California Big-Rig Truck Accident Attorneys
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California Big-Rig Truck Accident Attorneys You Can Trust
Were you or your loved ones injured in a truck accident? Talk to our dedicated California big-rig truck accident attorneys. We will help you deal with physical and emotional pain, medical bills, and other losses. Our team will ensure you get paid if your injuries leave you unable to work, cause mental health issues, and impact your ability to care for your family. Call us at (888) 488-1391 today. We’ll help you get the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life.
The term big rig refers to the massive trucks swarming our roadways that also go by the names of 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, semi-trucks, and dump trucks. These giant vehicles fuel our economy by carrying consumer goods from private companies to their ultimate destinations. As consumer demand continues to rise, so too does the number of big rigs on our highways and byways.
Because of the immense difference in size and weight – relative to our own vehicles, which are many, many times smaller – accidents involving big rigs are especially dangerous. If you are injured or someone you love gets killed in a big rig accident, contact us today. Our big-rig truck attorneys, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., know how to build a compelling case that will help you obtain financial recovery. Schedule a free initial consultation now, and we’ll give you honest legal advice at no upfront cost.
How Our California Big-Rig Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
If you’re injured in a collision with a semi, you can seek legal help from our big rig truck accident lawyers in California. We represent victims who have been injured due to other people’s negligence or wrongdoing. Our personal injury law firm has recovered over $500 Million in settlements and court verdicts for our clients.
Here’s how we can help you:
- Our California lawyers for big-rig truck accident cases will conduct a comprehensive investigation. We’ll meticulously gather all relevant evidence, including driver logs and vehicle maintenance records, traffic camera footage, and witness testimonies. We’ll work with doctors, accident reconstruction specialists, and other experts to build a strong case.
- Our team will deal with insurance companies on your behalf. Insurance adjusters are notorious for underhanded tactics that only frustrate accident victims. We’ll handle all communication with their representatives and ensure you don’t get shortchanged during settlement negotiations.
- Our big rig accident attorneys are prepared to take your case to court and represent you in trial once the other party refuses to give you a fair settlement at the negotiation table. We’ll gather all the evidence collected during the investigation and organize it to present a compelling case before the judge and jury.
Are you wondering if you have a valid claim? Fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form, and our team will contact you as soon as possible.
Why You Need Our Experienced Truck Accident Lawyers
Many people ask, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” Yes, you need legal representation to help you recover maximum compensation after an accident that wasn’t your fault. Here are some other reasons why you need our skilled big rig injury lawyers:
- We have extensive knowledge of complicated trucking and personal injury laws. Big rig crashes, unlike car accidents, involve a whole other set of rules and regulations. Our lawyers, who specialize in these cases, understand the specific laws that apply to truck drivers and trucking companies.
- We know how to deal with insurance companies. Trucking companies often carry considerable insurance coverage, but that doesn’t mean getting a fair settlement from them is easy. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and having a lawyer who knows their tactics can help ensure you’re treated fairly.
- We have the resources and connections with experts to investigate your accident thoroughly. Our accident attorneys have the skills and experience to conduct a thorough investigation.
- We can help you navigate the legal process, which can be stressful and time-consuming, especially when you’re recovering from injuries. Our big rig truck accident attorneys in California can take care of all the paperwork, deadlines, and court appearances, allowing you to focus on healing.
$1,000,000.00
Settlement in a heavily disputed Truck v. Truck case. Our client was blamed by the insurance company from day one and was always told that they would never take responsibility for the collision that injured our client’s lower back. After years of litigation, Benny and the team were able to secure the full policy limits for our client months before trial.– BENNY KHORSANDI
What Exactly Is A “Big-Rig” Truck?
“Big rig” is the term used for the tractor-trailers and semis with which we share the road. These names are used interchangeably for huge cargo-carrying trucks. Big rigs are composed of two distinct parts: the tractor (which is made up of the driver’s cab, the truck’s engine, and the hitch) and the trailer (which is the cargo-carrying container that is pulled behind the tractor).
While the average car weighs about 4,000 pounds, a big rig can top out at 80,000 pounds. This immense size discrepancy can lead to serious, often deadly accidents. Further, the hitch that connects the big rig’s tractor and trailer allows the vehicles to hinge. While this enables semis to make turns and move freely through traffic, it can also contribute to dangerous jackknife accidents. Such an accident happens when a big rig’s cab and trailer fold in upon themselves (like a jackknife closing).
These accidents can leave big rigs splayed across roads, endangering everyone traveling upon them.
Big rigs are involved in some of the deadliest accidents on our roadways. If a big rig accident leaves you or a loved one injured — or worse — you need the skilled professional services of our California big rig truck accident attorneys.
Common Big-Rig Truck Accident Injuries
Our big rig truck accident lawyers in California have helped victims obtain compensation for various injuries, such as:
Cuts & Bruises
Broken glass, flying debris, and shards of metal from a collision can all lead to cuts ranging from superficial nicks to deep gashes. Bruises, on the other hand, do not break the skin but result in discoloration and tenderness in the affected area.
Many victims would only file an insurance claim if they sustained catastrophic injuries. Sadly, they overlook the fact that even seemingly minor injuries like cuts and bruises can cause substantial damage to their livelihood and everyday living.
Consider a driver whose car was sideswiped by a big rig. Due to the impact of the accident, they sustained bruises along the line of their seatbelt. These bruises affected their mobility, so they were forced to miss a couple of weeks of work. They would receive a much lower paycheck on top of paying for medical bills. This shows that even if the collision seems minor, the damages inflicted on the victims can be consequential all the same.
Neck Injuries
Perhaps the most common neck injury from a truck accident is whiplash. It results from a forceful back-and-forth motion of the head, straining and torning the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck. If left untreated, whiplash injuries can lead to many other complications.
Rehabilitation options include chiropractic adjustments and physical therapy. However, PT and chiropractic sessions might not be affordable for everyone, and there are situations where your insurance might not cover the treatment. In this case, our California big rig truck accident attorneys can help you find alternative options, including getting medical liens.
Back Injuries
Any collision can strain or sprain the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the back. A crash involving a massive commercial vehicle, like a big rig, will most likely worsen that effect. Common symptoms of back injuries include muscle ache, a shooting, stabbing, or burning sensation, pain that radiates down your leg, numbness or weakness, and gait imbalance.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The force of the impact can fracture the vertebrae and compress the spinal cord. Sharp objects or bone fragments can also pierce or tear the tissues and membranes. The severity of a spinal cord injury depends on the location and extent of the damage. In severe cases, it can cause partial or complete paralysis.
The truth is that the injuries sustained in a big rig truck accident do not only affect those who become paralyzed but also their families. They could face high treatment costs, caregiver bills, and other medical fees and house modifications that could improve their overall quality of life.
Head Trauma & Traumatic Brain Injuries
Head injuries can lead to headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and even coma. Some symptoms may not appear immediately, or they may be subtle and mistaken for something else, such as fatigue and nausea.
Victims who suffer a blunt force to the head due to a truck collision might also sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This condition disrupts the normal function of the brain. In a big rig accident, TBIs can happen in several ways:
- Concussion – This milder case of TBI occurs due to the forceful shaking of the head and brain within the skull.
- Coup-Contrecoup – The brain impacts the skull on one side, then rebounds and hits the opposite side.
- Penetrating Injury – Objects like debris or shattered glass pierce the skull and directly injure brain tissue.
Regardless of the type of TBI, the damage it causes to the victim’s cognitive functioning is often irreparable, requiring the highest possible compensation.
Internal Injuries
Blunt force trauma can damage internal organs like the spleen, liver, or kidneys. Some common symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, unexplained swelling or bruising, and blood in the stool or urine.
Since the injury is internal, symptoms are often invisible. Therefore, accident victims must get a thorough medical evaluation as soon as possible. This helps ensure all injuries are documented and treated.
Loss Of Limbs
Amputations can occur in two ways after a big rig truck accident. Traumatic amputation occurs at the moment of impact, while surgical amputation happens after the collision as a medical necessity. Doctors may recommend removing the affected part to prevent life-threatening complications like gangrene or infection, even if the limb wasn’t completely severed in the accident.
Victims might be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, prosthetics, assistive devices, and home modifications. They can also seek damages for reduced quality of life. Talk to our big rig truck accident attorneys to learn what you’re entitled to.
Burn Injuries
If a vehicle catches fire after a truck collision, victims could sustain burn injuries. Burns are classified according to the severity and depth of tissue damage. They range from first-degree burns, which damage the outer layer of skin (epidermis) but typically heal within a week, to third-degree burns, which damage underlying tissues and often result in significant scarring.
Broken Bones
The bones located in the limbs, like the arms and legs, can easily fracture in a big rig crash. Fractures are categorized according to severity:
- Simple fractures or clean breaks
- Comminuted fractures, where a bone is broken into multiple pieces
- Compound fractures, where the bone protrudes through the skin
Regardless of its severity, any kind of fracture can cause significant inconvenience and difficulty for victims, especially those who can’t afford to miss work. If a fracture from an accident limits your ability to work, call the big rig truck accident attorneys California offers to learn about your options for compensation.
Disfigurement Or Permanent Disability
Disfigurement refers to permanent scarring or other visible alterations to a person’s appearance. Permanent disability refers to the lasting impairment that limits a person’s ability to perform daily activities or work. Both disfigurement and permanent disability require significant emotional and practical adjustments, and this, in turn, often yields a higher compensation for the victim.
Psychological Trauma
Truck accidents in California are deeply traumatic events with lasting psychological consequences. Some common mental health issues the victims may develop include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
If you’ve sustained any of these injuries, contact us as soon as possible. Our big rig truck accident attorneys can connect you with medical specialists who can help ensure your speedy recovery and improve your mental health and overall quality of life.
Wrongful Deaths
Severe collisions could lead to the death of a loved one. In these cases, reach out to our California big rig truck accident attorneys who specialize in wrongful death claims. We’ll help you get compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, burial costs, and emotional damages. Call us at (888) 488-1391, and we’ll help you explore your legal options if a big rig truck accident derails your life.
Big Rig Accidents In California Happen. Here Are Some Scary Statistics
Big rig accidents happen more than you probably realize. In fact, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) shares several important statistics (related to big rigs and buses) that highlight how frequently these dangerous accidents occur:
- Since 2013, the number of miles traveled by big rigs has been on the rise in the United States. Big rigs currently account for about 10.4 percent of all vehicle miles traveled on our roadways.
- Since 2013, the overall average weight of big rig freight has also been consistently rising. Trucks transported 11.68 billion tons of freight across America in 2020.
- In 2016, nearly 12 percent of the almost 35,000 fatal roadway crashes involved a big rig or bus. By 2020, this figure had risen to 12.8 percent.
- Of the more than 7 million nonfatal vehicular crashes in 2016, about 7.4 percent involved a big rig or bus. This figure has also increased in recent years. Of the 5,215,000 nonfatal collisions in 2020, 8.4 percent involved at least one large truck or bus.
These large vehicles have caused numerous injuries and fatalities throughout the state. Our big rig truck accident attorneys in California have helped many victims obtain compensation for their losses.
California-Specific Data On Big-Rig Accidents
The California Department of Transportation (DOT) reports that big rigs are the major mode of freight transportation in the state. In fact, more than 78 percent of California communities rely exclusively on big rigs to move their cargo. However, the trucking industry’s continued growth in the state coincides with the increasing number of fatalities caused by big rigs.
The Biggest Accident-Causing Errors Big Rig Drivers Make
Most big rig accidents, according to the FMCSA, are caused by errors made by the truck driver. This mirrors the observation of our big rig truck accident lawyers, who have identified truckers as the liable parties in several cases.
The trucking industry is under tremendous pressure to keep up with consumer demands, which translates to an increased demand on trucking companies and the truckers themselves.
Truck drivers, however, are professional drivers who are subject to very strict driving standards for a very important reason – to help make our highways safer for everyone and prevent the occurrence of the following errors:
Failure To Perform Driving Duties
When truck drivers fail to perform their driving duties appropriately and safely, it is called nonperformance, and it can lead to dangerous accidents. This nonperformance can be a matter of negligence, such as distracted driving, driving while fatigued, speeding, or driving under the influence. Sometimes, it can be caused by physical factors, such as falling asleep behind the wheel, having a physical ailment, or going through a health event like a seizure or heart attack.
Failure To Recognize Driving Conditions
When it comes to driving, recognition of what’s going on around you is critical. Recognizing and responding to driving conditions, which include traffic, posted signs, traffic signals, and poor road conditions (including the adverse effects of inclement weather), are essential to driving safely. When a trucker fails to take account of these factors in any given situation, they risk making critical errors that lead to serious accidents. Such failures can be caused by distractions and/or by generally poor driving habits. In such cases, our big rig truck accident attorneys in California can hold them accountable for the resulting damages to victims.
Failure To Make Safe Decisions
Driving safely involves making a series of informed decisions based on what’s going on around us. When a trucker fails to factor in all the necessary considerations when making decisions related to driving, it can lead to dangerous errors that jeopardize everyone’s safety. Such errors can include running the red light, exceeding the speed limit or driving faster than is safe given the road’s condition, making reckless lane changes, and not leaving enough space between the truck and the vehicle in front of it.
Failure To Curb Performance Errors
Problems with performance can also come in the form of performing incorrectly (as opposed to nonperformance). When a trucker gets behind the wheel, they are required to perform many feats of skilled driving. If the truck driver panics behind the wheel, attempts to overcompensate for a driving error, or maintains subpar control over their big rig, it is a performance error that is often extremely dangerous.
If you were injured due to a driver’s error, our big rig accident lawyers can help. We will analyze the details of your case against relevant regulations, pinpointing specific rules the truck driver might have broken, such as speeding restrictions or cargo securement protocols. Reach out to our California big rig truck accident attorneys now and find out how else we can help.
Why Are Big Rig Truck Accidents More Deadly?
Unlike a collision between two passenger cars, truck accidents often involve catastrophic injuries and significant property damage. Here are several contributing factors:
- Tractor-trailers can be as much as 20 to 30 times heavier than cars. The size difference leaves other motorists and passengers extremely vulnerable to serious injuries.
- Big rigs are much taller and ride much higher on the road than other vehicles, which can lead to dangerous underride accidents, where a car ends up lodged beneath the trailer.
- A fully loaded big rig needs as much as 20 to 40 percent more stopping distance than a passenger vehicle. This distance increases in bad weather conditions and at high speeds. At 65 mph, a truck needs at least 525 feet (equivalent to the length of two football fields) to come to a full stop.
- Big rigs’ braking systems are complicated and must be kept in excellent working order. When a semi-truck has poorly maintained brakes, it can increase stopping distances and cause deadly accidents.
- Truck driver fatigue is a serious accident risk as it can impair reaction times and decision-making. Truckers are regulated by federal hours-of-service rules that allow no more than 11 hours behind the wheel in a 14-hour stretch. However, according to multiple surveys, many drivers ignore these restrictions and work longer than is legally allowable due to tight schedules and unreasonable deadlines.
- Some trucks carry hazardous materials, such as gasoline and fuel oil. When these substances spill onto the road, it can lead to an explosion. Our California big rig truck accident attorneys have also seen cases wherein the spilled content created a slippery surface, leading to more crashes.
Big Rig Crashes Fatally Injure Occupants Of Passenger Cars
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that, in accidents involving big rigs, the vast majority of fatalities are passenger vehicle occupants.
The IIHS also released statistics based on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS):
- In 2017, there were 4,102 traffic fatalities involving a big rig.
- Of these fatalities, 68 percent were car occupants, and 14 percent were pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorcyclists.
- This fatality rate was 30 percent higher than it was in 2009.
Meanwhile, there were 4,714 fatalities in the 4,595 fatal vehicular accidents involving large trucks in 2021. Of these fatalities, 3,217 (68%) were occupants of passenger cars, 756 (16%) were occupants of large trucks, 698 (15%) were motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, and the rest are unknown.
The statistics related to big rig accidents tell a compelling story – that they are on the rise, that they are often deadly, and that the occupants of the other vehicles involved are much more likely to be killed in the accidents.
If you or your loved one is injured in one of these accidents, reach out to our big rig truck accident attorneys in California. Our team will fight to ensure you receive the resources you need to recover physically and financially from this life-altering event.
Common Types Of Big Rig Truck Accidents
Here are some of the most common types of big rig truck accidents that our lawyers in California frequently encounter:
Head-On Accidents
When a truck crashes into another vehicle head-on, it leads to severe injuries and even deaths, especially if the other vehicle is a much smaller passenger car. Head-on collisions are almost always due to reckless driving, such as:
- Overtaking without checking the other lane
- Passing on a solid yellow line around a curve
- Speeding and failing to avoid a legally overtaking vehicle
Some other causes are falling asleep behind the wheel and losing control of the vehicle in rainy weather.
Rear-End Collisions
Inattentive drivers cutting in too close or sudden traffic slowdowns can easily cause a rear-end collision. This type of accident can also happen if a big rig driver misjudges the stopping distance, fails to brake on time, and hits the vehicle in front. Due to the truck’s momentum, the effects of these collisions can be severe.
Did you get rear-ended recently by a big rig that was following too closely? To build a case for negligence, we’ll investigate the trucker’s driving record. Our big rig truck accident attorneys will also look into a possible distracted driving case by checking their phone usage.
Sideswipe Accidents
In sideswipe collisions, two vehicles brush against each other or collide at the sides. These incidents usually result in minor injuries and damages in regular car accidents. However, when big rigs are involved, sideswipes could become fatal for the passengers of the other car.
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife accident occurs when a semi’s trailer loses traction and swings out at a sharp angle to the cab. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Sudden Stops – Harsh braking, especially on slick roads, can cause the trailer to lock up and skid. The cab’s momentum keeps it moving forward, yanking the trailer sideways and creating the jackknife fold.
- Aggressive Maneuvers – Taking sharp turns at high speeds can also lead to a jackknife accident.
- Shifting Cargo – Improperly loaded cargo might lead to uneven weight distribution, making the trailer more prone to tipping during turns or braking.
- Defective Auto Parts – Malfunctioning brakes or defective tires can significantly reduce a truck’s ability to maintain control, increasing the risk of a jackknife.
Jackknife incidents can lead to multi-vehicle pileups, especially on highways with multiple lanes. These cases are a bit more complicated to approach, as liability may be difficult to determine. Nonetheless, our California lawyers for big-rig truck accident cases have the skills, experience, and knowledge to handle them effectively. We will analyze maintenance records and the actions of all drivers involved to determine who’s at fault for the accident.
T-Bone Crashes
T-bone accidents often occur at intersections when a truck driver fails to yield the right of way and slams into the side of another vehicle. These collisions can be particularly devastating due to the minimal side protection in most cars against the force of a big rig.
Blind Spot Accidents
Unlike a car, where the driver has a relatively unobstructed view around the vehicle, a truck’s massive size creates enormous blind spots or no-zones. The trailer’s height and design create large hidden areas on both sides of the vehicle, stretching back diagonally toward the rear. These areas can easily hide a bicycle, motorcycle, or even a car. The lack of visibility can easily lead to accidents, especially during lane changes.
Rollover Accidents
A truck’s high center of gravity makes it more prone to tipping. Several factors can trigger a rollover, including sharp turns, uneven road surfaces, shifting cargo, and driver error.
These incidents are dangerous, especially if the truck falls over on top of a much smaller car or, worse, a civilian. If you or a loved one has a crushing injury due to a rollover, let our big rig truck accident attorneys know. We’ll help you determine your options for compensation and provide the support you need to recover.
Underride Accidents
Underride or undercarriage accidents occur when a smaller vehicle, typically a car, collides with a truck and slides underneath the trailer. Federal regulations mandate underride guards on the backs of trailers, but underride accidents are still common today.
Regardless of the type of truck accident you were involved in, our big rig truck accident attorneys in California are ready to go above and beyond to secure the justice you deserve.
How To Determine Who’s At Fault In A Big Rig Accident
Truckers are professional drivers who are held to strict regulations and guidelines. As such, big rig drivers are often found to be at fault when they are involved in accidents. In such instances, you – the injured party – can seek damages against the at-fault trucker.
However, depending on the specific circumstances, our California big-rig truck accident attorneys can also hold these parties liable:
- The Trucking Company – They share responsibility for ensuring safety and proper truck maintenance. If they hire unqualified drivers, pressure them to drive excessive hours, skip proper vehicle maintenance, or fail to perform other measures to prevent truck accidents, they could be liable.
- The Truck Manufacturer – Faulty parts or design flaws in the truck itself can contribute to an accident. The manufacturer could thus share responsibility under product liability laws.
- The Cargo Loading Staff – Improperly loaded cargo can drastically affect a truck’s balance and handling. If the cargo shifts during transport and contributes to the accident, the loading company could share some blame.
- Other Drivers – In some cases, a third driver’s actions might be a contributing factor. For instance, if a car cuts off a truck and causes it to swerve, that driver could be partially responsible.
To determine who’s at fault, our big-rig truck accident attorneys will investigate the case thoroughly. We’ll look into all possible instances of negligence from all parties involved and study the specific laws and regulations surrounding truck accidents. The key is to gather evidence to help us better understand the situation, including:
- Police reports
- Photos & videos of the accident scene
- CCTV footage from nearby homes or establishments
- Witness statements
- Truck’s electronic logging device (ELD)
- Truck driver’s history of violations, if any
- The truck company’s inspection and maintenance records
How Does The Comparative Negligence Rule Affect My Case?
Sometimes, however, the injured party in a big rig accident shares some of the responsibility, or fault, for the accident in question. For example, if you were speeding when the crash occurred, it may have contributed to the accident and the damages you incurred. Shouldering a portion of the blame in such an accident, however, should not stop you from pursuing a valid legal claim.
The State of California employs pure comparative negligence laws. Even if you were partially responsible for the accident that led to your injuries, it does not affect your rights to obtain compensation. Instead, your award will be reduced according to your share of liability. For example, if you are found to be 15 percent at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 15 percent.
The important point to remember is that even though you may share a portion of the blame, your case and your legal rights matter. Your complete recovery likely hinges on your ability to obtain the compensation to which you are entitled. Call our California big-rig truck accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
What Compensation Is Available After A Big Rig Truck Accident?
Here are some of the different types of compensation our California big rig truck accident attorneys can obtain for you:
- Medical Bills – These cover everything from ambulance rides and emergency room visits to ongoing physical therapy and specialist consultations.
- Lost Wages – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can be compensated for the income you lose during your recovery.
- Vehicle Repair Or Replacement – If your car was damaged in the accident, you can recover the cost of repairs or get a fair market value for a totaled vehicle.
- Pain And Suffering – This covers the physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
- Loss Of Enjoyment Of Life – If the accident limits your ability to participate in activities you once loved, you might be entitled to compensation.
- Scarring And Disfigurement – If you have permanent scarring from the accident, you can recover damages for the physical, emotional, and social impact.
- Punitive Damages – In cases where the at-fault party’s conduct was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
What To Do After A Big Rig Truck Collision
Getting involved in a tractor-trailer crash can be shocking and scary. However, you need to stay calm. Remember, your actions immediately after the accident will ensure your safety and protect your rights. Here’s what our big rig injury lawyers recommend you do:
- Prioritize safety. If anyone needs medical attention, call 911 immediately. If possible, turn on your hazard lights and move your vehicle out of traffic.
- Document everything. While waiting for help, take pictures of the damage to your vehicle, the tractor-trailer, and the overall scene. If there’s any visible damage to the road or nearby objects, capture that, too. Note down the weather conditions, date, and time.
- Exchange information. Once it’s safe to do so, exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver. Note down the truck’s license plate number and the company logo as well.
- Don’t admit fault. Avoid discussing who caused the accident. Simply provide a factual account of what happened to the responding officer.
- Get a full medical examination, even if you initially feel fine. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent. Adrenaline can mask injuries, so what might feel like a minor bump now could develop into something more serious later. A doctor can thoroughly examine you, identify any hidden injuries, and provide treatment to prevent complications. Additionally, a medical evaluation creates a clear record of your injuries, which can be crucial in filing an insurance claim.
- Consult the top-rated big rig truck accident attorneys California relies on. They can help you determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
The Statute Of Limitations For Big Rig Truck Accident Claims And Lawsuits In California
In most cases, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim or lawsuit in California is two years from the date of the accident. You have to pursue legal action within this timeframe to seek compensation for injuries, medical bills, and other damages.
It’s important to consult with the best big-rig truck accident lawyers in California as soon as possible after the accident to protect your rights and maximize your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys can help you understand the legal aspects of your case, guide you through the process, and ensure your claim is filed before the applicable deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Do Truck Accident Attorneys Charge?
Most big rig truck accident lawyers in California work on a contingency fee basis. Under this payment structure, you don’t pay your lawyer upfront or by the hour. Instead, the California personal injury lawyer’s fee is contingent on winning your case or securing a settlement. They will receive a predetermined percentage of the total settlement or jury award you receive, typically between 30% and 40%. We can discuss more about this payment structure during our onboarding process.
How Do Lawyers Prove Negligence In Big Rig Truck Accidents?
Negligence, in legal terms, refers to a failure to exercise the care that a reasonable person would in the same situation. To prove negligence in a big rig truck accident, attorneys need to establish that these four elements are present:
- Duty Of Care – Did the defendant (the party you’re holding responsible) practice safe driving, obey traffic laws, and adhere to trucking regulations?
- Breach Of Duty – Did they fail to act reasonably or responsibly? For instance, did the truck driver ignore traffic signals or drive recklessly?
- Causation – Did the defendant’s actions (or lack thereof) cause the collision?
- Damages – Did you suffer damages or losses due to the accident?
How Much Can You Receive For A Big-Rig Truck Accident? Examples Of Some Truck Accident Compensatory Case Results
The potential compensation you may receive after a big-rig truck accident hinges on several key factors. These include the severity of your injuries, the long-term impact of the accident on your life, and the insurance coverage limits, among others.
How much are most truck accident settlements in California? While truck accident settlements can vary widely, the average settlement in the US falls around $40,000. Some cases, though, can reach up to millions of dollars.
To give you a better idea, here are some examples of cases our California big-rig truck accident attorneys have won:
Auto vs. Delivery Truck: $1,150,000
A delivery truck rear-ended our middle-aged client in a freeway accident, causing neck and back injuries. The defense attempted to argue that these injuries were the result of our client’s weight and pre-existing conditions. However, our attorneys were able to successfully resolve the case at mediation and recover a significant injury settlement for our client before going to trial.
Car vs. Tow-Truck: $1,000,000
A tow truck was swerving on the I-10 freeway and collided with our client’s car, which was parked at the side of the road with the signal lights turned on. Our client sustained severe injuries to the head and other body parts as a result. With the help of our skilled attorneys, the victim was able to recover fair compensation for their injuries.
Consult The Big Rig Truck Accident Attorneys California Relies On The Most
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, you need the professional legal counsel of an experienced big rig truck accident lawyer. Arash Law’s dedicated California legal team has the experience, skills, knowledge, and commitment to guide your claim toward its most beneficial outcome. We’re standing by to help – 24 hours a day and 7 days a week – so please give us a call at (888) 488-1391 today.
Our offices are located throughout California, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, Riverside, Woodland Hills, and Orange County. Our big rig accident law firm also takes cases in Fresno, San Bernardino, Oxnard, Long Beach, San Jose, Anaheim, Fremont, Santa Clarita, Oakland, Bakersfield, Modesto, and Stockton. We are also more than happy to travel to your home, office, or place of recovery.
