California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers

  • PAY NOTHING UPFRONT
  • OVER $500 MILLION RECOVERED
  • ZERO-FEES UNTIL WE WIN
You May Be Entitled to Compensation
Arash Law Practice Area Border/Divider
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not within five minutes, call (888) 488-1391

California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers – Available 24/7 To Help Secure Maximum Compensation For Victims

While California’s roads are breathtaking to drive on, they can be intimidating when traveling with massive semi-trucks. The trauma, pain, and medical expenses of an accident involving one are a lot to deal with alone. That’s where Arash Law steps in. Managed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., we have fiercely advocated for fellow Californians for decades. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free consultation with the best California semi-truck accident lawyers.

Semi-truck collisions are among the most violent accidents anyone can experience. It’s challenging to overstate how devastating it can be. The negative consequences of crashes involving semi-trucks include extreme physical, emotional, and financial damages. If a semi-truck driver left you or your loved one injured or killed in a collision, you need experienced semi-truck accident lawyers in California to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Our law firm has remained committed over several decades to helping truck accident victims. In fact, throughout our tenure, we have won many cases and secured over $500 Million in damages for our clients. Our California semi-truck accident attorneys are here to help, and we’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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, it refers to a vast, heavy, and cumbersome commercial truck comprising two parts:

1
Tractor

The tractor 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 coupling device works like a hinge that allows the tractor and the trailer to move in unison while allowing some flexibility.

2
Trailer

The trailer is the extended rear portion of the truck that usually has a cargo area connected. Sometimes, tractor-trailers will pull more than one trailer, turning them into what some call "road trains" or "land trains."

Semi-truck accidents are exceedingly dangerous, and claims involving one are particularly complicated. However, your rights and the financial compensation you are entitled to matter far too much to refrain from aggressively advocating for justice in your case. If a semi-truck accident injured you or killed a loved one, consult with knowledgeable semi-truck attorneys in California today.

Trucking Accident

$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
Truck Drivers vs. Non-Commercial Drivers in California

The main difference between truck drivers and other commercial operators in California lies in the type of vehicle operated 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 in the state legally.

Truck drivers are professional drivers who operate gigantic vehicles across California. As such, these drivers 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, carrying hefty fines and penalties for noncompliance:

  • There is an 11-hour driving limit for professional truck drivers, which means a trucker may only drive up to 11 hours after having at least ten consecutive hours off duty.
  • Upon coming on duty after ten consecutive hours off, truckers may not drive beyond a 14th consecutive hour. Additional time spent off duty does not extend this 14-hour maximum.
  • Professional truckers can’t drive if more than 8 hours have passed since their last break from duty or a break in the sleeper berth 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.

Truck drivers are held to these strict rules and regulations for one excellent reason: to help keep everyone on our roadways safe. These drivers make their livings by putting miles behind them, and the booming trucking industry sometimes pushes them beyond the parameters of established regulations.

The fact is, overworked truck drivers are dangerous drivers. Our California semi-truck accident lawyers at Arash Law can provide the professional guidance you need if a negligent truck driver injures you or a family member.

Semi-Trucks Are Subject to Federal and State Safety Standards

Trucking accidents are so potentially dangerous that both the State of California and the federal government impose regulations from nearly every conceivable safety angle:

  • More restrictive standards for obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which is necessary to operate a big rig semi-truck
  • Far less tolerance for a commercial driver’s use of alcohol and/or drugs – including testing for such usage
  • Strict regulatory standards related to the transportation of hazardous materials
  • Closely monitored requirements related to the physical health of commercial truckers and the safety standards of trucking companies

Both state and federal governments closely and carefully regulate the trucking industry and its truckers. Still, deadly accidents have not decreased and continue to occur. The fact is that the trucking industry often cuts corners to continue maximizing profits, and this undermines the safety of everyone on the road. If the trucking industry’s negligence – in any form – leaves you or your loved one injured, call our reputable semi-truck accident lawyers in California today.

Semi-Truck Accidents as The Result of Industry-Wide Safety Failures

Our nation’s consumer-driven economy is fueled by the massive commercial trucks that traverse our roads every day. After all, the goods we continue to clamor must come from somewhere, and we have the trucking industry to thank. As the demand for consumer goods continues to increase, the trucking industry is under more and more pressure to perform.

The multi-billion dollar trucking industry turning over massive profits must adhere to strict rules and regulations to keep everyone on our road system safe. When the industry chooses to cut safety corners to keep up with demand and improve its bottom line, it endangers motorists everywhere. Trucking companies have many responsibilities related to safety that they must consistently fulfill. Otherwise, they risk being responsible for potentially deadly traffic accidents. These responsibilities are:

  • 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 is critical to our economy, but it is also obliged to take all the necessary safety precautions as it continues to grow. After a trucking company’s negligence caused you to be injured in a tractor-trailer accident, you have our California semi-truck accident lawyers to turn to.

800+ Real Client Reviews Verified by Google
Emperatriz Ayala
Emperatriz Ayala
Read More
My husband had an accident 2 years ago, a 85 years old man hit him, the Arash law group works very well on my husband case that took 9 month and he won the case and my husband was happy with the results. A year later I got into an accident as well and I’m still waiting in my case is almost resolving and it’s 9 months already. This people knows the law and they do their job right to help you out in getting the most for you to fight on your behalf. I strongly recommend the Arash Law firm they do things right in a efficient and professional manner.
Chris Zavala
Chris Zavala
Read More
Had a great experience with all the people at Arash law. Long story short was in a bad car accident. It was overwhelming and the whole process was a lot, but they kept me in the loop. They answered all my questions and gave me great advice. Couldn't be any happier. Would definitely recommend anyone looking for a personal injury lawyer. They'll guide you through the whole process!
Jill Smith
Jill Smith
Read More
Having Arash Law handle my auto accident was the best decision I could have made. Everyone I interacted with was kind, professional and detail oriented. I am extremely happy with the outcome and would recommend them highly.
Joseph R. Porter
Joseph R. Porter
Read More
From start to finish, Arash Law firm is there every step of the way with close, constant, personal contact and attention. I never knew a Law firm could actually care so much for me as a person and what I was personally going through as well as the settlement I was going to recieve once my case was finally completed. Thank you to everyone at Arash Law for your ongoing support and communication. You are the ONLY firm I will ever recommend to someone who is need of a great attorny.
Monica Parra
Monica Parra
Read More
I had an excellent experience with Arash Law. I will definitely recommend to my family and friends. I interviewed a few firms before deciding to work with Arash Law. What made my experience excellent was (i.e. head attorney being accessible to talk to and he answered all my questions and concerns, sensitive and thorough personel who completed in home intake & follow up process, being connected immediately to quality Physicians who addressed my injuries and recovery process, clear contract-read throughly to ensure its something you can commit to). Being in a car accident is a traumatic experience and I had a sense of peace knowing Arash Firm was walking with me throughout the whole process. Thank you Arash Firm for all your hard work and help. I am so grateful and appreciative for you all! 🙏 With Gratitude, Monica Parra
Previous
Next

How to Find California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers “Near Me”

If a big rig semi-truck accident leaves you injured or a loved one killed, you may wonder, “How can I find experienced semi-truck accident lawyers near me?”

The dedicated California semi-truck accident attorneys at Arash Law, founded and managed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq. for more than three decades, are committed to helping accident victims like you recover the full extent of your damages.

Semi-truck accidents are incredibly complicated, more so than traffic accidents involving noncommercial vehicles. Nevertheless, our skilled semi-truck accident lawyers in California have the knowledge and compassion to aggressively advocate for your claim’s most favorable resolution. If you were injured in such an accident, you need their professional legal counsel.

Semi-Truck Accidents Can Leave Victims with Significant Medical Expenses

The injuries sustained in a semi-truck accident are often far more severe than those of other traffic accidents in California. The associated medical expenses reflect this fact:

  • 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 medical expenses can quickly add up, making the total astronomical. Relying solely on your insurance company to cover your expenses is not in your best interest. The qualified semi-truck accident lawyers California trusts will negotiate with the insurance companies for maximum compensation while you focus on your recovery.

How to Find California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers Near Me
Work-Related Costs and Emotional Consequences of A Serious Semi-Truck Crash

Work-Related Costs and Emotional Consequences of A Serious Semi-Truck Crash

The journey toward recovery after a big-rig truck accident is often long and winding, and you likely won’t return to work sometime soon. Many semi-truck accident victims cannot return to the careers they love. At the same time, the work-related costs associated with their commercial truck accidents continue to pile up:

  • Many 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

Most of us, in one way or another, correlate our careers with our sense of self. A violent semi-truck accident that significantly alters or destroys that career can be emotionally devastating. A severe personal injury caused by someone else’s negligence – like a truck driver or a trucking company – is difficult to deal with emotionally.

The emotional and psychological costs of these often deadly accidents can exceed even the immense medical expenses. If you or a loved one was injured after an 18-wheeler accident, contact our injury firm with compassionate California semi-truck accident lawyers today.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents in California

Trucking companies – and their truck drivers to some extent – are responsible for maintaining rigorous safety standards, including scheduled maintenance and safety checks on their rigs. Failure to do so can result in deadly accidents on our roadways.

Several common truck-related causes contribute to many dangerous incidents:

  • The Truck’s Tires — Massive commercial trucks are called 18-wheelers for one crucial reason – they ride on 18 giant tires. These tires connect these immense and weighty vehicles to the road, so a lot of wear and tear is involved. A semi-truck with a worn or otherwise defective tire can make it difficult for the trucker to maintain control, leading to hazardous driving conditions for everyone in its midst. Furthermore, a blown tire often leaves dangerous debris on the road, which can lead to additional accidents. Large chunks of rubber and fast-moving traffic are a dangerous combination.
  • The Truck’s Brakes — Because trucks are several times larger and heavier than noncommercial vehicles, they take longer time to come to complete and safe stops, and their brakes get a good workout in the process. Semi-trucks have complicated braking systems that must be kept in excellent working order for safety’s sake. When they aren’t, or when these brakes are faulty to begin with, hazardous accidents can happen.
  • The Truck’s Coupling Device — A truck’s coupling device is the hitch that connects the motorized tractor (which houses the trucker’s cab) to the trailer that follows behind. The integrity of this coupling device is critical to a big rig’s ability to travel safely on our highways. A faultily manufactured, damaged, defective, or worn coupling device can lead to horrific incidents, the gravity of which is difficult to overstate.

If you are injured in a truck accident due to a defective part – whether caused by a manufacturing defect, inadequate maintenance, or insufficient safety checks – it’s time to consult a reputable 18-wheeler accident law firm. Only knowledgeable California semi-truck accident lawyers have the qualifications and commitment to skillfully fight for the compensation you need to travel the long and challenging path toward recovery.

Semi-Trucks Have Several Danger Zones

In addition to faulty truck parts, semi-trucks are so large and cumbersome that they have inherent danger zones, which are essential to pay careful attention to.

1
A Truck’s Blind Spots

Even though truck drivers sit high above the road and seemingly have a great view of everything around them, they have large blind spots on every side of their rigs. If you are traveling in a truck's blind spot, the driver can't see you and probably doesn't know you are there. In other words, you are more likely to be injured in these blind spots. Its most significant blind spot is on the trucker's right-hand side, making it especially dangerous to pass on its right. So don't take the chance.

2
A Truck’s Center of Gravity

Large commercial trucks carry massive cargo over several miles and are built for the long haul. Issues related to its center of gravity can be pivotal in semi-accidents. The center of gravity can be affected by the truck's design and/or by faulty loading practices often caused by the trucking company. This is due to the drivers and/or the loading crews attempting to cut corners, save time, and increase profits. Any mitigating factor compromising an 18-wheeler's center of gravity can contribute to or cause dangerous rollover accidents and exacerbate the ensuing damages.

3
A Truck’s Design

A truck's very design can contribute to potentially deadly incidents. Trucks that ride very high off the road can be hazardous for the relatively tiny cars they share the road with. This height discrepancy can lead to exceedingly dangerous underride accidents where a car drives or is pushed under the truck and into its undercarriage. Drivers of regular, smaller vehicles are always at a safety disadvantage. When big rigs are in your midst, always proceed with extreme caution – the life you save could be your own.

After getting injured in a truck accident, consulting with skilled semi-accident attorneys in California is in your best interest. While you attend to the difficult task of recovering your health, allow your legal counsel to safeguard your rights to a fair settlement.

Semi-Truck Accidents – Unfortunately Common in California

Semi-trucks are everywhere, especially in rural areas of California, and they aren’t going away anytime soon. Our economy is driven by semi-trucks that deliver all the consumer goods we need and want. Ours is a consumer-based economy, and the trucking industry and consumer demand keep things moving forward.

As the industry continues to expand, the latest statistics on commercial truck accidents forwarded by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and based on data from the U.S. Department of Transportation and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) continue to be more and more sobering.

  • Occupants of noncommercial vehicles involved in commercial truck accidents have a far greater risk of being injured than truckers. These occupants made up 97% of all fatalities in 2015.
  • In 2015, almost 4,000 people were killed in tractor-trailer accidents nationwide.
  • From 2009 to 2015, semi-truck fatalities rose by 22%.
  • In 2015, 11% of all traffic fatalities involved a tractor-trailer.
  • There were 4,014 deaths in the U.S. due to significant truck accidents.
  • The IIHS highlighted that out of the 4,014 fatalities, 608 were truck drivers or passengers, or 15% of the reported deaths.
  • There is a 28% rise in truck-related deaths since 2009 and a 35% jump in deaths inside the truck.

What’s alarming is that when a truck collides with a car, 97% of the fatalities are those inside the car, showing how dangerous it is for car occupants in such accidents.

Semi-truck accidents happen, and they are often deadly. If your family has been affected by a fatal commercial truck collision, do not hesitate to contact our California semi-truck accident lawyers today for professional legal guidance.

Fatigued Semi-Truck Drivers Put Everyone at Risk of Serious Injury or Death

As the trucking industry continues to grow exponentially, safety corners are often cut to keep up with the demand and keep the profits robust. Truck drivers, who make their livings operating huge vehicles, can be pushed beyond the bounds of safely manning a massive 18-wheeler semi-truck. While it’s easy to recognize the pressure these truckers are under, they are still responsible for adhering to all federal and state laws, including the Hours of Service (HOS) regulations.

Truckers who fail to do so are often exhausted, overworked, and fatigued, and tired truckers are dangerous because:

  • Fatigued truckers react less quickly and more poorly.
  • Fatigued truckers have shorter attention spans and are more easily distracted (distraction is another critical danger).
  • Fatigued truckers need to be more alert.
  • Fatigued truckers are more likely to make decisions that aren’t safe, as evidenced by how they chose to ignore HOS regulations in the first place.

The trucking industry is ever-expanding, but it is obligated to assume the paramount responsibility of incorporating safety regulations in the growth process. When a trucking company puts profits before safety, they make our highways and byways less safe for everyone who travels on them. Being an accident victim necessitates hiring proficient California semi-truck accident attorneys.

Distracted Semi-Truck Drivers – A Serious Public Safety Concern

Distracted truck drivers are another primary safety concern. When we get behind the wheels of our vehicles, we shoulder the immense responsibility of driving safely, and one major component of this is not allowing ourselves to be distracted by anything other than driving. Driving a large commercial vehicle safely is a trucker’s job, but with this primary task comes many administrative tasks. It includes maintaining hefty logbooks that record traveled miles, HOS, gas breaks, regularly performing scheduled safety checks, and more.

When truckers allow these additional tasks to distract them from driving safely, they increase the risk of being involved in dangerous traffic accidents. Further, truckers are vulnerable to the same distractions as other drivers, including the siren song of the almighty smartphone. The difference is that truckers are professionals who maneuver potentially deadly machines over many miles, and using one’s phone while behind the wheel is totally unacceptable.

Frequently Ask Questions
What To Do After A Semi-Truck Accident in California
Experiencing a semi-truck accident is overwhelming. The following is a simple guide to help you navigate the aftermath as an accident victim.
  • Safety First: If it’s safe and you’re not critically injured, move your vehicle and go outside the car. It is dangerous to remain inside your vehicle. Take photos of your car and other details like skid marks for evidence.
  • Alert The Authorities: Always report the accident to the police. It’s a legal requirement in California since damage often exceeds $500.
  • Seek Medical Attention: 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 and gather any other evidence. You may overlook these steps amidst the chaos. Collecting evidence after a truck crash is vital. At Arash Law, we have expert investigators to help build your case. However, it’s also beneficial if you can gather any additional evidence to strengthen your claim.
  • Be Careful of What You Say: Avoid saying things like “I’m fine” before a medical check-up. If you do, your claim may be harder to prove. Most importantly, do not admit fault.
  • Contact A Lawyer: Arash Law, headed by Arash Khorsandi Esq., has semi-truck accident lawyers in California specializing in truck crashes. Our legal team can help you with your legal needs.
Who Can Be Held Liable for A Truck Accident?

The following parties might be held accountable in a truck accident claim:

  • The truck driver is directly responsible for the accident;
  • The trucking firm and the truck’s owner;
  • Entities in charge of truck maintenance and inspections (usually the trucking firm);
  • Entities responsible for training and overseeing the driver;
  • Other drivers may have played a part in the crash;
  • Makers of the truck and its parts, especially if a defect caused the crash;
  • Repair shops or mechanics that recently worked on the truck;
  • Parties who hire and manage truck drivers, particularly if those drivers have past traffic infractions or violations;
  • Any passenger accompanying the truck driver during the accident if they contributed to the cause of the crash;
  • Government or local bodies are accountable for road conditions or hazards leading to the accident.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers?

Most semi-truck accident lawyers in California charge similar fees, depending on the legal market. However, their superior track record and expertise help them stand out from other legal practitioners. At Arash Law, our California semi-truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee arrangement. You will only owe attorney fees once we secure a favorable judgment or settlement. Thus, our accident attorneys offer you a risk-free choice.

What Is The Average Settlement for Semi-Truck Accidents in California?

Identifying an “average” settlement amount for semi-truck accidents in California is challenging since every case is unique.

The compensation from a truck accident lawsuit depends on various factors:

  • The extent and nature of the injuries you’ve endured. For instance, a wrongful death claim is valued far more than a claim for minor injuries.
  • Your current medical expenses and any anticipated future medical costs arising from the injuries. If, for example, you had to undergo surgery, this would be reflected in the compensation.
  • The degree of fault, whether the other driver was entirely to blame or if there was a shared responsibility. This will affect the amount of settlement.
  • The fee for engaging expert California semi-truck accident lawyers.

Arash Law operates on a “no win, no fee” principle. It means there are no upfront costs, and our charges will be deducted from the compensation we recover. We have championed cases resulting in $500 Million awards for our clients. Our primary objective is to get the highest possible compensation for the injuries you’ve faced.

How Long Will A Semi-Truck Accident Settlement Take in California?

Most truck accident claims in California are settled with insurance companies, avoiding the need for a lawsuit. However, it can take time to complete this process. Insurers might initially offer lower settlements, hoping victims will accept to close the case quickly. Because of this unfair practice, negotiations can take months, sometimes even a year. If a fair settlement isn’t reached or a claim is denied, the victim may need to sue the negligent parties.

Is a trial necessary? Remember, in California, you have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. If the case proceeds to this stage, the timeline is extended as both sides exchange information, deeper investigations, and negotiations. Though most personal injury cases are settled before trial, some can take years to conclude.

After semi-truck collisions, consider consulting trusted semi-truck accident lawyers in California. The legal team at Arash Law can handle negotiations with insurance providers and advocate for fair compensation on your behalf.

Do Semi-Truck Accident Cases Go to Trial?

In California, most semi-truck accident cases are settled out of court due to the following factors:

  • Clear Evidence: If the truck driver or company is clearly at fault, they’ll likely settle to avoid negative press and potential high jury-awarded damages.
  • Insurance’s Role: Insurance companies often settle to control the costs. However, they might push for a trial if they think the claims are unreasonable.
  • Injury Severity: Large claims involving severe injuries are more difficult to resolve.
  • Attorney Strategy: Some lawyers are known for taking cases to trial, while others prefer settling.
  • Plaintiff’s Preference: Some victims want an early resolution of their claims, while others might await a trial for possible higher compensation.

Injured in An Accident? Call Our Award-Winning California Semi-Truck Accident Lawyers Today at (888) 488-1391

If an accident involving a semi-truck leaves you or someone you love injured or dead, it’s time to contact the best semi-truck accident lawyers California relies on. The dedicated legal team at Arash Law, headed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., has the experience, skills, and compassion to guide your claim toward its best possible resolution. Your rights and continuing recovery are too necessary to leave to chance or the insurance company involved.

We conveniently have locations throughout California, with offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, San Jose, and San Diego. We are also more than happy to meet with you at your home, office, or anyplace else in the state, as we offer legal services in other cities like Anaheim, Bakersfield, Frazier Park, Fremont, Fresno, Glendale, Gustine, Oceanside, Santa Ana, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Rosa, Tehachapi, and Visalia.

We’re here to help you 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whenever you need us. Find experienced California semi-truck accident lawyers and take advantage of a free, no-risk consultation by calling (888) 488-1391 today.