiz Khalifa, pop icon Selena Gomez, and Euphoria star Zendaya. It has also become the filming location for Cobra Kai and several Star Trek productions.
Residents use trucks to move household items, while the entertainment industry utilizes them to bring filmmaking equipment to preferred sites. Not to mention the important role these massive commercial vehicles play in keeping our goods moving, thus bolstering the economy. Without them, our supply chains would come to a standstill, and countless businesses would suffer. Unfortunately, the need for the mobility of big rigs and semi-trucks gives a higher chance of truck accidents causing catastrophic injuries and property damage.
If you become a victim of this tragedy, seek legal guidance from our truck accident attorneys in Encino. Our attorneys focus on federal and state trucking laws and can provide legal support for your claim. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 so we can assess your case.
Settlement in a heavily disputed Truck v. Truck case. Our client was blamed by the insurance company from day one and was always told that they would never take responsibility for the collision that injured our client’s lower back. After years of litigation, Benny and the team were able to secure the full policy limits for our client months before trial.– BENNY KHORSANDI
How To Choose Encino Truck Accident Lawyers
No one expects to get into an accident. However, if you’re injured in one, it is advisable to consult truck accident lawyers to advocate for your rights and support you in pursuing damages.
Our team of personal injury attorneys possesses the following qualities:
- We have decades of combined experience in personal injury law. Our legal advocates are well-versed in assessing losses caused by severe injuries and dealing with insurance company tactics to lower settlements.
- Our injury law firm aims to foster an attorney-client relationship built on mutual trust. You can reach out to our team 24/7 via phone call or fill out our contact form online. We’ll also keep you updated on the progress of your case.
- We take cases on a contingency fee basis. Under this arrangement, you can access legal help without worrying about your finances. We will only receive payment if we obtain compensation on your behalf. However, certain case-related costs may apply regardless of the outcome, and we can explain these to you during your consultation.
Arash Law’s Encino truck accident lawyers can offer guidance and support throughout your case. Our priority is to help you navigate the legal aspects of your situation so that you can focus on getting better.
How Can Our Truck Accident Attorneys Help With Your Case?
We’re aware that truck collisions may involve several individuals and businesses. Unlike car accident claims, personal injury cases involving 18-wheelers or semi-trucks are much more complicated due to the different regulations governing the industry. With our legal knowledge and guidance, we will clearly explain the federal and state laws relevant to your case.
We will communicate and negotiate with the liable parties and their insurance companies on your behalf. During our discussions, we’ll advocate for your interests and aim to obtain a positive resolution for your case. If a settlement cannot be achieved, our truck accident attorneys are ready to represent you in court.
Cases Our Truck Accident Attorneys Handle
Trucks are among the prime movers of Encino’s and the state’s thriving economy. Companies use these large vehicles primarily for logistics. Many tractor-trailers enter the neighborhood on Highway 101, Interstate 405, and other open roadways. Unfortunately, the more trucks on the road, the higher the risk of accidents.
Our Encino truck accident attorneys can handle cases that involve the following:
- Side-impact truck accidents or T-bone crashes usually occur at intersections.
- Head-on truck crashes are common at freeway entrances and exits.
- Rollover truck accidents may happen on turning or winding roads.
- Rear-end truck collisions often occur on downhill slopes or in heavy traffic.
- No-zone truck accidents occur due to failure to check trucks’ blind spots.
All of these truck crashes can result in significant damage. If you get injured in any of the truck accidents mentioned above, reach out to our lawyers in Encino. We can help you understand your legal options and provide an overview of possible damages in your claim.
Hurt in a Truck Accident?
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In Encino
Many factors cause truck accidents. However, driver error stands out as the common cause. Many employers impose demanding schedules on truck drivers, pressuring them to extend their driving hours beyond safe limits. Some truck drivers may also extend their travel time to increase their earnings, thus getting sleep-deprived.
Our truck accident attorneys in Encino have identified the following common contributing factors:
Reckless Driving
Motorists’ safety is compromised when they share the road with reckless drivers. These negligent individuals commit various dangerous activities, such as:
- Shifting lanes abruptly
- Making sharp turns
- Tailgating
- Running red lights
- Ignoring traffic rules
These actions become more hazardous when drivers operate trucks that weigh tens of thousands of pounds. Their reckless behavior hinders their ability to react promptly to unexpected situations and maintain control of their vehicles, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Speeding
According to the California Vehicle Code, trucks traveling on highways must not exceed 55 miles per hour. Despite the strict enforcement of this rule, some truckers still go beyond the speed limit to reach their destinations quickly. When they do, they may fail to notice oncoming traffic or road hazards, increasing the risk of accidents.
Furthermore, exceeding the speed limit reduces truck drivers’ reaction time, making it hard for them to adapt to traffic changes. This behavior also increases the risk of collisions because trucks’ size and weight require a longer braking distance than regular cars.
Speeding-related truck collisions tend to be so violent that they lead to catastrophic injuries or, worse, death. Our truck accident lawyers in Encino can gather solid evidence, such as the involved truck’s black box, that may help determine the truck driver’s speed during the crash.
Distracted Driving
Truck drivers sometimes use phones to ease their loneliness, fatigue, and boredom during their long hours on the road. However, this can distract them and take their focus away from the road. As a result, they may commit driving errors like overcorrecting and crashing into nearby vehicles or obstacles.
Other activities that can also cause distractions include eating, drinking, and adjusting in-cab technologies.
Driving Under The Influence
California, including Encino, implements stringent regulations and testing for all truck drivers to mitigate the risks of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and drugs. However, hundreds of truck accidents are still caused by it.
Some truck drivers may drink alcohol or use amphetamines, which are stimulant drugs that help them stay awake during prolonged drives. According to the California Vehicle Code, commercial truck drivers can be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol level (BAC) is 0.04% or higher. Meanwhile, non-commercial truckers are guilty of DUI when their BAC is 0.08% BAC or higher.
Alcohol and drugs affect truckers’ response time and decision-making ability. If you think an impaired truck driver caused your injuries, speak with our Encino truck accident attorneys. We will thoroughly investigate potential DUI violations and present any substantiated evidence as part of your case.
Unsecured Loads
Trucks carrying unsecured loads put road users in a dangerous situation. The following issues may arise when cargo shifts during trips:
- Truck Instability — Large vehicles carrying bulk freight can become unstable, especially when going around curves, changing lanes, or making sudden stops. The heavy weight of the cargo can affect the truck’s center of gravity, causing loss of control.
- Rollover Accidents — Too much movement of loads can affect a truck’s balance. It sometimes overturns when running fast or making tight turns. In Encino, rollovers may cause fatal truck accidents. The large vehicle here often topples over other cars, blocks traffic, or leads to multi-vehicle pile-ups.
Falling cargo can also result in these problems:
- Direct Wrecks — Not all motorists may notice and avoid unsecured items suddenly falling from a truck’s cargo. The loads can land on nearby vehicles and harm the occupants inside.
- Road Hazards — Cargo slipping off a truck can force other drivers to swerve or brake abruptly to avoid it. Multi-car collisions are likely to happen when they fail to react in time.
Inexperienced Driving
Drivers with little or no experience or training in maneuvering large vehicles are prone to unsafe driving practices. They might get caught tailgating, speeding, or making sudden turns. Inexperienced truckers who don’t correct their dangerous behaviors and drive recklessly can cause serious accidents.
If you or a loved one is a victim of such an incident, consult our Encino lawyers, who handle truck accident cases. Our team will obtain details about the truck driver, such as their work history and driving record. We will also assess the employer’s practices related to training and hiring procedures.
Driving During Inclement Weather
Encino and the rest of Los Angeles County are widely known for their sunny weather, which lasts almost a year. However, the area also experiences unanticipated inclement weather, such as rain and storms.
These harsh conditions can make truck driving dangerous, as truckers have low visibility on the road. Additionally, large vehicles need more time to come to a full stop. If they brake suddenly during urgent situations, they might swerve off the road and overturn due to slippery pavements.
Driving On Dilapidated Roads
Hazards and obstructions along the road pose a great danger to truck drivers and other road users traveling with them. Highway lanes may become narrow during construction, making it difficult for large vehicles to navigate the area. Trucks might also tip over and collide with oncoming vehicles when truckers attempt to maneuver around potholes and blocks.
Additionally, truck drivers may not have enough time or distance to brake if road debris damages their wheels, causing them to lose control of their vehicles. Even bumpy and rough roads may cause tire blowouts or make vehicles veer into the wrong lane.
When truck drivers aren’t alert while behind the wheel, they might not notice dilapidated roads ahead of time. They might also be unable to apply emergency brakes or take immediate corrective action against road hazards, potentially resulting in accidents and substantial damage to other road users.
Our truck accident lawyers will conduct an independent investigation to determine the factors that caused the incident. We aim to use our findings to establish the negligence of the responsible party.
Different Injuries Sustained In An Encino Truck Accident
Most traffic incidents, such as car accidents, have serious consequences. However, collisions involving enormous vehicles weighing up to 80,000 pounds can cause more serious and even fatal injuries.
Our truck accident attorneys in Encino have helped victims who sustained the following bodily harm:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Head and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Amputations
- Fractures
- Cuts and lacerations
- Sprains and strains
Truck accidents can lead to the tragic deaths of victims. In this situation, family members may seek legal compensation through wrongful death claims. California law acknowledges that no amount of money can replace a loved one or ease the pain of their passing. However, compensation can help surviving families cope with financial burdens, especially if the deceased was the primary income earner.
If you were injured or lost a loved one in a truck accident, seek assistance from our lawyers in Encino. We’re aware that some injuries, such as TBIs and internal organ damage, may not manifest signs instantly after the incident. That’s why we can assist you in obtaining the medical attention you need by referring you to healthcare professionals. We’ll work with you to pursue compensation for your medical expenses and other damages.
Who Is Liable In A Truck Accident?
Truck accidents may result from the negligence of multiple parties. Truck drivers are often held accountable for unforeseen incidents as they are legally obliged to operate their vehicles safely. When they exceed the speed limit, fail to yield at traffic signals, make illegal turns, or behave recklessly in other ways, they endanger the safety of everyone on the road.
Trucking companies can also be at fault for accidents caused by their employees. As per California law, they are responsible for providing proper training and adequate supervision to their truckers. Private companies can be deemed negligent if they fail to fulfill these obligations.
Aside from them, the following parties may also be held liable, depending on the specifics of the accident:
- Shipping entities
- Insurance companies
- Truck mechanics or maintenance providers
- Weigh station officials
- Government agencies investigate crashes caused by poor road conditions.
Speak with our Encino attorneys for truck accidents if you incur damages due to the negligence of these parties. We can examine the incident, investigate the violations committed by the responsible parties, and use their negligence as potential legal grounds for establishing their liability.
Proving Liability In Truck Accident Claims
Before you can receive compensation from the at-fault party, you must first prove their liability. Here are the four elements of negligence you should establish:
- Duty Of Care
First, you must demonstrate that the at-fault party had a legal responsibility to act reasonably to keep you safe. For example, truck drivers must follow traffic laws and operate their vehicles safely to protect other road users. Similarly, truck operators must hire qualified drivers and maintain their vehicles in proper condition. - Breach Of Duty
Next, you must establish that the at-fault party breached this duty of care by acting negligently and endangering the lives of others. In truck accidents, a breach could be a violation of the hours-of-service (HOS) regulations, failing to address vehicle maintenance issues promptly, or using substandard truck parts during repairs. - Direct Causation
Then, you should establish that the breach of duty directly caused the accident. An example would be a trucker going too fast at a curve and failing to control their vehicle, causing it to roll over and hit other road users. Big rig crashes are a lot more complicated than they seem. Our Encino truck accident lawyers have the knowledge and experience needed to show how a breach led to the accident. - Damages
Lastly, you need to prove that the accident resulted in your injuries and financial losses. Damages are typically easier to establish with supporting evidence, such as medical records and receipts.
Our Encino lawyers work hard to gather sufficient evidence for your truck accident claim. We use our resources to build legal strategies tailored to your case.
Evidence Needed For Truck Accident Cases
Victims must present various pieces of evidence to support their truck accident claim. If you get into a collision involving a tractor-trailer, you should collect and preserve as much evidence as possible.
Our Encino truck accident lawyers recommend taking photos and videos of the scene right after the accident, as these will significantly reveal crucial details. Capture the debris, tire marks, injuries, and property damage you incurred.
You can also obtain data from the involved truck itself. Trucking companies are required by law to install devices, including electronic control modules (ECM), event data recorders (EDR), and electronic logging devices (ELD).
These technologies are similar to the “black boxes” found in airplanes. The data stored here is crucial as it can display technical details about the truck and the driver’s inputs. These can also give your lawyers pre-crash information, such as the truck’s speed, tire pressure, and whether the braking system was functioning correctly.
Here are some other key pieces of evidence you may need:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Trucking company records
- Trucker’s logbook
- Truck inspection reports
- Dashcam footage
- Surveillance videos from nearby establishments
- Medical records
Our truck accident lawyers in Encino can also help you obtain and preserve evidence. For instance, many trucking companies may try to hide or destroy the data from their tracking devices. Additionally, most truck devices typically erase data after 30 days. However, our attorneys can send the trucking company a spoliation letter or, if appropriate, even file a temporary restraining order to help preserve evidence.
Our team can collaborate with other professionals in different fields, such as accident reconstruction experts and medical specialists. We can work with them to obtain expert opinions, reports, and findings relevant to your case.
What Damages Can You Seek In A Truck Accident?
Under California law, victims of truck crashes may seek compensation for their injuries caused by someone else’s negligence. These damages can be economic or non-economic. They are meant to compensate victims for their injuries and losses resulting from the accident.
Keep in mind that you must first file a personal injury claim and prove the at-fault party’s liability before you can get compensated.
Our truck accident attorneys can help victims pursue the following types of damages:
Economic Damages
These are quantifiable monetary losses victims incur after being injured in truck collisions. Economic damages are intended to help the victim cope with the financial impact of the accident. They cover the following:
- Medical bills
- Future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of potential future earnings
- Property damage repairs
Our Encino truck accident lawyers recommend collecting and compiling all relevant documents, including hospital bills, payslips, and repair receipts. Doing so will make it easier to establish and prove your economic damages.
Non-Economic Damages
Following truck accidents, victims may also experience intangible losses, known as non-economic damages. Their monetary value is more challenging to determine. Common examples of non-economic damages are:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Our Encino truck accident attorneys can collaborate with medical specialists, economists, and other specialists to provide an estimate of the potential value of these non-economic damages.
Punitive Damages
In rare cases, the court may also award victims punitive damages. These exemplary damages are often high in value, as they are meant to punish extremely negligent acts and discourage similar acts from happening in the future.
Although there is no limit to a plaintiff’s ability to seek damages, their compensation still depends on their case’s circumstances, such as the severity of their injuries. Our Encino lawyers for truck accident claims will assess the full extent of your damages and calculate how much your case could be worth. Our team will assist you in communicating with the responsible parties and insurance companies, helping you pursue compensation allowed by law.
Suarez v. Premium Packing (settled on 9/26/2023) – Settlement involving a man who sustained multiple orthopedic injures and a mild traumatic brain injury when he was run over by a food truck.– TINA ESHGHIEH
What To Do After A Truck Accident In Encino
A truck accident can leave you unsure of what to do next. Taking the proper actions after the incident can make a significant difference. Here’s a guide on what to do after a truck accident in Encino:
- Stay Calm and Prioritize Your Health — Keep your composure and quickly assess whether you sustained physical injuries. Call 911 for immediate medical support. Seek medical attention afterward and undergo tests to ensure no underlying injuries. Remember, some injuries might not be apparent after the incident.
- Contact the Police — Law enforcement authorities can help alleviate the tension between the involved parties. They can also provide you with an incident report. While waiting for them to arrive, remain silent and avoid apologizing, as this could be interpreted as an admission of fault. Leaving the scene is also not advisable, as it could lead to hit-and-run charges.
- Document the Accident Scene — Take photos and videos of the accident scene. Show important details such as the weather, road conditions, vehicle damage, skid marks, and visible injuries.
- Gather Information — Exchange names, contact details, insurance providers, driver’s license and vehicle plate numbers, and the truck driver’s employer information if applicable.
- Consult a Lawyer — Our Encino truck accident lawyers can handle your case and work towards a fair and reasonable resolution. Our goal is to lighten the load, especially since truck crashes are often complex and challenging to manage alone.
Statute Of Limitations For Truck Accident Cases
In Encino and throughout California, plaintiffs must file their personal injury claims within two years from the date of the truck accident. If you try to file a claim once this period lapses, the court may consider your case invalid and decline any attempts to pursue a lawsuit. There are exceptions to the statute of limitations. However, filing your truck accident claim promptly is advisable to the compensation you may be eligible to pursue from the at-fault party.
If you plan to initiate legal action following a truck accident, don’t hesitate to contact our injury attorneys in Encino. Our team will assist you in managing case deadlines. We will also assist you in preserving crucial evidence, which can be lost over time.
Statistics About Truck Accidents
In the United States, trucks play a crucial economic role by carrying approximately 72.6% of the country’s freight by weight. As a result, the number of truck drivers in the U.S. grew to approximately 3.54 million in 2022, which climbed by 1.5% from the previous year.
Unfortunately, more trucks on the roads also resulted in more accidents. In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that 5,788 individuals were killed in traffic crashes involving large vehicles. The number rose by 17% from 4,945 in 2020, with 72% of them occupants of other vehicles.
Accordingly, 3% of the negligent truck drivers tested positive for alcohol beyond the legal limit. The report also stated that 78% of the deadly truck incidents happened on weekdays, from 6:00 in the morning on Mondays to 5:59 in the afternoon on Fridays.
With the increasing number of cases, our truck accident lawyers in Encino are dedicated to helping victims navigate the legal process after truck accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Truck Accidents
Do I Need A Lawyer For My Truck Accident Claim?
After a truck collision, you might ask yourself, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” People may tell you that you can handle everything independently, but it is advisable to consult a lawyer.
Encino truck accident lawyers can help you pursue avenues of compensation that you may not be aware of, especially if there are potentially multiple liable parties to your claim. They can also handle communications with insurance companies on your behalf.
How Much Does A Truck Crash Lawyer Cost?
After a truck accident in Encino, you might worry about the cost of hiring a lawyer. However, most personal injury law firms in California, such as Arash Law, take on cases on a contingency fee basis. We only get paid if your claim is successfully resolved. Nevertheless, certain case-related costs may apply regardless of the outcome. We can clarify this during your consultation.
Due to financial hardship, we understand that other victims fail to pursue their right to adequate compensation. Defendants like insurance and trucking companies can afford to hire attorneys, while some plaintiffs can barely afford their medical bills. Our contingency-fee arrangement allows victims to have legal representation in their case without thinking about the fees.
Should Authorities Be Involved After A Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one were injured in a truck accident, it’s crucial to call 911 and report the incident to the police. Law enforcement authorities can respond promptly and investigate the accident scene, regardless of whether anyone is injured. The incident report they provide can be valuable for future reference, particularly if injuries become apparent only after some time.
Often, truck accident victims are too disoriented and unable to assess their injuries due to the adrenaline rush and shock. It’s important to report the truck collision to the police as a precaution.
Our Encino truck accident attorneys usually request an incident report from the authorities as supporting evidence. That way, we can help your claim with more reliable details and dispute any incorrect statements from the opposing parties.
How Do I Get Compensation For My Truck Accident Injuries?
Similar to Uber accident claims, if you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you can seek compensation by filing a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company or, if necessary, pursuing a lawsuit. It’s important to collect evidence such as medical records, accident reports, and witness statements to support your claim. Consulting with a truck accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and work towards pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Our Encino truck accident lawyers can organize evidence and build your case to establish the negligence of potentially liable parties. Next, we negotiate with insurance companies to pursue damages on your behalf. If parties can’t agree, our litigation attorneys can look into the possibility of a lawsuit, depending on the details of your case.
If you are unsure if you have a valid claim, fill out our “Do I have a Case?” form.
How Much Is The Average Worth Of My Truck Accident Case?
It can be challenging to determine the potential value of a case without its details. This is because several factors can influence the value of your damages. These include the following:
- Severity of injuries
- Disfigurements
- Permanent disabilities
- Property damage
- Affected future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
Since some of these damages are difficult to quantify, insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts by offering settlements that don’t cover the full extent of your losses. They may say that your damages aren’t severe and life-altering when, in fact, they are.
To prevent this, consult with our Encino truck accident lawyers. We will gather evidence, speak with witnesses, identify your losses, and estimate the potential value of your case. We can then assert this amount during negotiations and even in litigation.
What Should I Do If A Trucking Company Contacts Me?
After an accident, a trucking company or its insurance provider may contact you to gather information. This time is critical, as your words and actions will significantly impact future claims. If you reach this point, don’t be too confident about sharing details. Insurance companies can use what you say to deny liability or reduce your compensation. You also shouldn’t sign any papers or accept their offers until you consult a lawyer.
Dealing with trucking companies and insurers after an accident can be challenging. Our lawyers understand their tactics and can take the necessary steps to advocate for your interests. Our truck accident lawyers in Encino can handle the legal work for you.
Can Undocumented Persons Sue For Personal Injury?
Yes, undocumented immigrants who sustain personal injuries can initiate lawsuits against negligent parties. In California, anyone can seek compensation for their losses, regardless of their immigration status. For example, if an undocumented pedestrian was hit by a truck, they can file a claim against the other driver or the trucking company.
Additionally, the law protects the identities of undocumented persons in California. The legal system emphasizes that the plaintiff’s immigration status won’t affect their case, and defendants can’t question it at any stage of the proceedings.
Consult Our Encino Truck Accident Lawyers For Your Claim
Truck accidents can be life-changing, often resulting in severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. If you were injured in a truck accident, contact us; our lines are open 24/7. Call at (888) 488-1391.
Our Encino truck accident lawyers will provide legal guidance to help protect your rights and assist with potential compensation you may be able to pursue, which may include medical bills and costs of repair or replacement of your vehicle.
Our law firm also extends its legal services to around Sherman Oaks, Valley Glen, West Hollywood, North Hollywood, Burbank, Chatsworth, Culver, Glendale, San Fernando, Beverly Hills, Calabasas, Santa Monica, Westlake Village, Santa Clarita, Topanga, Northridge, North Hills, Westwood, Van Nuys, Magnolia Park, Panorama City, Hansen Hills, Sun Valley, and Woodland Hills.
