Merced County Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our Merced County Truck Accident Lawyers Guide You Through Your Legal Options
It is common to come across massive vehicles in Merced County, whether they are busy towing, making deliveries, or serving the needs of the area’s growing agricultural and manufacturing industries. While these trucks play a vital role in our economy, accidents can happen and often result in property damage, bodily injuries, and other trauma. Dealing with the effects of these accidents may require the assistance of Merced County truck accident lawyers. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 to start your free initial consultation.
Agriculture is a major player in Merced County. With over half of the land being a fertile plain cultivated by the Chowchilla, San Joaquin, and Merced Rivers, the county is the fifth-largest agricultural hub in California. The demand for farming is substantial, driven by the significant revenue it generates from commercial dairies and crops grown in notable quantities, including poultry, beef, almonds, and tomatoes. This booming agricultural setting presents a challenge to the roadways, contributing to truck accidents due to heightened demand and activity.
An 18-wheeler traveling at 60 miles per hour has the potential for greater destruction than other vehicles, and a single mistake on the road can ruin the day for everyone nearby. When truck drivers aren’t paying attention, they might not notice that traffic has come to a stop up ahead. This lack of awareness can lead to devastating accidents if the truck doesn’t have enough space to stop in time, as these vehicles have slower acceleration and longer braking distances. Injuries like internal bleeding, broken bones, burns, and disfigurement are just some of the severe consequences of negligent truck driving.
Our lawyers, who handle big rig accidents, are ready to represent you and your interests in and out of court. Proving fault involves demonstrating that the truck driver failed to exercise care and caution on the road, resulting in negligence and harm. Merced County truck accident lawyers work to establish negligence in different driving situations and help clients pursue a legal claim for the damage they incurred. Schedule a consultation with Arash Law by calling the number above or completing our online form.
Paz v. Airfax Logistics (settled on 5/26/2020) – settlement in a case involving a client who was involved in a trucking accident and sustained a traumatic brain injury and other trauma.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Why Is It Beneficial To Have Merced County Lawyers Handle A Truck Accident Case?
Having skilled Merced County truck accident lawyers by your side can be helpful for determining who might be responsible for your accident. Trying to handle the claim independently increases the risk of overlooking certain factors of your case.
You may also need to file multiple claims if multiple parties could be at fault for your injuries. Negotiating with one adjuster is already challenging, but it can become a nightmare when you have to juggle three or four adjusters while recovering from injuries and managing bills.
Lawyers can manage the legal aspects of your claim, allowing you to concentrate on your rehabilitation without the added stress of handling complicated legal negotiations. Our Merced County truck accident attorneys will advocate for your rights and deal with insurers during negotiations.
Truck Accident Statistics In Merced County
Truck accidents are often seen as highly dangerous. Despite the inherent risks of large trucks, the majority of truck collisions don’t end in fatalities. According to the 2020 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) data, there were 4,444 fatal accidents involving large trucks out of 415,444 truck collisions. While fatal truck accidents aren’t frequent, they still claim thousands of lives each year. In 2021, the number rose to 5,788 deaths, up from 4,945 in 2020. When truck drivers are in a collision, it’s often the other drivers who lose their lives.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported in 2021 that a striking 72% of people who died in accidents involving large trucks were not in the truck at the time of the incident. The significant size difference between trucks and other vehicles on the road explains why individuals in smaller cars are more likely to suffer fatal outcomes. A study by FMCSA showed that rural settings like Merced County accounted for 55% of fatal truck accidents, with only 45% occurring in urban areas. Dimly lit country roads can heighten driver fatigue, and the more open nature of these areas makes truck drivers more inclined to speed.
Given these alarming statistics, it may be beneficial for collision victims in rural areas, like Merced County, to seek guidance from truck accident lawyers with local knowledge. At Arash Law, we see differences in road conditions and understand the regulations in Merced County. We will guide you through the legal aspects of your truck accident case.
What Are The Types Of Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents come in various forms, each as unique as the different kinds of trucks on the road. Here are some of the common types:
- Jackknife Accidents — These happen when the trailer of a truck swings sideways to the vehicle, often causing the trailer to collide with a car in the adjacent lane.
- Rollover Accidents — Given their high center of gravity, commercial, semi-truck, and 18-wheeler trucks are prone to rollovers, especially when driving on curves or if the driver overcorrects a steering mistake.
- Cargo Spills — These accidents, like a spill of 2,000 gallons of gasoline on the road, can be hazardous. Sometimes, it’s the fault of the trucking company, not just the driver.
- Override and Underride Accidents — An override accident occurs when a truck drives over the car’s roof in front of it, while an underride accidents happen when a smaller car gets trapped underneath the truck.
There are many other possible types of accidents, and it’s essential to note that not all are the truck driver’s fault. Merced County truck accident attorneys at Arash Law can help gather evidence to identify who may be liable and guide you through the claims process after an accident.
How Do Truck Accidents Happen?
Operating a truck is no easy feat, requiring specialized training and testing to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Despite the rigorous training that truck operators typically undergo, serious accidents can still occur due to negligence. Here are several reasons why truck accidents happen:
Fatigue Among Truck Drivers
One frequently cited cause of collisions between big rigs and smaller vehicles is driver fatigue. Meeting tight delivery deadlines often pressures truck operators to stay on the road for extended periods.
An infamous example is the truck accident involving comedian Tracy Morgan, where a Wal-Mart 18-wheeler collided with his party limo bus, resulting in multiple deaths and severe injuries. The investigation revealed that the truck operator had been driving for over 24 hours without taking a break.
Overspeeding
Another significant cause of serious truck accidents is speeding. Big rigs, being much larger than regular cars, take longer to slow down. If a big rig operator is speeding and doesn’t apply the brakes in time, it can result in a deadly collision, especially in congested traffic or when traffic conditions change.
Getting Distracted While Driving
In addition to fatigue and speeding, distracted driving is a common cause of truck collisions. Like many drivers of smaller vehicles, some big rig operators may check their phones and text while driving despite regulations prohibiting handheld devices on the road. It’s important to remember that this also applies to other motorists, as they can also cause collisions when distracted.
The Use Of Drugs Or Alcohol While Driving (DUI)
Distracted driving, as well as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, contributes to serious accidents involving big rigs and other vehicles. The misuse of prescription drugs and stimulants can cause impairment, affecting a driver’s ability to operate any vehicle — whether it’s a commercial truck or a standard passenger car.
Inadequate Maintenance
In some cases, accidents aren’t caused by operator negligence but by negligent maintenance. Truck companies may neglect to maintain essential components like brakes and tires. This neglect poses the risk of sudden malfunctions, which may lead to the big rig swerving into oncoming traffic or jackknifing and causing a major wreck.
In Merced County, victims of truck collisions may need legal representation that understands and has experience handling the complicated process of truck accident cases. Our Merced County truck accident lawyers can assess your case, gather evidence, and help protect your right to pursue a fair financial resolution.
What Makes Truck Accidents Unique?
In a truck accident, things work differently than in regular traffic collisions. One big difference is that more than one party might be responsible for your injuries and losses. In a regular two-car collision, it’s just the other driver you’d point fingers at. But in a big rig accident, multiple parties could be in the spotlight. The truck operator, the trucking company, or even the manufacturer of the big rig could be held responsible for what happened to you.
Our Merced County truck accident lawyers recognize the unique aspects of truck accidents and have experience handling cases involving multiple parties.
Can Employers Be Held Liable For Their Drivers’ Negligence?
If an employee messes up on the job, their employer can be held responsible. This legal idea says that if an employee is being careless while working, the employer may take the blame for any harm caused by the employee’s carelessness. However, some trucking companies are calling their truck operators independent contractors. In such cases, the process of determining liability may become more complicated.
Our Merced truck accident lawyers handle cases involving employer liability and driver negligence, including issues related to employment classification.
What Are The Common Injuries Sustained In Truck Accidents In Merced County?
Injuries from truck accidents are often serious because these big vehicles carry a lot of force. Here are some common injuries the victims sustain:
- Bone Fractures — If your bones break through the skin (compound fracture), you might need traction and several surgeries.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — These can be painful, like whiplash. It can also involve sprains and tears in your muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
- Burns — Severe burn injuries (third and fourth-degree) can leave you permanently disfigured.
- Traumatic Brain Injury — A hit to the head, or any type of brain injury accident, can lead to temporary or permanent brain damage.
- Spine Injuries — Spinal cord injuries can result in paralysis or long-lasting, constant pain.
- Internal Injuries — Since our bodies are soft and vehicles are made of metal, damaged organs often need surgery.
Besides physical injuries, you might also face mental health issues and psychological trauma like PTSD. If the accident caused physical injury as well as psychological trauma, further treatment may be necessary.
In the worst cases, there’s even the heartbreaking possibility of wrongful death. In California, eligible family members can file a wrongful death claim or lawsuit if someone else’s wrongful actions caused a loved one’s death. They may also be able to seek damages for psychological suffering, like the loss of companionship.
Arash Law’s truck accident attorneys in Merced County are committed to advocating for your rights following a collision. We acknowledge that the impact of a truck accident extends beyond physical injuries. Whether you or your loved one is facing physical injuries, psychological trauma, or heartbreaking loss, our truck accident attorneys can help you explore your possible legal options.
Limited Amount Of Time To File A Truck Accident Lawsuit
If you or a family member got seriously hurt in a truck accident, you’ve got a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit. In Merced County and throughout California, you typically have two years to file your claim. This timeframe is relatively short, and delaying can compromise your ability to seek compensation for the damages and losses incurred. However, certain exceptions may apply, particularly when the victim is a minor or there is a delayed discovery of injuries. In such scenarios, the time limit may be adjusted.
Over time, evidence may be lost, and memories may fade. Consulting with our Merced County truck accident lawyers can help preserve evidence and relevant information that is important in building a well-supported case. We can also explain the importance of these legal deadlines and how they can affect your case.
What Should I Do After My Truck Accident In Merced County?
After a truck accident occurs in Merced County, maintaining composure can be challenging. There are some steps you can take that can help protect your claim if you decide to pursue one after an accident:
- Notify Law Enforcement — Report the truck accident to the Merced County Police Department. Call 911, providing essential details to the dispatcher to facilitate the appropriate response.Find out what details should be included in an official accident report.
- Seek Urgent Medical Attention — If serious injuries are present or if there are life-threatening conditions, seek emergency medical assistance immediately. Communicate the urgency for help when reporting the accident to 911. Obtain medical attention soon after leaving the scene to document injuries and promptly estimate future treatment costs.
- Document the Scene — Take photos of the entire accident site, the positions of all involved vehicles, injuries sustained by you and any passengers, vehicle damage, and any relevant environmental conditions, such as weather.
- Exchange Information — Exchange contact information with the other driver(s) while waiting for the police. Gather details like full names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and auto insurance information. Additionally, collect the truck driver’s employer’s information.
- Interview Witnesses — Engage with witnesses who may have observed the accident. Obtain their names and contact details, understanding that your truck accident lawyers may follow up with them later for additional information.
- Exercise Caution in Communication — Be mindful of your statements after the accident, and refrain from apologizing or admitting fault. Exercise composure, even when emotionally affected, as statements can be used against you.
- Appraise Vehicle Damage — Hold off on vehicle repairs until you clear it with your insurance company and have the damage appraised. Internal damage may exist despite external appearances, and knowing the extent of property damage is crucial.
- Adhere to Medical Instructions — Follow your doctor’s guidance for treatment and attend scheduled follow-up appointments. Consistent adherence to your medical provider is critical when pursuing compensation for medical costs. It shows the insurance company the extent of your injuries and suffering and helps discourage them from being non-compliant and using delaying tactics to reduce compensation.
- Consult Truck Accident Lawyers in Merced County — Regardless of the specifics of the accident, our Merced County truck accident lawyers can help you understand your legal options. We can analyze your case, guide you on necessary actions, and comply with California’s two-year deadline for filing insurance claims.
Do I Still Need To Hire Merced County Truck Accident Lawyers Even If I Get A Settlement Offer?
Even if you receive a settlement offer, it may still be beneficial to consult an accident attorney. Some cases don’t settle after the initial offer, and usually, negotiations may be necessary.
Our Merced County truck accident lawyers can help assess your damages and determine whether the settlement offer reflects your losses. If not, we can help negotiate for a fair payout.
What Types Of Compensation Are Available In A Truck Accident Claim?
Our Merced County truck accident lawyers can assist you in keeping track of all the ways your injury affects you. Depending on your specific circumstances, you may be able to seek these damages:
- Immediate Medical Bills — This covers the initial costs of emergency medical care, hospitalization, surgeries, and any immediate treatment received right after the accident.
- Ongoing Medical Expenses — Ongoing medical expenses include the costs of follow-up appointments, rehabilitation, medication, and any necessary medical interventions.
- Long-Term Care — Some accidents may result in injuries that necessitate long-term or even lifelong care. This can include ongoing medical treatments, assistance with daily activities, and support for any lasting effects of the injuries sustained.
- Support and Care During Rehabilitation — Injuries from a truck accident may require additional assistance when you’re getting back to health. This could involve hiring caregivers, transportation assistance, or modifications to the living environment to accommodate physical limitations.
- Pain and Suffering — Beyond the actual costs, compensation for pain and suffering addresses the physical and emotional distress experienced due to the accident. This includes factors such as trauma, anxiety, and the overall impact on the individual’s quality of life.
- Lost Wages — Many individuals face a period off work due to injuries sustained in a truck accident. Compensation for lost wages aims to reimburse income not earned during rehabilitation.
- Reduced Ability to Earn — In cases where the injuries lead to a long-term or permanent impact on the ability to work, compensation may be sought to account for the reduced earning capacity over the individual’s lifetime.
- Changes to Your Lifestyle — The alterations in day-to-day life resulting from the accident, such as the inability to engage in certain activities, modifications to living arrangements, or the need for assistive devices, are considered when seeking compensation.
Compensation in truck accident cases may cover a range of losses, including physical, emotional, and financial impacts. Our truck accident lawyers in Merced County can evaluate your case and help you navigate the claims process. If your case goes to trial, we can present documented injuries and losses during legal proceedings.
Verdict for a client who was sideswiped by a commercial truck
– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
When Do You Need Truck Accident Lawyers In Merced County?
It is advisable to consult Merced County truck accident lawyers right after the accident. If they are able to manage your case early on, it would allow them to gather crucial evidence and documents that can support your case.
Your attorney can dig into the details of your case, explaining your legal standing and the various types of compensation that may be available to you based on the specifics of your case. They will then put together a counteroffer for the insurance or trucking company, backed up with proper documentation justifying your losses due to the accident. Merced County truck accident lawyers can advocate for your interests during negotiations.
Reach Out To Our Merced County Truck Accident Lawyers At Arash Law
Truck accidents can cause severe injuries and significant financial burdens to the victims. The legal process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies and complicated legal procedures. At Arash Law, we provide free initial consultations to assist truck accident victims in grasping the validity of their cases and the potential compensation they may be able to pursue.
Our legal team is ready to work for you without charging lawyer fees unless we obtain compensation on your behalf. Simply put, you only pay for our services if we are successful with your case. Nevertheless, you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs regardless of the outcome. We will clarify this fee structure during your consultation.
With years of experience handling truck accident cases, our attorneys are familiar with the laws and complexities that are relevant to these claims. We will evaluate your claim and help you make informed decisions. We are committed to assisting you throughout the claims process.
We offer our legal services throughout California, including Merced County and its neighboring areas like Atwater, Livingston, Merced City, Los Banos, Turlock, Chowchilla, Ceres, Patterson, Modesto, Riverbank, Oakdale, Mendota, Madera, Ripon, and Hollister. You can reach out to us for your questions and concerns at any time of the day. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for more information on how we can help you.
