Los Angeles Commercial Truck Accident Attorneys
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Los Angeles Commercial Truck Accident Attorneys Protect Your Interests With Integrity
Crashes involving trucks can have more serious consequences than regular traffic collisions. If you’re injured in one, our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys can help you navigate the claims process. We work to pursue appropriate compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case evaluation. We can work collaboratively with qualified medical experts, who can comprehensively assess your injuries and provide care and treatment if necessary.
Los Angeles is a major hub for international trade and logistics. The Port of LA is the busiest seaport complex in the Western Hemisphere. With the Port of Long Beach, the immense hub manages 40% of the country’s inbound containers from Asia. With such a massive logistics sector, the roads are often filled with large commercial trucks transporting goods across the region and beyond. Despite the advanced infrastructure and high-capacity freight networks, accidents involving these massive vehicles remain a significant concern.
If you or someone you care about gets injured in a traffic incident involving these road giants, our dedicated commercial truck accident lawyers can help investigate the accident, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to build a well-supported case on your behalf. Don’t face this challenging time alone. Speak to our experienced injury lawyers to learn more about how you can protect your rights and seek compensation for your losses.
What Is A “Commercial Truck Accident”?
A commercial truck accident refers to any traffic incident involving a large vehicle used for commercial purposes, such as a semi-truck, delivery truck, or cargo van. These can range from minor crashes to severe, life-threatening collisions.
In Los Angeles, commercial truck accidents are particularly prevalent on major highways and busy streets. The 405 and 101 Freeway Interchange and key routes like the I-5 often experience high traffic volumes. Additionally, streets in downtown LA are frequently congested with numerous commercial trucks. This increased traffic raises the likelihood of accidents.
Consider consulting a Los Angeles commercial truck accident lawyer for assistance if a collision leaves you injured. These cases can be complex, and a lawyer with experience in truck accident claims can offer guidance and resources to help you navigate the claims process. Our attorneys handle investigations, evaluate evidence, and advocate on behalf of injured clients so they can pursue the compensation they may need to support their recovery.
Verdict for a client who was sideswiped by a commercial truck– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
How Can Our Los Angeles Commercial Truck Accident Attorneys Help?
Commercial truck accident claims often involve multiple parties, complex regulations, and significant damages. Our Los Angeles attorneys have the background and resources to handle these challenging cases while offering clear guidance at every stage. We focus on protecting your rights and presenting a substantiated case based on the facts and the law.
Here’s what our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys can do for you:
- Investigate Your Case — Our personal injury lawyers can investigate the accident, preserve evidence, secure witness testimonies, and analyze truck driver logs and maintenance records.
- Determine Liability — We can help identify all parties who may be responsible, including the trucking company and the driver.
- Handle Negotiations — Our commercial truck accident lawyers can handle negotiations with insurance companies and trucking companies on your behalf.
- Pursue Damages — Our accident lawyers can study the extent of your losses so we may help you pursue damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. When applicable, punitive damages may also be considered.
- Represent You in Court — If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our commercial truck accident attorneys in Los Angeles are ready to represent your case before a judge or jury.
Our approach is comprehensive, addressing both the immediate and long-term impacts of a truck accident. Each case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific circumstances.
If you or a loved one has been affected and you’re wondering if you have a valid claim, fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form. Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys can help you better understand your legal options moving forward.
Commercial Truck Laws And Regulations
Commercial truck laws and regulations are designed to promote road safety and accountability. These rules help establish standards for truck drivers and companies, aiming to prevent accidents and promote safe operations. These regulations are important when assessing negligence in a trucking accident claim.
Here are the key laws and regulations:
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) — Truck drivers must hold a valid CDL to operate commercial vehicles in California.
- Insurance Requirements — California law mandates that truck drivers carry insurance coverage based on the vehicle’s gross weight rating.
- Hours of Service — Federal regulations limit drivers to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour workday. After which, they must take a minimum of 10 hours off duty.
- Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection — Truck drivers and their employers are responsible for regular maintenance and inspections to ensure their vehicles are safe and roadworthy.
- Cargo Securement — Laws dictate proper weight distribution, maximum allowable weight, and cargo securement to prevent accidents caused by shifting loads.
- Drug and Alcohol Testing — Truck drivers must undergo random drug and alcohol testing. Failure to do so will result in removal from driving.
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) — Trucks must use ELDs to record driving hours, ensuring accurate compliance with hours-of-service regulations.
- Driver Qualifications — Truck drivers must meet specific qualifications, including medical exams, background checks, and knowledge tests.
- Truck Size & Weight Limits — Regulations limit truck dimensions and weight to ensure they do not exceed road capacity and contribute to safety hazards.
- Hazardous Materials Regulations — Trucks transporting hazardous materials must adhere to specific safety standards and labeling requirements to prevent accidents and spills.
Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys understand how state and federal trucking regulations impact liability in these cases. By examining driver logs, maintenance records, insurance coverage, and compliance with safety rules, we can identify potential violations that may have contributed to the crash. This approach may help us present your case more effectively and seek compensation based on the facts of your commercial vehicle accident.
Types Of Commercial Trucks
Commercial trucks come in various types, each intended to carry out specific tasks. Their size and specialized design are crucial for their roles, but may also contribute to the significant risks they pose on the road.
Here are some common types of commercial trucks:
- Semi-Trucks or 18-Wheelers — These large trucks are designed to tow cargo trailers and are often used for long-haul transportation across states.
- Box Trucks — These trucks are widely used to move furniture, appliances, and other small items because their cargo area is shaped like a cube. Their enclosed design protects the cargo during transit.
- Tow Trucks — Used to tow or recover broken-down vehicles, tow trucks fall under the commercial vehicle category when used for hire or compensation. They are essential for roadside assistance and vehicle recovery operations.
- Tanker Trucks — These trucks are designed to carry liquids or gases, requiring special handling due to the hazardous nature of their cargo. Proper storage and transportation are crucial to preventing spills and accidents.
- Flatbed Trucks — Featuring an open trailer, flatbed trucks can carry various loads, including construction materials and large equipment. Their open design simplifies loading and unloading, but also heightens the risk of cargo falling.
- Refrigerated Trucks — Also known as reefer trucks, these vehicles transport perishable goods at controlled temperatures. They are vital for the safe delivery of items like food and pharmaceuticals.
Accidents involving these vehicles often raise unique challenges because of their size, cargo, and regulatory requirements. Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys investigate the circumstances of each crash, evaluate whether safety or maintenance rules were followed, and determine which parties may bear responsibility. By connecting the facts of the accident to trucking laws and industry standards, we work to build a claim that supports your right to pursue compensation.
Types Of Commercial Truck Accidents In Los Angeles
Commercial truck accidents are among the most complex and severe vehicle collisions. A truck’s sheer size and weight can turn a minor accident into a catastrophic event.
Here are the various types of commercial truck accidents our injury law firm has handled:
Rollover Accidents
One common cause of rollover is cargo shifting inside the trailer, often due to improper loading or securing. A truck’s high center of gravity makes it particularly vulnerable to rollovers, especially if the load is unevenly distributed or secured.
Additionally, abrupt driving tactics, such as sudden braking or sharp turns, can trigger a rollover, particularly in partially loaded trucks. The impact of such accidents can result in severe injuries, including fractures, head trauma, and internal injuries.
Jackknife Accidents
These accidents typically happen when the truck’s brakes lock up or if the truck skids, causing the trailer to pivot and collide with the cab. Common causes of jackknife accidents include driver misjudgments regarding braking distances or overcorrecting during a skid. These errors can result in a dangerous loss of control.
Lane-Change Accidents
Lane-change accidents are common with trucks due to their large blind spots, often called “No Zones.” These make it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles when changing lanes. If truckers fail to check these blind spots or neglect to use their signals, they risk causing collisions with other drivers.
Improper lane changes can lead to dangerous situations where smaller vehicles are caught in the truck’s blind spots. The other vehicle drivers might sustain severe injuries, or worse, death.
Underride And Override Accidents
Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer of a larger truck, typically during a rear-end collision. Override accidents happen when a larger truck collides with the rear of a smaller vehicle, essentially “riding over” it.
This type of accident is often caused by driver error, such as tailgating or failure to brake in time. Accident victims might sustain traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and significant limb injuries.
Unsecured Load Accidents
When cargo is not properly loaded or secured, cargo-related accidents might occur. If cargo falls from the truck or spills on the road, it can create hazardous conditions for other drivers, resulting in vehicle crashes or accidents caused by debris. Negligence in securing cargo and failure to adhere to safety regulations contribute to these incidents.
Rear-End Collisions
When drivers become distracted, speed, or engage in aggressive driving, they might end up in a rear-end accident. This is often due to following too closely or not adapting to traffic conditions.
This is also common in parking lot accidents, where a backing truck driver might not notice a vehicle in its blind spot. In commercial trucking, such behavior can be dangerous due to the size and weight of the vehicle, which further increases stopping distances and reduces reaction times.
Side-Impact Collisions
Typically handled by our Los Angeles T-bone accident lawyers, these incidents occur when a truck collides with the side of another vehicle, leading to severe damage and injury. These accidents frequently happen when drivers run red lights, fail to yield, or misjudge the speed of other vehicles. Victims of T-bone accidents might suffer from broken ribs, internal bleeding, and head injuries.
Tire Blowout Accidents
A sudden tire blowout can cause a truck or other vehicle to lose control, leading to dangerous collisions. These accidents often stem from worn-out tires, poor maintenance, or road hazards, with injuries ranging from lacerations to fractures and head trauma.
Wide-Turn Accidents
Truck collisions that occur during wide turns are often the result of inadequate signaling or miscalculations of the space required for a safe maneuver. Because of their size, trucks need more space to complete turns than smaller vehicles. If truck drivers fail to properly signal or accurately gauge the necessary space, it can lead to catastrophic accidents, leaving victims with severe injuries.
In truck accident cases, lawyers examine the specific circumstances that led to the crash, whether it involved a rollover, jackknife, wide turn, or another scenario. They can review driver logs, cargo records, and maintenance files, consult with accident reconstruction experts, and determine if safety regulations were ignored. By linking these details to the cause of the collision, attorneys can help clarify who may be responsible and support a claim for compensation.
Most Common Causes Of Commercial Truck Accidents
Commercial truck accidents are among the most severe on the road. Due to their sheer size and weight, commercial trucks often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. The causes of these accidents are varied but mostly stem from human error or negligence. These include:
Speeding
Drivers often exceed speed limits or drive too fast for the conditions, which reduces their ability to react to road hazards, making accidents more likely. However, speeding in commercial trucking specifically is a major issue that may be driven by tight schedules and job pressures.
The impact of a speeding truck can be catastrophic, causing severe damage and injuries due to the vehicle’s size and weight. Beyond physical harm, speeding can lead to serious legal and financial consequences, emphasizing the importance of adhering to speed limits and safe driving practices.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
Proper cargo securement is vital for safe truck operation. Incorrectly loaded or unbalanced cargo can lead to dangerous rollovers or cargo spills, creating hazardous conditions for other road users.
Defective Parts Or Poor Maintenance
Negligent truck maintenance by companies or crews can lead to catastrophic mechanical failures. Issues such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts can significantly contribute to accidents.
Drowsy Driving
Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys have witnessed many accidents caused by fatigued drivers. Drowsy driving impairs reaction times and judgment, increasing the risk of accidents. This phenomenon, fueled by lack of sleep, demanding schedules, and lax implementation of HOS rules, particularly plagues the trucking industry.
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Driving under the influence is a serious issue for California truck drivers, who face a stricter BAC limit of 0.04 percent. Even low levels of alcohol can impair their ability to operate a truck safely. Prescription and illegal drugs can also severely impact a driver’s coordination and reaction times. Both alcohol and drug impairment can lead to catastrophic consequences on the road. Our Los Angeles DUI accident victim lawyers can investigate the crash to see how impaired commercial truck drivers may be held accountable.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving remains a serious problem in commercial trucking. Activities such as texting, checking emails, or using mobile devices divert a driver’s attention from the road, increasing accident risks.
Lack Of Driver Experience
Operating large commercial trucks like big rigs requires specific training and substantial experience. Inexperienced or inadequately trained drivers may struggle to safely handle these vehicles, raising the likelihood of a big-rig accident.
Failure To Obey Traffic Rules
Traffic laws are designed to enhance road safety. Violations like running red lights or ignoring speed limits can significantly increase the risk of commercial truck collisions.
Identifying the causes of a truck collision can be challenging without legal assistance. Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident lawyers are committed to investigating these accidents and revealing their contributing factors. We can help examine all available evidence, such as vehicle maintenance records and accident reports, to determine the cause of the collision and hold the responsible parties accountable for your damages.
Commercial Truck Accident Injuries
Commercial truck accidents often lead to a wide range of injuries due to the immense size and force of these vehicles. The severity of injuries can vary greatly, but each can profoundly impact the victim’s life. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash — This injury occurs when a sudden, forceful jolt causes the head to move back and forth quickly. It can cause neck pain, stiffness, and limited motion, often requiring physical therapy.
- Back Injuries — Impacts may lead to sprains, strains, herniated discs, or spinal cord damage, resulting in chronic pain or disability.
- Head Injuries — Traumatic brain injuries, from mild concussions to severe brain damage, affect cognition and memory.
- Fractures and Broken Bones — Collisions can cause multiple bone fractures, requiring surgery and extensive recovery.
- Internal Injuries — Serious impacts can damage organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys, requiring emergency care and possibly surgery.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Damage to the spinal cord can cause paralysis, loss of sensation, and motor function issues below the injury site.
- Burns and Lacerations — Fires or explosions can cause severe burns and deep cuts, which require extensive treatment.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can cause pain and reduced mobility, often requiring physical therapy.
- Psychological Trauma — Accidents can lead to PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), anxiety, or depression.
- Deaths — Fatalities may occur, highlighting the need for urgent emotional and legal support.
We understand the profound impact these accidents can have on your life. Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys will work to pursue compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other losses. We can connect you with qualified medical professionals for further evaluation and ongoing care. From calculating your losses to collaborating with experts, we’re committed to helping you pursue the damages you may need for your recovery.
Available Damages For Commercial Truck Accident Victims
Victims of commercial truck accidents may attempt to handle their claims independently, only to find that the compensation they’re offered falls far short of their true needs. To explore all the avenues available to you, consider consulting with a Los Angeles commercial truck accident lawyer who can help you identify potential sources of compensation based on the available evidence. The types of damages you may seek can include:
- Economic Damages — These are tangible losses with a clear monetary value, including:
- Medical expenses.
- Lost wages.
- Property damage.
- Future medical treatment.
- Loss of future earning capacity.
- Non-Economic Damages — These represent intangible losses and are more challenging to quantify. Examples are:
- Pain and suffering.
- Emotional trauma.
- Disfigurement.
- Loss of companionship.
- Punitive Damages — Rarely awarded, punitive damages aim to punish the responsible party in cases of grossly negligent misconduct and deter similar behavior in the future.
Who Can Be Liable In A Commercial Truck Accident?
Unlike in regular auto crashes, where our car accident lawyers usually encounter more straightforward means of determining fault, truck collisions can implicate multiple entities. Each potentially responsible party can be held accountable, depending on their involvement and contribution to the accident. Here are the parties who might be held liable in a commercial truck accident:
- The Commercial Truck Driver — If the driver was speeding, under the influence, or negligent in other ways, they may be responsible for the crash.
- The Trucking Company — The company may be liable if it neglects vehicle maintenance, hires unqualified drivers, or encourages unsafe practices.
- Cargo Loaders — Improperly secured cargo that causes accidents, such as a truck tipping over, may expose the loaders or their company to liability.
- Freight Owners — Owners of hazardous materials may be at fault if their cargo, when improperly secured, leads to explosions or other incidents.
- Commercial Truck or Parts Manufacturers — Defective parts can cause mechanical failures like tire blowouts. Under product liability laws, victims can hold the manufacturers accountable.
- Maintenance Providers — Poor maintenance or neglected inspections resulting in critical part failures can make maintenance providers liable.
- Other Road Users — Reckless behavior from other drivers, such as sudden lane changes, may contribute to the accident.
- Governmental Entities — Poor road conditions or inadequate and confusing signage can lead to liability for local government agencies.
Determining liability in a commercial truck accident can be a complex process due to the various parties involved in the operation and maintenance of these large vehicles. Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys can help identify all potential responsible parties and pursue accountability.
How Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers Prove Negligence
Proving negligence in a commercial truck accident case involves establishing that the responsible party’s actions or inaction caused the accident and resulting damages. To hold a party legally accountable, your commercial truck accident lawyer can help demonstrate four key elements:
- Duty of Care — You must show that the commercial truck driver, trucking company, manufacturer, or another entity owes you a duty of care. This duty involves following safety regulations, maintaining the vehicle properly, and driving responsibly. For example, a trucking company must ensure its drivers are well-trained and its vehicles are in good condition.
- Breach of Duty — You must show that the duty of care was breached. A breach occurs when the responsible party fails to meet the expected standard. For instance, if a truck driver was speeding or a company neglected vehicle maintenance, this would be considered a breach.
- Causation — You must establish that the breach directly caused the accident. This process includes proving both actual and proximate causation. Actual causation directly links the defendant’s action to the accident, while proximate causation proves the action was a predictable cause. For instance, if brake failure from poor maintenance caused the crash, the lack of brake upkeep is both the actual and proximate cause.
- Damages — You must prove that the accident resulted in physical injuries, property damage, and financial losses. Collecting medical records, repair bills, and other evidence is crucial.
Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys can help investigate your case, analyzing key evidence and relevant documentation to establish fault. We will work to demonstrate negligence, seek accountability from at-fault parties, and pursue the compensation that may be available to you.
Types Of Evidence In A Commercial Truck Accident Case
Solid evidence is key to building a compelling commercial truck accident case. To assess negligence and liability, our Los Angeles commercial truck accident lawyers may gather evidence such as:
- Witness Statements — Testimonies from witnesses can provide crucial details on the driver’s behavior and the circumstances leading to the accident. They can confirm whether the truck driver was driving erratically or if any part of the truck failed.
- Electronic Control Modules (ECMs) — Also known as “black boxes,” ECMs record critical data such as speed and braking patterns. Analyzing this data helps reconstruct the accident and pinpoint what may have caused it.
- Commercial Truck Cameras — Footage from cameras inside and outside the truck can reveal the driver’s actions, road conditions, and potential hazards. This video evidence can help prove negligence or misconduct.
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) — These devices track a driver’s hours of service, helping determine if fatigue is a factor or if they violated HOS regulations.
- Trucking Company Records — Hiring records and maintenance logs from the trucking company can reveal critical details. These records can show if the company failed to follow proper procedures or adequately maintain the vehicle, which may indicate negligence.
- Vehicle Inspection Reports — Detailed reports of pre-trip and post-trip inspections can highlight maintenance issues or mechanical failures that contributed to the accident.
- Photos and Videos of the Scene — Visual evidence from the accident scene can capture important details such as vehicle damage, road conditions, and debris, supporting negligence claims.
The Most Dangerous Highways In Los Angeles
Navigating Los Angeles’ roadways can be dangerous, especially on certain highways notorious for accidents. These highways, from congested urban stretches to critical freight routes, pose significant risks for all drivers. Here are some of the most dangerous roads in LA:
- I-110 (Harbor Freeway) — The southern segment of I-110, extending through downtown LA and connecting with US Highway 101, is one of the most hazardous routes in Los Angeles. Known for its high accident rates, I-110 is heavily trafficked and connects to prominent destinations like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Los Angeles Convention Center.
- I-405 (San Diego Freeway) — Extending from the 110 Freeway to the 10 Freeway, I-405 is notorious for its heavy traffic and high accident frequency. Despite its relatively short length of 16 miles, the freeway is heavily congested. It sees around 383,000 vehicles daily, making it one of the country’s busiest and most dangerous highways.
- I-5 (Santa Ana Freeway) — As a critical route connecting Los Angeles with Sacramento and San Diego, I-5 is one of the most dangerous highways nationwide. This high-traffic corridor, where freight trucks share the road with smaller vehicles, sees a lot of accidents.
- I-10 (San Bernardino Freeway) — The I-10 route from Santa Monica to downtown LA is dangerous due to its numerous short-distance exits and the need for quick lane changes at high speeds. This freeway’s design and heavy traffic contribute to its high accident risk.
If you’ve been injured in an accident anywhere in the region, consult a Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorney for legal assistance. Our lawyers will guide you through every step, from obtaining expert medical opinions to gathering crucial evidence. We’ll work to pursue a settlement on your behalf.
What Is The Time Limit To File A Commercial Truck Accident Claim?
You must file a claim in Los Angeles within two years of your commercial truck accident date. If you fail to file within California’s statute of limitations, you could lose your right to pursue compensation altogether, even if you have a valid claim.
It’s essential to act promptly after an accident, as evidence may become unavailable or less reliable over time. Los Angeles commercial truck accident lawyers can help you understand which deadline applies to your case and file the necessary paperwork within the required time frame. They will guide you through the claims process, keeping you updated on your case’s progress and protecting your rights.
What To Do After An Accident With A Commercial Truck
A collision with a commercial truck can be a jarring experience, but quick, decisive actions can make all the difference. A few simple steps can protect your health, rights, and future. Here are some examples of what you can do after a truck accident:
Check For Injuries
Assess yourself for visible injuries, such as cuts and bruises, or any signs of pain. Look for signs of shock or severe injury, like difficulty breathing or unconsciousness. Call 911 if anyone requires immediate medical attention.
Call The Police
Call the local police. An official police report will help document the scene and provide relevant details for your case. Cooperate with the officers by providing accurate information about the accident and any injuries sustained.
Document The Scene
Exchange Information
Avoid Admitting Fault
Seek Medical Evaluation
Notify Your Insurance Company
Consult With Commercial Truck Accident Attorneys
Settlement in a case where a client was injured while unloading commercial truck; client sustained crush injuries to legs– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Commercial Truck Accident Statistics
According to the National Security Council (NSC) 2022 report, the number of truck accidents has increased significantly. There were nearly 5,375 fatal crashes involving large trucks in 2023, a 43% increase over the past decade.
In 2022, most victims of large truck crashes were in other vehicles, followed by truck occupants and pedestrians. California had 436 deaths, making it one of the states with the highest number of large truck crash fatalities that year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need A Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer?
Though you can potentially file a claim yourself, you may wish to work with an attorney in complex cases involving commercial trucks. Due to the numerous parties involved and intricate laws and regulations governing trucks, commercial truck accident cases are a challenge to deal with on your own. An experienced lawyer can help by taking on all the legal aspects and helping you pursue accountability from responsible parties.
If you’re asking, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The answer is likely yes. Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident lawyers can handle communications with insurance companies and seek compensation for your injuries and other losses.
Should I Accept The Trucking Company’s Settlement Offer?
Before accepting any settlement offer from a trucking company, you may benefit from consulting a commercial truck accident lawyer first. Settlement offers from trucking companies may not cover your full long-term expenses or injuries. An experienced commercial truck accident attorney can help evaluate the potential value of your claim and negotiate for a fair settlement.
What Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth?
The value of your truck accident claim can vary depending on several factors. These include the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical treatments, and any long-term care or rehabilitation needs. Additionally, the impact on your ability to work and earn an income plays a significant role in determining the value of your claim. The mental and emotional toll of the accident also affects how much your case is worth.
A Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorney can help assess the value of your claim based on the evidence and circumstances of your case.
How Long Do Commercial Truck Accident Lawsuits Usually Last?
The duration of a commercial truck accident lawsuit depends on various factors, including discovery, pretrial motions, and scheduling. If your injuries are severe, it might be beneficial to wait until your condition stabilizes before filing, which can extend the total length of your case.
Working with a commercial truck accident attorney can help you deal with the complexities of your case and the claims process. They can track necessary deadlines and file paperwork in a timely manner. That said, they may be able to draft a rough timeline for how long your claim may take to resolve.
What If I Am Partly At Fault In A Commercial Truck Accident?
California’s pure comparative negligence rules still allow you to pursue compensation if you are partly at fault in a commercial truck accident. Under these rules, you can seek damages proportional to your degree of fault. For example, if the trucking company or driver is found to be 67% at fault and you are 33% at fault, you can still pursue damages for the 67% responsibility of the other party.
Our Los Angeles lawyers who handle commercial truck accidents can help you understand how comparative fault applies to your case. We can thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence to establish liability, and advocate for compensation on your behalf.
Who Is Eligible To File A Claim For A Commercial Truck Accident?
Generally, the person injured in the accident can file a claim. This includes motorcycle drivers, passengers, pedestrians, or cyclists who were harmed due to the negligence of a commercial truck driver. If a loved one tragically dies in a commercial truck accident, the surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. This claim allows the spouses, children, or parents of the deceased to seek compensation for their loss, such as funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related costs.
Undocumented immigrants also have the right to file a claim if they are injured in a commercial truck accident. The law protects all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, who are seeking compensation for injuries due to someone else’s negligence.
Our experienced Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys can help you understand your rights and guide you through filing a claim. We are committed to helping you pursue compensation, regardless of your social or financial status.
How Much Do Commercial Truck Accident Attorneys Charge?
This will also depend on the specifics of your case. Generally, lawyers may charge more for complex cases involving commercial truck accidents because they’re likely to involve multiple defendants. However, you may not need to let these potential costs hinder you from seeking legal representation.
In Los Angeles, our commercial truck accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients don’t pay any upfront attorney’s fees. This arrangement aims to relieve them of the financial burden of hourly legal fees. We are only compensated if clients are awarded compensation. However, they may still be responsible for certain case-related costs regardless of the outcome. We can explain this payment scheme in more detail during an initial consultation.
What Is The Average Truck Accident Settlement In California?
In California, there is no average settlement for a commercial truck accident. The amount of compensation you can pursue will vary based on several factors, including the severity of the case. Settlements typically cover economic damages such as medical expenses and lost wages. However, this average does not account for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, which can significantly alter the total value of a claim.
To estimate the potential value of your claim, especially with severe injuries or complex issues, consult our Los Angeles commercial truck accident lawyers. We can calculate its potential value by considering all aspects of your case, including potential non-economic damages.
Can You Sue A Trucking Company In California?
Yes, you might be able to sue a trucking company in California if its driver causes an accident. Under the legal doctrine of “respondeat superior,” employers can potentially be held liable for the actions of their employees when those actions occur within the scope of their employment. If a commercial truck driver works for a trucking company and their negligence leads to an accident, the company may also be held responsible for the damages caused.
In addition to direct negligence, a trucking company can be held liable for several other issues, such as failing to properly vet or hire qualified drivers, providing inadequate training, or neglecting vehicle maintenance. For example, if a company skips essential background checks or truck inspections, it may be held responsible for your injuries if these oversights result in an accident.
Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys can help you understand whether a trucking company might be held accountable in your case.
Call Our Los Angeles Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in a commercial truck accident, our dedicated lawyers can help you navigate the legal aspects of your case and pursue compensation for your injuries and other losses. Our team of experienced injury attorneys will work to advocate for your rights and offer the support you may need after a commercial truck crash.
In addition to these accidents, our lawyers also take on various other types of cases. These include rideshare, car, bus, hit-and-run, SUV rollovers, and rain accidents. We also handle dog bite cases, premises liability, slip and fall accidents, and construction accidents.
We provide our services to clients throughout California, including neighboring cities such as Walnut, Venice, Tujunga, Torrance, Tarzana, Silver Lake, Sawtelle, Saugus, Rosemead, Reseda, Pomona, Llano, Littlerock, Malibu, Maywood, Newhall, Koreatown, Irwindale, Hollywood, Hawthorne, Glendale, and Fairmont.
Latest Traffic Reports in California
