Newport Beach Truck Accident Lawyers
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Newport Beach Truck Accident Lawyers Protecting Your Legal Interests After An Injury
Newport City’s economy continues to grow thanks to the hundreds of commercial trucks traveling daily on its roadways. With advantages, however, come the drawbacks. Aside from making the roads congested, these large vehicles can do a lot of damage when involved in accidents. If you are a victim of a truck accident, Arash Law’s Newport Beach truck accident lawyers can represent your interests. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for legal assistance in pursuing financial reparation for your injuries and losses.
In truck accidents, victims often suffer severe injuries and incur enormous costs. Led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our team of Newport Beach truck accident attorneys is prepared to take on your case. Arash Law can help you seek compensation from the potentially at-fault parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and others who are found to be involved. Our team can guide you throughout the legal process.
How Our Newport Beach Truck Accident Lawyers Handle Truck Accident Claims
Working with our Newport Beach truck accident lawyers who have experience in civil litigation may help your claim. With years of legal experience, we can guide you through the process, from case filing to resolution.
Our truck accident lawyers in Newport Beach are prepared to deal with any potential technical difficulties in truck accident cases. We can help with your case. If need be, we are prepared to go to trial to advocate on your behalf.
We also don’t bill our customers upfront. You will not pay any attorney fees unless we win your case. However, you may still be responsible for case-related costs regardless of the result. Taking on matters on a contingency fee basis, we only get a percentage of your final settlement award. That way, you don’t have to stress yourself out finding ways to get legal representation.
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
How Can Newport Beach Truck Accident Lawyers Help?
Traffic collisions involving commercial trucks tend to be more complicated than regular car accidents. Victims often face multiple parties, their insurance companies, and legal teams. As such, the legal process can get overwhelming. When facing such a daunting task, hiring truck accident lawyers in Newport Beach may be the first thing that comes to your mind. Specifically, they will:
- Investigate the Accident — Your Newport Beach truck accident attorneys will gather evidence and conduct thorough investigations to determine liability.
- Identify Responsible Parties — They work to identify the potential parties to blame, including trucking companies and drivers, and file a truck accident claim against them.
- Navigate Intricate Regulations — Your legal counsel has experience and knowledge in federal and state trucking regulations, which guide them in building well-supported cases.
- Negotiate with Insurance Providers — Your attorney will be the one to negotiate with insurance companies to seek compensation on your behalf.
- Pursue Legal Action — If a settlement isn’t reached, they file lawsuits and represent victims in court.
- Provide Legal Support — Your legal counsel also offers guidance and support during the entire legal process.
- Advocate for Your Rights — Your Newport Beach truck accident lawyers aim to protect your rights throughout the case.
Truck Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a large truck is defined as any medium or heavy truck, excluding buses and motor homes, with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) greater than 10,000 pounds. This includes both commercial and non-commercial vehicles. In 2021, 71% of the large trucks involved in fatal traffic crashes were heavy trucks (GVWR > 26,000 lbs.).
The following are key findings in their report:
- In 2021, there were 5,788 people killed in traffic crashes involving large trucks. This was a 17% increase from 4,945 in 2020.
- 72% of people killed in large-truck traffic crashes in 2021 were occupants of other vehicles.
- 78% of the fatal traffic crashes involving large trucks in 2021 occurred on weekdays (6 a.m. Monday to 5:59 p.m. Friday).
- Three percent of drivers of large trucks involved in fatal traffic crashes in 2021 had blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) of 0.08 grams per deciliter (g/dL) or higher, much lower than drivers of other vehicle types (28% for motorcycles, 24% for passenger cars, and 20% for light trucks).
- Drivers of large trucks involved in fatal traffic crashes in 2021 had a higher percentage (20.8%) of previously recorded crashes compared to drivers of other vehicle types (motorcycles, 19.9%; passenger cars, 18.2%; and light trucks, 17.2%).
- In 2021, drivers of large trucks in fatal traffic crashes were less likely (6.5%) to have previous license suspensions or revocations than other vehicle types (motorcycles, 16.8%; passenger cars, 14.2%; and light trucks, 11.2%).
The legal issues concerning traffic accidents involving trucks tend to be very different from car crashes. Truck accident lawyers in Newport Beach can help you seek damages if you suffered injuries and other losses as a result of the incident.
Steps To Take After A Large Truck Accident In Newport Beach
Collisions with commercial trucks are among the most violent accidents one can experience on the road. Its aftermath is almost always devastating, especially for victims. Injuries are often severe or even fatal. Victims must know what to do after such incidents so they can safeguard their rights and potentially pursue monetary reparation.
Seek Medical Attention
Your well-being and safety take precedence over everything else. Even if you feel fine, seek immediate medical attention from a licensed physician. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Proper medical records are essential components of a personal injury claim.
Report To The Authorities
All traffic crashes must be reported in California according to the law. Make sure you notify the county sheriff’s office, the city police department, or any other local law enforcement organization about your collision. Their police report is a key component in your claim.
Document The Truck Accident
Evidence can make or break your case. Gather pictures of the site showing any injuries, skid marks, and car damage; the names, contact details, and insurance information of any witnesses or parties involved; and all accident-related medical documents and invoices.
Consult Arash Law’s Dedicated Newport Beach Truck Accident Lawyers
Most of the time, the truck driver’s or the trucking company’s insurance providers conduct thorough investigations to verify claims. In some cases, they may find reasons to dispute or challenge liability. Truck accident lawyers in Newport Beach can advocate for your interests when this happens.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In Newport Beach, CA
There are a number of reasons why truck accidents occur in California, most of which are caused by the truck driver’s negligence. Truck accident attorneys in Newport Beach can assist in identifying the potential cause of your accident and establishing negligence, both of which are crucial in seeking compensation for your losses.
- Fatigue — Truckers must adhere to federal and state regulations that prevent them from spending too many hours on the road in a row. Fatigue, which can impair concentration, remains a major issue.
- Speeding — Truck drivers who drive too fast, especially those who carry heavy loads in commercial trucks, are at risk for speeding-related accidents.
- Distracted Driving — Taking one’s attention away from the road to text, eat, or do anything else can have catastrophic consequences for everyone.
- Inexperienced Driving or Lack of Proper Training — Drivers of commercial trucks need special licenses and training, as it’s more difficult to operate than driving a regular car. Inexperienced drivers are more likely to make mistakes.
- Issues With Cargo Loads — Truck trailers must be properly attached when hauling heavy loads. A major accident could occur if the cargo is not loaded and secured properly or the trailer malfunctions.
- Poor Road Conditions — Roads not properly maintained can lead to dangerous accidents.
How To Establish Fault In A Truck Accident In Newport Beach, CA
It is vital to justify the truck driver’s or another party’s fault in order to seek damages. The following factors may contribute to trucking accidents:
- Driver’s negligence, including drunk or distracted driving, and violating traffic laws.
- The trucking company’s negligence, such as hiring incompetent drivers.
- Defective truck components and/or on the truck itself.
- Improper or a lack of proper signage.
- Unsafe road conditions.
Demonstrating negligence on the truck driver’s or another party’s part is crucial in establishing grounds for a claim. When proving negligence in any personal injury case, the following four factors must be established with strong evidence:
- Duty of Care — The accused party has a legal duty to exercise or provide reasonable care to prevent harm.
- Breach of Duty — By acting negligently or failing to exercise reasonable care, the alleged responsible party breached their duty of care.
- Causation — There must be a causal link between negligence and the injury for it to be regarded as a significant factor.
- Damages — Medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages must have been incurred as a result of the sustained injury.
In preparing your case, our Newport Beach truck accident lawyers carefully gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and other records and information. We aim to establish negligence and seek compensation from the at-fault party.
Aside from these sources typically used to piece together what happened, data from cutting-edge equipment and public records may be available for further analysis.
Common Injuries Sustained In Truck Accidents In Newport Beach, CA
Because trucks are heavier and larger than passenger cars, trucking accidents can result in devastating injuries. Unfortunately, victims are at a greater risk of getting killed. Survivors may have to deal with considerable pain and suffering, significantly decreasing their quality of life. Among the many injuries sustained in truck accidents are:
- Head or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Back and neck injuries
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Lacerations.
- Cuts, scrapes, and bruises
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Burns
- Paralysis
- Psychological problems, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Wrongful death
Common Types Of Truck Accidents In Newport Beach, CA
The Newport Beach truck accident attorneys at Arash Law can manage the legal aspects of cases for victims. We understand how destructive and devastating the aftermath of these incidents can be. The following are the most common types of truck collisions in Newport Beach:
- Rollovers — Compared to sedans and other typical passenger cars, commercial trucks are more prone to flipping due to their high center of gravity. A truck may roll over and possibly crush other vehicles or pedestrians if the driver stops suddenly or makes an abrupt turn.
- Jackknifes — The term refers to a situation where a truck driver loses control of a trailer, causing it to swing out wide and “fold up” at an angle with the cab. Due to the trailer’s ability to swing over many lanes of traffic and perhaps crush several cars in its path, this type of disaster can be extremely deadly.
- Underrides — Any passenger vehicle small enough to fit its front end in the space between a truck’s bottom and the road is at greater risk when driving behind the truck. The car can slide under the larger vehicle during an accident, posing grave danger to the occupants inside the smaller one. In severe cases, underride accidents can lead to decapitation.
- Hitch Failures — If the hitch that attaches the trailer to the truck breaks, the trailer might separate from the cab, roll across the roadway, and cause collisions.
- Overloads — The amount of weight commercial trucks are allowed to transport is strictly regulated by the federal and state governments. Overloaded trucks are more difficult to maneuver, and a single error by the truck driver can lead to serious consequences. Not turning slowly enough, for instance, might force the truck to roll over or jackknife, which would be extremely dangerous for other motorists.
- Cargo Spills — A cargo carrying hazardous chemicals or heavy contents should be handled properly, as spills can potentially cause severe harm to anyone in the vicinity.
Whatever the type of accident you were involved in, having seasoned Newport Beach truck accident lawyers handle your claim means you can focus on recovering from injuries and losses. Our team can advocate for your rights during the claims process.
Types Of Damages Newport Beach Truck Accident Lawyers Can Seek On Your Behalf
In a truck accident claim or any personal injury case, you may be able to seek economic and non-economic damages from responsible parties. Arash Law can probe every detail of your case to help you pursue compensation that reflects your losses.
Economic damages are tangible losses that are measurable, including:
- Present and future medical bills.
- Property damage for vehicle repairs or replacement.
- Lost wages.
- Loss or diminished earning capacity.
Non-economic damages can be difficult to calculate, as they’re intangible. These may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment or quality of life
In some rare cases, the court may also award punitive damages if the negligent party is found to have acted with willful disregard of their rights.
Lastly, when negligence leads to a loved one’s death, a wrongful death claim may be pursued.
Who Is Liable For A Newport Beach Truck Accident?
Establishing liability in truck accident claims is a critical step in seeking financial recompense for your injuries and losses, and it depends on several factors. The liability in typical collisions between two vehicles frequently depends on who caused the crash. It’s essential to determine who was irresponsible and how their carelessness contributed to the event. Comparative negligence may also be applicable when both parties share the blame. Even if you’re 99% at fault, you may still be able to seek compensation.
In a truck accident, things get a little more complicated. Simply blaming the driver of a commercial truck won’t help a case, as multiple parties could be held liable. The following are other parties that can be held accountable in a truck accident claim:
- The truck driver.
- The truck owner.
- The trucking company that employs the driver.
- The loaders of cargo into the truck.
- The truck manufacturer of defective components.
- The party responsible for the truck maintenance.
Experienced Newport Beach truck accident lawyers can assess your case thoroughly to help you identify the parties who should be named in your injury claim.
Avoidance Of Liability By Trucking Companies
Some trucking firms may attempt to separate themselves from their drivers and equipment to avoid legal responsibility for accidents. While they have the required licenses to operate the trucks, they typically do not own the vehicles. Moreover, they hire their drivers not as employees but as independent contractors. In these scenarios, assessing accountability can become more complicated.
Federal statutes make the trucking permit holder responsible for any accidents involving trucks bearing the permit holder’s name or identifying information. Our Newport Beach truck accident lawyers can help you work around these challenges and seek accountability from the responsible parties.
Settlement in a motor vehicle accident; client suffered internal injuries.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
How Long Do You Have To File A Truck Accident Claim?
All claims pertaining to personal injuries are subject to the two-year statute of limitations in California. This means victims generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim.
There are exceptions to this time frame, but you must observe it, as filing a claim after that deadline forfeits your right to seek compensation. Newport Beach truck accident lawyers, while reviewing the specifics of your case, can guide you on the deadlines and all the necessary paperwork.
Contact Our Newport Beach Truck Accident Lawyers
Truck accidents can be extremely complex because of the number of parties typically involved. Trying to piece together what happened and determining who is at fault without the assistance of someone well-versed in trucking and personal injury laws can be an overwhelming ordeal.
If you suffer due to a truck accident in California, the Newport Beach truck accident lawyers at Arash Law can provide legal assistance. We can help you seek the compensation available in your case. We are here to guide you on what you can do moving forward. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case” form for a free initial consultation to learn more about your legal options.
Our Newport Beach truck accident attorneys also serve neighboring cities and neighborhoods, including Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Emerald Bay, Laguna Beach, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Santa Ana, Fountain Valley, and South Coast Metro.
