California U-Haul Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our U-Haul Truck Accident Lawyers Help Injury Victims Make Informed Choices
The housing market in the United States drives families to move somewhere more affordable. For reasons of affordability and convenience, many people are choosing to rent U-Haul trucks to transport their belongings themselves. Unfortunately, many of these individuals do not have the proper training and experience in driving a large vehicle. As a result, their inexperience can lead to accidents that threaten the safety of other road users.
Whether you were driving, riding in, or struck by a rental vehicle, our U-Haul Truck Accident Lawyers can guide you in seeking compensation. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
The Problems With Renting A U-Haul
When people consider hiring a U-Haul to move their belongings, they usually only consider the cost. Yes, it’s much cheaper on paper than employing a professional moving company. However, renting a U-Haul truck can present various risks and challenges, including the following:
- U-Haul Trucks Are Bigger Than Passenger Cars — The hauling service offers plenty of size options depending on a person’s needs. U-Haul trailers and trucks range from 6 feet to 26 feet long. Unlike the average passenger vehicle, which can measure between 10 and 18 feet, U-Haul trucks can be more difficult to steer and control, especially when an additional trailer is in tow.
- U-Haul Does Not Have Driver Requirements — Anyone with a regular Class C driver’s license can drive a U-Haul. Unlike professional truck drivers, private individuals who rent one of these don’t need any special licenses, extensive training, or experience before driving a U-Haul truck. To rent a U-Haul moving truck, a person must be at least 18 years old. To rent a U-Haul trailer, a person must be at least 16 years old.
- U-Haul’s Insurance Is Optional — Many U-Haul renters would consider the additional insurance coverage an unnecessary cost. Relocation can be expensive, but it’s also worth noting that accidents can happen to anyone at any time. Without insurance, renters may have to cover repair costs, medical bills, or other expenses on their own if an accident occurs.
- Some U-Haul Trucks Are Not In The Best Condition — Some U-Haul trucks may not be properly maintained by rental companies. As vehicles are rented repeatedly, there’s a risk that they may not be in a safe driving condition. Poorly maintained trucks can lead to accidents, putting the driver, passengers, and others on the road at risk.
Why Are U-Haul Accidents Dangerous?
Move.org noted that roughly 8.4% of Americans changed residences within the country in 2021, the lowest percentage recorded in decades. Still, this translates to almost 30 million people who moved from one location to another that year. Many of these individuals choose to “DIY” their relocation and use U-Haul commercial vehicles and other rental trucks instead of hiring a full-service moving company.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), rental vans and trucks were involved in a significant number of fatal crashes each year. Accidents involving U-Hauls are often catastrophic, leading to thousands of dollars in damages and unbearable pain and suffering for victims and their families.
Here are some factors that contribute to the severity of U-Haul accidents:
- Accidents with U-Hauls Can Happen Anytime — U-Haul trucks are a common sight on U.S. highways. It is impossible to predict when they will collide with other vehicles. Unfortunately, not everyone who drives a U-Haul purchases the company’s insurance coverage policies. This omission can lead to potential issues with liability and compensation if an accident happens.
- U-Haul Accidents Lead to Severe Injuries — It’s common for truck accidents to result in life-threatening injuries. Weighing way more than the average car, an out-of-control U-Haul truck, for example, can easily total a smaller sedan in a collision. This can lead to severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, and amputations, that might require expensive surgeries, ongoing treatments, and specialized care.
- Accidents with U-Hauls Can Result in Fatalities — Large truck fatalities have increased by over 43% in the last ten years. Federal data indicates that each year, thousands of large commercial trucks, including rental vehicles, are involved in fatal accidents. With the added factor that most U-Haul drivers are completely inexperienced in operating a bigger vehicle, this problem remains prevalent and will continue to be so unless the company implements safer regulations.
- Property Damage Can Be Extensive — In addition to the victim’s own injuries, their possessions are often damaged beyond repair after an accident with a U-Haul truck. U-Hauls are capable of carrying about 26,000 pounds. If one crashes into your car, the chances of it and anything inside being destroyed are quite high. An accident involving a larger vehicle may leave victims with no option but to let go of their damaged belongings.
Challenges Involved In U-Haul Truck Accidents
Our U-Haul truck accident lawyers know and understand that the problems associated with an accident don’t end at the scene. In addition to getting treatment for their injuries, victims also have to deal with the complicated legal side of it.
Negligence & Liability — Negligence remains one of the primary reasons why accidents occur. U-Haul accidents are no different. Speeding, carelessly changing lanes, distracted driving, and other reckless driving practices can all result in life-threatening accidents. However, unlike car accidents, those involving U-Haul vehicles pose a significantly greater challenge because of liability. A U-Haul accident can involve multiple parties, including the driver, the rental company, and potentially other third parties.
Disputes or challenges concerning insurance coverage or the responsibilities of each party involved can make determining liability and pursuing a claim more complicated. In order to establish negligence and liability, U-Haul truck accident lawyers conduct a thorough investigation that entails gathering evidence, witness testimony, and expert opinions from qualified professionals.
Insurance Issues — U-Haul offers insurance coverage for injuries and other accident-related losses, but the extent of this coverage may be limited. As a result, victims may not be able to fully recover their medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and other expenses after the accident. This can add stress to an already challenging situation.
Furthermore, the company does not require renters to provide any proof of insurance to rent their equipment. Even though most personal car insurance does not cover rental trailers or trucks, U-Haul’s exclusive insurance policies are optional. U-Haul does not mandate the purchase of Safemove or Safemove Plus to rent a truck or trailer.
Do I Need Truck Accident Attorneys For A U-Haul Accident?
You might be wondering if you need a personal injury lawyer for your U-Haul truck accident. Here is a checklist to help you evaluate your situation and decide if legal representation is necessary for your case:
- You sustained injuries.
- Someone else caused the accident.
- There is significant damage to the U-Haul or other vehicles involved.
- You don’t know what evidence you need to gather.
- You are facing large medical bills or loss of income due to the accident.
- You’re not sure if your personal insurance covers rental trucks.
- The insurance company is offering a low settlement or denying your claim.
- There are disputes about who is at fault.
- You are overwhelmed by the legal process and need professional guidance.
- There are multiple parties involved in the accident.
- The accident resulted in the death of a loved one.
- You are not familiar with the laws and the statute of limitations concerning truck accidents.
Consulting a U-Haul truck accident lawyer can help assess if you have a valid claim and guide you through the claims process. They can advocate for your rights and work toward pursuing fair compensation for the damage you suffered.
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
How Our U-Haul Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help
If you’ve been involved in a U-Haul truck accident, consulting U-Haul truck accident lawyers promptly can be beneficial. At Arash Law, we provide knowledgeable legal assistance to help injured individuals navigate the complexities of their cases. Here’s what our team offers:
Legal Knowledge And Experience
Our accident lawyers have experience handling various types of personal injury cases. During your consultation, they can explain your rights and discuss potential strategies for seeking compensation for your injuries and related losses.
Guidance With Insurance Matters
Truck accidents, especially those involving rental companies like U-Haul, can be complicated. Some personal auto policies may not cover rental trucks. While U-Haul customer service might not provide clarity, consulting with our truck accident lawyers can help you understand how your insurance applies to your situation.
Conducting A Thorough Investigation
We understand the importance of gathering evidence quickly, as there is typically a two-year deadline for filing personal injury claims. Our attorneys work to collect necessary evidence, including eyewitness statements, camera footage, and incident records, before they become unavailable or compromised.
Assessing Liability
Our lawyers will investigate to identify who may be responsible for the accident, using the evidence collected to understand the circumstances of your case. During this process, they take into account factors such as potential negligence by the driver or U-Haul, any third-party involvement, and how fault may be shared among those involved.
Evaluating Your Total Losses
Our U-Haul truck accident attorneys evaluate damages by reviewing medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related costs. They may also consult financial experts or other professionals to provide insights into the impact of your injuries on your life.
Representing You In Negotiations Or Trial
Whether in negotiations or in court, our U-Haul truck accident lawyers work to represent your interests. We can handle communications with at-fault parties, witnesses, and insurance companies on your behalf.
At Arash Law, we value each client and aim to provide support during challenging times. Our U-Haul truck accident attorneys are committed to working diligently on your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we take care of the legal aspects.
Truck Accident?
Common U-Haul Truck Accidents
The following are some of the most common types of U-Haul truck accidents:
Loss-Of-Control Accidents
Inexperienced drivers often struggle to maintain control of U-Haul trucks, particularly when navigating turns, merging into traffic, or handling obstacles. Unlike cars, trucks and trailers require different driving skills and handling techniques. This lack of experience can lead to situations where the driver oversteers or fails to correct their path, resulting in accidents.
Distracted Driving Accidents
Moving involves juggling many tasks, which can create distractions for U-Haul drivers. Common distractions include GPS navigation, phone calls, or even conversations with passengers. Diverting attention from the road increases the likelihood of accidents. Even slight distractions can lead to impaired reaction times or the inability to respond to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.
Speeding Accidents
Speeding is a common factor in many accidents, and the risk is amplified with U-Haul trucks that may be heavily loaded. The weight of the cargo affects braking distance and maneuverability. Drivers who exceed speed limits are more prone to losing control, leading to serious collisions that can result in injury or property damage.
Blind Spot Accidents
U-Haul trucks have significantly larger blind spots than standard cars. Inexperienced drivers may neglect to check these areas before changing lanes or merging, which can result in collisions with adjacent vehicles. Failing to account for these blind spots is a common cause of accidents, especially in heavy traffic.
Wide-Turn Accidents
U-Haul trucks are longer than standard vehicles, requiring more space and time to make turns safely. Drivers must judge the distance carefully and signal their intentions early to avoid causing accidents. Miscalculating the turn or rushing can lead to crashes with other vehicles or pedestrians, as well as the risk of tipping the truck.
Lane-Changing Accidents
Changing lanes in a U-Haul truck demands extra caution. Drivers must signal early, ensure a sufficient gap in traffic, and check mirrors for blind spots. A close or reckless lane change can lead to side-swiping other vehicles or causing chain-reaction collisions, which can result in major injuries or even wrongful death.
Hit-And-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver leaves the scene without offering help or contact information. This is illegal and can result in serious penalties. If the fleeing vehicle is a rental truck, law enforcement may use rental records to help identify and locate the driver.
DUI Accidents
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs reduces judgment, slows reaction time, and impairs coordination, which can make large rental trucks harder to control and increase the risk of serious accidents.
Cargo-Related Accidents
Truck rental companies like U-Haul do not provide education on proper cargo loading, leaving renters to rely on their judgment or online resources. Loose cargo can be just as dangerous as tire blowouts. A shifting load affects weight distribution, making steering difficult and increasing the risk of a jackknife or rollover during sharp turns.
Hitch Detachment Accidents
Improperly secured trailers can detach while driving. If this happens, they may collide with oncoming traffic, leading to severe injuries or fatalities, particularly at higher speeds.
Brake-Failure Accidents
Brake failures in rental trucks can be catastrophic, especially for inexperienced drivers. Panic during such an event increases the risk of losing control and colliding with other vehicles or pedestrians.
Tire Blowout Accidents
Tire blowouts can occur due to insufficient tire pressure, worn-out tires, overloading, and other factors, which are common issues for U-Haul trucks. Renters expect to receive their trucks in good condition, but it’s often hard to determine how well the rental service maintains its fleet.
Rollover Accidents
U-Haul trucks, ranging from smaller pickups to massive 26-foot models, have a higher center of gravity than standard passenger vehicles. This makes them more prone to tipping or rolling over if a driver misjudges a turn or speed.
Underride Accidents
Underride accidents typically occur when a smaller vehicle slides beneath a larger truck making a left-hand turn. This often results in catastrophic injuries for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.
What Causes U-Haul Truck Accidents In California?
Finding out the cause of your U-Haul truck accident is a key component in building a claim. Additionally, this information can help you and your truck accident attorney identify the responsible parties. Various factors can contribute to U-Haul truck accidents in California, including:
Inexperienced Drivers
Inexperienced drivers may struggle to maneuver U-Haul trucks and trailers, which are more challenging to control than standard cars. Unlike professional truck drivers, U-Haul renters do not require a commercial license, permitting even novice drivers to operate these larger vehicles.
As a result, the likelihood of accidents increases, leading to potential injuries, vehicle damage, and legal issues. These accidents can also impact other road users and disrupt traffic flow.
Driver Errors
Regardless of whether a driver is inexperienced or a professional, they can still make mistakes that lead to devastating consequences. Driver errors include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Distracted driving.
- Fatigued driving.
- Driving while intoxicated.
- Aggressive driving (road rage).
- Speeding.
- Unsafe lane changes and turning.
- Failure to yield.
- Ignoring traffic signs and rules.
Poor Cargo Loading
Improperly loaded U-Haul trucks can compromise stability and handling, which increases the risk of accidents. Issues like overloading or unbalanced cargo can lead to problems with braking and steering. U-Haul trailers are particularly susceptible to swaying when overloaded. To prevent this, renters should check that their vehicle is capable of safely towing the trailer.
Heavy Trucks And Trailers
Due to their size and weight, U-Haul trucks pose a higher risk of serious accidents, resulting in significant property damage and casualties. When a U-Haul truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the substantial force may cause more severe injuries to the occupants.
Defective U-Haul Trailers
Defective U-Haul trailers pose a safety threat due to issues like damaged hitches, steering problems, faulty brakes, lighting failures, tire defects, and broken doors. Regular maintenance and repairs are crucial to keep U-Haul trucks in good condition.
Adverse Weather Conditions
U-Haul drivers may encounter challenging weather conditions when traveling, particularly when crossing state lines. For example, California can experience strong winds, heavy rains, and dense fog, all of which can make driving a heavy U-Haul truck difficult.
Common Injuries Resulting From U-Haul Accidents
Here are some of the most common injuries associated with U-Haul truck accidents, ranging from minor to severe:
- Cuts and Bruises — These injuries, often caused by impact or debris during a collision, can lead to significant discomfort and the need for medical evaluation to rule out complications.
- Whiplash — A sudden jerking motion in rear-end collisions can cause whiplash. This injury can result in neck and shoulder pain, vertigo, mobility issues, and potential muscle and ligament damage.
- Broken Bones and Amputation — The impact of a collision with a heavy vehicle, like a U-Haul, can lead to broken bones, ranging from simple fractures to complex breaks that may require surgery. In more severe cases, an amputation might be necessary due to severe tissue damage, infection, or irreparable injury to the limb.
- Burn Injuries — Collisions can result in burn injuries ranging from minor to severe, with risks for infection and complications, often requiring extensive medical treatment.
- Injuries to the Abdomen — Internal injuries from truck accidents may present as abdominal bruising, indicating possible serious internal bleeding that requires immediate attention.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries — Head injuries can cause symptoms such as headaches, confusion, and memory loss, ranging from temporary issues to permanent disabilities.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Injuries to the spinal cord can lead to numbness or pain along the path of the spine and limbs, incontinence, loss of motor functions, or paralysis. They are often difficult to treat and may result in a permanent disability.
What To Do After A U-Haul Truck Accident
It’s normal to have a moment of confusion and disbelief after an accident. However, once you regain your composure, you may want to consider taking some recommended steps after a truck accident. Here’s what you can do to help protect your health and any potential claims you may wish to pursue:
- Check yourself for injuries and try to move to a safe location on the side of the road.
- Call 911 and get treated for injuries at the scene once the paramedics arrive.
- Cooperate with law enforcement. Let them know the facts of what happened, remain calm, and do not admit fault.
- Document the scene to preserve evidence. Take photos or videos of your vehicle, the U-Haul truck, your injuries, and others.
- Exchange information with the other parties involved. Try to collect the contact information of any witnesses at the scene.
- Report the accident to U-Haul by calling their hotline at 1-800-528-7134. They follow a specific procedure when it comes to accidents.
- Reach out to your insurance provider and keep records of anything (including receipts, correspondence, and other pieces of evidence) that’s directly related to the accident.
- Consider consulting a U-Haul truck accident lawyer. They can help you understand your rights and the legal remedies applicable to your situation. They can also handle communications with insurance companies and other legal aspects of your case.
What You Should Know About U-Haul Insurance Coverage
U-Haul expects its renters to have their own auto insurance, but it is not a requirement to take out a rental truck or trailer. In the event of an accident, the renter’s personal insurance will be the primary coverage. The renter will be responsible for any damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from the incident.
While optional, U-Haul does offer insurance packages that can supplement its clients’ policies in the event that they are insufficient. Options include:
Safemove®
Damages to the rental equipment caused by accidents are covered by Safemove’s damage waiver. Additionally, it provides medical and life protection to the lessee and other passengers in the cab.
Safemove Plus® (not available for U-Haul pickup and van rentals)
This policy includes the same features as Safemove but with additional coverage amounting to $1,000,000 for bodily injury, death, and property damage claims made by third parties.
These insurance packages do not cover damage caused by improper packing, normal shifting of cargo in transit, or theft of cargo.
How To File An Insurance Claim After A U-Haul Accident
Here are the general steps you need to follow if you’ve been in a U-Haul truck accident:
- Inform U-Haul about the accident as soon as possible. Also, contact your insurance company and provide them with the necessary details, including the time, location, any injuries, property damage, and information about those who are involved.
- Keep a record of all accident-related expenses. These include hospital and other medical fees, car repair bills, towing fees, your previous paychecks if the accident affected your ability to work, childcare fees, and other relevant costs.
- Communicate with insurers. An insurance adjuster will call or meet you to collect information about the accident. This is where the process becomes tricky in a literal sense. Only disclose what is asked of you. Do not admit fault or say anything that might be interpreted as such.
- Consult a U-Haul truck accident lawyer. Working with an attorney can help you navigate the claims process with guidance and clarity. They can handle communications with insurance companies and pursue a fair settlement that reflects all the losses you’ve incurred due to the accident.
How Is Negligence Established In A U-Haul Truck Accident?
Negligence refers to the failure to take reasonable care, resulting in harm to others. In the context of a U-Haul truck accident, establishing negligence can be challenging for victims. It requires a clear demonstration of how the driver’s actions led to the accident and subsequent injuries.
Accidents with rental vehicles, including those from U-Haul, fall under the same liability laws as any other motor vehicle. In other words, if you can show that someone or something is responsible for the accident, they are responsible for paying you back for what you suffered. If you prove that a U-Haul driver’s negligence caused the accident, they may be held liable for your injuries and other losses.
The claims process starts with establishing negligence. Here are the key elements that you and your lawyer should establish in a U-Haul truck accident case:
- There is a legal duty of care owed to the victim.
- There was a breach of that legal duty.
- The victim suffered an injury as a result of the breach.
- There is evidence proving this injury and other damages.
To establish negligence, it is important to investigate the accident and gather evidence. You may find these tasks more difficult if you’re still recovering from your injuries. In this case, you may need someone on your side to accomplish these things for you. Our U-Haul truck accident lawyers can assist you in gathering the necessary evidence and building your case.
Liable Parties In A U-Haul Truck Accident
In the event of a U-Haul truck accident, determining liability often involves assessing the negligence of various parties. Here are the key parties that could be responsible for your injuries:
The Driver Or Renter
Most U-Haul accidents involve drivers who don’t have a license to operate a commercial truck. Although inexperienced, drivers are still expected to exercise caution, especially when driving a much larger vehicle. If they engage in reckless driving behaviors, such as speeding, road rage, and distracted driving, they can cause an accident that could harm others. In this scenario, the driver would be found negligent.
U-Haul
In certain circumstances, the U-Haul company may be held liable, especially if the vehicle had maintenance issues that contributed to the accident. If it can be demonstrated that U-Haul or a local dealership failed to perform necessary maintenance, and this negligence led to a breakdown or malfunction, they could be held responsible for the injuries caused in the accident.
Maintenance Workers
If a brake fails or a tire blows out, maintenance workers may be liable. If maintenance was not performed correctly or regularly, resulting in a malfunction, these workers could be held responsible. Similarly, if it is discovered that the necessary maintenance checks were neglected, liability may also lie with the maintenance team.
Truck Or Parts Manufacturer
When a truck part is found to be defective, the manufacturer can be held responsible for the accident. To establish liability, you will need to demonstrate that a defect in the design, manufacturing, or marketing of the part directly caused the accident. This could include proving that the part was inherently flawed or improperly constructed, or that inadequate warnings or instructions were provided for its use.
Another Driver
The determination of liability often hinges on the specific details of the accident. In some scenarios, another motorist could be held liable for the accident due to their negligent actions. They could be held liable if they contributed to the accident by:
- Engaging in dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, aggressive driving, or violating traffic laws.
- Neglecting to properly check blind spots before changing lanes or merging, resulting in a collision.
There are times when multiple parties can be at fault for the accident. If this is the case, you can file a claim naming more than one liable party. It’s also worth noting that certain states, including California, apply a “comparative negligence” statute, which may affect your settlement based on the percentage of fault.
Evidence Needed In A U-Haul Truck Accident Case
If you were involved in a truck accident with a U-Haul vehicle, collecting the right evidence is crucial for your claim. Here are the key pieces of evidence you should gather:
- Medical Records — Immediate medical treatment is essential as it documents your injuries and the treatments received, which will be crucial for your claim. Make sure to keep records of all follow-up visits, treatments, and therapies related to the accident.
- Photographic Evidence — Take clear, detailed photos of your injuries and the damage to your vehicle and the U-Haul truck from different angles. Images of the accident scene, including road conditions and any relevant signage or skid marks, can also be useful.
- Witness Statements — Obtain the information of any passengers or other witnesses. If possible, take written or recorded statements.
- Police Report — If the police were called to the scene, request a copy of the official police report. This report will include details of the accident, statements from both parties, and the officer’s observations and conclusions.
- Surveillance Footage — If the accident happened near a property with security cameras, request copies of any surveillance footage that captured the incident.
- Rental Agreement and Documents — Keep any documentation and payment receipts showing you rented the truck. If you have photos of the U-Haul truck before you started using it, you can use those as additional evidence of its condition prior to the accident.
- Driver Information — Write down the other driver’s name, address, contact details, insurance, and license information.
- Damage Estimates — If your vehicle is damaged or deemed a total loss, get a valuation report to support your claim.
- Correspondence — Keep records of all communications with the U-Haul company, insurance companies, and any other relevant parties. Document all claims filed, including dates, claim numbers, and summaries of discussions.
Recoverable Damages In A U-Haul Truck Accident Claim
While U-Haul truck accidents are more complex in terms of handling, the damages you can recover as a victim are more or less the same, which may include:
- Medical bills and other related expenses (including therapy, treatment, surgeries, medication, and more).
- Lost income.
- Property damage.
- Mental and emotional distress.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Loss of consortium.
- Wrongful death damages (if a family member dies due to injuries sustained in the accident).
Your final settlement value will vary depending on how badly you were injured in the accident and what other damages resulted directly from it. When evaluating your case, your U-Haul truck accident lawyers will consider all of your losses.
Frequently Asked Questions About U-Haul Trucks
How Does U-Haul’s Truck Share Program Work?
U-Haul has been a household name in America for decades. Established as a reliable name in the moving and rental industry for approximately 80 years, U-Haul has introduced a 24/7 truck share service accessible through its mobile application. In other words, customers do not have to go to a physical dealership or meet with any of the staff in person to rent a U-Haul.
Here are the steps involved in the process:
- Users can download and open the U-Haul app on their phones to reserve a truck. They can choose the size of their rental depending on their needs and a convenient pickup time and place.
- Next, they will receive an access code for the truck on the day of their schedule. They can use this code to unlock their rental at the designated location.
- Before driving the rental, the client should perform pre-driving checks to ensure the truck arrives in the expected condition.
- Once the customer is done using the truck, they can either return it to the same location or set another drop-off point. To complete the return process, they will need to confirm the fuel levels and the condition of the vehicle via the mobile app or website.
Can You Really Only Go 55 Mph With A U-Haul Trailer?
The maximum recommended speed when towing a U-Haul trailer is 55 mph, in accordance with California and local speeding laws. If a driver exceeds this speed limit, they may face a ticket or fine and also increase their risk of an accident.
Do U-Hauls Have Speed Trackers?
The majority of truck rental companies, including U-Haul, do not equip their vehicles with GPS tracking devices specifically for monitoring speed. However, some independent U-Haul dealers may implement their own tracking systems. It is important to note that leaseholders are responsible for maintaining the safety and security of the U-Haul equipment during the rental period.
Make sure to follow the posted speed limits and practice defensive driving: anticipate stops, brake early, check your blind spots, and maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.
Is It Safe To Sit In The Back Of A U-Haul?
It is not recommended for passengers to ride in the cargo area or on the exterior of a U-Haul truck. This practice poses significant risks, including injury from shifting cargo, asphyxiation due to limited ventilation, and a lack of protection in the event of a collision. Furthermore, exhaust fumes from the engine can be hazardous to health.
Another Person Is Going To Drive My U-Haul Rental Truck For Me. Will I Be Responsible If They Get Into An Accident?
If someone else drives your U-Haul rental truck, you (the leaseholder) remain primarily responsible for any accidents or damage, regardless of who is driving. Even if the driver was negligent, the renter could still face consequences. They could be financially liable for damage to the truck, other vehicles, property, and any associated costs, including repair, medical bills, and legal fees.
Before the renter authorizes anyone to drive the U-Haul truck, they should ensure that the driver is licensed and capable of doing so. Additionally, renters should review their insurance coverage or purchase additional coverage as needed.
Will My Auto Insurance Policy Cover U-Haul Trucks And Trailers?
Most auto insurance policies do not cover truck or trailer rentals. Before reserving a truck from U-Haul, it is advisable to check with your insurance provider to see if they offer any coverage for rental vehicles. It’s also worth noting that even if your insurance covers rental truck accidents, you’ll need to pay U-Haul upfront for any damages upon returning the truck.
If the damages were caused by another person’s negligence, you can seek assistance from U-Haul truck accident lawyers to help you pursue compensation from the responsible party.
What Happens If I Was Hit By A U-Haul?
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you can file a personal injury claim against the driver or U-Haul, the company itself. Once you’ve signed with a law firm that handles rental truck accident cases, their lawyers will conduct a thorough investigation into your accident.
If it is found that the collision was caused by a malfunction or defect in the truck or its components, U-Haul may be held liable for any resulting damages, and you might be entitled to compensation.
Does U-Haul Insurance Cover Damage To Other Vehicles?
What Is A Fair Settlement For A U-Haul Truck Accident?
It’s normal to want to know how much your truck accident settlement is worth. All of your injuries and damages must be taken into account when calculating your settlement value. If you were partially at fault for the accident, it could impact the final recovery you may obtain due to comparative negligence laws.
Settlement amounts for U-Haul truck accidents vary widely and can range from a few thousand dollars to several hundred thousand, depending on the specifics of the case. Consulting with truck accident lawyers can help you navigate the complexities of your situation. They can also advocate for a fair assessment of your claim.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire An Attorney To Pursue A U-Haul Truck Accident Lawsuit?
Most U-Haul truck accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not have to pay attorney’s fees upfront. Instead, your lawyer only gets paid if they successfully recover compensation for you.
At Arash Law, we follow the same fee structure. We also offer a free initial consultation, where you can discuss your situation and assess your potential case without any financial obligation. During this meeting, we will explain the contingency fee arrangement along with case-related costs so you know how we handle them throughout the process.
How Long Do Victims Have To File A U-Haul Truck Accident Lawsuit?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the injury. In cases of fatal accidents, the family of the deceased has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
The law provides an extended period for minors injured in accidents. They have two years from the date they turn 18 to file a lawsuit. Additionally, there are rare circumstances where individuals may not realize they were injured until after the statute of limitations has passed. In such cases, they have two years from the date they discovered their injury to file a lawsuit. While this scenario is uncommon in truck accidents, it underscores the importance of understanding one’s rights and acting swiftly.
Who Can File A Personal Injury Claim After A U-Haul Truck Accident?
Injured parties have the right to seek compensation and can file claims against rental truck companies, the driver, or their insurance companies. If the victim dies in a U-Haul truck accident, a living family member may pursue a wrongful death claim. Furthermore, undocumented immigrants can also file a personal injury claim, regardless of citizenship or immigration status.
Consult Our California U-Haul Truck Accident Lawyers For Legal Help
Driving rental trucks and vans can be challenging, particularly after a long workday. If you find yourself involved in an accident with a U-Haul truck, you may face significant medical expenses, missed income, and other related losses.
If you’re thinking, “I need a personal injury lawyer,” you’ve come to the right place. At Arash Law, we are committed to assisting clients as they navigate the aftermath of truck accidents. Our experienced U-Haul truck accident attorneys can handle communications with insurance companies while you focus on your recovery. While reaching an out-of-court settlement is ideal in most cases, we recognize that each situation is unique. Therefore, our lawyers are prepared to advocate for your interests in court if necessary.
Contact us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can consult with us at home, at work, or anywhere in the state.
We serve injured victims across California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, Long Beach, Oakland, Bakersfield, Anaheim, Riverside, Santa Ana, and Stockton.
