Napa County Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our Truck Accident Lawyers In Napa County Turn Injured Victims Into Victors
Do you need help in seeking justice and compensation as a truck crash victim? We have the expertise you need to win your case. Contact our Napa County truck accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 today for a free initial consultation.
Napa County is a picturesque region where vineyards and untouched nature sprawl for thousands of miles. Tourists and locals can enjoy activities like tasting world-class wine in Napa Valley. You can also go on a hike on Mt. George to see a waterfall, some wildflowers, and a silver mine. Its beautiful views are also a treat for the cars and trucks going through its highways.
However, truck accidents often disturb the tranquility of these roads. These heavy vehicles traveling along the State Route 29 freeway or SR 221 are responsible for various injuries and fatalities in Napa County. Truck collisions often result in the most devastating consequences for anyone involved. Victims may suffer from severe injuries, property damage, and even death. There are thousands of these cases annually. This highlights the need for legal support and advocacy for the injured.
Don’t know what to do if you’re a victim of a truck wreck? Start by filling out our contact form to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorneys.
Suarez v. Premium Packing (settled on 9/26/2023) – settlement involving a man who sustained multiple orthopedic injures and a mild traumatic brain injury when he was run over by a food truck.– TINA ESHGHIEH
How Can Our Napa County Truck Accident Lawyers Recover Your Losses?
Our personal injury lawyers in Napa County take pride in our track record of success. We have unwavering dedication to achieving the best outcome possible. This helped us recover over $750 Million in compensation for our clients. With our help, you can also claim all the damages owed to you.
Here’s what we’ll do to recover the compensation you deserve:
Evaluate The Specifics Of Your Accident
Our Napa County lawyers specializing in truck accidents know what to look for when analyzing an accident. We understand that each case is unique, so we’ll consider factors like:
- Actions of all parties involved
- Your losses
- Road conditions
- Weather
Investigate Your Case Thoroughly
Our lawyers will review all the circumstances surrounding your injury, leaving no stone unturned. We’ll initiate a comprehensive evidence-gathering process involving:
- Examining photographs and videos of the scene
- Contacting witnesses and reviewing their statements
- Visiting the accident scene to document road conditions, signage, and other possible flaws
- Looking at other factors that may have played a role in the crash
Demand Accountability From All Responsible Parties
Our attorneys will identify all negligent parties who contributed to your injuries. We will then review their insurance information to determine the extent of coverage for your claim. Additionally, we won’t hesitate to sue any parties who will try to deny liability. We believe in holding all responsible individuals or companies accountable for their wrongful actions.
Prepare Comprehensive Documentation
Documentation is critical in maximizing your claim. Our lawyers will meticulously review and secure essential documents and evidence, such as:
- Hospital records
- Police reports
- Accident reconstruction reports
- Expert opinions
- Driver and truck maintenance records
- Black box data
We aim to establish the negligence of other parties using these documents. Also, we will demonstrate the extent of your injuries and all medical treatments you received.
Negotiate With Insurance Companies
Arash Law will handle all communications and negotiations on your behalf. This ensures we can protect your rights throughout the process. We’ll seek the highest compensation you can get. You should receive a fair amount that will cover your medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Take Your Case To Court
If we can’t reach a fair settlement with the insurance company, we’re fully prepared to file a lawsuit. Our Napa County attorneys will use all we’ve learned about your truck accident and every applicable law to present a compelling case.
Why Do You Need Truck Accident Lawyers In Napa County?
Did you know you can file a claim without a lawyer? However, it’s a risky move. You must consider several factors to ensure your rights are protected and you get paid for all the damages incurred in the accident. Here are the most compelling reasons why you must work with lawyers after a truck accident in Napa County, California:
- Complicated Truck Accident Cases – Incidents involving big rigs and heavy vehicles can be incredibly complicated. You usually have to navigate multiple layers of liability in these cases.
- Specific Napa County Laws – Lawyers have a deep understanding of Napa County laws and regulations related to truck accidents. Our team leverages this knowledge to build a strong case and pursue fair compensation for your injuries.
- Insurance Tactics – Insurance companies will take advantage of you in every way possible. They’ll fake an amicable relationship with you to bring your guard down. However, their job isn’t to help you. They will use dishonest tactics to minimize payout or deny your claim. You need a skilled legal team who will challenge them and guide you so you won’t fall for their schemes.
- Peace Of Mind – Dealing with the consequences of a truck accident is straining on the body and mind. By hiring experienced Napa County truck accident lawyers, you can be at ease knowing that your case is in capable hands. You can focus on your recovery instead.
- Maximum Compensation – Without a lawyer, you may get less than what you deserve. Insurance companies will lowball you, and other at-fault parties may intimidate you.
What To Do After A Truck Accident In Napa County
It’s crucial to know what to do in a truck accident. Knowing the right move can help secure your safety and make your compensation claim stronger. Follow our recommended steps below.
- First, try to collect yourself and keep your mind clear. Then, move to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further accidents.
- Check yourself and others for any injuries. Pay attention to those who might be affected by the accident the most.
- Call the emergency services in Napa County. Wait for the authorities and medical personnel to arrive. Police reports are valuable in filing claims and lawsuits.
- Get yourself checked by the paramedics, even if you suspect your wounds are insignificant. You’ll need to establish in your claim that the accident caused your injuries. Doing this is also vital for your well-being. Some seemingly minor ailments can mask underlying severe symptoms. They can also develop into more serious issues over time.
- Document the scene by taking photos and videos. Highlight your visible injuries, vehicle damage, and the road conditions. This documentation is useful evidence for your compensation claim.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and other involved parties. Collect the details of any witnesses, as well.
- Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide accurate details of the incident. But don’t provide any more than the facts.
- That said, make sure you don’t express your opinions or feelings about the accident. Never admit fault or apologize.
- Contact our experienced lawyers for truck accidents in Napa County. We will build you a strong case for maximum compensation.
Common Types Of Truck Accident Cases In Napa County
Napa County’s unique terrain and transportation routes make big rig accidents particularly risky. The Silverado Trail, in particular, regularly sees fatalities. In October 2023, a head-on collision with a truck left a car driver dead and a passenger injured. In the same month, a Freightliner carrying lumber killed two bicyclists.
Unfortunately, our truck accident lawyers in Napa County often deal with similar cases. We’ve represented victims of incidents like the following:
Jackknife Accidents
These accidents happen when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side. It forms an angle resembling the shape of a folding jackknife. This often happens due to misalignment, leading to loss of control. Such cases can involve numerous vehicles, mainly if they occur in multiple highway lanes.
Rollover Accidents
A truck may roll over if its high center of gravity abruptly shifts. This usually leads to catastrophic injuries, especially when it tips over onto smaller vehicles or even pedestrians. Factors like speeding, sharp turns, and uneven road surfaces contribute to these accidents. Partially full tanker trucks are particularly vulnerable to rollovers due to the moving weight of the liquid.
Tire Blowouts
Many often confuse a blowout with a flat tire. However, these two terms have different definitions and resulting damages. A flat tire results from a gradual pressure loss. On the other hand, blowouts are sudden explosions. They can lead to the loss of control of an 80,000-pound vehicle and devastating crashes.
Blindspot
Trucks have larger blind spots than regular vehicles. This makes it challenging for the driver to see their immediate surroundings. Accidents can occur when they fail to see a pedestrian, car, or other road user while changing lanes and making turns.
Head-On Collisions
Two vehicles colliding head-on can be disastrous, especially if they involve 18-wheeler trucks. The combined force of both vehicles’ speeds creates a powerful impact. That’s why these accidents often result in fatalities if the other vehicle involved is significantly smaller. Our Napa County truck accident lawyers know just how devastating head-on crashes are to the victims.
T-Bone Accidents
A motor vehicle crashing into the side of another one, forming a “T” shape, is a T-bone accident. These cases often result from running red lights or failure to yield the right of way. Such collisions can be catastrophic if a truck runs into a smaller car. The lack of structural protection on the sides of a regular vehicle is dangerous for its passengers.
Side-swipes
Two vehicles running parallel to each other may accidentally make contact on their sides. Side-swipe incidents can happen due to improper merging, failing to use a signal light, or drifting out of the lane. Some cases can result in minor damages, but those involving trucks can escalate into dangerous situations.
Common Causes Of Napa County Truck Accidents
Truck drivers regularly face unique challenges on the road. That’s why they must have a Commercial Driver’s License first to operate big rigs. However, no amount of training or certification can prevent accidents. Our truck accident lawyers often see incidents in Napa County caused by one or more of the following reasons:
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Truck drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose significant danger on the road. They can hurt themselves and others due to impaired judgment, reduced reaction times, and compromised decision-making skills.
Texting While Driving
California bans all individuals from using a handheld phone while driving as per Vehicle Code 23123. This law applies to all drivers and not just those operating bigger vehicles. Using the phone is a form of distracted driving that diverts attention from the road, leading to accidents. Unfortunately, our truck accident lawyers still encounter cases in Napa County where a victim gets injured because the trucker was texting.
Failure To Comply With Cargo Safety Measures
There are specific safety requirements for trucks because of their size and the weight they carry. In California, commercial vehicles with cargo must adhere to load securement regulations outlined in the following:
- Code of Federal Regulations (Title 49 – Transportation, Parts 393.100 to 393.136)
- The state’s Code of Regulations (Title 13, Division 2, Chapter 7)
The state also imposes size and weight limits on commercial vehicles as per the California Vehicle Code Weight Sections 35550 to 35558. The general rule is that trucks have a maximum combined weight of 80,000 pounds.
Many truckers fail to comply, particularly with the weight limits. Some companies try to put as much cargo on the bed or trailer as a cost-cutting attempt. This increases the risks of cargo spills and tire blowouts, which may then cause accidents.
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers are particularly prone to fatigue because of the long distances they travel. Sometimes, tight schedules can also force them to skip on sleep. However, exhaustion leads to decreased alertness and slower reaction times. These factors can put the trucker and others on the road at a greater risk for accidents.
There are regulations in place to combat this issue. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces the maximum number of hours a truck driver can operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) within a certain period. Some of the regulations that the Hours of Service impose are:
- Thirty-minute driving breaks after eight hours of consecutive driving,
- Driving limit of 11 hours after 10 hours off duty, and
- Driving limit of 60 or 70 hours over seven or eight days.
Forcing a driver to go beyond these limits may put the liability on the company, and our Napa County truck accident lawyers will ensure they’ll be held accountable if that’s the case.
Violating Traffic Laws
Strict delivery deadlines, impatience, and lack of proper training can cause drivers to violate traffic laws. They may engage in speeding, using the wrong lane, or running red lights. These reckless driving behaviors highly endanger everyone on the road.
Poor Truck Maintenance
Trucks have greater maintenance needs because of these reasons:
- Have more parts than regular vehicles
- Carry heavier loads
- Frequently go on long drives
Poor maintenance can lead to equipment failures and malfunctions, potentially causing an accident. That’s why truckers and companies must strictly maintain their vehicles. The FMCSA also has specific inspection and maintenance reporting requirements.
Road Conditions
Some road conditions can be hazardous for heavier vehicles. They’re more susceptible to skidding or loss of control due to potholes, uneven surfaces, and debris. If the driver is unfamiliar with the Napa County roads, it can exponentially increase the risks of accidents.
Bad Weather
Napa County is an ideal place to visit year-round. Still, it gets occasional rainfall that can cause slippery road surfaces. This can significantly affect the truck driver’s ability to operate a heavy vehicle safely. There are also rare occurrences of snow, which can take truckers by surprise and further complicate driving.
Mechanical Failures
Auto defect accidents can occur unexpectedly, which may cause fatalities and injuries. They can be due to brake failure, steering malfunctions, engine problems, or defective tires. Some instances may be due to poor maintenance. However, we’ve also handled truck-related cases where the negligent party was the vehicle manufacturer.
Gil v. Anderson Plumbing: verdict by a Los Angeles County Superior Court jury in Van Nuys awarded to a man who was injured when his vehicle was struck from behind by a large commercial plumbing van. Benny was part of the trial team that obtained this verdict.– BENNY KHORSANDI
Most Common Injuries Sustained In A Truck Accident In Napa County
Truck traffic routes like the South Freeway Drive and Napa Valley Corporate Way can be dangerous places for accidents. These can lead to injuries like the following:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – These injuries occur because of forceful impact to the head. They can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. In latter cases, a victim may experience impaired cognitive function and motor skills.
- Burns – A truck accident may escalate into fires or explosions. These can result in burn injuries, ranging from first-degree to sixth-degree wounds.
- Lacerations – There’s usually a lot of flying debris, broken glass, and sharp metals in a collision. These can cause deep cuts or lacerations.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the spine often results in partial or complete paralysis. Victims may experience decreased or loss of mobility and sensation.
- Internal Organ Trauma – Powerful impact can cause injuries to the liver, spleen, and other vital organs. If not attended to immediately, it can lead to life-threatening complications.
- Amputations – The loss of a limb can happen in crashes and collisions. Sometimes, it can be a medical necessity if there is irreparable tissue damage from the incident.
- Psychological Issues – Our Napa County truck accident lawyers have also obtained compensation for mental and emotional trauma. These injuries aren’t apparent, but they can still be debilitating for the victim.
The level of care a victim needs depends on the severity of their injury. In turn, this dictates how much they have spent and will spend for recovery. If you or a loved one is suffering from an injury due to a truck wreck, you may be entitled to compensation.
Types Of Damages You Can Recover After A Truck Accident
Are you a victim of a truck accident? You can recover compensatory damages from the at-fault parties for all your losses, including economic and non-economic.
Economic damages are tangible losses. They’re easily quantifiable through bills, invoices, and receipts. These may include compensation for:
- Past, current, and future medical bills, hospitalization, and rehabilitation
- Medication and medical equipment
- Lost wages due to the inability to work
- Loss of earning potential due to the long-term effects of the injury
- Repair and replacement of property damaged during the accident
- Home modifications, round-the-clock care, childcare, and other necessary expenses
Meanwhile, non-economic damages are intangible losses. They aim to compensate victims for:
- Physical pain and suffering as a result of their injuries
- PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues
- Loss of ability to participate in activities and hobbies previously enjoyed by the victim
- Loss of affection, support, and companionship experienced by the victim’s family members
Non-economic damages are not easily calculable, but they’re still necessary for the victim’s recovery. Nevertheless, our truck accident lawyers in Napa County will quantify a dollar amount that will cover all your losses.
Who Is Liable In A Truck Accident In Napa County?
Our truck accident attorneys in Napa County have handled cases where liability extends to multiple parties. It all depends on the circumstances of your accident. Potentially responsible parties may include:
- The truck driver
- The driver’s employer if they violate safety protocols
- The owner of the truck or trailer if they were negligent in maintenance or repairs
- The manufacturer of the vehicle for a specific faulty part
- Other motorists on the road contributing to the accident
It can be complicated to determine liability without evidence and proper investigation. But you can rest easy knowing our Napa County truck accident lawyers will identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable.
Trucking Accident Statistics In Napa County, CA
The National Safety Council (NSC) 2021 data show an alarming fact: California is second in fatalities from large truck crashes. Napa County certainly contributed, as witnessed by our truck accident lawyers. According to the records,
- A total of 416 large truck crashes in California resulted in 437 fatalities. This made up 7% of the nationwide total.
- Truck occupants accounted for 48 (11%) deaths.
- Meanwhile, 328 (75%) fatalities were occupants of another vehicle, and 61 (14%) were non-occupants.
- Around 54% of fatal truck accidents happened in rural areas and 45% in urban settings. The location of 1% of the accidents is unknown.
A closer look at these statistics reveals that occupants of other vehicles were the majority of victims in crashes. Trucks have stronger structural integrity due to their size and weight. This becomes a dangerous factor when smaller vehicles become involved.
Napa County Truck Accident FAQs
What Should I Do If The Insurance Adjuster Keeps Calling Me?
We highly recommend directing all further communication to your attorney. Remember to always be tasteful in declining conversation. Also, avoid talking too much. Our truck accident attorneys are well aware of their tricks, so we advise our Napa County clients to do the following:
- Don’t provide any recorded statement.
- Don’t agree to any settlement without your lawyer.
- Write down details of your calls.
- Stick only to basic facts about the accident, such as location, time, and date.
When Do I Need An Attorney For A Truck Accident Claim?
Consult with an attorney as soon as possible after a truck accident. The California statute of limitations gives you only two years to file a personal injury claim. You may be forfeited from getting compensation if you don’t file within the allowable period. However, this comes with exceptions:
- The deadline will be delayed if the case involves a minor.
- The statute of limitations will be paused if the defendant is out of state, in prison, or mentally insane.
How Much Do Truck Accident Lawyers Charge In California?
Our law firm in Napa County typically works on a contingency fee basis. We don’t charge any upfront fees. We only get paid if we can successfully recover compensation for our clients. This is usually a percentage of the total amount recovered. Expect no surprises and hidden charges when it comes to us since our lawyers will outline the fees during your onboarding with us.
How Much Can I Get As Compensation?
The value of your compensation depends on the extent of your injuries, expenses, and losses. Each case is unique, so you must consult with our lawyers in Napa County, who specialize in truck accidents. We’ll evaluate your situation and determine the highest compensation possible.
Can I Sue If I Was Partially Responsible For The Truck Accident?
Yes, and you can still get compensation even if you were 99% at fault. California is a pure comparative negligence state, where the court distributes liability to all responsible parties. However, the amount you’ll get will be reduced by the percentage of your contribution to the accident.
Contact Our Napa County Truck Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation!
If you have injuries resulting from a truck accident in Napa County, don’t hesitate to reach out to our skilled lawyers. We have extensive experience representing victims in such incidents. With our commitment to protecting your rights, we’ll ensure we get the most favorable outcome.
Contact us at (888) 488-1391 or use our online form for a free initial consultation. Our dedicated legal team will answer all your questions and concerns.
Arash Law also provides its services in neighboring locations, including Sacramento, San Francisco, Elk Grove, Santa Rosa, Sonoma, Vallejo, Berkeley, Richmond, Stockton, Fairfield, San Rafael, Walnut Creek, Brentwood, Concord, Middletown, Vacaville, Lodi, Rancho Cordova, Roseville, Lincoln, and El Dorado Hills.
