California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers Are Here To Protect The Rights Of Injured Victims
Collisions involving semi-trucks can cause serious injuries, long recoveries, costly medical bills, and intense emotional distress. These cases are often complex because multiple parties may share responsibility. At Arash Law, our California semi-truck accident attorneys guide victims through the legal process so they can seek financial recovery for accident-related costs and focus on healing. Call (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
While California’s roads are breathtaking to drive on, they can be intimidating when traveling with massive trucks. Semi-truck collisions are among the most violent accidents anyone can experience. The devastation they cause is truly unimaginable. The catastrophic consequences of crashes involving these vehicles include extreme physical, emotional, and financial damage.
If you were injured or a loved one died in a truck accident, our team can provide legal guidance and representation. We assist clients in pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other related losses. Our semi-truck accident attorneys are available to answer questions and support you throughout the claims process.
How To Find California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers “Near You”
After a collision with a semi-truck, you may wonder, “How can I find semi-truck accident lawyers near me?” Choosing an attorney to work with is an important step, since they will guide you through a complex legal process. Here are some practical tips that may help you evaluate your options:
Research Online
You can simply Google, “I need a personal injury lawyer for a truck accident near me.” This will generate a list of available lawyers and semi-truck accident law firms in your area. Additionally, you can explore reputable lawyer directories. On these websites, you can filter the results based on the practice area, specialization, and location.
Ask For Referrals
Get recommendations from your colleagues, friends, and family who may know attorneys they can vouch for. If you know an attorney who doesn’t practice personal injury law, it’s still worth reaching out. They might have connections and be able to refer you to a qualified lawyer for semi-truck accident cases.
Check Client Reviews And Testimonials
Law firms usually have a page or section for client testimonials on their website. Review them to see how their semi-truck accident lawyers have managed to help previous clients and whether they have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
Arash Law has a similar page on our website, where you can see how much we’ve recovered for our past clients. These testimonials reflect the dedication and commitment of our lawyers in advocating for the rights of our clients.
Schedule An Initial Consultation
Initial consultations are usually free, as they are at our firm. These meetings provide you with an opportunity to evaluate potential lawyers and explore your legal options. During a consultation, you can ask questions, discuss your concerns, and evaluate whether the attorney is a good fit for your situation.
At Arash Law, we take time to listen to clients, explain the legal process in plain language, and keep them updated on their cases. Our California semi-truck accident attorneys provide guidance to help you make informed decisions.
Look For These Qualities
Find a lawyer with the following qualities:
- Experience with truck accident claims and the specific regulations involved.
- A history of handling cases that resulted in fair outcomes for clients (although past results do not guarantee similar outcomes).
- The ability to negotiate with insurers and explain options clearly.
- Litigation skills if your case escalates to court.
California semi-truck accident attorneys at Arash Law are committed to supporting victims of truck collisions and their families. We assist victims across the state, and we are available to discuss your case and provide legal guidance at your convenience.
Why Should You Hire Our Semi-Truck Accident Attorneys?
Semi-truck collisions are often more complex than typical car accidents because they can involve multiple parties, such as trucking companies, contractors, and insurers. Determining liability requires careful investigation and knowledge of both California law and trucking regulations.
Our California semi-truck accident attorneys have experience guiding clients through these challenging cases. We bring extensive knowledge of trucking laws and industry regulations, along with skills in negotiating with insurers to pursue fair settlements for damages incurred in an accident. Our role includes handling evidence gathering, communications, and legal filings so you can focus on recovery.
When serious injuries or fatalities occur, we help clients seek compensation under the law for medical expenses, lost income, and other accident-related losses. Navigating this process alone can feel overwhelming. Our semi-truck accident lawyers can give you clarity about your options and the next steps for your situation.
$3,120,000.00
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
The Basics Of Semi-Trucks In California
A semi-truck is only one of the terms used for the massive commercial trucks that roam our highways and byways. Other terms include “big rig,” “18-wheeler,” “tractor-trailer,” and “semi-trailer truck.”
Whatever name you use, a semi-truck refers to a large and heavy commercial vehicle with two parts:
- Tractor — It is the motorized front portion of the semi-truck. It houses the driver’s cab and has a coupling device that connects it to whatever cargo trailer is attached. This device works like a hinge, allowing the tractor and the trailer to move in unison while allowing some flexibility. If this mechanism fails while the truck is on the move, it could lead to a catastrophic crash and several injuries.
- Trailer — It is the extended rear portion of the truck that usually has a cargo area. Sometimes, tractor-trailers will pull more than one trailer, turning them into what some call “road trains” or “land trains.” The trailer must be secured properly at all times. Otherwise, its cargo could spill out onto the road and cause an accident. The risk of severe injuries is higher if it’s carrying heavy or hazardous materials. Furthermore, the severity of truck accidents increases if the trailer detaches or overturns.
Semi-truck accidents can result in serious injuries and complex claims due to the size of the vehicles and the regulations involved. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, speaking with a California semi-truck accident attorney can help you decide on your next steps.
Truck Drivers Vs. Other Commercial Drivers In California
The main difference between truck drivers and other commercial operators in California lies in the type of vehicle they operate and the specific job function. However, they share the typical requirement of obtaining and maintaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate their vehicles legally in the state.
Truck drivers are professional drivers who operate gigantic vehicles across California. As such, they are subject to stricter state and federal regulations than noncommercial drivers like the rest of us.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) maintains strict regulations on the hours of service (HOS) for professional truckers. They impose hefty fines and penalties for non-compliance with these rules:
- There is an 11-hour driving limit for professional truck drivers after having at least ten consecutive hours off duty.
- Truckers may not drive beyond a 14th consecutive hour upon coming on duty after ten consecutive hours off. Additional time spent off duty does not extend this 14-hour maximum.
- Professional truckers can’t drive further if more than 8 hours have passed since their last break of at least 30 minutes.
- Professional truckers may only drive up to 60/70 hours in 7/8 consecutive days. A 7/8 consecutive-day restart can only occur after being off duty for at least 34 hours.
These rules aim to reduce fatigue and promote safety on the road. Because truck drivers face strict delivery deadlines, there may be pressure to exceed these limits, which can increase accident risks. If you’ve been involved in a crash with a commercial truck in California, consulting a semi-truck accident attorney can help you evaluate liability, understand filing deadlines, and learn what steps you may take to pursue a claim.
The Semi-Truck Industry Is Subject To Federal And State Safety Standards
The trucking industry plays a central role in transporting consumer goods across California and the nation. With this responsibility comes strict oversight. Both the State of California and the federal government have enacted regulations designed to promote safety and reduce risks on the road.
Key regulations include:
- Rigorous standards for obtaining and maintaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate large trucks.
- Zero-tolerance rules for drug and alcohol use, including mandatory testing.
- Strict requirements for transporting hazardous materials.
- Medical and physical qualifications for commercial drivers.
- Oversight of trucking companies’ compliance with safety and maintenance obligations.
Both state and federal governments maintain strict oversight of the trucking industry, yet serious accidents still occur when safety rules are ignored. In these situations, a California semi-truck accident lawyer can investigate whether violations of these regulations contributed to the crash. Identifying lapses in compliance can be an important part of holding negligent drivers or companies legally responsible.
Semi-Truck Accidents As The Result Of Industry-Wide Safety Failures
Trucking companies must adhere to strict rules and regulations to keep everyone on our roads safe. When safety standards are overlooked in areas such as maintenance, driver qualifications, or cargo loading, the risk of accidents increases.
Corporations have many responsibilities related to safety that they must consistently fulfill. Otherwise, they risk being responsible for potentially deadly traffic accidents. These responsibilities include:
- Providing the appropriate regularly scheduled truck maintenance required by federal and state regulations.
- Implementing all mandated equipment safety checks.
- Hiring professional truck drivers who are qualified and experienced.
- Hiring professional truck mechanics who are qualified and experienced.
- Ensuring every rig is safely and properly loaded for every trip.
The trucking industry plays an essential role in our economy, but it also carries a duty to operate safely. When accidents occur, a California semi-truck accident lawyer can review whether safety regulations were followed and help assess where responsibility may lie.
Common Types Of Semi-Truck Accidents
Our semi-truck accident attorneys have experience handling various types of big rig crashes, including:
- Jackknife Accidents — When the driver loses control of the truck, the trailer may fold into the cab, creating a sharp angle resembling a folding jackknife. This can block multiple lanes of traffic and lead to a chain reaction of collisions.
- Rollovers — When a truck tips over, it could spill its cargo onto the road. Worse, it could fall onto a smaller vehicle, crushing its occupants. Semi-trucks often tip over due to unbalanced cargo or quick turns.
- Sideswipe Collisions — In a sideswipe accident, two vehicles brush against each other at the sides. Although it’s usually considered a minor collision, it can lead to devastating damage when one of the vehicles involved is a large truck. A big rig could push the other car off the road, into barriers, or into oncoming traffic.
- Head-On Accidents — A head-on collision with a truck can result in severe vehicle damage and fatal injuries. These types of accidents typically occur when a driver swerves into the opposite lane after falling asleep behind the wheel, getting distracted, or being impaired.
- Rear-End Accidents — These incidents are dangerous for vehicles both behind and in front of the truck. A semi crashing into the rear end of a car produces an impact that can severely injure the occupants, especially when the truck is speeding.
- Underride Accidents — If a smaller vehicle rear-ends a truck, it could become wedged underneath the trailer. This situation is particularly dangerous because it can shave off the top of the car, leading to serious injuries or even death to the occupants.
Because multiple factors, from driver conduct to equipment maintenance, may contribute to these crashes, determining liability is rarely straightforward. A California semi-truck accident lawyer can investigate the evidence, identify all responsible parties, and help protect your rights under state and federal law.
Semi-Truck Accidents Can Leave Victims With Significant Medical Expenses
Because of their size and force, semi-truck crashes often result in serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment. The resulting healthcare costs can be far higher than those in a typical traffic accident. Common expenses may include:
- Emergency care at the scene of the accident and emergency transportation to the hospital.
- Surgery and post-surgical care.
- Extended hospital stays and attendant care.
- Outpatient care.
- Appointments with medical professionals, including doctors, specialists, therapists, and counselors.
- Ongoing medical care and follow-up appointments.
- Prescription medications.
- Adaptive medical devices and medical equipment.
- Physical adaptations to one’s home.
- Home health care.
These expenses can accumulate quickly and place a heavy financial strain on injured individuals and their families. Insurance coverage may not fully address these costs. A California semi-truck accident lawyer can evaluate your case, negotiate with insurers, and pursue fair compensation under the law while you focus on your recovery.
Work-Related Costs And Emotional Consequences Of A Serious Semi-Truck Crash
The journey toward recovery after a big-rig truck accident can be long and winding, and you might not be able to return to work immediately. Many semi-truck accident victims cannot return to the careers they love. They also have to contend with the work-related costs associated with their commercial truck accidents, such as:
- Lost hours on the job and subsequently lost wages.
- The inability to return to the current position.
- An altered career trajectory.
- A diminished earning capacity in the future.
- A permanent disability.
- The inability to ever work again.
Careers can be tied to a person’s identity and stability, and the impact of losing work opportunities can be emotionally overwhelming. On top of the physical injuries, victims may face psychological challenges such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress. These emotional costs can sometimes feel even more overwhelming than the financial burden of medical bills.
A semi-truck accident attorney can help you understand how both the economic and non-economic consequences of a crash may be addressed under California law.
Compensation For Semi-Truck Accident Victims
Victims of semi-truck accidents may be eligible to pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages can include medical expenses and work-related losses, while non-economic damages may cover:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- PTSD
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of consortium
- Disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
In rare cases, courts may also award punitive damages, which are intended to punish particularly reckless or intentional misconduct rather than to compensate the victim.
If a crash results in death, certain surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Recoverable damages may include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and other related losses. An experienced California semi-truck accident lawyer can evaluate these factors, work with experts when necessary to assess damages, and guide you through your legal options.
Common Causes Of Semi-Truck Accidents In California
Trucking companies and their drivers are required to follow rigorous safety standards, including routine maintenance and inspections. When these duties are overlooked, serious accidents can occur on California’s roads.
Several common truck-related causes contribute to many dangerous incidents, including the following:
Defective Or Malfunctioning Truck Parts
- Tire Blowout — Worn or defective tires on an 18-wheeler can lead to sudden blowouts, making it difficult for the driver to maintain control. Tire debris left on the road can also create hazards for other motorists.
- Faulty Brakes — Because of their size and weight, trucks require longer stopping distances. If brakes are poorly maintained or defective, the risk of a collision increases significantly.
- Coupling Device Failure — A defective or worn coupling device can cause a trailer to detach from the cab, creating a dangerous situation that may lead to serious crashes.
If you are injured in an accident linked to defective truck parts, a knowledgeable California semi-truck accident lawyer can help investigate whether manufacturing issues, poor maintenance, or missed safety checks contributed to the incident.
Inherent Risks With The Truck’s Design
The size and design of semi-trucks present unique safety challenges, including:
- Blind Spots — Large trucks have significant blind spots on all sides, especially on the right. Vehicles traveling in these zones may be invisible to the driver, increasing the risk of sideswipe or merging collisions.
- Center of Gravity — Improperly loaded cargo or design issues affecting balance can lead to rollover accidents.
- Underride Risks — Trucks ride higher off the ground than passenger vehicles. In some crashes, smaller cars can slide underneath the trailer, causing severe injuries.
Because of these design factors, determining liability often requires examining whether the driver, loader, or trucking company failed to take proper safety precautions.
Fatigued Semi-Truck Drivers
Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate without rest. Despite these rules, some drivers exceed safe limits due to scheduling pressures. Fatigue reduces reaction time, impairs judgment, and increases the risk of unsafe driving decisions.
Distracted Semi-Truck Drivers
Truck drivers face the same distractions as other motorists, including smartphone use. They may also be occupied with logbooks, route planning, or safety checks while driving. Any distraction takes attention away from the road and increases the likelihood of a serious crash.
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications is both illegal and highly dangerous for truck drivers. Some may turn to these substances to stay awake or handle stress on the job, but doing so puts everyone on the road at risk. Impaired drivers often have slower reactions, poor coordination, and impaired judgment, which can lead to serious accidents.
Semi-truck accident lawyers can help investigate crashes involving design flaws, such as blind spots, rollover risks, or underride accidents, as well as driver-related factors like fatigue, distraction, or impairment.
Attorneys can also evaluate liability, identify potentially responsible parties, and work with experts to strengthen your case. By handling negotiations with insurers, semi-truck accident lawyers help victims pursue settlements for medical bills, lost income, and other accident-related losses.
Other Common Causes
Our California attorneys have also dealt with semi-truck accidents resulting from the following factors:
- Inadequate Training — Truck drivers must be trained and prepared to operate heavy vehicles. Otherwise, they could make mistakes that lead to accidents on the road.
- Speeding — Sometimes, truckers overspeed to reach their destinations faster and meet their deadlines. By doing so, they endanger their lives and those of other motorists.
- Overloaded or Unsecured Cargo — If the truck’s balance is compromised due to overloading or improperly loaded cargo, it could become more difficult to control.
- Inclement Weather — Rain, fog, or snow reduces visibility and creates hazardous conditions, like slippery roads. If the driver or vehicle is not equipped to handle these conditions, an accident could occur.
- Dangerous Road Conditions — Semi-trucks often travel on various types of terrain to deliver goods. Drivers could encounter bumpy roads, potholes, inadequate signage, and more. If they’re not paying attention or adjusting their driving accordingly, they could cause an accident.
Because these factors often involve multiple layers of responsibility, semi-truck accident lawyers can review evidence, consult experts, and determine whether negligence by the driver, trucking company, or another party contributed to the crash.
Common Injuries From Semi-Truck Accidents
An 80,000-lb tractor-trailer crashing into a pedestrian, passenger car, motorcycle, bicycle, or other motorist has the potential to cause devastating injuries. Our semi-truck accident lawyers in California have helped numerous clients pursue compensation for the following injuries:
- Head trauma
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injury
- Broken or dislocated bones
- Crush injuries
- Amputation
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Beyond the physical toll, victims may also struggle with emotional and psychological challenges. The resulting medical bills, lost wages, and lifestyle changes can place a heavy burden on individuals and their families.
In these situations, a semi-truck accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and work toward seeking fair compensation for your injuries and other related losses.
Statute Of Limitations For Filing A Semi-Truck Accident Claim
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the injury (or its discovery) to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party. This time limit is called the statute of limitations. If you don’t bring a claim within this period, you may lose the right to seek compensation for your injuries and related losses.
Depending on the specific circumstances, however, some exceptions may apply. Filing a claim for property damage entails a deadline of three years from the date of the accident. In case a government agency is involved, you are given only six months to file a claim. There are other exceptions under this rule, including claims involving a minor or a mentally incapacitated victim.
Because these deadlines are strict and exceptions are limited, many people choose to consult a lawyer to better understand how the statute of limitations applies to their situation. A skilled attorney can review the facts of your case, explain the timelines that may apply, and guide you through the process of filing a claim.
What To Do After A Semi-Truck Accident In California
Experiencing a semi-truck accident can be overwhelming, but taking careful steps after the crash can help protect both your health and your legal rights. The following guide outlines key actions to consider:
- Ensure Your Safety — If it’s safe and you’re not critically injured, move your car and get out of the vehicle. Staying inside a damaged car is dangerous. Then, check for injuries.
- Alert the Authorities — Always report the accident to the police. It’s a legal requirement in California if the damage exceeds $1,000.
- Seek Medical Attention — Call 911 to get emergency medical help. Afterward, see a doctor, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or whiplash, may show symptoms later.
- Collect Evidence — List the names and contact details of the parties involved in the accident. Take photos of your car and other details, like skid marks, for evidence.
- Be Careful of What You Say — Avoid making statements such as “I’m fine” before you have been medically evaluated. Refrain from admitting fault, as liability should be determined based on all available evidence.
- Consider Contacting a Lawyer — A semi-truck accident lawyer in California can help you better understand your rights and options. They can review the circumstances, explain applicable deadlines, and assist in pursuing a claim.
Semi-Truck Accidents Statistics
In 2021, there were 5,788 deaths in traffic crashes involving large trucks, which was a 17% increase from the 4,945 deaths reported in 2020. The majority of those killed, about 72%, were occupants of other vehicles, showing the serious risks these crashes pose to people who share the road with trucks.
Most fatal truck crashes happened during the workweek. In fact, 78% occurred on weekdays, specifically between 6:00 a.m. Monday and Friday at 5:59 p.m. This reflects the heavy use of trucks during peak business and transport hours.
Alcohol played a smaller role in fatal truck crashes compared to other vehicle types. Only 3% of truck drivers involved in fatal accidents had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 g/dL or higher, compared to 28% for motorcyclists, 24% for passenger car drivers, and 20% for light truck drivers.
Driver history also provides insight into safety risks. About 20.8% of large truck drivers in fatal crashes had previously recorded crashes, which was higher than motorcycle, passenger car, and light truck drivers. However, only 6.5% of truck drivers involved had prior license suspensions or revocations, which was lower than the rates for other vehicle categories.
Overall, while alcohol use and license suspensions were less common among truck drivers, their involvement in fatal crashes increased, and their history of prior crashes remains a concern. These findings highlight the unique safety challenges posed by large trucks on U.S. roads.
Frequently Asked Questions About Semi-Truck Accidents
We answered some of the most common questions clients ask about semi-truck accidents. If you have specific questions related to your case, our attorneys can provide clarity in a free initial consultation.
Who Can Be Held Liable For A Truck Accident?
- The truck driver involved in the crash.
- The trucking company or vehicle owner.
- Maintenance providers or inspectors.
- Training and supervision entities.
- Other negligent motorists.
- Manufacturers of defective trucks or parts.
- Repair shops or mechanics.
- Employers or contractors who hire drivers with prior violations.
- Passengers whose actions contributed to the accident.
- Public agencies that failed to maintain safe road conditions.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers?
Most semi-truck accident lawyers in California work on a contingency fee structure. In this arrangement, attorney fees are collected as a percentage of any compensation recovered on your behalf. You won’t pay any legal fees if you don’t receive compensation. This allows injured individuals to access legal representation without paying upfront legal fees. Any additional case-related costs may still apply and will be discussed by our attorney during the free case review.
What Is The Average Settlement For Semi-Truck Accidents In California?
There is no fixed “average” settlement for semi-truck accidents in California because every case is different. The outcome depends on several factors, such as:
- Severity of Injuries — Catastrophic injuries or wrongful death claims often lead to higher settlement values than minor injury cases.
- Medical Costs — Both current expenses and anticipated future care, such as surgery or rehabilitation, can influence compensation.
- Degree of Fault — If more than one party shares responsibility, the settlement amount may be reduced based on comparative negligence.
- Case Complexity — Factors such as expert testimony, accident reconstruction, or multiple defendants can affect both timelines and outcomes.
Generally, cases involving severe or life-altering injuries tend to result in larger settlements than those with minor damages. Because of these variables, consulting California semi-truck accident lawyers can help you understand how the law applies to your specific situation and what compensation may be available.
How Long Will A Semi-Truck Accident Settlement Take In California?
The timeline for resolving a semi-truck accident claim in California can vary. Many cases are resolved through insurance settlements without going to trial, but this process can still take several months. Insurance companies sometimes begin with low settlement offers, which may extend negotiations. If a fair agreement cannot be reached, filing a lawsuit may become necessary.
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to bring a personal injury lawsuit. When a case proceeds to trial, the process may take longer due to investigations, information exchanges, and court scheduling. While most claims are settled before trial, some can take years to resolve.
Speaking with experienced semi-truck accident lawyers can help you understand the potential timeline for your case and what steps may be involved.
Do Semi-Truck Accident Cases Go To Trial?
Not every semi-truck accident claim in California goes to trial. Many are resolved through settlement negotiations. Whether a case proceeds to court depends on the facts of the crash, the parties involved, and how negotiations develop.
Several factors can influence whether a settlement or a trial is more likely:
- Clear Evidence — If liability is strongly supported by evidence, parties may be more inclined to settle.
- Insurance Involvement — Insurers often settle to manage costs but may proceed to trial if they dispute the claim’s value.
- Injury Severity — Serious or complex injury cases can be harder to resolve quickly.
- Legal Strategy — Attorneys may recommend a trial or a settlement depending on the circumstances and the client’s goal.
- Plaintiff’s Preference — Some clients prefer an early settlement, while others may choose to pursue litigation.
Semi-truck accident lawyers can guide clients through these considerations, explain the potential risks and benefits, and help them make informed decisions about whether to settle or proceed to trial.
Are Semi-Trucks Safer Than Cars?
It’s difficult to say whether a semi-truck is safer than a car. It depends on various factors, including road conditions, driver experience, and other specific circumstances. For truck drivers, the cab’s robust structure can provide more protection in case of a collision.
That said, semi-trucks are not the safest vehicles. If the driver is not wearing a seatbelt, or in cases of rollovers, the risk of injury is still high. Moreover, semi-trucks are much harder to control than smaller cars, making them prone to accidents.
On the other hand, cars offer less protection in a collision. However, they have the advantage of greater agility, maneuverability, and braking capabilities. These qualities could prove instrumental in avoiding accidents or minimizing their impact.
Can Semi-Trucks Drive In The Fast Lane In California?
Semi-trucks can’t drive in the left lane, but they can drive in other lanes. The reason is that they are restricted to a certain speed, which is usually 55 mph on California highways.
In some cases, though, they are required to use truck-only lanes, which are rare in California. At the moment, only the following truck-only lanes exist:
- Northbound and southbound I-5 in Los Angeles County at the State Route 14 split.
- Southbound I-5 in Kern County at the State Route 99 junction near the Grapevine.
Despite these rules, violations still occur. When truck drivers speed or fail to follow lane restrictions, they increase the risk of collisions. In such cases, semi-truck accident lawyers can review the circumstances, assess whether traffic violations played a role, and help victims understand their legal options.
Can A Semi-Truck Go Over 100 Mph?
Semi-trucks are primarily designed for hauling heavy loads over long distances rather than achieving high speeds. However, some models with larger engines might be capable of going over 100 mph, although it’s neither encouraged nor permitted by law.
If a truck driver exceeds speed limits and causes a crash, our semi-truck accident lawyers can investigate the violation and help victims explore their legal options.
Can A Semi-Truck Park On A Residential Street In California?
Commercial vehicles are not permitted to park on residential streets and certain other places. They are typically required to use designated loading zones and parking areas. This regulation helps prevent commercial activities from obstructing regular traffic flow and ensures pedestrian safety.
What Semi-Trucks Are Allowed In California?
Legal trucks are restricted to the following limits:
- Height — 14 feet.
- Width — 8.5 feet.
- Length — 65 feet or 75 feet (unlimited on certain routes).
- Weight — 80,000 lbs.
If these limits are exceeded, trucks are not allowed on the roads and are more likely to cause accidents.
Call Our California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers For Legal Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a big rig, our California semi-truck accident lawyers at Arash Law can review your situation, explain your legal options, and guide you through each step of the claims process. We can handle case investigations, gather evidence, and communicate with insurers so you can focus on recovery.
You can reach us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our staff is available 24/7 to answer questions and provide updates. Meetings can be arranged at a location that is convenient for you. We serve clients from Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, San Jose, San Diego, and the rest of California.
