Los Angeles Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Los Angeles Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers Offer Professional Legal Assistance
If you were injured in a semi-truck crash, you may have the right to pursue appropriate compensation for your damages. Our experienced Los Angeles semi-truck accident attorneys are dedicated to helping you understand your rights and the process of filing claims for damages. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Arash Law has represented many individuals and families in personal injury cases. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a semi-truck accident can cause, and we can provide legal guidance throughout your case.
Why Hire A Los Angeles Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer
Trucking companies typically carry substantial liability insurance for their drivers, which can lead to larger settlements in semi-truck accidents. However, pursuing fair compensation can still be challenging. If you’ve been in a semi-truck accident in Los Angeles, a legal counsel can help you navigate the complexities involved in insurance claims.
By hiring an experienced semi-truck accident lawyer, you may be able to manage the claims process with clarity and confidence. They can help you understand your rights, legal options, and insurance coverage policies. Additionally, a lawyer works to pursue appropriate compensation for your damages.
When you partner with our Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyers, the legal team assigned to your case can:
- Examine the details of your accident to identify liable parties.
- Review settlement offers from other parties.
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Prepare your case for trial if needed.
- Arrange translation services in your preferred language.
Our semi-truck accident attorneys in Los Angeles can handle the legal matters on your behalf while you focus on your well-being. We offer a free case evaluation to discuss your situation and determine if you may have a valid claim.
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
Unique Challenges In Semi-Truck Accidents
Los Angeles is known for its congested roads, especially during rush hours, which increases the risk of accidents. Furthermore, the city’s busy commercial and residential areas can make it challenging for vehicles to navigate safely. Our car accident lawyers are familiar with the intricacies of the city’s traffic patterns and the unique challenges posed by these busy roads.
Semi-truck collisions aren’t as simple as car accidents and can be particularly complicated due to these factors:
- Multiple At-Fault Parties — In such incidents, identifying all potentially responsible parties and assigning fault can be a complex process, affecting how claims are processed. Our truck accident lawyers in Los Angeles can thoroughly investigate the accident, identify all potentially liable parties, and gather the evidence necessary to support your case.
- Regulatory Challenges — Many laws at the federal, state, and local levels govern trucking operations, such as vehicle size, weight limits, driver qualifications, and maintenance requirements. Violations of these rules may complicate liability issues.
- Insurance Complications — Trucking companies typically carry significant insurance coverage, but disputes can arise regarding policy limits, exclusions, and liability. These issues may affect the timing and outcome of a claim.
- Accident Severity — The impact of a crash can vary widely based on the truck’s size, speed, and the types of vehicles involved. Due to the massive size and weight of large commercial trucks, collisions with smaller passenger cars can be catastrophic. Our big-rig truck accident lawyers have represented injured victims in passenger cars.
Additionally, some truckers and companies may ignore safety regulations, further increasing the risk of severe injuries such as brain injuries, spine damage, amputations, and fatalities. The severity of the accident can affect the types and amounts of damages you may be able to pursue and the duration of your claim.
Working with an attorney who handles semi-truck accident cases in Los Angeles can help you navigate the complexities of the claims process and advocate for fair compensation on your behalf.
Types Of Trucks That May Cause Accidents
In the busy streets and highways of Los Angeles, a wide range of trucks can be involved in accidents. Our accident lawyers have handled cases involving these types of trucks and understand how their size and operation can increase the likelihood of collisions:
- Large Freight Trucks — Commonly known as 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, or tractor-trailers, these commercial vehicles transport cargo and require professional handling, particularly when loaded, as their added weight affects their maneuverability.
- Bobtail Trucks — These trucks, characterized by their cab and engine at the front, are more commonly referred to as tractor-trailer trucks. They frequently use freeways and pose considerable hazards to smaller passenger vehicles due to their size and weight.
- Tanker Trucks — Accidents involving tanker trucks can be particularly dangerous, as the contents they carry can lead to fires or explosions, escalating the severity of the incidents.
- Parcel Delivery Trucks — With the rise in online shopping, large vehicles belonging to companies like UPS, FedEx, Amazon, and USPS have become a common sight on our roads. Their frequent stops increase congestion and can contribute to delivery truck accidents.
- Service Utility Trucks — This category includes a variety of vehicles, such as garbage collection trucks, street cleaning vehicles, and construction equipment, all of which play a role in the traffic environment and can be involved in accidents.
Our Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyers can help you understand the applicable trucking laws that can impact your case and guide you in filing claims for damage. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form to discuss your case.
Truck Accident?
Common Causes Of Semi-Truck Accidents In Los Angeles
California consistently ranks among the states with the highest rates of trucking accidents and fatalities. Several common factors that contribute to these incidents include:
- Dangerous Cargo — Loads that are not properly secured can shift or fall during travel, creating serious hazards on the road.
- Insufficient Braking Distance — When hauling heavy freight, proper braking distance is essential. A driver’s miscalculation in gauging stopping distances can lead to rear-end collisions.
- Turning Misjudgments — Accidents can occur when truck drivers fail to give themselves enough room to navigate turns or neglect to scan their surroundings for blind spots, resulting in dangerous sideswipe situations.
- Excessive Speed — In a rush to meet tight delivery schedules, drivers may exceed speed limits, increasing the risk of T-bone accidents or multiple-vehicle collisions.
- Distracted Driving — Long driving stretches can cause distractions. Federal safety data indicates that driver distraction is a known contributor to large truck accidents.
- Maintenance Issues — Mechanical failures from poorly maintained trucks can create hazardous conditions on the road.
- Driver Fatigue — Overworked drivers may experience fatigue, impairing their ability to operate the truck safely.
- Substance Use — Some truck drivers may drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which can result in DUI accidents.
- Inclement Weather — Bad weather, like heavy rain and snow, can reduce visibility and create slippery roads, increasing the risk of rain-related accidents. Drivers should adjust their speed and maintain safe following distances to stay safe.
Understanding what caused the collision can help traffic accident lawyers determine who was responsible. They can assist in pursuing accountability from the at-fault parties and advocate for a fair settlement of your losses.
Determining Who Is Liable In A Semi-Truck Accident
Dealing with the repercussions of a trucking accident can be challenging. It’s essential to understand that multiple parties could be held accountable for the damages you’ve suffered. Conducting a thorough investigation and gathering key evidence are crucial in establishing liability.
Here are some potential parties who may be liable for your injuries and losses:
- Driver — The truck driver is often the at-fault party, but don’t overlook other vehicle drivers who might have played a role in the collision.
- Manufacturers and Retailers of Defective Products — If there are flaws in the truck or its components, such as tires or engine parts, those who produced or sold these items may share the blame.
- The Truck Driver’s Employer — Sometimes, the larger organization behind the driver could bear responsibility for the incident.
- Maintenance Facilities — If a repair shop mishandled repairs on the truck involved in the wreck, they could also be implicated in the accident.
- Government Entities — Inadequate road maintenance can lead to unsafe conditions, making government entities potentially liable if they fail to keep the roads safe.
If you or someone close to you has been harmed in a commercial vehicle crash, our Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyers can guide you throughout the claims process. We work to pursue a fair settlement for your losses.
Proving Fault In Semi-Truck Accidents
Under California law, if a truck driver is found to be negligent, they can be held accountable for any injuries or damages they cause to other road users. An injured party may pursue a personal injury claim against the negligent truck operator. In filing a case, the victim must establish the truck driver’s recklessness and demonstrate that it was the primary cause of the incident.
Our Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyers can help you establish the following elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care — The truck driver has a legal obligation to protect the safety of other road users. This includes being vigilant for pedestrians, other vehicles, and obstacles, as well as following traffic laws and safety regulations while driving.
- Breach of Duty — The truck driver fails to fulfill this duty through careless behavior.
- Causation — The driver’s breach of duty directly results in the victim’s injuries or damages.
- Actual Damages Incurred — The victim must have suffered actual harm or losses due to the truck driver’s negligence. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, as well as other economic and non-economic losses.
All drivers, including those in passenger vehicles, owe a duty of care to road users. They must drive responsibly, avoid driving under the influence, and follow traffic laws. If a driver’s negligence contributes to an accident, they may be held liable for the resulting damages.
What To Do After A Semi-Truck Accident
After experiencing an accident involving a truck or any other type of vehicle, here are some steps to consider:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention — Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get a thorough medical check-up as soon as possible to identify any injuries that may not be apparent.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene — Preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes documenting your injuries and the details of the crash site. Trucking companies often dispatch their own teams to quickly gather critical evidence, which could disappear before you have a chance to collect it. If you’re able, take pictures, as these can provide invaluable support for your claim.
- Preserve Your Vehicle — If the accident resulted in significant damage, your vehicle must not be repaired or disposed of until you have consulted with a lawyer. This vehicle could be a vital piece of evidence.
- Consult an Attorney — A semi-truck accident attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and handle communications with insurance companies. In cases involving fatalities, a personal injury lawyer may also pursue a wrongful death claim.
These steps can help protect your rights and legal claim. If you or someone you know has been affected by negligence in a trucking accident, having a Los Angeles semi-truck accident attorney can help you navigate the legal complexities of your case.
Settlement in a heavily disputed Truck v. Truck case. Our client was blamed by the insurance company from day one and was always told that they would never take responsibility for the collision that injured our client’s lower back. After years of litigation, Benny and the team were able to secure the full policy limits for our client months before trial.– BENNY KHORSANDI
Types Of Damages Available In Semi-Truck Accident Cases
In legal terms, the losses you incur due to an accident are called “damages.” These fall into two categories:
- Economic Damages — Tangible losses that are often easily proven with receipts and invoices, such as:
- Medical Expenses — Ambulance fees, surgeries, prescriptions, etc.
- Lost Wages — Income lost due to the inability to work and potential future earnings.
- Property Damage — Compensation for your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Non-Economic Damages — Intangible losses that are harder to quantify, such as:
- Pain and Suffering — Physical pain and emotional distress resulting from severe injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life — Inability to engage in activities you once enjoyed due to injury.
- Emotional Distress — Anxiety, depression, and other emotional impacts affecting relationships.
Severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, orthopedic injuries, internal injuries, and soft tissue injuries can significantly affect the compensation amount. Generally, more severe cases involving catastrophic injuries or wrongful death may result in significant compensation. Additionally, if the defendant was grossly negligent, the court may award you punitive damages.
Having legal representation can help you identify available damages and calculate all accident-related losses you have incurred. Your attorney may take your case to trial if settlement negotiations are unsuccessful.
Understanding The Deadline For Filing A Truck Accident Lawsuit In California
In California, there are specific deadlines for filing a personal injury claim against the party responsible for your injuries. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations, and if you miss it, you may lose the opportunity to seek compensation for your damages. For personal injury cases, California law allows you to submit your claim two years from the date of the accident.
If your claim pertains solely to property damage resulting from a truck accident, the timeframe is three years from the date of the incident. However, if you intend to file a claim against a government entity, for instance, due to a hazardous road condition like a pothole, you must act within six months following the accident. There are also potential exceptions that could alter these timelines, underscoring the importance of consulting with a legal professional promptly.
Failing to initiate your lawsuit within the specified time limits could result in permanently forfeiting your right to claim compensation for damages. Generally, courts are strict about these deadlines and do not grant extensions or second chances.
To help you build your case and preserve your right to pursue compensation, it is advisable to seek the guidance of a Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyer. They can help you understand the legal process and keep track of crucial deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Semi-Truck Accident Cases
What Is Considered A Commercial Truck?
A commercial truck is typically a large vehicle used for business purposes or transporting goods, such as 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, tankers, dump trucks, delivery trucks, and semis. Because multiple parties can be involved in commercial truck accidents and various laws regulate these vehicles, claims can become complex and challenging to manage on your own. It may be beneficial to hire an experienced commercial truck accident attorney who can provide legal representation and guide you through the claims process.
How Much Do Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers Cost?
In Los Angeles, many truck accident lawyers, including those at our firm, operate on a contingency fee basis. Under this fee arrangement, clients do not pay attorney’s fees unless compensation is obtained. However, certain case-related expenses may still apply.
Should I Accept The Initial Settlement Offer For My Truck Accident Claim?
After an accident, insurance companies may present settlement offers quickly. Accepting these offers before fully understanding your injuries can be risky, potentially resulting in insufficient compensation if ongoing medical treatment is needed. To help you better understand the value of your claim and work toward fair compensation, partnering with a knowledgeable semi-truck accident attorney in Los Angeles is advisable.
Should I See A Doctor After A Truck Accident Even If I’m Not In Pain?
After an accident, our Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyers recommend consulting a medical professional, even if you don’t feel much pain at first. Sometimes, the full extent of an injury or discomfort may not become apparent immediately. It’s important to prioritize your health and take precautions to avoid further complications and to protect your legal claim.
What Is The Typical Compensation For Semi-Truck Accident Claims?
It’s normal to ask, “What’s the average settlement for truck accidents?” However, the average amount for semi-truck accident settlements in California varies based on several factors, including:
- The Severity of Your Injuries — For example, a wrongful death claim will be worth much more than a claim for minor injuries.
- Your Current and Future Medical Expenses — If you need surgery, those costs can be included in your settlement.
- The Level of Fault — If the other driver is entirely at fault or if both parties share responsibility, it will impact the value of the claim.
- Legal Fees — The cost of hiring experienced truck accident lawyers in California.
Generally, the severity of a truck accident directly impacts the value of a potential settlement, as more serious injuries and losses often lead to higher compensation. Our semi-truck accident attorneys in Los Angeles can carefully evaluate your case, negotiate for a fair settlement, and, if necessary, take your case to trial to pursue the appropriate compensation under the law.
How Much Time Does It Take To Settle A Semi-Truck Accident?
In California, most truck accident claims are resolved with insurance companies to avoid lengthy lawsuits, with negotiations that can last from months to years. If a fair settlement isn’t reached or a claim is denied, victims may file a lawsuit. While many cases are settled before reaching trial, others may take longer due to discovery procedures and court scheduling. After a semi-truck collision, it’s advisable to consult a Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyer who can guide you in the claims process and negotiate for fair compensation on your behalf.
Contact Our Los Angeles Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in a semi-truck accident, it’s normal to feel uncertain about your next steps or whether hiring an attorney is necessary. A legal counsel can help protect your rights and give advice on your legal options for seeking compensation.
You don’t have to navigate the claims process alone. Our Los Angeles semi-truck accident attorney can guide you through each step and handle the legal matters on your behalf. As a personal injury law firm in California, Arash Law is dedicated to advocating for fair compensation under the law.
Our team handles a wide range of motor vehicle collisions, including rideshare accidents involving Uber or Lyft, hit-and-run accidents, hit-and-run motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, parking lot accidents, bus accidents, and bike accidents.
We also work on personal injury claims involving workers’ compensation, slip and fall accidents, premises liability, construction accidents, apartment accidents, dog bites, mesothelioma, juvenile detention center sexual assault, and more.
We serve clients in East Los Angeles, Huntington Park, Maywood, Walnut Park, Commerce, Bell, Glendale, South Pasadena, Monterey Park, South Gate, Cudahy, West Hollywood, Alhambra, Montebello, Bell Gardens, and throughout California.
Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free case review.
Latest Traffic Reports in California
