California Truck Accident Lawyers
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- OVER $1 BILLION RECOVERED
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Our California Truck Accident Lawyers Offer Dedicated Support For Injury Victims.
Our California truck accident lawyers work to guide clients through the claims process after crashes involving semi-trucks, big rigs, 18-wheelers, delivery trucks, and other commercial vehicles on highways like I-5, I-10, and I-80. These cases may involve multiple parties, strict federal and state regulations—including FMCSA hours-of-service rules and ELD requirements—and the need to gather and analyze substantial evidence. We have the experience and resources to guide you through every step. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Common injuries in truck accident cases include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, internal trauma, amputation injuries, and burn injuries. The severity of these injuries, combined with the complex liability landscape, is why choosing the right legal team matters.
We’ve represented clients injured in crashes involving big rigs, semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, delivery trucks, and other heavy commercial vehicles. We work on a contingency fee basis—clients pay no attorney fees unless they are awarded a settlement or verdict.
What Our Track Record in Truck Cases Looks Like
Every truck accident case is different, but the way we approach them reflects a consistent commitment to thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy. Here are examples from cases our attorneys have handled:
In a truck-versus-auto collision, our co-counsel identified multiple issues in the case, including a rare medical diagnosis. The result was a $6,385,000 recovery for a client whose life was changed in an instant.
A client sustained a spinal cord injury and a mild traumatic brain injury in a rollover trucking accident that occurred while he was working within the scope of his employment. We secured a $5,500,000 settlement.
A client walking within a crosswalk was struck by a large truck. The truck company tried to blame our client. We recovered $5,000,000 for the resulting mild traumatic brain injury.
A commercial truck driver was asleep in the cab when his co-driver was involved in an accident, throwing our client from the vehicle. After several years of limited treatment under prior counsel, our team substituted into the matter, secured admission to a neurorehabilitation facility, and obtained a judgment of $3,120,000.
A top-rated delivery truck company rear-ended our client on the freeway. The defense tried to blame the injuries on her weight and pre-existing conditions. We resolved the matter at mediation for $1,150,000.
In several of these cases, the trucking company or its insurer attempted to blame our client for the crash or minimize the injuries. This is a common defense strategy in truck accident cases. Our attorneys have experience identifying and responding to these tactics, and our results reflect that preparation.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Who We Help After California Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often affect more than just the driver of the vehicle that was hit. Our California truck accident lawyers work with clients in a range of situations, including:
- Drivers injured in crashes with semi-trucks, big rigs, and other commercial vehicles
- Passengers injured in vehicles struck by trucks
- Families who lost a loved one in a fatal truck crash
- People injured in multi-vehicle collisions involving trucks
- Pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists hit by commercial trucks
- Workers injured in crashes involving commercial vehicles
If you were hurt in a truck crash and are not sure whether you have a case, a free initial consultation can help you understand your options.
What Our California Truck Accident Lawyers Can Do For You
Truck accident lawyers advocate for the rights of injured victims and families who’ve lost loved ones in fatal crashes. Here’s how we can assist you with a valid claim:
Assessing The Full Extent Of Your Losses
After a truck collision, you may face hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, lost income, and emotional trauma. We evaluate your immediate and long-term damages and help calculate the estimated value of your claim based on the specific facts of your case.
Why Early Action Can Matter in a Truck Accident Case
Truck accident cases require gathering time-sensitive evidence before it disappears. Under FMCSA regulations, electronic logging device (ELD) data is retained for only six months, and black box data can be overwritten when a truck is repaired or returned to service. Our California truck accident lawyers work with accident reconstruction and forensic experts to preserve and analyze critical evidence—including ELD records, black box data, dashcam and traffic camera footage, driver logs, eyewitness accounts, police reports, medical records, and documentation of income loss or trucking law violations.
Federal hours-of-service rules limit property-carrying drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with a mandatory 30-minute break after 8 hours. California Vehicle Code §21702 imposes additional state-level limits on intrastate carriers. When these rules are violated and a crash occurs, the violation itself can serve as evidence of negligence.
It is also important to understand that many trucking companies deploy rapid response teams to the scene of a serious crash, sometimes within hours. These teams may include investigators, adjusters, and defense attorneys whose role is to gather evidence and begin building the carrier’s defense. Having your own legal team act quickly can help ensure that critical evidence is preserved for your benefit, not just theirs.
One of the first steps our attorneys may take is sending a formal preservation letter to the trucking company and its insurer. This legal notice requires them to preserve all relevant evidence—including ELD records, black box data, dashcam footage, and driver logs. Without this step, some of this data can be overwritten or lost, particularly ECM (engine control module) data, which may have a limited retention window depending on the carrier’s system.
Seeking prompt medical care and speaking with an attorney soon after the crash may help preserve the information needed to build a strong case.
Who May Be Responsible in a California Truck Accident
Truck accident cases often involve more than one party. Depending on the circumstances, any of the following may share responsibility for a crash:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- Parts manufacturers
- Insurance companies
- Companies responsible for truck maintenance
- Other motorists involved in the crash
Because multiple parties may be liable, your attorneys can help evaluate how much responsibility each one may have. This assessment can influence the compensation you may be able to pursue. Our truck accident lawyers at Arash Law are familiar with the challenges that may arise when seeking damages in these cases.
Our truck accident lawyers at Arash Law are familiar with the challenges that may arise when seeking damages in these cases. It is also important to know that federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance: $750,000 for trucks over 10,000 pounds carrying general freight, and $1,000,000 to $5,000,000 for vehicles transporting hazardous materials.
Our attorneys investigate the corporate structure behind the truck that caused your crash to identify all available insurance coverage. In many cases, the trucking company’s commercial policy may provide substantially more coverage than the individual driver’s personal policy. Identifying the right parties and the right policies early in the process can make a meaningful difference in the compensation available to you.
Negotiating Compensation
We represent injured clients in the Golden State. Our truck accident attorneys will explain your rights and help you understand your legal options. If you have a case, we can assist with building your case. We’ll deal with insurance companies on your behalf, pursuing compensation that reflects your injuries and losses.
Filing a lawsuit in court may be necessary if a settlement cannot be reached through negotiations. We can help you file a lawsuit. Our truck accident attorneys have years of courtroom experience, which they seek to leverage when crafting tailored legal strategies to present their clients’ cases to a judge or jury.
Our client was working as a truck driver and was asleep in the cab when his co-driver was involved in an accident. It resulted in our client being thrown from the cab. Our client sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury as well as multiple orthopedic and internal injuries.
Excited to share the great news for our client who had his life changed in a blink of an eye! Our co-counsel did a fantastic job identifying multiple issues with the case including a rare medical diagnosis and was quick to jump on the case with us! We are thrilled to achieve these consistent outlier results!
A husband and wife were enjoying a beautiful day together when their car was T-boned by a work truck that ran a red light. The incident led to significant disputes over the circumstances and the extent of their injuries. After two years of intense litigation, we successfully secured a substantial settlement for our wonderful clients.
Our client experienced a spinal cord injury and a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a result of a rollover trucking accident that occurred while he was working within the scope of his employment. We secured a settlement of $5.5 million in compensation.
A top rated and large delivery truck company rear ended our client on the freeway. Our client was a middle aged woman who suffered neck and back injuries. The defense tried to blame it on her weight and pre-existing conditions.
Eventually, we were able to resolve the matter at mediation, before going to trial.
A family was enjoying a peaceful drive when their world was shattered by a reckless truck driver who slammed into their vehicle, causing devastating consequences. We fought tirelessly on their behalf and successfully recovered the maximum insurance limits, helping this wonderful family rebuild their lives.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accident Cases
Truck accident cases are rarely straightforward. So it’s natural to have a few questions if you got injured in a collision with one. Our truck accident lawyers in California answer the most frequently asked questions about these injury cases. Our team is at your service around the clock if you have any specific concerns. Reach out to us at (888) 488-1391 if you wish to receive more personalized guidance through a free initial consultation.
How much does a California truck accident lawyer cost?
Our California truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless you are awarded compensation. The fee comes as a percentage of the recovered amount, and case costs may apply. Our initial consultation is free, and you are under no obligation to hire us afterward.
What is the average truck accident settlement in California?
Settlement amounts in California truck accident cases vary from case to case, so there is no reliable average figure. The main factors that affect the value of a claim include:
- The severity of the injuries and their long-term effects
- Current and estimated future medical costs
- The assignment of fault under California’s comparative negligence rules, which reduces recovery by the claimant’s percentage of responsibility.
Our attorneys can help you understand how these factors apply to your specific case.
How much is my California truck accident case worth?
The value of a truck accident claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the long-term impact on your health and ability to work, and the specific facts of your case. Common injuries in truck accident cases include spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, internal trauma, amputation injuries, and burn injuries.
Under California law, recoverable damages may include:
- Economic damages: medical expenses, lost income, property damage, transportation expenses, rehabilitation costs, and (in wrongful death cases) funeral and burial costs, and loss of financial support.
- Non-economic damages: pain and suffering, loss of quality of life, loss of consortium, and disfigurement or disability.
- Punitive damages: available in rare cases where the at-fault party acted with willful disregard for the rights of others.
Your attorney can help you understand what your claim may be worth based on your specific circumstances.
How long do I have to file a California truck accident claim?
In California, the general deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the injury. Missing this deadline may mean losing the right to pursue compensation. Exceptions may apply in specific situations:
- • Minor victims: the two-year period generally begins when the injured child turns 18.
- Government-owned vehicles: a claim must usually be filed within six months.
- Out-of-state defendants: the statute may pause while the defendant is out of California.
- Delayed discovery: the two-year period may begin when the injury is discovered.
Our California truck accident lawyers can help you understand how the deadline applies to your specific case.
When should I contact a California truck accident lawyer?
It is usually best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after a truck accident, especially if:
- You sustained serious injuries or are facing significant medical bills
- You need help securing evidence to build your case
- There are disputes about fault or liability between the parties involved
- You have received a settlement offer from an insurance company
- You are not sure about your rights or what compensation you can pursue
How do I know if I've found the right California truck accident lawyer?
When choosing a truck accident lawyer, consider:
- Legal knowledge: familiarity with local and federal trucking regulations and the challenges of establishing liability
- Available resources: access to accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and other industry experts
- Communication: clear and responsive communication about your case
- Client reviews: testimonials from past clients about how the lawyer handled their cases
How is a California truck accident claim proven?
To recover compensation, your attorneys must show that the crash resulted from negligence by establishing four elements:
- Duty of care: the defendant had a legal obligation to act responsibly (truck drivers, for example, must observe a high standard of care)
- Breach of duty: the defendant violated that duty through careless or unsafe behavior
- Causation: the breach of duty directly led to the crash and your injuries
- Damages: you suffered actual harm, such as physical injury, emotional distress, or financial loss
Your team typically relies on concrete evidence, such as black-box data, traffic camera footage, medical records, and documentation of income loss or trucking law violations.
Can I recover compensation if I was partly at fault for a California truck accident?
Yes. Under California’s comparative negligence rules, multiple people may share responsibility for a crash, and each liable party pays depending on their share of the fault.
You may still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents
Various types of truck-related traffic collisions occur on California roads. Truck accidents are often catastrophic, potentially ending in severe injuries and fatalities. Most of these crashes are caused by factors such as:
Driving-Related Errors
Many of the cases our truck accident lawyers in California handle involve crashes due to common driver errors. Speeding, distracted driving, overcorrecting, and poor control of the vehicle can lead to the following types of incidents:
- Jackknife accidents
- Rear-end collisions
- Wide-turn accidents
- Blind spot accidents
- Underride accidents
- Head-on crashes
- Rollover accidents
- Sideswipe collisions
Here are some of the driving behaviors that might lead to accidents:
Speeding
On California’s highways, the general speed limit is 65mph. Trucks are limited to 55 mph, but they are expected to go even slower when it’s raining to avoid accidents. Driving too fast in poor road conditions can increase the risk of losing control of the vehicle. Speeding drivers might not have enough time to brake or react properly to sudden changes in traffic.
Impaired Driving
Alcohol consumption and drug use impair the senses, which can be detrimental behind the wheel. In California, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has strict rules on drunk driving. For commercial driver’s license holders, the blood alcohol content threshold is 0.04%, as opposed to 0.08% for regular drivers.
Driver Fatigue
Fatigue and driving on seemingly endless roads can lead to drowsy driving. In some cases, operating a vehicle while exhausted is comparable to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Fatigue can cause a driver to:
- Accidentally drift off into other lanes
- Have difficulty maintaining a safe speed
- Fail to respond properly to obstacles and hazards
- Fall asleep behind the wheel
Distracted Driving
Some drivers seek distractions to stimulate their minds and avoid dozing off while driving. However, certain distractions may detract from the focus needed for safe driving. Texting, calling someone on the phone, adjusting the radio, eating, or grooming could be dangerous when driving. Mere seconds of inattention cause drivers to lose control and crash into other vehicles.
Unsafe Driving Behavior
Trucks are larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. Driving near one can be intimidating, especially for novice drivers. Inexperienced drivers might make unsafe decisions when sharing the road with these massive vehicles. Another common issue for motorists is aggressive driving. Bad driving habits include:
- Tailgating
- Careless merging
- Lane blocking
- Running red lights
- Cutting other drivers off
- Refusing to yield the right-of-way
- Driving in the wrong lane
Mechanical Failures
Mechanical problems can occur in even well-maintained trucks and other vehicles. Our truck accident lawyers can investigate your crash to see whether any of the following played a role:
- Tire blowouts
- Brake failures
- Malfunctioning safety driving systems
- Faulty steering
- Out-of-alignment wheels
- Broken signal and brake lights
Vehicle maintenance is important. It becomes more critical during rainy months. Heavy rain can make roads slippery, especially during the first few minutes after rain when the accumulated oil on pavements is washed away, creating a slick surface. Because there is less traction, drivers could easily lose control of their vehicles. In addition to driving defensively, all drivers should ensure their vehicles meet safety standards.
Cargo-Loading Mistakes
California has a weight limit of 80,000 pounds for large trucks. Specifically, trailers with one set of wheels (single axles) can only carry 20,000 pounds. On the other hand, trailers with two sets of wheels (double axles) have a limit of 34,000 pounds, provided they are fitted with tires with adequate weight-bearing capacity.
Some companies might overload their trucks to minimize trips and meet delivery deadlines. Excess weight puts more pressure on vehicle parts, such as the tires and brakes, leading to premature wear and tear. An accident may occur if these parts fail while the truck is moving.
Not to mention, heavier trucks are much harder for drivers to maneuver properly, increasing the risk of rollovers. Uneven cargo distribution can make handling underloaded trucks even more challenging. Loose freight may constantly move inside the trailer, causing the vehicle’s balance to shift. Unsecured cargo can also fall off and hit other cars or pedestrians. Our truck accident lawyers can examine whether loading errors caused the collision you were in.
Ways To Support Your Claim After A Truck Accident In California
Each case is unique. However, some practical steps may help you better support your case:
- Seek Prompt Medical Care — Some injuries may not appear immediately. Seeing a doctor soon after the accident can help document any injuries you may have sustained. Following your treatment plan and keeping a personal record of your symptoms and limitations may be helpful if disputes about your condition arise later.
- Collect Relevant Information — Take photos or videos of the scene, the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Try to gather contact information from other drivers and witnesses. If you cannot do this yourself, a lawyer may be able to assist later.
- Report the Incident — A police report may objectively summarize what happened. You may let your insurance company know about the accident. Keep your communication straightforward and avoid going into detailed statements until you understand the situation more clearly.
- Consider Speaking With California Truck Accident Lawyers — Attorneys can explain your options and help you understand your rights. They can assist you in pursuing compensation against potentially liable parties, such as other motorists, truck companies, insurance providers, and auto part manufacturers.
California Truck Accident Statistics
Trucking accidents remain a serious threat across U.S. roadways, and California is no exception. In 2023, the state recorded approximately 392 fatalities in large truck collisions, ranking second in the nation behind Texas.
Compared to national figures from 2023, the risks become even more apparent. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 4,354 people died in large truck crashes across the country that year.
The statistics on fatal truck accidents show that:
- Occupants of other vehicles accounted for the majority of deaths, comprising 65% of the total fatalities.
- Truck occupants made up 16% of the individuals killed in these crashes.
- Vulnerable road users like pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists accounted for the remaining 17%.
These statistics highlight how serious large truck crashes can be, with fatalities potentially affecting not only truck drivers but also the occupants of other vehicles and vulnerable road users.
Our truck accident lawyers in California understand the impact these numbers represent. If you or a loved one suffered harm in a truck crash, we can help you learn whether you can file a claim and seek compensation. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to get a free case review. You can also fill out our contact form.
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Speak With California Truck Accident Lawyers
After a truck crash, you may be wondering whether you need a personal injury lawyer. Truck accident cases often involve complex laws, multiple parties, and powerful insurance companies. Our team can help you understand your rights and the legal steps you may need to take.
Contact us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form to schedule a free, no-obligation initial consultation. We can evaluate your situation and discuss your legal options.
Arash Law offers legal support to injured individuals and their families across California. We serve clients in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Diego, San Jose, Fresno, Oakland, Riverside, Orange County, Kern County, Stanislaus County, and other areas.
