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.
Powerhouse Los Angeles Semi Truck Accident Lawyers Heal Your Injuries By Winning You Millions
You have the right to get paid for your injuries if you or someone you care about was hurt in a semi-truck crash. Negligence should never go unpunished, but pursuing compensation for your injuries without help can lead to insufficient recovery, even though trucking companies and their drivers typically carry substantial insurance coverage. Our experienced Los Angeles semi-truck accident attorneys are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Since the inception of our personal injury practice, Arash Law has supported countless individuals and families in their pursuit of justice for severe injuries and the heartbreaking loss of a loved one. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a semi-truck accident can cause, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Why You Need Los Angeles Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers
Trucking companies typically carry substantial liability insurance for their drivers, which can lead to larger settlements in semi-truck accidents. However, securing fair compensation can still be challenging. If you’ve been in a semi-truck accident in Los Angeles, you should know that insurance companies often seek to reduce their liability and may attempt to downplay your claim.
By hiring an experienced lawyer from Arash Law, you can work toward obtaining the maximum compensation for your injuries. When you partner with our Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyers, the legal team assigned to your case will:
- Examine the details of your accident to identify liable parties.
- Protect you against any counterclaims from other parties.
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Prepare your case for trial if needed.
- Offer assistance with translation services if English is not your first language.
Here are some cases we have handled and won:
- $5,500,000 — Our client sustained a spinal cord injury and mild TBI in a rollover trucking accident while working.
- $5,000,000 — A husband and wife were having a lovely day when a work truck ran a red light and T-boned their car. Disputes over the incident and their injuries arose during the process. We won after 2 years in court.
- $5,000,000 — Our client, who was in the crosswalk, was struck by a large truck. We successfully won the case despite the truck company trying to blame him for being on his phone, resulting in a mild traumatic brain injury.
Our dedicated semi-truck accident attorneys in Los Angeles have successfully assisted many victims in getting the highest possible reparation for their injuries. They will tirelessly advocate for you, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Contact (888) 488-1391 today for a risk-free case evaluation.
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 infamous for its congested roads, especially during rush hours, making accidents more likely. Furthermore, the city’s mix of congested commercial and residential areas makes 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.
When semi-truck accidents happen, the complexities multiply. These 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 complicated process, affecting how claims are processed. Our truck accident lawyers in Los Angeles can thoroughly investigate the accident, pinpoint all parties at fault, and gather the evidence necessary to support your case.
- Regulatory Challenges — Many laws at the federal, state, and local levels dictate trucking operations, such as vehicle size, weight limits, driver qualifications, and maintenance requirements. Violations of these rules can complicate liability issues.
- Insurance Complications — Trucking companies usually have significant insurance coverage, but disputes can arise regarding policy limits, exclusions, and liability, which can slow down the settlement process.
- 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 seen the devastating consequences these crashes can have on victims.
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 also plays a crucial role in how long it takes to resolve a claim and whether court intervention is needed.
Having a knowledgeable attorney specializing in semi-truck accidents in Los Angeles can make a significant difference. At Arash Law, our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way after an accident involving a semi-truck. We’ll navigate you through the complexities of the claims process and advocate fiercely to ensure you achieve the most favorable outcome possible.
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 pinpointed several truck categories and how they can increase the likelihood of collisions in this area:
- Large Freight Trucks — Commonly known as 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, or tractor-trailers, these commercial vehicles transport cargo and require expert 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 frequent freeways and present 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.
Hiring one of our Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyers can significantly bolster your case. These legal professionals possess the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of trucking regulations and liability issues. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form to see if you can pursue compensation.
Truck Accident?
Understanding The Triggers Behind Semi-Truck Accidents In Los Angeles
California has garnered a notorious reputation, ranking high among states for trucking accidents and fatalities. Insights from our dedicated team of Los Angeles semi-truck accident attorneys at Arash Law reveal that several factors often underlie these unfortunate events, including the following:
- Dangerous Cargo — Loads that are not adequately secured can lead to disastrous consequences. If cargo shifts or falls during travel, it can create 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 trigger catastrophic 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, leading to dangerous sideswipe situations.
- The Speed Trap — In a rush to meet tight delivery schedules, drivers might exceed speed limits, increasing the risk of T-bone accidents and making the roadway unsafe for themselves and others.
- The Distracted Driver — Long driving stretches can cause distractions. According to the FMCSA, nearly 28% of large truck accidents are due to “recognition” issues, where drivers are inattentive or distracted.
- Maintenance Issues — An inadequately maintained vehicle may become a ticking time bomb for accidents due to mechanical failures.
- Overworked And Exhausted Drivers — Truck drivers often face pressure to meet tight schedules, which can lead to fatigue and compromise their ability to drive safely.
- Substance Use Behind the Wheel — Some truck drivers may dangerously drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, leading to tragic 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. The at-fault parties can then be made to answer for their mistakes and give reparation to the injured victims.
Determining Who Is Liable In A Semi Truck Accident
Dealing with the repercussions of a trucking accident can be a challenging and expensive experience. It’s essential to understand that multiple parties could be held accountable for the damages you’ve suffered. The challenge lies in untangling the web of responsibility, emphasizing the need for an immediate and thorough investigation.
Here are some potential players who might be liable for your injuries and losses:
- Driver — The truck driver is an obvious 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 Agencies — 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, connect with a reputable law firm for a complimentary consultation. To maximize your recovery and secure a significant settlement, having the experienced legal support of one of the best personal injury law firms in California is essential.
Call our Los Angeles semi truck accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 and get a free case evaluation.
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 has the right to pursue a personal injury claim against the negligent truck operator. However, to succeed in such 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 prove the following elements of negligence:
- Duty Of Care — The truck driver has a legal obligation to ensure the safety of other road users. This includes being vigilant for pedestrians, other vehicles, and obstacles, controlling the truck’s movement and speed, and exercising the highest degree of care 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, and other economic and non-economic losses.
Conversely, all drivers, including those in passenger vehicles, owe a duty of care to truck drivers. 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, and their recoverable damages may be reduced accordingly.
What To Do After A Semi-Truck Accident
After experiencing a serious accident involving a truck or any other type of vehicle, it’s crucial to follow these steps promptly:
- 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 immediately 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 the police are not taking photos, request that they do. 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, ensure that your vehicle is not repaired or disposed of until you have consulted with a lawyer. This vehicle could be a vital piece of evidence.
- Consult An Attorney — Trucking companies employ seasoned legal teams to minimize their liability. Therefore, it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side. They can coordinate with investigators, preserve critical evidence, and communicate with all relevant parties, including truck companies, insurance firms, police, and medical providers. In cases involving fatalities, a personal injury lawyer may also pursue a wrongful death claim.
These steps will help protect your rights and strengthen your position in any subsequent legal proceedings. If you or someone you know has been affected by negligence in a trucking accident, having a skilled Los Angeles semi-truck accident attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome 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
Recoverable Costs In Truck Accidents
In legal terms, the expenses you incur due to a truck accident are called “damages.” These fall into two categories:
- Economic Damages — Tangible losses that are easily proven with receipts and invoices, such as:
- Medical Expenses — Ambulance fees, surgeries, prescriptions, etc.
- Lost Wages — Income lost due to 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 warrant higher compensation. Additionally, if the defendant was grossly negligent, you might also be awarded punitive damages.
Having skilled Los Angeles semi truck accident lawyers can make a substantial difference in your case by ensuring all damages are accounted for and fighting for fair compensation. If necessary, they can take your case to court to secure the best possible outcome.
Understanding The Deadline For Filing A Truck Accident Lawsuit In California
In California, there are specific deadlines that dictate how long you have to file 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 obtain 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 after a truck accident, the timeframe is three years from 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 resulting from a semi-truck accident in Los Angeles. Generally, courts are strict about these deadlines and do not grant extensions or second chances.
To ensure you have a solid case and to protect your right to compensation, it is advisable to seek the guidance of our Los Angeles semi truck accident lawyers. They will help you navigate the complexities of your situation and keep you informed of critical deadlines.
Some Truck Accident Statistics
Here are some important truck accident statistics:
- In 2022, there were 4,764 fatalities in large truck crashes, with 17% being truck occupants, 66% in passenger vehicles, and 16% pedestrians, bicyclists, or riders in motorcycle accidents. This number was 51% higher than in 2009, which recorded the lowest number of deaths since 1975. Deaths among truck occupants have risen by 83% since 2009.
- Since 1975, death rates for passengers and large truck occupants per truck mile traveled have significantly decreased but stabilized around 2009. In 2022, large truck crashes made up 11% of all motor vehicle crash deaths.
- In 2022, large truck crashes accounted for 11% of all motor vehicle crash deaths. 73% of these large truck deaths involved tractor-trailers, while 28% involved single-unit trucks. Some crashes included both types of vehicles.
- In the same year, 61% of large truck occupants killed in multiple-vehicle crashes were involved in collisions with another large truck.
- During the same period, 49% of deaths in large truck crashes happened on major roads, 35% on interstates and freeways, and 16% on minor roads.
- Around 17% of large truck crash deaths happened on weekends, while 36% of deaths from other crashes occurred on those days for the year 2022.
- Concurrently, in that year, 96% of people killed in crashes between a passenger vehicle and a large truck were in the passenger vehicles.
- In 2022, rollover crashes were responsible for a significant portion of large truck occupant deaths, accounting for 50%. This figure surpassed the SUV rollover accident death percentages for SUV and pickup occupants and was notably higher than the 21% for car occupants. Additionally, 56% of large truck occupant deaths occurred in single-vehicle crashes, compared to 45% for occupants of passenger vehicles.
- Seat belt use was observed in 44% of large truck drivers who died in 2022, which was comparable to 45% of drivers of passenger cars who died.
- In 2022, 32% of passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes with large trucks were in head-on collisions, 25% were side-struck, and 21% involved the passenger vehicle hitting the truck’s rear.
Frequently Asked Questions
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. Various laws govern these trucks, so if you’re involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to hire a skilled commercial truck accident attorney who specializes in these cases to ensure you receive proper representation.
How Much Do Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers Cost?
In Los Angeles, most semi-truck accident attorneys generally charge similar fees based on the prevailing legal market. Most personal injury lawyers operate on a contingency fee arrangement, typically ranging from 33% to 40% of the total settlement or award. This means you won’t need to pay any upfront costs. However, those with proven expertise and successful case histories often distinguish themselves from their peers.
Our team of semi-truck accident attorneys in Los Angeles follows a “No Win, No Fee” model. This means that our legal fees are only deducted from the final settlement or award we secure for you. If we don’t win your case, there are no fees. This allows you to pursue your claims with peace of mind.
We have successfully advocated for our clients, achieving $750 million in settlements and awards. Our primary goal is to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.
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 better evaluate the true worth of your claim and enhance the likelihood of receiving 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 immediately, even if you don’t feel much pain at first. Sometimes, the full extent of injuries or discomfort may not become apparent right away. Prioritizing your health and taking precautions is always a smart choice.
What Is The Typical Settlement Amount For Semi-Truck Accident Claims?
It’s normal to ask, “What’s the average settlement for truck accidents?” However, determining an average amount for semi-truck accident settlements in California is tough because each case is different.
Compensation from a truck accident lawsuit 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 will 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 settlement amount.
- Legal Fees — The cost of hiring experienced one of the best truck accident lawyers in California.
In general, more serious truck accident cases result in higher settlements. Our Los Angeles semi truck accident attorneys aim to secure the best possible compensation for you and are ready to take your case to court if necessary.
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 a year. If a fair settlement isn’t reached or a claim is denied, victims may need to file a lawsuit within two years of the accident. While many cases settle before trial, some can drag on for years due to information exchanges and court schedules. After a semi-truck collision, it’s wise to consult experienced Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyers, like those at Arash Law, who can negotiate for fair compensation on your behalf.
Protect Your Rights By Hiring The Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers Los Angeles Trusts
After a semi-truck accident, you may wonder, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer? You deserve a trusted advocate who prioritizes your well-being. We handle all semi-truck crash cases on a contingency basis — meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you.
Don’t navigate this complex process alone. Reach out today to speak with an experienced Los Angeles semi-truck accident attorney who will fight tirelessly on your behalf. As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, Arash Law is dedicated to ensuring maximum financial recovery. In fact, we’ve secured over half a billion dollars in settlements and awards for our clients. We can help you, too.
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 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 the rest of California.
Schedule your free consultation and allow us to help you get the justice and financial support you deserve. With convenient office locations throughout California, we’re here for you when you need us most. Contact us now!
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