North Hollywood Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our North Hollywood Truck Accident Lawyers Guiding You Through Your Legal Options
If you’re injured in a truck accident in North Hollywood, an experienced lawyer can help you pursue a claim for damages. Our North Hollywood truck accident lawyers are no strangers to these cases, as we have assisted injured victims and their families in seeking compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to set up a free initial consultation.
North Hollywood is a thriving medium-sized neighborhood in Los Angeles in the San Fernando Valley, situated near Routes 170 and 101. Due to the area’s proximity to busy highways, motorists can expect heavy traffic during peak hours. Additionally, North Hollywood’s diverse mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial districts contributes to the area’s high concentration of pedestrians, cyclists, vehicles, and commercial trucks. This situation tends to make driving challenging for truck drivers, resulting in truck accidents.
It’s important to seek legal assistance after a truck accident in North Hollywood to help you understand your rights and options for compensation under the law. Our truck accident lawyers are committed to helping you pursue justice and appropriate compensation through legal means.
Auto v. Motorcycle – At first glance, the evidence seemed to be unfavorable to our severely injured client. The police report had placed him at fault for the crash. He was alleged to have been under the influence and speeding on his motorcycle. And he lacked motorcycle insurance subjecting him to California’s Prop 213, barring him from recovering damages for pain and suffering. Benny and his team, however, were able to prove that the truck driver violated his training and his company’s policies and procedures and made an exceptionally dangerous turn that contributed to the collision. Had the turn been made safely, the crash would not have occurred.– BENNY KHORSANDI
How Will Our Truck Accident Lawyers In North Hollywood Help Your Case?
Our North Hollywood law firm will explain your legal rights and options after a truck accident. In particular, we can help you with the following:
- Comprehensive Investigation — To build a well-supported case for you, our personal injury attorneys will thoroughly investigate your truck accident. As part of this process, we will review police reports, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to back up your claim.
- Negotiation — We handle communications with insurance companies, review settlement offers, and advocate for outcomes that reflect the circumstances of your case.
- Litigation — When settlement talks with the insurance company fail, our North Hollywood truck accident attorneys are prepared to take your case to court. We will advocate for your rights in court before a jury and a judge.
Why Hire Our North Hollywood Truck Accident Lawyers For Your Claim
Our lawyers have decades of combined experience, and we will apply our knowledge to achieve the most favorable outcome for your case. Here’s what our legal team offers:
- Trucking Accident Experience — Our North Hollywood personal injury attorneys have experience handling truck accident cases. We leverage our extensive knowledge of California’s trucking laws and regulations to support your claim.
- Personalized Attention — Because we understand that every truck accident case is unique, we provide our clients with one-to-one legal representation. We listen to your narrative, learn about your goals and needs, and then devise a legal strategy that is tailored specifically to your circumstances.
- Compassionate Support — Our team understands the struggles our clients face in seeking justice and fair compensation. We know how stressful and confusing it can be to recover from terrible injuries and deal with high medical bills. We can guide you every step of the way.
- Contingency Fee Agreement — Our North Hollywood truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that we are not going to collect any attorney’s fees unless we have successfully resolved your case. With this agreement, our clients can concentrate more on their recovery and have one less worry on their minds. Additionally, this agreement also allows any victim to seek legal assistance. Please note that you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs regardless of the outcome of your case.
Typical Causes Of Truck Accidents
Our North Hollywood lawyers handle truck accident cases involving a range of contributing factors. Human error is the main cause of truck accidents. A few examples of human error include not following traffic laws, drunk driving, and tailgating. Here are some other causes of truck accidents:- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driver exhaustion
- Accidents caused by failing to check blind spots
- Insufficient or inadequate training
- Poor truck maintenance
- Defective truck parts
- Brake failure
- Tire blowouts
- Overloaded trucks
- Poor road conditions
Most Common Types Of Truck Accidents
The following are some of the most common types of truck accidents:
Rear-End Collisions
Trucks need a wider braking distance compared to average passenger cars. So when truck drivers tailgate and suddenly need to hit the brakes, the chances are, they’ll cause a rear-end collision with the vehicle in front of them. Because of the size and weight of trucks, these accidents can be particularly dangerous for the occupants of the smaller vehicles.
Jackknife Accidents
This usually occurs when a trailer swings out to the side due to rapid acceleration or braking too hard. Most jackknife accidents affect multiple lanes, causing substantial damage to any nearby vehicles and people.
Rollover Accidents
Trucks are more likely to roll over than other vehicles, especially when taking sharp turns at high speeds or when the cargo isn’t loaded properly. Accidents involving rollovers can result in catastrophic injuries or even death.
Underride Accidents
These occur when a small vehicle behind a truck slides under its trailer. Such accidents are often fatal for the occupants of the smaller vehicle. In such cases, our North Hollywood lawyers who handle truck accidents can help grieving families file a wrongful death claim.
Wide Turn Accidents
As trucks need extra space while turning, they might collide with other vehicles when the truck driver makes an overcorrection with their turns. A wide-turn incident occurs when a truck makes a turn while a smaller vehicle is traveling alongside it, squeezing the vehicle against the curb or another vehicle.
Blind Spot Accidents
Trucks have large blind spots called “no-zones,” where the driver cannot see others on the road. Accidents can occur when truck drivers change lanes or merge without checking their blind spots.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
Here are some of the most common injuries caused by truck accidents:
- Back Injuries — A truck accident can cause back injuries such as herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and spinal cord injuries. There is a possibility of chronic pain, limited mobility, and even paralysis as a result of these traumas.
- Head Injuries — Truck accidents can cause concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Serious damage can have a long-term impact on cognition and quality of life.
- Broken Bones — The bones in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis can break due to the impact of a truck accident. Victims may need surgery to repair these fractures.
- Internal Injuries — Internal bleeding and damage to internal organs, including the liver, spleen, or kidneys, can result from a truck accident. Injuries to these organs can be life-threatening, so medical attention should be sought immediately.
- Emotional Trauma — Injured victims can develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression after a traumatic accident. It is important to recognize that emotional injuries can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life and may require extensive counseling or therapy to recover.
Injuries sustained in a truck accident should be treated immediately, even if they seem minor. Injuries left untreated can worsen over time. It may also hurt your case if you don’t get any medical attention. This inaction can be used to downplay the severity of your injuries or suggest that you don’t have any at all.
Our North Hollywood truck accident lawyers can connect you with medical experts who can fully assess your injuries. Then, we will work to include in your claim all aspects of your physical and psychological injuries.
Responsibilities Of Truck Drivers
Commercial trucks and truck drivers are subject to more stringent regulations than passenger cars and regular motorists. Truck drivers should use reasonable caution on the road due to the nature of their business and the size and weight of their vehicles. They must take the necessary precautions while on truck duty to avoid causing harm or injury to others.
Truck drivers’ responsibilities include the following:
Trucks Should Be Inspected Regularly
Truck drivers and trucking companies must inspect and repair their vehicles before, during, and after their trips. These inspections are necessary to maintain the safety of the vehicles, their passengers, and other motorists. Truckers should record any issues detected on their trucks in writing and address them before they perform their duties. Early diagnosis of mechanical issues can reduce the risk of catastrophic traffic accidents.
In case of negligent maintenance, our truck accident lawyers in North Hollywood can file a claim against potentially liable parties, such as the trucking company.
Truck Drivers Should Adhere To Hours-Of-Service Restrictions
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) enforces strict restrictions on hours of service. Truckers traveling within the state are required to comply with state hours-of-service regulations. Driving must not exceed 11 hours after a 10-hour break. Furthermore, a driver cannot work more than 70 hours in eight days. Additionally, truckers are required to take a 30-minute rest after eight consecutive hours of driving.
Commercial Truck Drivers Should Follow Truck Weight Limits
The California Department of Transportation (DOT) prohibits trucks from weighing more than 80,000 pounds and 20,000 pounds per axle. Limiting vehicle weight prevents road catastrophes in vulnerable areas, such as bridges and overpasses.
Truck Drivers Are Required To Inspect Their Cargo
According to the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), a truck driver is required to inspect their cargo before they begin their trip and once every 50 miles after that. Truckers also need to recheck the cargo every 150 miles or every three hours. This ensures the safe movement of freight.
Truck Drivers Are Required To Have A Commercial Driver’s License
Commercial truck drivers must possess a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate on California roads. Trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more require a CDL as well. Any truck weighing less than 26,000 pounds and capable of carrying more than ten passengers, including the driver, falls into this category.
Truck Drivers Should Adhere To Speed Limits
Truck drivers must follow the posted speed limits on freeways, interstates, and metropolitan areas. Speed limits attempt to strike a balance between efficiency and safety, especially considering the potentially disastrous consequences of truck collisions.
On multiple-lane highways, large trucks, including motor trucks and tractor-trailers, are not allowed to exceed 55 mph, according to California Vehicle Code 22406. During certain weather conditions, like intense fog, truck drivers are also required to reduce their speeds.
Truck Drivers Are Required To Maintain A Driver’s Log
According to CHP, all commercial drivers must keep electronic activity logs. This report should include the results of route inspections, their rest interval frequency, and their break periods. The technological approach aims to maintain transparency. Additionally, our North Hollywood truck accident lawyers can use this information to establish negligence when accidents occur.
What To Do After A Truck Accident In North Hollywood
When you are injured in a truck accident, prioritize your health and safety. Any insurance claim you file could be affected by how you act or speak right after the crash. Here are the steps you can take after a truck accident:
- Safety First — Consider moving to a safe area away from traffic if possible and if you’re able. Be sure to turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Check for Injuries — Examine yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. To get medical attention, call 911 as soon as possible, especially if anyone is injured.
- Seek Medical Attention — Seek medical treatment even if you don’t feel pain. Some injuries are not immediately obvious. Getting medical attention is essential, even when it does not seem necessary. When you don’t seek treatment, insurance companies may conclude you have not been seriously injured, which may impact your claim.
- Exchange Information — You should exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and any other parties involved in the accident. Obtain the contact information of any witnesses as well.
- Document the Scene — Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, and any road conditions that may be important later on.
- Contact a North Hollywood Truck Accident Lawyer — Before you provide any information that could potentially put your case at risk, especially to insurers, consider consulting with an attorney first. They can help you understand your rights and your legal options.
What Damages Can I Pursue For A Truck Accident?
You may seek compensation for any injuries, as well as the pain and suffering you experience after an accident. Our North Hollywood truck accident lawyers are committed to helping you pursue fair compensation for injuries, lost wages, and other losses. Our team will work to build a strong case on your behalf and advocate for your rights during the entire claims process.
- Medical Expenses — You can include the cost of your past and future medical treatments in your claim, including expenses for hospital bills, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages — You can also pursue compensation for lost income if your injuries prevent you from working or cause a long-term or permanent disability.
- Property Damage — You may be able to seek the cost of property repairs or replacement.
- Pain and Suffering — If the accident caused you emotional distress, anxiety, or depression, you may include them in your claim.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life — Injuries can prevent you from enjoying life’s activities, such as hobbies or recreational pursuits. You may then be able to include damages for loss of enjoyment of life in your case.
- Loss of Consortium — Your spouse or partner may be able to seek damages for loss of consortium if your injuries negatively affected your relationship.
- Wrongful Death Damages — You may be able to pursue damages for the loss of a loved one in a truck accident. These cover funeral and burial expenses, as well as the loss of companionship and financial support.
Truck Accident Statistics In California
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), around 5,700 trucks were involved in fatal crashes in the United States in 2021, an 18% increase from 2020. Additionally, 5,788 people died, a 17% increase. About 72% of all deaths were occupants of other vehicles, 17% were truck occupants, and 11% were non-occupants, primarily pedestrians and bicyclists.
California’s truck crashes are primarily attributed to its principal highways, such as the Hollywood Freeway. It runs through Los Angeles and across California and is one of the busiest highways in the nation.
Here are additional truck accident statistics:
- Around 7% of large trucks were involved in fatal motor vehicle traffic collisions in California, as recorded by the DOT.
- In 2021, 437 deaths in the state resulted from large truck crashes.
- As of 2021, California had the second-highest number of deaths related to large trucks, both occupants and non-occupants.
- As of 2020, California has reported 13,603 truck accident cases. Of these, 4,172 were registered injury accidents.
- California had the second-most semi-truck accident cases in 2022, with 2,675 reported accidents with injuries.
FAQs
What Is The Deadline For Filing A Truck Accident Claim In North Hollywood?
North Hollywood and the rest of California generally have a two-year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim. For more information on your case’s deadline, consult with our North Hollywood truck accident lawyers.
In The Event That The Truck Driver's Insurance Company Offers Me A Settlement, What Should I Do?
Consider consulting with a truck accident lawyer before accepting any settlement offer from the insurance company. Depending on your damages, a lawyer can review the offer and assess whether it is adequate or not.
What If The Truck Accident Was Partially My Fault?
Due to California’s comparative fault system, you may still seek damages even if you were partially at fault. The court may reduce the amount of compensation you can pursue depending on how much fault you bear, so it’s important to consult a truck accident lawyer before filing your claim.
Is It Possible To File A Claim Even If The Police Did Not Charge The Truck Driver?
Yes, it is still possible. The outcome of a police report does not determine your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. Contact one of our North Hollywood truck accident attorneys to learn how to file a claim.
How Long Does It Take To Resolve A Truck Accident Case?
The length of time it takes to resolve a truck accident case depends on the facts of the case. These details include the extent of your injuries and other factors. Some cases can be settled or tried in a matter of months, while others take years.
If The Insurance Company Denies My Truck Accident Claim, What Should I Do?
Consult our lawyers if your insurance company denies your claim. We will review your case, determine whether the company’s denial is justified, and assist you in appealing the decision or pursuing other legal options.
What If The Truck Accident Was Caused By A Defective Truck Part?
In the event a defective truck part causes a truck accident, you may file a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor of the component. You may be able to seek compensation for your losses and injuries. We can help you understand your case better.
Would It Be A Good Idea To Contact The Truck Driver's Insurance Company Without Consulting An Attorney?
It is generally advisable to consult with a lawyer before contacting the insurance company of the truck driver or the trucking company. Insurance companies may ask for recorded statements, and anything you say to them could impact your potential claim.
Contact Our North Hollywood Truck Accident Lawyers
Arash Law assists individuals who have been injured or lost a loved one in a truck accident. We understand the complex details of these cases, including the possibility of multiple liable parties. Our lawyers will strive to pursue accountability and compensation for your injuries and other losses.
We will support you throughout the process, from investigating the accident to communicating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court. Our role is to help you understand your rights, explore your legal options, and navigate the legal system with confidence.
To discuss your accident claim and legal options with one of our North Hollywood truck accident lawyers, contact us online by completing the “Do I Have A Case?” form. You can also call us at (888) 488-1391.
Our legal services extend beyond North Hollywood, which includes the areas of Sherman Oaks, Valley Glen, Valley Village, Sun Valley, Glendale, Beverly Hills, San Fernando, Van Nuys, and Burbank. Arash Law also helps truck accident victims throughout California, including in San Gabriel, Blackhawk, Santa Clara, and Lancaster.
