Los Angeles 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers
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Our Los Angeles 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers Help You Navigate Your Rights After An Injury
Accidents involving 18-wheelers can be catastrophic due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. If you’re injured in one, our dedicated Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident lawyers are here to support you during this challenging time and help you pursue compensation for your injuries and other losses. Our team has the knowledge and resources to guide you through the legal process. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Los Angeles is home to numerous big-box retailers, chemical manufacturing companies, and industrial equipment suppliers. Trucks, such as 18-wheelers, are a common sight on LA highways as they transport goods to and from these businesses. An increase in the number of trucks driving on the road can contribute to accidents. Sadly, these enormous trucks have the potential to ruin lives in a collision.
Arash Law has assisted injured victims and their families in various types of personal injury cases. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or the pain of long-term injuries, our team is here to provide assistance. They can help you seek financial resources for ongoing treatment and other related costs.
Why Choose Our Los Angeles 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers
You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer for my 18-wheeler accident?” If the accident resulted in significant injuries, property damage, or disputes over liability, hiring an attorney may be beneficial.
After an 18-wheeler accident, the road to recovery can be a daunting task. Our injury law firm offers legal representation and support to victims in this type of crash. Our Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and possible avenues for seeking compensation. Here’s what they offer:
- Contingency Fee Arrangement — Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any attorney’s fee upfront. Instead, our lawyers will take a percentage of the settlement or award we recover on your behalf. If we are not successful in your case, you will not owe any lawyer fees. However, you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs. We will discuss the fee structure in detail during your initial consultation.
- Commitment to Victims — We understand the challenges that arise when pursuing legal action after an accident. Our firm is committed to delivering personalized legal representation tailored to the specific needs of each case. We strive to support our clients throughout the process and work toward achieving favorable outcomes.
- Client-Centered Approach — Our team values clear communication and assistance throughout the legal process. We take the time to explain the details of your situation and help you understand your options at every step.
- Legal Services and Experience — Our lawyers are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services and have experience handling various types of personal injury cases, including 18-wheeler accident claims.
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
How Arash Law’s 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys Can Help You
Handling the aftermath of an 18-wheeler collision can feel like an uphill battle. It’s easy to feel lost when you’re dealing with complex insurance claims and mounting medical costs due to your injuries. Our team of skilled Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident lawyers can handle the legal aspects of your case. Here’s what we can do for you:
- Investigate Your Case — We can conduct a thorough investigation to identify critical details surrounding the accident. Our team will gather key pieces of evidence to strengthen your claim.
- Assess Liability — Our team can identify who may be responsible for your injuries and losses, and explore potential sources of compensation that may be available to you.
- Calculate Damages — We can assess all the financial, physical, and emotional losses you’ve experienced as a result of the accident. Our lawyers will consider both immediate and long-term damages.
- Develop a Strategy — Our lawyers can develop a comprehensive legal strategy tailored to your needs and work diligently to seek compensation on your behalf.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies — We can leverage the evidence we’ve collected to negotiate with insurance companies and pursue damages you may be entitled to.
- File a Lawsuit if Necessary — If negotiations fall through, we are prepared to take your case to court before a judge or jury.
Recoverable Damages For 18-Wheeler Accident Victims
Compared to collisions involving regular passenger vehicles, 18-wheeler accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. These incidents could cause spinal cord damage, brain injuries, burns, amputations, and even death.
The severity of these injuries often dictates the value of the settlement or award. While some injuries may only require minimal treatment and a short recovery, others can lead to chronic pain or permanent disability. Some victims may also require long-term rehabilitation or chiropractic care.
Economic damages are tangible with an easily measurable monetary value. Examples include:
- Medical costs.
- Prescription medication expenses.
- Lost wages.
- Loss of earning capacity.
- Rehabilitation expenses.
- Property damage.
Meanwhile, non-economic damages are more subjective losses. They often don’t have an exact monetary value. These damages may include:
- Pain and suffering.
- Mental anguish.
- Disability or disfigurement.
- Emotional distress.
- Loss of consortium.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers can help you assess the full extent of your losses and seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
Truck Accident?
Common Causes Of 18-Wheeler Accidents
Understanding what caused an accident is essential for determining liability. Here are some of the most common contributing factors for 18-wheeler accidents:
- Fatigued Driving — Fatigued driving can be particularly hazardous, especially when the driver falls asleep at the wheel. For this reason, the FMCSA enforces strict hours of service regulations designed to prevent driver fatigue and ensure road safety.
- Speeding — Large trucks, like 18-wheelers, require significantly longer stopping distances. When truck drivers exceed speed limits, they greatly increase the risk of collisions, as they may be unable to stop in time to avoid an accident.
- Drunk Driving — Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol is not only illegal but also highly dangerous. Unfortunately, some drivers still choose to drink and drive, putting themselves and others at serious risk of harm.
- Distracted Driving — Engaging in other activities, such as using a mobile phone or eating while driving, can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road. Such distractions increase the likelihood of accidents.
- Improper Cargo Loading — When cargo is not properly secured, it can shift or become dislodged during transit, leading to a loss of control, rollovers, or falling debris.
- Issues In The Hiring Process — Trucking companies are responsible for screening drivers thoroughly. If a driver causes an accident and it turns out that they are unqualified or have previous violations, the company can be liable.
- Lack of Adequate Vehicle Maintenance — Unexpected vehicle malfunctions can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. Think of the damage an 18-wheeler tire blowout could cause.
- Other Causes — External factors such as poor road conditions, construction work debris, and insufficient lighting can cause accidents. Inclement weather can also contribute to accidents.
Our 18-wheeler accident attorneys in Los Angeles can gather evidence to help you determine whether one or more of these factors caused the collision. We can collect police reports, review traffic camera footage, analyze maintenance and inspection records, and interview witnesses. We can also work with accident reconstructionists in building your case.
Potentially Responsible Parties For 18-Wheeler Accidents
Determining liability after an 18-wheeler accident is a crucial step in pursuing compensation for your damages. Our Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations to identify all responsible parties and strive to hold them accountable for your injuries and other related losses.
Multiple entities are often involved in a truck’s operation and maintenance. For instance, while the truck driver may be employed by one company, a different company might be responsible for loading the cargo, and another might be responsible for maintaining the vehicle. This web of responsibility makes determining liability a complicated process.
Here are some of the common parties that may be liable in an 18-wheeler collision:
- Truck drivers.
- Truck companies.
- Cargo loading companies.
- Staffing agencies.
- Truck owners.
- Maintenance companies.
California’s comparative negligence law allows for multiple parties to share responsibility for an accident. Our Los Angeles injury law firm can help you navigate the complexities of shared liabilities in accident cases and build a well-documented case that clearly outlines the potential contribution of each at-fault party. By clearly establishing the role of each individual or entity in the accident, we can advocate for a fair allocation of liability and damages.
Our Los Angeles accident lawyers also handle commercial truck crashes, big rig collisions, and other traffic accidents.
How Our Lawyers Prove Negligence And Liability In 18-Wheeler Accidents
Determining liability is one thing; proving it is another. In injury cases, you must prove that the at-fault party’s negligence caused the accident. Our 18-wheeler accident attorneys in Los Angeles can help you establish the following elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care — The at-fault party must have a legal obligation to act responsibly and exercise caution. For example, truck drivers must observe the highest standard of care to prevent harm to other road users.
- Breach of Duty — The at-fault party violated their duty of care through reckless, careless, or negligent actions. Examples include speeding, distracted driving, or failing to maintain the vehicle properly.
- Causation — There is a direct link between the at-fault party’s breach of duty and the accident.
- Damages — You must prove that, as a result of the accident, you sustained injuries and other damages.
Evidence You May Use For Your 18-Wheeler Accident Claim
Strong evidence is crucial to your claim. Our Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident lawyers can help you collect and preserve the following types of evidence:
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELD) — The FMCSA requires all commercial motor vehicle drivers to have an ELD to record their hours of service. These devices can provide information on whether the driver violated mandatory rest periods or driving limits.
- Witness Statements — Witnesses can offer an unbiased perspective on the collision. Their official accounts of the incident can help prove your claim.
- Trucking Company Records — Trucking companies are legally required to meet strict hiring and operational standards. These standards include conducting background checks, drug and alcohol testing, and regular training for drivers.
- Truck Cameras — Most commercial trucks have cameras installed in the windshield area or at the back. Footage from these devices can help provide insight into what might have occurred in the accident.
- Black Box Information — A black box is also known as an event data recorder. These devices can record critical data about the vehicle’s operation. It can provide information on how fast the truck was traveling and the exact time that the driver hit the brake.
If you were injured in a truck accident, legal counsel can advocate for your rights and guide you through the claims process.
Steps To Take After An 18-Wheeler Crash In Los Angeles
An 18-wheeler accident in Los Angeles can be overwhelming for anyone involved. However, if these incidents occur, it is essential to take steps to protect your health and claim. Our Los Angeles truck accident lawyers recommend taking the following steps:
- Ask for Emergency Assistance — Immediately call 911 to report the accident. Inform the operator about the details of the collision, including any injuries, potential hazards such as chemical spills, or blocked roads. Prompt emergency response can ensure that injured individuals receive medical care and that the scene is secured for further investigation.
- Report the Accident — Contact the local police or the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to report the accident. Law enforcement will document the incident in an official accident report, which can be a critical piece of evidence for your claim.
- Seek Medical Attention — Visit a doctor as soon as possible, even if you think you only sustained minor injuries. Your medical records after the accident can help substantiate your claim.
- Gather Important Evidence — Take photos or videos at the accident scene if you can. Include your injuries, vehicle damage, and road conditions. You should also get the contact information and insurance details of the other parties involved in the accident. If there are witnesses, obtain their contact information as well so you can easily reach them if necessary.
- Consult with Los Angeles 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers — Consider getting legal representation if you sustain damages after the incident. Having a lawyer on your side can help you understand your rights and the potential sources of compensation applicable to your case. They can file an injury claim on your behalf and manage communications with insurers while you focus on your recovery.
Verdict for a client who was sideswiped by a commercial truck– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Statute Of Limitations For Truck Accidents In California
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury case. This legal deadline is known as the statute of limitations. Failure to file within this time frame can result in losing your right to pursue compensation.
It is important to seek legal assistance promptly to facilitate the efficient handling of your personal injury case. Our Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident attorneys can investigate your case, gather critical evidence, and secure necessary documents to support your claim. Prompt action allows our team to build a strategy and file your case within the statutory deadline.
Truck Accident Statistics
The National Safety Council reported 5,837 fatal truck crashes in 2022, which represents a 1.8% increase from 2021 and a 49% increase over the last decade. They also highlighted the following:
- There was a 24% increase in the involvement rate per 100 million large-truck miles in the last 10 years.
- The involvement rate per 100 million large-truck miles increased by 3% from 2021.
- There were 5,936 fatalities in large truck incidents. About 70% of the large truck fatalities were occupants of other vehicles, while 11% were pedestrians and cyclists.
These statistics emphasize the fact that pedestrians, cyclists, and occupants of other vehicles are often the most vulnerable in large truck accidents. If you or a loved one is injured in such a crash, our 18-wheeler accident lawyers in Los Angeles are here to provide legal support.
We understand the federal regulations that govern truck safety, and our team can gather critical evidence like black box data, truck company reports, and ELD records. In addition to legal support, we can connect you with qualified medical experts in the state for further evaluation and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Will It Cost To Hire 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers Near Me?
Most personal injury attorneys, including our truck and car accident lawyers, work on a contingency fee basis. Under this arrangement, you don’t have to pay any attorney’s fees up front. Instead, their fees are taken as a percentage of your settlement or verdict. However, you may still be responsible for a few case-related costs.
Can I Still File A Claim If There Are Multiple Parties Liable For My Accident?
Yes, you can still file a claim. California is a pure comparative negligence state, meaning that more than one party can be held responsible for the accident. The courts will assign a percentage of fault to each party involved, which will determine how much they’ll have to pay you. You can speak with our Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident lawyers to learn more about how comparative negligence can affect your case.
Should I Accept The Insurance Or The Trucking Company’s Settlement Offer?
The decision to accept a settlement offer is ultimately up to you. However, it’s important to be cautious. Insurance companies often make low initial offers, hoping you will settle quickly without fully understanding the true value of your claim. These offers are often made soon after the accident, when you may still be dealing with the emotional and physical aftermath. Our 18-wheeler accident attorneys in Los Angeles can help you assess the settlement offer.
How Long Do Truck Lawsuit Cases Usually Last?
The timeline can vary. Typically, trial dates are set from 12 to 18 months after filing. The actual timeline may differ based on the specifics of your case. To get a clearer picture of how long your case might take, you should talk to experienced attorneys. Our Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident lawyers can evaluate your case and explain the legal process to you.
Can I File A Wrongful Death Claim For An 18-Wheeler Accident?
Losing a loved one is an unimaginable tragedy, and the pain can be overwhelming. If someone else’s negligence caused the accident, you have the right to seek justice through a wrongful death claim. Some of the damages you can recover are medical costs up until the death of your loved one, loss of companionship, funeral costs, and burial expenses.
Our Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident attorneys are here to support you during this difficult time. We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, gather vital evidence, and pursue accountability for those responsible. We can handle the legal matters while you focus on grieving and healing.
How Much Is My 18-Wheeler Accident Worth?
Every case is different from the other. The value of your case depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries.
- Amount of medical costs.
- Costs of vehicle repair or replacement.
- The calculation of your lost wages during your absence.
- Costs associated with long-term care, if applicable.
Our experienced Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident lawyers can help determine the types of damages applicable to your case and assess the potential value of your claim. We will work to pursue compensation for your injuries and other accident-related losses.
Do I Have To Go To Court For An 18-Wheeler Accident Case?
Most personal injury claims are resolved through settlement negotiations outside of court. If you and the responsible party cannot agree on a settlement during out-of-court negotiations, you can have your lawyer file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. Our Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident attorneys can guide you through your legal options and help you make informed decisions about your case.
Call Our Los Angeles 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers
Accidents involving 18-wheelers are often catastrophic, leaving victims with severe injuries and crushing financial burdens. If you’re injured in such an incident, our Los Angeles 18-Wheeler accident lawyers can help protect your rights and guide you in dealing with the challenges of the claims process. We can handle the legal aspects of your situation, from gathering evidence to presenting your case in court if necessary, so that you can focus on recovery.
Arash Law has the experience, resources, and dedication to help you seek compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and other losses. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Our Los Angeles 18-wheeler attorneys also handle different types of car crashes, including hit-and-runs, DUI cases, and rideshare collisions involving Uber and Lyft. Our lawyers also work on motorcycle crashes, pedestrian accidents, and collisions involving commercial vehicles.
We also offer legal services to nearby areas within Los Angeles County, including East Los Angeles, Huntington Park, Torrance, Maywood, Long Beach, Walnut Park, Commerce, Bell, Glendale, Santa Clarita, South Pasadena, Monterey Park, South Gate, Cudahy, West Hollywood, Alhambra, Montebello, and Bell Gardens.
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