Inyo County Truck Accident Lawyers
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Powerful Truck Accident Lawyers In Inyo County Defending The Injured
If you are injured in a big rig collision, reach out to the experienced Inyo County truck accident lawyers from Arash Law for legal assistance. We will help you pursue justice and compensation. Call Arash Law today at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Inyo County, also known as the “Other Side of California,” is located between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the state of Nevada. It is a land of magnificent natural diversity, offering a perfect spot for trout fishing, hiking, and beautiful vistas. The locals and visitors traveling within the county roads and highways are at constant risk of accidents, though, as large commercial trucks travel alongside them. When they get involved in a truck accident, devastating consequences follow.
If you got injured or lost a loved one, count on our Inyo County law firm to handle your truck accident and help you recover the rightful compensation for your injuries and losses. Our team, headed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., will fight for your rights and help you recover all your losses.
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
Why Hire Our Inyo County Lawyers To Help Win Your Truck Accident Claim
We have a winning track record that guarantees that the legal services you will get after hiring us are top-notch. When it comes to truck accidents, the lawyers at Arash Law have the experience and expertise necessary to prove liability and pursue damages. We are skilled in investigating the accident scene, gathering evidence like video footage, and taking witness statements. Our legal team also consults with experts, such as accident reconstructionists and medical professionals, to build a strong case.
Our lawyers have a deep understanding of trucking regulations and industry standards, which helps us identify any violations that may have contributed to the accident. We will bring all these to negotiations with the negligent parties and pursue maximum compensation. If needed, our litigation attorneys will take your case to trial.
Truck collisions are devastating and life-altering events. We truly understand that if you or a loved one gets hurt in a truck accident, you may sustain catastrophic injuries requiring hospitalization, numerous surgeries, and expensive rehabilitation.
If your accident was due to negligence, you may be entitled to recover all these expenses related to your injuries. Contact our personal injury attorneys in Inyo County, who specialize in truck accidents, by filling out our “Do I Have A Case?” form. In a free initial case evaluation, we’ll assess your case to see if you have a valid claim for compensation.
How Can Our Inyo County Truck Accident Lawyers Help You Win Maximum Compensation?
Our Inyo County truck accident attorneys will handle the claims process and fight the legal battle for you. You won’t have to face the burdens of filing your case, establishing the at-fault parties’ negligence, and negotiating with insurance companies. Instead, Arash Law will recover maximum compensation for you by doing the following:
- Gather documents, such as police and medical reports
- Thoroughly investigate the accident
- Collect evidence, like photos and videos of the scene
- Reach out to witnesses and get their statements or ask them to testify in court if necessary
- Establish and prove the negligence of responsible parties
- Deal with insurance companies and claim favorable compensation
- Aggressively represent you in court when your case goes to trial
Allowing our truck accident lawyers in Inyo County to take over and work on your case can help you focus on your recovery.
Different Types Of Trucks
Different truck types cater to specific purposes and industries. These vehicles are massive because their purpose is to haul tons of materials. Some of the most common truck types you’ll see on Inyo County’s streets are semi-trailers, which are also called semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, and big rigs. They are used to transport raw materials and consumer goods.
Flatbed trucks also frequently pass through Inyo. As opposed to closed ones, these types of vehicles carry goods on open, flat trailers. Oversized loads are a specialty of these trucks.
Some other types of trucks on the road include:
- Box trucks
- Tankers
- Reefers
- Dry vans
- Step decks
Big rig collisions, regardless of the type of commercial vehicle involved, often lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. As an accident victim, your main focus should be on recovering from your injuries and getting your life back on track. Let our experienced attorneys handle your claim for compensation. If you’re in Inyo County, reach out to our truck accident lawyers as soon as possible for legal assistance.
Common Types Of Truck Accidents
Unfortunately, various types of truck accidents happen in Inyo County. Several major roads and highways pass through this county, including:
- Sierra Highway
- California SR 136
- California SR 190
- U.S. 6
- U.S. 395
These highways are major truck routes where goods, products, materials, and other cargo are transported from and to Inyo and other parts of California.
Here are the common truck accidents happening on these routes and in other parts of the state:
Overturn (Rollover) Accidents
Commercial tractor-trailers or semi-trucks have a high center of gravity. Their large size and weight distribution make them highly susceptible to overturn, causing rollover accidents. In most cases, these incidents happen when big rigs turn or swerve too quickly or encounter uneven terrain. Mechanical failure due to poor maintenance or manufacturing defects is another factor contributing to these crashes.
Big rig rollovers are especially dangerous, as they can trap victims underneath. Our truck accident lawyers in Inyo County are dedicated to helping them cope with the resulting injuries and damages.
Jackknife Accidents
Truck drivers might lose control of their vehicles’ attached trailers. Such situations can cause the trailer to swing out to the side and form a 90-degree or acute angle, leading to jackknife accidents.
Typical causes for these incidents include poor road conditions, sudden braking, or sharp turns. When trucks jackknife, they block multiple lanes of traffic, resulting in pile-ups. Numerous vehicles getting involved in a traffic crash often yield serious injuries and, worse, fatalities.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there were a total of 4,842 fatal crashes involving large trucks that jackknifed in 2020. Meanwhile, there were an estimated 107,000 accidents that led to injuries and 327,000 cases that resulted in property damage only.
Despite the strict implementation of traffic rules, jackknife accidents continue to harm more people. If you're one of the victims, call our truck accident lawyers in Inyo County so we can help you win your claim.
Rear-End Collisions
- Tailgating
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- Speeding
- Rainy weather
- Dangerous road conditions
Underride Accidents
One of the most devastating situations on the road involves cars or motorcycles sliding beneath trucks. Underride accidents can crush and shear off the top of smaller vehicles, leaving the passengers seriously or fatally injured.
Blindspot Accidents
Blindspots are areas where drivers' views from particular angles get obstructed, making it difficult to see other motorists or pedestrians. Trucks, due to their size and design, have much larger blind spots compared to regular passenger vehicles. Its blind spots include areas directly in front, behind, and on either side of the vehicle.
When truckers fail to consider their blind spots, accidents can occur. They can inflict damage on other vehicles and pedestrians veering into the concerned areas.
Run Off-Road (ROR) Truck Accidents
- Uneven surfaces or terrains
- Defective equipment
- Fatigued driving
- Distracted driving
- Adverse weather conditions
Usual Causes Of Inyo County Truck Accidents
Truck accidents typically occur due to negligence. Among the common reasons encountered by our Inyo County truck accident attorneys are:
- Fatigued Driving – The FMCSA allows up to 11 hours of service for property-carrying truckers and 10 hours for passenger-carrying drivers to avoid fatigue. Despite these rules, other companies still push their truckers to work overtime to reach their destinations much sooner. Without proper breaks, drivers could get tired, easily lose attention on the road, and cause accidents.
- Speeding – Semi-trucks must strictly follow the allowed speed limits to ensure safety. Yet, some drivers do not follow these rules and instead exceed the limits to meet their employers’ time constraints. This dangerous behavior makes it difficult for them to stop in time, potentially harming other motorists.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance – Truck drivers are responsible for checking their vehicles before hitting the road. Meanwhile, the trucking company must perform routine maintenance to ensure their vehicles are up to standard. Neglecting to perform these duties may lead to mechanical failures, causing catastrophic accidents.
- Improper Loading Of Cargo – Aside from speed limits, the U.S. government likewise enforces federal laws compelling truckers to secure their loads. Violating these rules may cause the cargo to shift or fall off the trailers during trips.
If you get injured in a truck accident, call our Inyo County lawyers right away. We’ll identify the exact cause, prove negligence, and hold the responsible party accountable for your losses.
Typical Injuries Caused By Truck Accidents
Accidents involving large commercial vehicles may result in severe and debilitating medical conditions. Victims might experience minor to devastating injuries, including:
- Whiplash – Caused by the sudden back-and-forth movement of the head in a collision, this common injury may result in stiffness in the neck. In more serious cases, whiplash can cause nerve damage.
- Broken Bones – A commercial truck accident can fracture the bone in various body areas, most notably in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
- Brain And Head Traumas – When two vehicles collide, the passengers’ heads might hit the dashboard, window, or steering wheel, causing concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
- Spinal Cord Injuries – The impact of a commercial truck collision can damage the spinal cord and result in either complete or partial paralysis.
- Internal Damage – Some injuries aren’t immediately noticeable, including damages to the bodily organs, like the kidneys, liver, spleen, or lungs. Internal bleeding might also occur, which can be fatal if not treated quickly.
- Incisions And Cuts – Flying debris, broken glass, and sharp metal edges cause cuts and lacerations of varied degrees.
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Victims might also sustain strained, sprained, or torn muscles, tendons, or ligaments, resulting in pain and restricted movement.
- Psychological Trauma – Accidents involving commercial trucks can be harrowing, resulting in emotional and psychological problems like anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Wrongful Death – In extreme cases, truck accidents may result in the wrongful death of loved ones. As such, family members have the right to seek justice and compensation.
The injuries sustained can differ substantially based on the circumstances of the collision. Speaking with our Inyo County truck accident attorneys will help you better grasp your case’s specifics and ensure you get compensation for your injuries.
Potentially Responsible Parties In A Truck Accident
- Truck Driver – If the driver was operating the vehicle in an unsafe manner, they might be held responsible for your injuries and damages.
- Trucking Company – The employer might be held accountable if they fail to conduct a thorough inspection, neglect to offer preventative maintenance, or force drivers to violate traffic laws.
- Truck Manufacturer – If the accident was caused by defective parts or malfunctions in the vehicle, the truck manufacturer may be responsible for any injuries or property damage.
- Third Parties – Several other individuals or companies may play a role in truck accident cases. Examples are operators, fleet managers, and road maintenance crews.
Establishing liability in truck accident cases is time-consuming, challenging, and complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility for the accident.
Suppose you were injured in a multi-vehicle collision with a tractor-trailer. Its driver claims another vehicle cut them off, causing them to swerve into you. Who will pay for your injuries and losses?
Leave it to us to find out. Our truck accident lawyers in Inyo County will carefully evaluate every detail of your case to identify all negligent parties and hold them accountable.
Truck Regulations In California
Different authorities are responsible for enforcing rules and regulations designed to make the trucking industry safer. Some laws are aimed at helping the environment, including restrictions on emissions.
As per the National Safety Council, California had the second-highest number of deaths resulting from large truck accidents in 2021. This is why the state keeps on implementing stricter safety laws, focusing on the following:
- Medical Certifications – Truck drivers must meet specific requirements, including passing a medical exam and obtaining a medical certificate attesting to their physical and mental health. They have to secure a certificate every two years.
- Truck Driver Logs – As per FMCSA regulations, truck drivers must have an electronic log of their daily trucking activities, including rest breaks, vehicle inspections, and routine maintenance.
- Inspection Requirements – Drivers and trucking companies must perform routine vehicular inspections. They must fix or replace any worn or defective parts to prevent malfunctions.
- Hours-Of-Service – Truck drivers must follow regulations from FMCSA and the state of California, stating that:
- Drivers must take at least a 30-minute rest break if more than eight hours have passed since their last off-duty.
- Drivers have a “daily limit” of 14 hours, in which they can operate their vehicles after their mandated off-duty hours.
- Drivers can only drive up to 11 total hours within a 14-hour period.
- After the 14-hour period, drivers can’t drive again until after ten consecutive off-duty hours.
Several other laws and regulations govern the trucking industry. Our truck accident lawyers in Inyo County have deep knowledge of them all. We will use them to assert your rights and prove the negligent parties’ liability for your damages.
Negligence In Truck Accidents
Negligence is a legal concept that refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care in a particular situation. In the context of truck drivers, negligence occurs if they breach their legal responsibilities on the road and cause harm to others. For example, if a truck driver fails to maintain their vehicle properly or drives recklessly, they may be considered negligent if an accident occurs as a result. If they are found to be negligent, they may be held liable for any damages or injuries that result from their actions.
Some behaviors that might exhibit negligence are:
- Speeding
- Violating the right of way
- Driving in the wrong lane
- Turning improperly
- Tailgating
Our Inyo County truck accident lawyers are well-versed in determining who the liable parties are. We can establish negligence by investigating every detail of your case and gathering evidence.
Difference Between Uninsured And Underinsured Coverage
If you carry uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) insurance policies, your providers can cover the remaining costs of your economic and non-economic damages. Here’s how they work:
- Uninsured coverage policies help pay for your losses if the negligent party lacks liability coverage.
- Underinsured policies take over when the liable party’s liability limits are insufficient to pay for the incurred damages.
In California, the at-fault parties are responsible for paying for your medical expenses, lost wages, mental health problems, property damage, and other losses. But what if they don’t have sufficient liability coverage for all your incurred damages?
This is where underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage comes in. They are not required under California law, and many drivers choose to opt out of the additional coverage to save on costs. However, as explained above, they can certainly help you get back on your feet.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to our Inyo County truck accident attorneys. We will explain all applicable insurance regulations.
Compensation Available To Truck Accident Victims
If you’re suffering losses due to truck accident-related injuries, you can pursue compensation to cope with the financial and lifestyle repercussions, including:
- Economic Damages – These are quantifiable losses that are easy to calculate. They intend to help victims recover from financial losses and handle future expenses. Examples are medical bills, missed earnings, and the costs of repairs or replacements for damaged property.
- Non-Economic Damages – These are non-quantifiable losses that still need to be compensated by liable parties to allow victims to recover fully. Unlike economic damages, these losses cannot be precisely calculated. They are related to the negative effects of the accident on the victim’s mental, emotional, and overall well-being. Among these are pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium, and emotional distress.
In very rare cases, courts may award punitive damages. These aim to punish the defendants for their reckless or intentional actions. Additionally, they serve as a deterrent for repeating such actions in the future.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Inyo County, you need the expertise of our truck accident attorneys to help you recover damages. We have already recovered over $500 Million worth of settlements for our previous clients. This demonstrates our commitment to advocating for your rights and getting you the compensation you are entitled to under the law.
What To Do After A Truck Accident In Inyo County
Traffic collisions are distressing, but you must do your best to keep your composure and follow some measures if you’re still able. This way, you can protect your legal rights to compensation. Our Inyo County truck accident lawyers encourage you to follow these steps after a commercial vehicle incident:
- Check for injuries. After moving to a safe location, assess your condition first and move on to others involved in the accident.
- Dial 911 for the police and medical responders. The authorities can help handle the scene, mitigate any risk, and create an incident report. This document can be crucial to your case, so secure a copy.
- Receive immediate treatment. Let the emergency responders give you a medical evaluation, even if you believe you didn’t sustain major injuries.
- Document the accident. Take pictures and videos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Get the truck driver’s information. Collect their name, phone number, company, and insurance details.
- Note down the contact details of any witnesses. Your lawyers may need to reach out to them to support your case.
- Don’t talk with other parties aside from law enforcement agencies and insurance companies. Give the required details of the accident to concerned parties, but don’t overshare and admit fault. Be careful when making statements because opposing parties may use your words against you.
- Contact Arash Law. The best thing to do after a catastrophe caused by big rigs is to hire our adept truck accident lawyers in Inyo County. We can help you demonstrate the negligence of liable parties and recover fair compensation for all your losses.
Truck Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a total of 523,796 traffic accidents involving big rigs occurred throughout the U.S. in 2021. This figure reflected a 26% growth from the approximately 415,444 incidents recorded by the FMCSA in 2020.
In 2021, the FMCSA also reported the following data:
- Semi-trailers accounted for 54% of trucks involved in fatal collisions.
- Around 54% of all fatal accidents involving large trucks occurred in rural areas.
- Big rig collisions resulted in 5,157 deaths of individuals in other vehicles.
- Nonmotorist fatalities added up to 5,788 cases.
Truck Accident Frequently Asked Questions
How Are Truck Accidents Different From Car Accidents?
Trucks are larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, creating a heightened risk of serious injury or, worse, fatalities when they collide. A truck’s size and weight mean that stopping takes place at a greater distance. If the trucks are traveling at a much faster pace than cars when they collide, the results could include more intense trauma, severe injuries, costlier repairs, and higher medical bills.
How Soon Should I Hire A Personal Injury Lawyer After An Accident?
Reach out to personal injury lawyers as soon as possible after an accident. The sooner you have a legal team fighting for your rights, the better protected you will be.
How Long Do I Have To File A Personal Injury Lawsuit In Inyo County?
You only have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in California. However, there are some exemptions to the statute of limitations. For example, when the injured person is a minor, the deadline is paused until they turn 18. After which, they have to follow the two-year limit.
Consult our Inyo County truck accident lawyers as soon as possible to avoid missing legal deadlines. We can assess the case’s specifics while ensuring that you take all legal steps within the mandated time frames.
How Much Can You Expect From A Truck Accident Settlement?
- $5 Million – won for a client who was riding their motorcycle when a truck driver made a dangerous turn and collided with them
- $5 Million – won for our client who was walking along the crosswalk when they got hit by a truck
- $2.2 Million – won for a newlywed couple who was trapped under an overturned truck
The settlement amount for semi-truck accidents is determined by several factors, such as the severity of your injuries, the degree of pain and suffering, and the insurance policy limits. Feel free to reach out to our truck accident attorneys in Inyo County. We can discuss your case and estimate how much you’re entitled to.
Who Will Pay For My Injuries?
The insurance providers of the truck driver and other at-fault parties are responsible for covering the medical expenses of the victim. They may also be liable to pay for any pain and suffering that the victim has experienced or will experience in the future due to the accident and the injury.
Can I File A Claim If I Lost a Loved One in A Truck Crash?
Yes, you are entitled to file a wrongful death claim if a tragic truck accident claims the life of a loved one. Only selected family members can claim a lawsuit, including the victim’s spouse, parent, or children. To learn more, feel free to reach out to our wrongful death lawyers today.
What If I Can't Afford to Hire a Lawyer?
Contact our Inyo County truck accident lawyers. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid once we win. If we don’t, you can walk away without obligations. With this payment agreement, you can seek legal advice and representation without worrying about the fees. Reach out to us today, and we’ll explain this concept in more detail during our onboarding process.
Consult The Best Truck Accident Attorneys Inyo County Has To Offer!
Despite having safety rules & regulations in place to keep truck drivers and motorists safe, accidents are present and almost unavoidable. Truck accidents have life-altering consequences, and navigating the legal process involved requires the expertise of qualified truck accident lawyers.
Our team of top-notch lawyers will not only fight for your rights but will also ensure that the amount you receive is fair and enough for both your present and future needs. Our Inyo County truck accident attorneys will not let you recover alone; we will be there to help you battle with insurance companies and win bigger.
Hiring our dedicated team to take care of your case can make a big difference in your pursuit of justice. Don’t hesitate to call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation or fill out our online form today.
