Lassen County 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.
Compassionate Representation By Lassen County Truck Accident Lawyers
Truck accidents can cause devastating injuries that leave victims with piles of medical bills. If you’re injured in one, our Lassen County truck accident lawyers are here to help you file a claim that is appropriate for your case. We can’t undo what happened, but we can help you move forward. Schedule a free initial consultation by calling us at (888) 488-1391.
Lassen County boasts a diverse landscape, ranging from expansive open spaces to dense forests, mountains, and agricultural valleys. Such diverse terrain presents risks to vehicles on the road, especially when a big truck is present. Considering the weight and size of these vehicles, truck drivers can lose control without extreme diligence. Some routes can also be challenging to navigate at night due to poor lighting conditions.
If you’re injured in a truck collision, you don’t have to handle everything alone. Our truck accident attorneys are available to provide legal representation for your case. We are dedicated to advocating for your interests.
How Our Lassen County Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help With Your Claim
Recovering your damages and losses after a truck accident can be challenging, especially if you don’t have experience dealing with insurance companies. Our Lassen County truck accident lawyers can negotiate with insurance adjusters. We understand the approaches commonly used by trucking companies and insurance providers, including settlement offers, and can help you navigate your options.
Furthermore, we can tap into a network of experts during our private investigation. These may include investigators, accident reconstructionists, and doctors who can help examine your case details and give professional witness statements to support your case.
Our legal team can collect and analyze information about the accident and inspect the damaged vehicles. We can help you build a comprehensive case to help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under the law. Hence, we’ll also do the following:
- Analyze accident and police reports.
- Consult with your healthcare provider and review your medical records.
- Collect evidence, such as the truck’s black box and the truck driver’s drug or alcohol test results.
- Obtain and review surveillance footage from cameras in the vicinity of the accident.
- Work with accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of the crash.
Large trucking companies like UPS and FedEx often have insurance policies with substantial coverage limits. However, insurance providers work to protect their clients’ interests and may try to minimize payouts, particularly if victims don’t have legal representation.
Our Lassen County truck accident lawyers will safeguard your rights and advocate for your interests. We will handle the negotiation, which may help you pursue adequate compensation. If necessary, we’ll be ready to take the case to court if they refuse to settle. Contact us if you’re in need of legal representation to help you move forward after a traumatic truck accident.
Paz v. Airfax Logistics (settled on 5/26/2020) – settlement in a case involving a client who was involved in a trucking accident and sustained a traumatic brain injury and other trauma.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Why Hire Our Lawyers For Your Truck Accident Claim
With years of collective legal experience, our truck accident lawyers serving Lassen County already have helped clients with various accidents.
Once you hire us, our Lassen County truck accident attorneys will work on your case. We’ll form a dedicated legal team that will focus on your needs. Moreover, we will collect and analyze the available evidence to support your claim. With our legal knowledge, we will handle your case and address your concerns throughout the legal process.
Our team at Arash Law can develop tailored legal strategies for your case. More importantly, our Lassen County injury law firm operates on a contingency basis. Our fee structure is based on the outcome of your case; however, certain court costs or other associated expenses may be the client’s responsibility.
Understanding Federal Trucking Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) established a strict set of regulations for truck drivers and companies to ensure safe operations and prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Understanding these regulations is essential for victims as it helps them identify potential violations that could support their claims.
Here is a breakdown of some trucking regulations:
Hours Of Service (HOS) Regulations
Truckers’ driving hours are regulated to keep truckers alert and reduce the risk of accidents caused by fatigued driving. Here are the basic HOS regulations specifically for property-carrying drivers:
- Daily Limit — Drivers may drive 11 hours in a 14-hour workday after a 10-hour off-duty period.
- Break Requirement — 30-minute break after every 8 hours of driving.
- Weekly Limit — Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours on duty in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days. They can reset this period with 34 hours off duty.
- Record Keeping — Use of electronic logging devices (ELD) instead of paper logbooks.
If injured in a truck accident, our Lassen County lawyers can help analyze driver logs for discrepancies like unreported driving time and inadequate breaks.
Driver Qualifications
Truck drivers should have a valid commercial driver’s license. Trucking companies must also conduct background checks before hiring their drivers, especially if they’ll be transporting hazardous materials. Once hired, drivers should undergo regular medical exams to confirm if they meet the physical requirements for operating heavy vehicles.
Drug And Alcohol Testing
Drivers must pass a drug test before they are hired. Truck companies may also conduct random drug testing on their drivers. Additionally, testing is mandatory after certain types of accidents, particularly those involving injuries or fatalities.
Vehicle Maintenance And Inspection
Before each trip, drivers must inspect their vehicle’s brakes, lights, tires, and other essential systems. Additionally, trucking companies must hire qualified inspectors to check their fleet at least once a year. They should also keep a record of each truck’s repairs and maintenance.
Weight Limits And Cargo Securement
The total weight of the truck, including cargo, should not exceed 80,000 pounds. Each axle of the truck has a specific weight limit. All cargo must be secured during transport to prevent accidents.
Common Types Of Truck Accidents
Truck collisions can cause significant property damage and potentially fatal injuries. Some of the most common types of truck accidents include:
- Head-On Collision — This typically occurs on undivided two-lane highways when a truck drifts out of its lane and crashes into an oncoming vehicle.
- Rear-End Collision — This type of accident is typically caused by speeding trucks when the drivers fail to allocate enough time to stop. Consequently, they collide with the rear of the vehicle ahead of them.
- Rollover — Rollover accidents occur when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. These are caused by uneven weight distribution, steep inclines or declines, and improperly loaded cargo.
- Jackknifing — This happens when the truck driver brakes and loses control of the vehicle, causing the tractor and the trailer to fold at an angle.
- Blown Tire — Tire blowouts happen when a truck’s tires fail, leading to a loss of control. Causes include underinflated or overinflated tires, worn or damaged tires, or road debris.
Whether you are a pedestrian, passenger, cyclist, motorist, or motorcyclist injured in a truck crash, our legal team is available to assist you. Call our truck accident attorneys in Lassen County if you’re unsure about your situation.
Hurt In A Truck Accident?
Typical Causes Of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are primarily caused by driver error. However, other factors may also increase accident risk. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:
Driver Fatigue
FMCSA has strict guidelines on the number of hours truck drivers may operate. However, truck companies often pressure truckers to meet strict delivery schedules, which can be exhausting for them. Doing so can easily lead to driver fatigue, which increases accident risk.
Driving Under The Influence
Impaired driving accounts for a significant number of traffic deaths. Drivers must never operate their vehicles when they’re drunk or drugged. Even prescription drugs may impair drivers’ abilities and shouldn’t be taken before or while driving without knowing the side effects first.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is dangerous for everyone, but it poses a bigger risk for those driving larger vehicles. Even a second of distraction can lead to accidents. Sadly, many drivers still use their phones to text, call, and watch videos while driving.
If you’re injured in an accident caused by a distracted trucker, you can contact our team for legal guidance. Our Lassen County truck accident attorneys can gather essential pieces of evidence to support your claim. In addition to witness statements and expert testimonies, we can also obtain the driver’s phone records. We can check call logs, browsing history, and app usage to determine if the driver wasn’t focused on the road when the crash happened.
Speeding
Truck drivers need to adhere to speed limits. However, because of delivery deadlines, some drivers choose to exceed these limits. When truckers travel at high speeds, they have less time to react to road conditions.
Lack Of Training
Operating commercial trucks requires proper training and licensing for safe operation. Insufficient training can lead to a lack of competence, raising the risk of accidents and injuries.
Neglecting Regular Maintenance
Drivers and truck companies are required to inspect and maintain trucks regularly. Failing to do so can result in unnoticed defective parts until it’s too late, causing tire blowouts, faulty brakes, and other malfunctions. These issues can lead to major collisions and severe or fatal injuries.
Improper Loading
Overloaded and improperly loaded trucks are at risk of tipping over, potentially causing accidents. If a collision occurs due to improperly loaded or secured cargo, the loading company may be held liable.
External Conditions
External factors cause some truck accidents. Inclement weather and poor road conditions can make driving more challenging. Drivers with adequate training can respond better in these situations and prevent crashes.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
Truck accidents can easily result in catastrophic injuries and even deaths. Our Lassen County truck accident attorneys can provide referrals to medical professionals. They can assist you in pursuing proper care and treatment for your injuries:
- Severe Cuts, Burns, and Disfigurement — Sharp debris and shattered glass can cause severe lacerations, puncture wounds, and permanent scars. You may also sustain burn injuries when your skin is exposed to the heated components of the vehicle, such as the engine or exhaust.
- Broken Bones — Accidents involving 18-wheelers and other massive vehicles can easily cause broken arms, legs, and ribs. Victims may need casts, pins, or even surgery, followed by months of rehabilitation.
- Amputated Limbs — In some instances, victims may need to have limbs amputated if the affected limbs suffer extensive nerve and tissue damage. Amputations may lead to additional expenses, such as prostheses and therapy costs.
- Internal Organ Damage — A high-impact collision with a truck can cause organ damage. The lungs, heart, kidneys, or liver may be affected, causing serious internal trauma.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Truck accidents may also damage the spinal cord, which can result in partial or total paralysis.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — If the head and brain suffer a violent blow, it may cause damage to the blood vessels, nerve fibers, and brain tissue. Such damage may result in mild concussions or permanent cognitive damage.
Liable Parties In A Truck Accident
You can work with our truck accident attorneys in Lassen County to identify the parties that are liable. In addition to looking into possible violations of trucking regulations, we will also investigate the actions or inactions of the other parties involved. Aside from truck drivers, we will consider whether one or more of the following parties are liable.
- Truck Companies — Truck companies must regularly inspect their fleet. When they neglect such inspections, they may be liable for resulting accidents. Additionally, they may be accountable if their negligent hiring or retention practices led to the collision.
- Truck Manufacturers — Some trucks may have manufacturing defects, which can potentially cause fatal accidents. For instance, a defect in the coupling system can lead to tractor-trailer accidents. Additionally, substandard tires may also be fitted in the trucks, which can cause devastating consequences.
- Loading Companies — Loading companies may also be liable for the crash. When they overload the truck or the cargo is not properly secured, the driver may not be able to control the heavy vehicle.
Proving Negligence In A Truck Accident
To build your case, you need to prove the negligence of the liable party. This can be overwhelming. Hiring legal counsel can be beneficial when navigating this process. Our Lassen County truck accident lawyers can help you establish these four elements:
- Duty of Care — We will demonstrate that the defendant owed you a duty of care. This means they have a legal obligation to avoid causing you harm. Truck drivers, for example, are required by law to act with utmost care and diligence and must obey traffic laws to ensure the safety of other road users.
- Breach of Duty — We will establish that the defendant failed to uphold their duty. A trucker breaches their duty of care when they drive while intoxicated or distracted.
- Causation — We will prove that the defendant’s actions caused the accident. A distracted truck driver may swerve from their lane and cause a head-on collision with other motorists.
- Damages — Lastly, we will show that you suffered losses due to the accident. We will present medical bills, payslips, and other pieces of evidence to demonstrate the extent of these damages.
Potential Damages After A Truck Accident
Our Lassen County truck accident lawyers will advocate for compensation for all the losses you incurred from the crash, such as:
- Medical bills, including past and future medical expenses.
- Cost of rehabilitation and mobility aids.
- Lost wages, including loss of potential income and earning capacity.
- Costs of in-home care.
- Emotional distress and mental anguish.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Loss of consortium.
- Disfigurement and disability.
In extremely rare instances, the court may also award punitive damages if it finds the defendant to have been grossly negligent. In addition to punishing the defendant, punitive damages are designed to prevent future misconduct of the same kind.
What To Do After A Truck Accident
If you are injured in a truck accident in Lassen County, consider the following steps:
- Call 911 — Even a seemingly low-impact crash with a truck can cause serious injuries. Even if you don’t feel any pain, call 911 immediately for emergency medical and police assistance.
- Obtain Witness Information — If you can, ask for the name and contact information of the people who witnessed the accident. By doing this, your injury lawyer will be able to contact them later to ask for their statements.
- Take Pictures — If you’re able to, take photos of your injuries, the accident scene, and other details such as traffic signs and signals. However, if your injuries are too severe, do not force yourself. We’ll take charge of gathering all available evidence and work with accident reconstructionists, if necessary.
- Notify Your Insurer — Inform your insurance provider as soon as you can, but state only the facts. Avoid discussing the incident with the other party’s insurance company. Our experienced Lassen County truck accident lawyers can handle communications and negotiations on your behalf.
- Contact A Lawyer — Truck accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries and damages, and the expenses can put you into debt. Let us help pursue financial compensation so you can focus on recovering. Contact us and let our lawyers help you.
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
Statute Of Limitations For Personal Injury Claims
The statute of limitations determines how long a victim has to file a personal injury claim. In California, the deadline is generally two years from the accident date. However, there are some exceptions in special cases. Failure to file your claim within two years may cause the immediate dismissal of your case.
Considering such a time constraint, you may already be thinking, “I need a personal injury lawyer.” Recovering from your injuries will already be physically and mentally exhausting. Our truck accident attorneys in Lassen County can manage the legal process so you can focus on recovery. We’ll advocate for your rights and pursue appropriate compensation on your behalf.
Truck Accident Statistics
In 2022, there were 1.4 fatal truck accidents for every 100 million miles traveled. These accidents led to the deaths of 4,764 victims. Among them, 66% were passengers of private vehicles, 17% were truck occupants, and another 16% were pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
FedEx is the trucking company associated with the largest number of accidents in the past 24 months (as of August 30, 2024). During this period, almost 4,000 accidents were reported. Ranking second and third were UPS and J.B. Hunt, with 2,611 and 1,756 accidents, respectively.
Our Lassen County truck accident lawyers are here for you. We will advocate for your rights and assist you in seeking compensation for your losses.
Dangerous Highways In Lassen County
Lassen County’s largely diverse geography poses a challenge to motorists, especially truckers. The following roads have higher accident rates:
- State Route 395 — This two-lane section of the highway is often crowded with both passenger vehicles and large trucks, leading to frequent congestion and slow-moving traffic. When vehicles are forced to navigate at slower speeds or stop suddenly, drivers may not have enough time to react promptly to avoid collisions.
- State Route 139 — The highway begins in Susanville, the county seat of Lassen County. The area is home to various species of animals, including deer and elk. Wildlife crossings often happen, causing collisions.
- Interstate 5 — I-5 presents significant safety challenges for drivers throughout the state. In winter, I-5 becomes even more treacherous for motorists. Sharp curves and limited visibility, coupled with snow and ice, can make driving conditions extremely challenging and dangerous.
- State Route 299 — Traffic congestion is a significant concern along State Route 299. This highway serves as a major thoroughfare for residents and tourists, leading to heavy traffic during peak hours. The combination of narrow roads and heavy traffic increases the risk of accidents.
- State Route 36 — SR 36 is known for its steep grades and sharp curves, making it challenging to drive on. These conditions increase the likelihood of accidents due to loss of control or improper handling.
Types Of Trucks Passing Through Lassen County
Various types of trucks traverse the roads of Lassen County every day. Here are some of them:
- Dump Trucks — These trucks are used for transporting loose materials such as sand, gravel, or demolition waste. They have rear compartments that can be hydraulically lifted or tilted to “dump” their contents.
- Utility Trucks — Utility trucks are specialized vehicles that are designed to perform a wide range of tasks. Examples include fire trucks and bucket trucks for tree removal or utility line repairs. Accidents involving this type of truck can be more complicated because many of them are government-owned.
- Big Rigs — Big rigs (also known as 18-wheelers and semi-trucks) have enclosed trailers with large sliding doors at the back. Big rig accidents are often caused by driver negligence or error.
- Oversized Load Trucks — These are extra-long, slow-moving trucks that transport large machinery and equipment. Special permits are required to operate this type of truck.
- Flatbed Trucks — These trucks have flat and open trailers designed to carry heavy equipment and large machinery. Unsecured cargo is a common cause of flatbed truck accidents. When loads are not properly secured, they can shift in transit or get dislodged.
- Tanker Trucks — This type has a liquid-carrying trailer. Tanker trucks transport flammable liquids or corrosive materials and are subject to special regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Truck Accidents
What Evidence Is Needed In A Truck Accident Claim?
Our truck accident lawyers in Lassen County will conduct a thorough investigation of your accident. We’ll gather key evidence, including the following:
- The Truck’s Black Box — A truck’s “black box” contains vital information, such as driving time, speed, and hard braking events. We need to obtain this evidence immediately since black boxes shut off after 30 days.
- Police/Accident Reports and Eyewitness Statements — Similar to car accidents, your truck accident case may also benefit from police reports and witness statements. They help substantiate your version of events.
- Documents From The Trucking Company — Your accident lawyer will also investigate the truck company and obtain records that are relevant to your case. Specifically, maintenance and inspection records and the driver’s file will help determine if the company is also liable for your accident.
- Surveillance Footage — The latest truck models already contain cameras that may record clips of the accident. We will also obtain video footage from traffic cameras, CCTVs from establishments in the area, and bystanders who recorded the accident.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Truck Accident Lawyer?
The cost of hiring a truck accident lawyer often depends on the fee structure of the law firm. At Arash Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t charge any upfront cost. While our legal fees depend on the success of your case, some expenses, such as court costs, may still need to be paid by the client.
Can I Still File A Lawsuit If I Was Partially At Fault?
Since California follows the pure comparative negligence principle, you can still file a lawsuit and can potentially recover damages even if you’re partly responsible for the accident. However, your settlement or award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our Lassen County truck accident lawyers are committed to carefully examining the facts of your case and supporting your pursuit of compensation.
How Soon Should I Contact A Truck Accident Lawyer?
After an accident, it’s advisable to consult truck accident attorneys in Lassen County right after seeing a medical professional. By contacting a truck accident attorney, you can receive guidance on collecting and preserving relevant evidence for your case. Your attorney can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, helping to advance your claim.
How Much Is Your Truck Accident Case Worth?
Truck accident settlements can vary significantly based on the severity of the injuries and extent of losses in each case. Other factors may also affect your settlement value, such as your involvement and degree of fault.
Who Can File A Truck Accident Claim In Lassen County?
Anyone can file a personal injury claim in Lassen County. Our state laws protect injured victims regardless of age, gender, citizenship, or immigration status. Undocumented immigrants may pursue justice without fear of deportation. We will objectively evaluate their case and advise them on their options.
Even if you can’t speak English, you can seek financial compensation with the help of our Lassen County truck accident lawyers. We believe that language shouldn’t be a barrier to holding the responsible parties accountable. We can work with translators so you’re informed and updated on the status of your case.
Consult Our Truck Accident Lawyers In Lassen County
Have you sustained injuries in a truck accident in Lassen County? We understand that victims may find it difficult and intimidating to deal with the trucking company, their insurer, and lawyers.
At Arash Law, we’ll protect your rights and represent your interests. Our truck accident lawyers in Lassen County have experience assisting clients with their legal claims. Let us help you, too. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form for a free, no-obligation initial consultation.
We provide legal services to clients throughout Lassen County, including Westwood, Susanville, Janesville, Bieber, Clear Creek, Stones Landing, Ravendale, and Wendel. Additionally, we represent injured victims in nearby areas, such as Nevada County, Sierra County, Greenville, Carson, Red Bluff, and Cottonwood.
