Palm Springs Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our Palm Springs Truck Accident Lawyers Can Guide You Through Your Legal Options
Truck accidents are some of the most devastating crashes across California. Palm Springs, a city known for the number of big rigs seen on its highways, is no exception. Given the large number of commercial trucks on the road, it is no surprise that a large number of traffic accidents also happen within the city. If you suffer from injuries after a truck collision, call Arash Law’s Palm Springs truck accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
Commercial trucks play a large part in California’s economy. These vehicles keep the economy going by helping move products in and out of the state. In Palm Springs, the economic opportunities have both steadily increased the city’s population and the number of truck and passenger vehicle accidents.
The legal team at Arash Law, under the leadership of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., has years of experience helping injured victims pursue compensation for losses after a truck accident. We provide legal representation and guidance throughout the claims process. Our Palm Springs truck accident lawyers are dedicated to advocating for your rights. We can handle the legal matters of your case while you focus on your recovery.
Morales v. Construction Group Staffing (settled on 7/23/2020) – settlement involving a client who was catastrophically injured when he fell from a height of 4 stories down a shaft. This is a record breaking California Workers’ Compensation settlement. Read more about this case on Yahoo! Finance News
– TINA ESHGHIEH
U.S. And California Truck Accident Statistics
California can be a dangerous place for motorists and has the highest number of truck accidents in the nation, second only to Texas.
A Forbes article reported the following key truck accident statistics:
- In 2021, over half a million truck accidents across the U.S. were reported.
- Truck accidents increased by 26% from 2020 to 2021.
- 6.7% of truck accidents involved impaired driving.
- 13% of truck accidents involved poor weather conditions.
- 79.6% of truck accidents took place in the daytime.
- 7.3% of deadly truck accidents involved speeding.
- Drunk and distracted driving or inattention were the second most common causes of fatal truck accidents.
- 5,788 deaths were the result of truck accidents in 2021.
- The majority of the deaths were occupants of the other vehicle (72%).
- 26.6% of deadly truck accidents happened at an intersection.
- Texas leads among all the states, with 568 fatal truck collisions. California is second with 364 deadly truck crashes.
California Truck Accident Laws
Each state has its own truck accident laws, and the laws regarding truck collisions and personal injury claims in California are straightforward. All drivers need to know the rules of the road to promote safety for everyone.
Knowing who is potentially liable for causing a truck accident can help support your accident claim. Identifying the at-fault party depends on the facts of the case. Working with truck accident attorneys in Palm Springs can help you identify who may be at fault for the accident and assist you in pursuing compensation for your injuries.
Potentially responsible parties in traffic accidents include the following:
- The Truck Driver
- The Trucking Company
- Maintenance Providers
- Manufacturers
- Government Entities
California law permits commercial trucks that weigh up to 80,000 pounds to operate on the road. These vehicles have the potential to inflict significant harm and destruction due to their size and weight. In contrast, ordinary vehicles generally weigh around 3,482 pounds.
Common Causes Of Truck Accident Cases In Palm Springs, CA
Truck accidents happen for a variety of reasons in Palm Springs. Commercial truck drivers should be aware of their surroundings and properly maintain their vehicles to avoid traffic accidents. Below are some of the most common reasons for truck accidents in Palm Springs:
Poor Road Conditions
You may have a claim against a local, state, or federal government if the truck accident you got involved in was caused by improperly maintained roads. A collision can happen if there are cracks in the road, for example. Suing a government entity can be difficult, so getting legal counsel is advisable to help you with your accident claim.
Speeding
Speeding is one of the most common causes of traffic accidents involving large trucks. Trucks typically need much more time to come to a complete stop. So when speeding is involved in a commercial truck collision, the results can be devastating. A speeding big rig, for instance, can cause a crash with catastrophic results.
Improper Truck Maintenance
Truckers and trucking companies are required to properly maintain their commercial trucks. Maintenance can include checking tires, changing oil, checking brake lines, etc. If an accident is caused by improper truck maintenance, your claim may be against the driver, company, owner, and maintenance provider.
If there is a necessary repair, it should be made promptly. Commercial trucks are usually on the road for more miles than the average passenger vehicle. A big rig driver should take the time required to inspect their vehicles for proper maintenance.
Overloading And Improperly Balanced Loads
Trucking companies and the cargo loaders that the company employs are responsible for properly loading the cargo to avoid rollover accidents.
There is a legal limit for the maximum weight that a commercial truck may carry at any one time. The reason for this restriction is that the more weight a truck has, the easier it is for a truck driver to lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident. An overloaded truck can cause a rollover crash that can leave debris all over the road, potentially causing serious traffic incidents.
Inadequate Training And Supervision
Trucking companies must adequately train their drivers. Putting untrained drivers on the road may lead to the company facing legal liability. Adequate training can, for example, help inform drivers about the number of hours they are federally allowed to work.
Improper Lane Changes And Traffic Violations
Everyone must follow the rules of the road, including when to make a proper lane change. A fast or improper lane change can lead to an accident, especially if the passenger vehicle is in the truck driver’s blind spot.
Improper Turning
Commercial trucks have trailers that can be hundreds of feet long. It can take a long time for these vehicles to make a complete turn. An improper turn can cause a multi-car accident.
Driving Under The Influence Of Drugs And Alcohol
Driving under the influence poses significant risks to both the driver and others on the road. Drugs can impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and overall ability to operate a vehicle safely. Driving under the influence can be particularly dangerous for commercial truck drivers, as their larger vehicles can lead to more severe accidents.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is any action that involves operating the vehicle without reasonable caution. This includes passing another vehicle unlawfully, overspeeding, driving while impaired, and driving while distracted.
Poorly Made Parts
Sometimes, accidents happen because the truck is made of poorly made parts. In cases like these, the truck driver may not be held legally liable, as you might have a claim against the manufacturer. Accident plaintiffs often have trouble suing the manufacturer, so having experienced Palm Springs truck accident lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and options for seeking financial compensation after an accident.
Unsafe Truck Company Practices
The company that causes a truck accident may have a record for unsafe practices. If the company happens to have a record of making their drivers work long hours or of not adequately training them, the company may face legal penalties for causing the accident.
Poor Weather Conditions
Poor weather conditions can significantly increase the risk of accidents, especially when large commercial trucks are on the road. While none of us can predict the weather, drivers are still obligated to operate their trucks safely and exercise extra prudence.
How Is Fault Determined In A Truck Accident Case?
Establishing fault in a truck accident case can be a challenging process. Hiring an experienced Palm Springs attorney can assist in evaluating liability and identifying the potential defendants for your claim. Given the complexities involved in truck accident cases, having a knowledgeable lawyer can help in demonstrating a defendant’s responsibility.
There are many potentially responsible parties. The following are examples of defendants that may be listed in a personal injury claim or lawsuit for damages in a truck accident case:
The Truck Driver
A truck driver may face legal liability for causing a truck accident. Any crash can happen if there is a driver error. In fact, it is one of the most common causes of truck accidents. When operated by negligent or inadequately trained individuals, commercial trucks pose significant risks on the road. Even a small mistake can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
The Trucking Company
A trucking company may face legal penalties if the driver was employed when the accident happened or if the company’s negligence contributed to the accident. The company may also be liable if the driver lacks assets to cover a jury award or settlement.
Trucking companies may also face legal sanctions if they cut corners on maintenance and employee safety to increase profits, force their drivers to work long hours to complete tight deadlines, fail to perform proper maintenance, or are otherwise negligent.
What Should I Do After A Truck Accident In Palm Springs, California?
The steps that you take after a truck accident in Palm Springs can be crucial to your accident claim. There is no way to avoid sharing the road with commercial trucks, so we must learn to safely interact with these vehicles. However, there are times when traffic accidents cannot be avoided. When a collision happens, consider doing the following to protect your physical well-being and your claim.
Call 911
California state law requires drivers who have been in a traffic accident to call 911 and make an accident report. If an accident happens that involves a large truck, the police are likely to come to the scene of the crash immediately.
The police play an important role in the aftermath of a truck accident. The accident report that the officer will compile will contain an initial finding of fault and a narrative about how the accident happened. That could be vital to your case.
Get Immediate Medical Attention
Seek medical attention immediately after a crash. Even if you feel “fine” after a crash, you need to see a doctor to check for injuries, like internal bleeding and organ damage, which can only be determined after an evaluation.
Take Pictures And Videos
To help establish the facts of your case, you may need photos and videos. If you can take pictures at the scene, do so. Useful pictures and videos include tire marks, road signs, property damage, and injuries.
Gather Evidence
In addition to videos and pictures, you may need additional evidence to help support your case. Examples of relevant information include the names and contact information of the other driver, their passengers, and other witnesses to the crash. You should collect the other driver’s insurance information, specifically the name of their insurance company and their policy number.
Call Arash Law’s Palm Springs Truck Accident Lawyers
Consider consulting an attorney before you talk to anyone about the accident, especially before you speak to a defense lawyer or insurance company. These entities are not on your side and do not prioritize your interests. They may try to dispute liability for the accident.
Victims of truck accidents without legal representation often find it challenging to deal with other parties on their own. By hiring truck accident lawyers in Palm Springs, you have someone who can advocate on your behalf.
Types Of Compensation Available For Truck Accident Claims
When pursuing a truck accident claim, victims may be eligible for three primary categories of compensation: economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. Palm Springs truck accident attorneys can help identify the damages applicable to your case.
Economic Damages
Economic damages refer to the measurable financial losses incurred as a result of an accident. These losses often include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, current and future lost income, out-of-pocket expenses, and other accident-related financial losses.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages include accident-related losses that are less obvious than economic damages. These losses cannot be easily quantified or seen by the victim. Examples include loss of enjoyment of life, diminished quality of life, pain, suffering, mental anguish, and trauma. A personal injury attorney can help you identify and pursue these damages.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are not available in every case. California law allows a plaintiff to be awarded punitive damages in rare cases where there is proof of malice or gross negligence. The amount of punitive damages is determined by the court. An attorney with experience representing truck accident victims in Palm Springs can help assess your case to determine if you may be eligible for punitive damages.
Palm Springs Truck Accident Lawyers And Insurance Companies
Following a truck accident, it is essential to understand the role of insurance companies and the benefits of getting legal representation. Insurance companies focus on verifying claims, while lawyers work to manage their clients’ claims to help prevent denial or disputes.
An attorney can help you obtain necessary medical care following a truck accident. They can connect you to qualified medical specialists who can provide proper treatment. It’s important to recognize that insurance companies prioritize their interests and may not provide adequate support for your needs.
Navigating the claims process without legal representation may result in settling for significantly less than what you may be entitled to under the law. A Palm Springs accident lawyer can evaluate settlement offers to determine if they fully account for your injuries and other losses.
How Much Is My Truck Accident Case Worth?
The total value of your Palm Springs truck accident case is determined by the facts surrounding the claim. Typically, the value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries. Often, truck accidents are more monetarily valuable because these incidents may result in substantial losses. Consult the truck accident lawyers in Palm Springs to determine the potential value of your claim.
How Can Palm Springs Truck Accident Lawyers Help Establish Fault In A Truck Accident Case?
An attorney has professional experience standing up against insurance companies and defense attorneys in truck accident cases. Your Palm Springs truck accident attorneys can help you by doing the following:
- Help you justify and collect repair or replacement costs for your vehicle.
- Collect evidence of current and future medical expenses, including the cost of rehabilitative care and medical equipment.
- Help provide documentation for current and future lost wages and lost earning capacity, which includes the inability to return to the same type of work that you could before the accident.
- Help seek damages for mental health care, trauma, distress, pain and suffering, loss of consortium and companionship, and other accident-related expenses.
Some of the practical ways that Palm Springs truck accident lawyers can help a truck accident plaintiff include the following:
Investigating The Accident
California law requires accident victims to prove their claims for damages after a traffic accident. Establishing the validity of your claim will likely require a thorough investigation. Your attorney will help you investigate your case and gather facts to support your claim.
Decide On A Case Strategy
Our lawyers develop strategies based on the circumstances of your case. They can help identify the potentially at-fault party and handle the complexities involved in truck accident cases.
Filing A Claim Against Your Insurance Company
To pursue compensation after an accident, the first step is filing a claim with your insurance company. This process can be difficult and may require careful attention to detail. A lawyer knows what is required to file a compensation claim, and their support can help you avoid complications later.
Insurance Negotiations
Insurance companies often conduct thorough investigations to validate settlement demands. In some cases, they may find reasons to dispute, delay, or deny claims. Most accident claims are settled out of court, so it is important to have an advocate who can negotiate with insurance providers.
Litigation
If an agreement for a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached between you and the insurance company, your lawyer may consider legal action for your case. Filing a civil claim in court can be intimidating, especially if you have never been involved in a civil case before. An attorney will help you by representing your cause at every stage of the court process.
How Much Is My Truck Accident Case Worth?
The total value of your Palm Springs truck accident case is determined by the facts surrounding the claim. Typically, the value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries. Often, truck accidents are more monetarily valuable because these incidents may result in substantial losses. Consult the truck accident lawyers in Palm Springs to determine the potential value of your claim.
How Can Palm Springs Truck Accident Lawyers Help Establish Fault In A Truck Accident Case?
An attorney has professional experience standing up against insurance companies and defense attorneys in truck accident cases. Your Palm Springs truck accident attorneys can help you by doing the following:
- Help you justify and collect repair or replacement costs for your vehicle.
- Collect evidence of current and future medical expenses, including the cost of rehabilitative care and medical equipment.
- Help provide documentation for current and future lost wages and lost earning capacity, which includes the inability to return to the same type of work that you could before the accident.
- Help seek damages for mental health care, trauma, distress, pain and suffering, loss of consortium and companionship, and other accident-related expenses.
Some of the practical ways that Palm Springs truck accident lawyers can help a truck accident plaintiff include the following:
Investigating The Accident
California law requires accident victims to prove their claims for damages after a traffic accident. Establishing the validity of your claim will likely require a thorough investigation. Your attorney will help you investigate your case and gather facts to support your claim.
Decide On A Case Strategy
Our lawyers develop strategies based on the circumstances of your case. They can help identify the potentially at-fault party and handle the complexities involved in truck accident cases.
Filing A Claim Against Your Insurance Company
To pursue compensation after an accident, the first step is filing a claim with your insurance company. This process can be difficult and may require careful attention to detail. A lawyer knows what is required to file a compensation claim, and their support can help you avoid complications later.
Insurance Negotiations
Insurance companies often conduct thorough investigations to validate settlement demands. In some cases, they may find reasons to dispute, delay, or deny claims. Most accident claims are settled out of court, so it is important to have an advocate who can negotiate with insurance providers.
Litigation
If an agreement for a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached between you and the insurance company, your lawyer may consider legal action for your case. Filing a civil claim in court can be intimidating, especially if you have never been involved in a civil case before. An attorney will help you by representing your cause at every stage of the court process.
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
How To Choose A Qualified Palm Springs Truck Accident Lawyer
If you’re involved in a truck accident and intend to file a claim, a lawyer can represent you and help you understand your options for seeking compensation. Consider the following in choosing your Palm Springs truck accident lawyer:
- The attorney has experience representing big rig accident victims.
- The attorney has a record of successful outcomes in helping injured victims obtain compensation.
- The attorney listens to your concerns and considers your goals for the outcome of the case.
- The attorney can keep you updated about your claim.
- You feel confident about your attorney’s skill and ability.
Can Palm Springs Truck Accident Attorneys Help Establish Negligence Of The Truck Driver?
An attorney can help evaluate evidence to demonstrate that the truck driver may have been negligent. Your Palm Springs truck accident lawyer must establish the following elements:
The Driver Failed To Exercise Due Care
The driver’s duty includes doing everything they can to avoid a traffic accident. Failure to try to avoid an accident puts everyone on the road in jeopardy.
The Driver’s Failure To Exercise Reasonable Care Caused The Accident
Drivers must exercise their duty of care. Your attorney will help you assess if the driver’s failure is a direct result of the accident.
Damages From The Accident
Your attorney will help you evaluate if your losses and injuries are caused by the accident. There must be evidence of a link between the accident and the injuries that you suffered.
How Long Do I Have To Sue For A Truck Accident In Palm Springs, California?
You do not have an unlimited amount of time to file a truck accident claim. California state law requires accident plaintiffs to comply with the statute of limitations, a deadline that gives an accident victim a set amount of time to either settle their claim or file a personal injury lawsuit. Each state has a different statute of limitations.
In California, accident victims generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. If an accident victim fails to file a claim, the law may permanently bar their right to file a civil action. If you are unsure about the deadline for your case, an accident attorney can clarify it for you. They can help protect your right to pursue legal action against a trucking driver or company.
If you were a minor when the accident happened, you may have a different period of time to file a lawsuit. California state law allows a minor two years from the day they turn 18 years old to file a lawsuit.
If you have a potential claim against a local, state, or federal government entity, the California statute of limitations typically provides an injured person six months from the date of the accident to file a claim.
California state law bars a claim in either of these special circumstances if the victim does not comply with the applicable statute of limitations.
Other Types Of Truck Accidents
In addition to commercial truck vehicles, other large vehicles cause similar outcomes, including:
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a large truck or commercial vehicle, consider obtaining legal representation to help you navigate the situation. Our Palm Springs truck accident attorneys are available to provide legal support.
Speak With Our Palm Springs Truck Accident Lawyers
Pursuing a compensation claim after a truck accident can be intimidating for victims. Having a legal team that can guide and provide the confidence needed to pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under the law.
The lawyers at Arash Law can represent truck accident victims in Palm Springs, helping them seek the compensation they need to cover their losses and future needs.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact the Palm Springs truck accident lawyers at Arash Law. We have the skills and experience to assist you in navigating the legal process for your claim.
Call us at (888) 488-1391 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation initial consultation.
