Riverside Truck Accident Lawyers
Riverside Truck Accident Lawyers That Will Fight For You
Truck accidents in Riverside are a terrifying experience. After the chaos of the accident scene, injured victims face a painful recovery period. Then, there is a confusing claims process, with the insurance company working against you every step of the way. You don’t have to go through this challenging time on your own. Our Riverside truck accident lawyers can protect your rights and guide you through the compensation process. We don’t back down from trucking companies or insurance providers. Call (888) 488-1391 now for a free case evaluation.
In any city, auto accidents are most likely to occur in areas with the heaviest traffic congestion. This dense traffic means that drivers should use extra caution when driving in busy parts of town. That is especially important here in Riverside along the Riverside Freeway (State Route 91). However, caution is equally crucial on busy surface streets that serve as thoroughfares.
These roadways include University Avenue, Central Avenue, and Arlington Avenue. Drivers should also be cautious on the major cross streets that give access to the 91. These streets include Madison Street, Jefferson Street, Adams Street, Monroe Street, Jackson Street, Van Buren Boulevard, and the other major “presidential” streets that provide access to the city’s busy areas. Truck accidents on these roads can cause severe injuries and significant property damage.
Our experienced Riverside truck accident lawyers are skilled in handling truck accident cases. Let us protect your legal rights and deal with the claims process so that you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
How Can Our Riverside Truck Accident Lawyers Help Protect Your Rights As A Victim?
Truck accident cases differ from car accident claims. Trucking companies are subject to strict federal regulations. Multiple parties, including the truck driver and the cargo loader, could potentially be held liable for the accident. Our Riverside truck accident injury attorneys can handle these complex issues while you focus on your recovery.
Here’s how Arash Law can protect your rights:
- We’ll thoroughly analyze your situation. Our lawyers will provide clear answers to all your legal questions and offer expert advice.
- Our team of truck accident lawyers will connect you with the top medical professionals in the area so that you can receive proper treatment for your injuries. We’ll also leverage our knowledge of healthcare billing practices to negotiate with your medical providers and reduce your financial burden.
- We’ll investigate and establish the negligence of the truck driver, the trucking company, or any other potentially liable parties. To build a strong case, our team will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and even bring in experts to analyze the accident from a technical standpoint. We’ll also take depositions (formal out-of-court sworn statements) and file a Letter of Preservation to ensure the truck company doesn’t destroy any relevant evidence.
- When insurance companies receive a claim, their first response is often a lowball offer — an initial settlement amount significantly lower than your case is likely worth. Our team has years of experience dealing with insurers and their tactics. We won’t let them undervalue your claim. Our lawyers will negotiate strategically to secure a fair settlement for you.
- If an agreement can’t be reached, our truck accident attorneys will file a lawsuit, taking the case to court for a judge or jury to decide.
Suarez v. Premium Packing (settled on 9/26/2023) – settlement involving a man who sustained multiple orthopedic injures and a mild traumatic brain injury when he was run over by a food truck.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Why Should You Hire Our Truck Accident Attorneys To Handle Your Case?
Our experienced truck accident lawyers in Riverside have a proven track record of recovering more than $500 Million in settlements and court verdicts for countless clients. We’ve taken on some of the biggest names in the transportation and insurance industries. Our in-depth knowledge of federal and California commercial trucking regulations ensures we can navigate even the most challenging cases.
We will leave no stone unturned during our investigation. We’ll uncover vital documents related to the driver’s training, licenses, driving history, and the truck’s maintenance and repair records. Our truck accident attorneys frequently collaborate with trucking industry engineers and accident reconstruction specialists to gather critical data that would help determine what happened and who’s liable.
Why Riverside Truck Accidents Are So Dangerous
Truck accidents are particularly dangerous and more likely to cause severe or fatal injuries compared to other types of motor vehicle collisions. Here’s why:
Size And Weight
Large, heavy trucks generate more force than smaller vehicles in a collision. Since the force of the impact is directly related to the mass of the vehicles involved, anyone struck by a truck will be at a disadvantage. Drivers or passengers in smaller vehicles, motorcycle riders, cyclists, and pedestrians often suffer the most severe consequences of a truck accident.
Loaded trucks also generate more energy in a collision. The greater the force exerted during an impact, the more likely the injuries will be severe. This explains why truck accident injuries are far more fatal than injuries sustained in crashes with smaller, lighter vehicles.
Speed
Speed also affects the amount of force that is generated in a collision. Research consistently shows that accidents involving high speeds are far more likely to be fatal than other crashes. When the speeding vehicle is also a large, heavy truck, the risk of victims becomes even greater. In simpler terms, speed acts as a multiplier, significantly increasing the severity of injuries in truck accidents.
Because of this heightened risk, truck drivers are held to an even higher standard of care regarding speed. Even exceeding the speed limit by a small margin can be considered negligence, especially if the driver is hauling a heavy load. Truck drivers must also adjust their speed in dangerous situations. Steep, downhill areas, wet roads, and other adverse conditions can make it unsafe to travel even at the posted speed limit.
Truck drivers who fail to adjust their speed accordingly in these situations can be found negligent and liable for any resulting accidents. You can hold them accountable with the help of the best truck accident attorneys Riverside relies on.
Which Types Of Truck Accidents Are Most Common?
Here are some of the most common types of truck accidents that our Riverside lawyers have encountered:
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are the most frequently occurring type of traffic accident, making up nearly 30% of all crashes. Due to their immense size, trucks require a longer stopping distance than smaller vehicles. Our truck accident lawyers in Riverside have noted that inattentive driving, following too closely, or truck driver fatigue can all contribute to rear-end crashes.
Jackknife Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 4,842 fatal jackknife crashes in 2020. Jackknife accidents occur when a semi-truck’s trailer swings out at a sharp angle to the cab, resembling a folding knife – hence the name. A jackknifed truck creates a massive obstacle on the road, often leading to multiple vehicles being involved in the accident.
T-Bone Accidents
Also known as broadside collisions, T-bone accidents occur when the side of a vehicle is struck by the front or rear of another vehicle, forming a T-shape at the point of impact. These accidents commonly occur at intersections. If a driver fails to stop at a red light or stop sign and enters an intersection, they risk colliding with a vehicle traveling through the intersection with the right of way. While these accidents seem straightforward, plenty of issues can arise during the claims process, which prompts the need for experienced truck accident lawyers in Riverside to take over the case.
Rollover Accidents
A truck’s high center of gravity and immense weight make it susceptible to rollovers from even minor imbalances. Sharp turns, speeding, and unevenly loaded cargo can all trigger a rollover. Mechanical problems like tire blowouts, brake failures, or suspension malfunctions can also contribute to a loss of control and a rollover accident.
Our truck accident lawyers can help you determine the exact cause. We’ll obtain and analyze police reports, accident scene photos, witness statements, truck maintenance records, and data from the truck’s black box. Using these pieces of evidence, we’ll build a strong case to hold the liable parties accountable.
Wide Turn Accidents
Large trucks require extra space to make turns, especially right turns. If a truck driver underestimates the space needed or doesn’t turn sharply enough, the trailer can swing wide and hit objects or vehicles on the side of the road. Wide turn collisions are one of the most common types of accidents our Riverside truck accident lawyers handle.
Blind Spot Accidents
Due to their immense size, trucks have expansive blind spots that can easily conceal entire cars or motorcycles from the driver’s view. This limited visibility creates a risk for unsuspecting motorists driving right next to a truck.
If the truck driver failed to check their blind spots before changing lanes or turning, they would be considered liable for the resulting accident. The trucking company may also share responsibility if they fail to properly train the driver on blind spot awareness and safe driving practices. Our Riverside truck accident lawyers can help you demonstrate a clear connection between the at-fault party’s actions (or lack thereof) and the harm you’ve suffered.
Head-On Collisions
No matter what vehicles are involved, head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of traffic accidents our Riverside accident attorneys have seen in their years of experience. The potential for catastrophic consequences is even greater when they involve a massive truck. These accidents usually occur due to drowsy driving, distracted driving, or mechanical failures.
Underride Accidents
Due to the significant height difference between a passenger car and a truck, the car can be crushed or sheared by the trailer’s undercarriage. Due to the forces involved, underride accidents often result in severe or fatal injuries for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.
Typical Causes Of Truck Accidents
Our Riverside truck accident lawyers have identified the following as the most common reasons why trucking incidents happen:
Driver Error
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) found that 31.9% of all fatal truck crashes in 2021 involved at least one driver-related factor, such as speeding, driving under the influence (DUI), or failing to yield the right of way. Driver error was also a critical factor in 54.2% of all fatal motor vehicle crashes in the same year.
Here are some of the different types of driver errors:
- Fatigue or sleep deprivation – Long hours on the road, tight deadlines, and disrupted sleep schedules can lead to drowsy driving. A fatigued driver has slower reaction times and impaired judgment, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
- Impairment – Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is never acceptable. Even some over-the-counter medications can impair a driver’s abilities.
- Distracted driving – Texting, using a cell phone, eating, or any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road is dangerous.
- Decision errors – Examples of poor decision-making include misjudging gaps in traffic, following too closely, or overtaking in risky situations.
- Aggressive driving – Demanding schedules, tight deadlines, and traffic congestion can all contribute to stress and frustration, leading to aggressive driving behaviors. Examples of aggressive driving include speeding, tailgating, and improper lane changes.
Our Riverside attorneys can help you establish the driver’s negligence at the time of the truck accident. We’ll check the driver’s logs to determine any violations around driving time and fatigue.
Our team will also check the driver’s employment records to check for any prior driving infractions or disciplinary actions related to aggressive driving or safety violations. To check if alcohol or drugs are a factor, our DUI accident victim lawyers can request the results of drug or sobriety tests, if any.
Truck Equipment Failure
Regular maintenance is crucial for preventing equipment failures in trucks. Without regular inspections, problems can go unnoticed, worsen over time, and increase the risk of unexpected malfunctions. If a poorly maintained truck causes an accident, the trucking company and possibly the driver can be liable for damages.
Truck equipment failures can also be caused by design flaws or manufacturing errors that lead to weaknesses or malfunctions. For example, substandard steel in brake pads might wear out too quickly or crack under pressure. In cases where a manufacturing defect causes an accident, our truck accident lawyers can hold the manufacturer of the faulty part liable for the damages.
Adverse Weather Conditions
Riverside has a semi-arid climate that borders on arid. It experiences hot, dry summers and mild, relatively wet winters. Most of the rain falls between November and April.
During dry spells, oil and grease from vehicles gradually accumulate on the road surface. When the first rain arrives after a long dry period, it creates a slick, oil-laden surface on top of the road. This layer can reduce traction and cause accidents. If a truck hits a puddle at high speed, its tires can lose contact with the road entirely (hydroplaning), causing the vehicle to veer out of control.
Santa Ana winds are also a significant hazard for truck drivers in Southern California, including Riverside. These strong, dry winds originate from the deserts and gain speed through mountain passes and canyons before reaching the coast.
Santa Ana winds can exceed 50 mph, with occasional gusts reaching hurricane force (over 74 mph). The gusts can exert a significant lateral force on a high-profile vehicle like a truck, causing it to lose control or rollover. Furthermore, the winds often pick up dust and debris, creating blinding dust storms that significantly reduce visibility.
If you’ve been recently injured in a collision involving adverse weather conditions in Riverside, our truck accident lawyers can help you establish negligence. We’ll investigate if the truck driver maintained a safe speed considering the rain or wind. We’ll also examine if the driver lacked the necessary training or experience to handle weather-related hazards. Moreover, our team will assess if the truck is well-maintained and can handle challenging conditions adequately.
Improper loading
Trucks often carry heavy cargo, and how that weight is distributed is crucial for road safety. An unbalanced load makes the truck unstable and harder for the driver to handle. A top-heavy load, for instance, can cause the entire truck to tip over. Unsecured cargo can break free and fall onto the road, creating a hazard for other vehicles.
Traffic Congestion
Another factor specific to Riverside’s geography that increases the danger of truck accidents is its extensive roadway system. The city is a major transportation hub, intersected by several high-volume freeways, including:
- Interstate 215 (the Ramona Freeway)
- Interstate 91 (the Riverside Freeway)
- State Route 60 (the Pomona Freeway)
These roads often experience heavy congestion, especially during peak hours. This high-speed, high-volume traffic creates a challenging environment for truck and car drivers.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
There are many types of injuries you can suffer in a truck accident. The type and severity of these injuries directly impact the pain and suffering you experience, which can significantly affect the value of your case. Working with a truck accident lawyer who understands the long-term consequences of your specific injuries is crucial.
Here are some of the most common injuries our truck accident lawyers see in our practice:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A traumatic brain injury is caused when external forces injure the brain. According to the Centers for Disease Control, auto accidents are the second leading cause of TBI hospitalizations in the United States. The CDC also reports that ER visits, hospitalizations, and deaths related to TBI increased by 53 percent between 2006 and 2014.
Vehicular accidents account for 17% of all TBI-related deaths. Such cases were highest among the 15–24 and 25–34 age groups. These statistics show just how dangerous and prevalent TBIs due to auto accidents have become.
TBIs can vary significantly in severity. A mild TBI might show up as a concussion that resolves on its own after a few days of discomfort. A more severe case might cause lasting symptoms that can only be resolved with occupational therapy, speech therapy, or other lengthy treatments. Severe cases might result in permanent speech, motor skills, or cognition deficits.
Patients with severe TBIs are often unable to return to any job they may have had. They might require in-home care for the rest of their lives. Additionally, the most serious cases of TBI result in death. Our truck accident lawyers are skilled in handling all TBI injury cases.
Neck And Head Injuries
The bones in your skull, face, or neck vertebrae can fracture during a high-impact collision. Facial fractures can cause pain, bleeding, and cosmetic concerns, while fractures in the vertebrae can be life-threatening.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The force of a truck accident can severely damage the spinal cord, a bundle of nerves that acts as the central communication highway between the brain and the rest of the body. Damage to the spinal cord can disrupt these signals and lead to a partial or complete loss of function, depending on the severity and location of the injury.
Internal Injuries
Your injuries might not be immediately apparent to you at the accident scene. Some injuries, like internal bleeding, can only be diagnosed by a qualified medical professional. If this injury is left untreated, it can become a life-threatening condition, but you might not know you are bleeding unless a doctor monitors your blood pressure.
A truck accident can also injure your internal organs. Damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas, and other organs might not be immediately apparent. For example, it might take you hours to realize that your blood sugar has been affected by damage to your pancreas or that your kidneys are not filtering your blood correctly.
Seeing a doctor as soon as possible after an accident is crucial. A doctor will monitor your vital signs and order necessary tests to check for internal injuries that you might not be aware of. Seeing a doctor allows you to get treatment as soon as possible and prevents your injuries from worsening.
If you’re worried about the expenses, our truck accident lawyers can facilitate a medical lien. Once we obtain a settlement or verdict for your claim, the lien will be paid out of the compensation you receive.
Burns
Large trucks transporting fuel, diesel, or gasoline pose a significant danger in collisions. If a collision punctures the fuel tank, the flammable liquids can leak and ignite from sparks or the hot engine. This can engulf nearby vehicles in flames, causing severe burns to occupants.
The severity of burn injuries varies depending on the heat source, duration of exposure, and body surface area affected. Beyond the physical injuries, burn victims often face significant emotional and psychological trauma. The pain, scarring, and potential disfigurement can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Amputations
Two types of amputations can take place after a truck accident. A traumatic amputation occurs when the force of the impact severs a limb completely during the accident. On the other hand, even if a limb remains attached after the accident, severe damage or compromised blood flow might necessitate surgical amputation to prevent infection or gangrene.
The loss of a limb is a life-altering event. The emotional and psychological impact can be considerable, and support groups and therapy are often crucial for adjusting to this new reality. Our Riverside truck accident lawyers can help victims secure compensation that considers their long-term needs.
Broken Bones
Broken bones can also range in severity. The truck driver’s insurance company will likely try to tell you that broken bones aren’t “worth” very much because they are a simple injury. However, broken bones can lead to many painful complications. The broken shards of bones can injure blood vessels or nerves within your body.
To set it properly, the bone might have to be painfully broken yet again. You might need orthopedic surgery to have the bone set with pins, screws, or plates. Another possibility is that you might have an underlying medical condition – such as osteoporosis – that prevents your bone from healing correctly. In all of these cases, a broken bone can be a severe condition that leads to enormous pain and suffering.
You need a Riverside personal injury lawyer who can prove all these losses to the insurance company.
Whiplash And Soft Tissue Injuries
Many auto accident victims suffer soft tissue injuries. If your muscles, tendons, ligaments, or other soft tissues are injured, you can be in severe pain for a long time. You may continue to experience discomfort and soreness for years after the accident. Unfortunately, much of this pain and suffering is invisible.
That means the insurance company has yet another opportunity to downplay your injuries and attempt to make a lowball settlement offer. You don’t have to accept this. You can hire an experienced truck accident attorney to prove the many losses from soft tissue injuries. Pain, soreness, discomfort, decreased range of motion, and other symptoms can continue for years after an accident.
You are entitled to compensation for this invisible suffering. One of the most common soft tissue injuries that truck accident victims suffer from is whiplash. According to the Mayo Clinic, whiplash is a neck injury caused by rapid back-and-forth motion to the neck (like the cracking of a whip). Common symptoms include neck stiffness and soreness, numbness or tingling, tenderness, pain, fatigue, and dizziness.
Some mild cases resolve on their own in a few days. However, more severe cases of whiplash can leave long-lasting symptoms. Don’t let the insurance company tell you that you aren’t entitled to much compensation because you have “only” suffered from whiplash. Make sure to consult with the truck accident lawyers Riverside recommends. We will negotiate monetary compensation that accurately reflects the value of your injuries.
Lacerations
The impact of a collision can shatter windshields and windows, spraying occupants with glass shards that can cut the face, arms, and other exposed areas. Flying debris from the truck or surrounding environment, such as metal fragments or sharp objects, can also cause lacerations.
Deeper cuts involving muscles, tendons, or nerves require extensive medical attention to repair and prevent complications. Lacerations on the face or hands can be particularly concerning due to potential cosmetic issues and their impact on functionality.
Wrongful Death Claims In Truck Accident Cases
Tragically, not all truck accident victims can survive their injuries. Surviving family members have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim for a close relative killed in a truck accident. Doing so is an important step toward holding the negligent truck driver accountable and making the roads of California safer for other drivers in the future. It can also give grieving loved ones a small measure of closure during a challenging time.
Who Can Bring A Wrongful Death Claim?
The California Code of Civil Procedure sets forth rules for who may bring a wrongful death claim. Eligible individuals include a surviving spouse, domestic partner, or child of the victim. (If a child died before the victim, that child’s children could file a wrongful death claim for the death of their grandparent.) The law also allows certain other close relatives – such as stepchildren and parents – to bring a wrongful death claim, but only if they were dependent on the victim for financial support.
These exceptions are more challenging to prove, so consult with a wrongful death attorney if you think you might qualify.
The Damages You Are Owed For A Loved One’s Death
Though you cannot be compensated for your loved one’s pain and suffering, a Riverside truck accident lawyer can help you secure compensation for the tangible losses caused by their death. This compensation includes any medical bills incurred before they passed away. It also includes all wages that the victim would have earned between the time of the wrongful death and the expected age of retirement.
Finally, spouses and registered domestic partners can also claim “loss of consortium.” This compensation is for the intangible suffering one endures from losing a partner. Loss of love, comfort, affection, and sexual relations are all included in a loss of consortium claim. Consult our truck accident attorneys to determine the damages you may be entitled to. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Who Is Liable For A Truck Accident?
Truck accidents are far more complex than car crashes when it comes to determining fault. While a typical car accident places blame on one or two drivers, truck accidents can involve multiple parties who share liability. These parties may not be directly at the accident scene, making identifying them more challenging.
Our truck accident lawyers, experienced in injury claims, can help you determine who is held liable in case of a collision.
- Truck Drivers – Drivers can be held liable if their actions or inactions caused the accident.
- Truck Companies – Employers can be held vicariously liable for the negligence of their truck drivers. The same can be true even for truck drivers classified as independent contractors unless they’re the truck owner/operator.
Moreover, our Riverside trucking accident injury attorneys can hold trucking businesses accountable due to poor truck maintenance, insufficient driver training, safety rule violations, and other acts of wrongdoing. - Manufacturers & Maintenance Contractors – If faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or any other mechanical issues caused the accident, you can seek compensation from the manufacturers of the defective truck parts or the contractors responsible for vehicle maintenance. Under product liability laws, you don’t need to prove negligence to hold them liable.
- Cargo And Freight Companies – If the truck accident is caused by overloading, improperly storing, or failing to balance or secure the load, the cargo company may be liable for an accident.
- Other Motorists – Other drivers can share the blame for a truck collision. For example, a motorist who cuts off a truck and causes it to swerve can be held accountable if the swerve leads to an accident.
- Government Agencies – The municipal or state government may be accountable for truck crashes resulting from unsafe road conditions, such as potholes, uneven roads, broken traffic lights, and missing guardrails.
You may sue various parties, depending on the case. You should consult one of our best truck accident lawyers in Riverside to help investigate your crash and establish the at-fault parties’ liabilities.
Proving Negligence After A Truck Accident
Establishing negligence after a truck accident involves a lot of evidence collection and legal expertise. A truck accident attorney can help you with this complicated process. However, you can also start gathering evidence immediately after a crash. If it’s safe to do so, use your phone or camera to document the following:
- Skidmarks and debris
- Injuries
- Vehicle damage
- Traffic or weather conditions
- The license plate numbers of all the vehicles involved
- Trucking company name
Our truck accident lawyers in Riverside can also help you obtain the following:
- Electronic control module of truck
- The driver’s ELD (Electronic Logging Device)
- The trucking company’s inspection and maintenance records
- Company recruiting and training records
- Nearby camera footage of the crash
If these pieces of evidence aren’t enough to prove the other party’s negligence, your lawyer can also bring in various experts. An accident reconstruction specialist can recreate a virtual simulation of the accident, helping to pinpoint factors like speed, braking distances, and the sequence of events. A medical professional can testify about the severity of your injuries and how they directly link to the accident. If there’s suspicion of mechanical failure in the truck, a mechanic with specific knowledge of heavy-duty vehicles might be consulted.
Settlement in a case where a client was injured while unloading commercial truck; client sustained crush injuries to legs– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Damages You Can Seek After A Truck Accident
Here are the different types of damages truck accident lawyers in Riverside can help you obtain:
- Medical bills, including the costs of emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Property damage, including the costs of repairs or replacement for your car and other personal belongings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma and loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
You may also be eligible for punitive damages when there’s clear evidence that the truck driver or trucking company acted maliciously or intentionally caused the accident. Road rage incidents involving California truck drivers could be an example. For a victim to be awarded punitive damages, the court must find the defendant liable for egregious misconduct beyond simple negligence.
How Much Is My Riverside Truck Accident Claim Worth?
Every case is unique, so it’s impossible to give the exact value of your claim without a full evaluation. Here are some key factors that our Riverside lawyers consider when calculating how much a truck accident settlement is worth:
- The severity of your injuries
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Vehicle and property damage
- Whether you share fault for the accident
- Insurance coverage limits
It’s always a good idea to consult one of the best truck accident attorneys in Riverside before accepting a settlement offer from an insurance company. Knowing your claim’s value helps you avoid settling for lowball offers that may not reflect the full extent of your losses.
When Should You File A Truck Accident Claim?
There are deadlines for filing a lawsuit, which can vary depending on the parties involved. Generally, the statute of limitations on a truck accident in California is two years from the accident date. However, this timeframe gets shortened to six months for claims against government entities. Missing these deadlines can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation.
Certain exceptions also apply. For example, if the at-fault party is a minor, the deadline starts to run once they reach adulthood. For defendants who are incarcerated or out of state, the statute of limitations is paused or tolled until they are released from prison or return to California.
Don’t delay. Consulting with Riverside truck accident lawyers as soon as possible ensures you file your claim within the appropriate timeframe. By acting swiftly, you increase your chances of securing a favorable outcome.
What Should You Do If You Get In A Truck Accident In Riverside, CA?
After a truck collision, the trucker’s insurer may contact you immediately to discuss issues like compensation and vehicle replacement. However, your well-being and legal rights should come first. After checking for injuries and moving to a safe location, our trucking accident injury lawyers urge you to follow these steps:
- Dial 911. The police traffic collision report documenting the incident is crucial evidence when filing a claim. Also, the emergency responders can medically evaluate you for any injuries.
- Obtain information. Obtain the trucker’s insurance and contact details and those of any other parties involved. Since accidents can lead to conflicting accounts, collecting witness information is also important.
- Document everything. Photographs of the vehicle damages can prove helpful in insurance claims. Moreover, document the injuries you sustained and other relevant details at the accident scene, such as skid marks and the weather conditions.
- Avoid talking to the other party or their insurer. Do not make any statements without consulting a lawyer. Any comments you make about the crash can be used to hurt your case. Legal representation helps you avoid insurance traps and get the amount you deserve.
- Seek Medical Attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, get medical attention. Injuries from car accidents can worsen over time. Delays can also lead to insurers downplaying the severity of your injuries or questioning their connection to the crash.
- Consult our Riverside trucking accident lawyers. Our personal injury lawyers for truck accident cases offer free consultations where we discuss the viability of your case and your legal options. Call (888) 488-1391 today and get the excellent legal service you need.
How Do Truck Crashes Differ From Regular Auto Accidents?
Accidents involving trucks and other commercial vehicles differ from regular fender-bender or other passenger car accidents. Commercial drivers are held to a higher standard than regular motorists due to the increased risk posed by their massive vehicles.
Commercial vehicles’ sheer size and weight also translate to a far greater impact in collisions. Even low-speed crashes can cause extensive damage to smaller cars and inflict serious injuries on occupants.
Furthermore, determining who’s at fault is often more complex in commercial truck accidents. The driver, their employer, and even the owner of the cargo they haul could all share liability for the damages.
These differences are why you should seek legal assistance right after getting injured in a commercial vehicle crash. Riverside truck accident lawyers understand the intricate laws governing commercial drivers and the trucking industry. They can help you identify all potentially liable parties and maximize the compensation you are eligible for.
Federal Highway Trucking Regulations
Drowsy driving is dangerous regardless of the size of the vehicle. As with other risks, it is even more dangerous for truck drivers who operate large, heavy vehicles.
Drowsy driving has also been a more common problem for truck drivers over the years. Many truck drivers are paid by the mile, not by the hour. This incentivizes them to go on long hauls, which could make them more susceptible to fatigue.
To combat this problem, the Department of Transportation has set rules for all drivers who operate commercial vehicles across state lines. These drivers can only work for so many hours before taking a break, and they must also take long enough breaks between days on the road. If truckers follow these, they can reduce the risk of fatigued driving, even on long hauls.
What Are The Hours Of Service Regulations?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates driver hours of service (HOS). These regulations are outlined in 49 CFR Section 395, ensuring truckers are well-rested before hitting the road.
These are some key hours of service rules:
- Drivers need a ten-hour break before starting a shift.
- A shift can’t exceed 14 consecutive hours, and drivers can only drive for a maximum of 11 hours collectively during this period.
- Drivers cannot drive for more than eight consecutive hours without a break. This break can be either a 30-minute off-duty period or a rest period in a sleeper berth.
- Federal regulations also limit a trucker’s total work week. They can’t be on duty for more than 70 hours in eight consecutive days.
In previous years, the drivers tracked miles and hours on paper logs. Recording the logs in this fashion meant that the data could be easily altered to allow for extra hours. The Department of Transportation now requires commercial trucks to carry electronic logging devices to address this issue. These devices automatically track data about miles, hours, and locations.
The information is then stored securely on a remote server. This system is far more secure than the old “paper log” system. Our Riverside truck accident lawyers can use the data from the ELD as evidence against drivers who disregard hours of service regulations.
Other Trucking Regulations
In addition to hours of service rules, the FMCSA oversees other crucial aspects of trucking safety through laws like the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This act establishes standards for driver licensing, qualifications, and medical fitness. All these regulations work together to create a safer environment on the road for everyone.
Unfortunately, although these measures are in place, accidents still occur. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, our Riverside lawyers can ensure your rights are protected. We answer your questions, address your concerns, and offer guidance as you make important decisions about your case.
Recent Riverside Accident Statistics
In 2022, 5,837 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes, a troubling 1.8% increase compared to 2021 and a 49% increase over ten years.
These crashes led to 5,936 fatalities. Of the people who died, 70% were occupants of other vehicles, 19% were truck occupants, and 11% were cyclists and pedestrians. The injuries also increased to 161,000, representing a 3.9% growth from the previous year.
More than half (53.98%) of the fatal truck accidents happened on rural roads, while 26.61% happened along interstates. Most of these collisions (61.3%) also took place during the daytime.
The rise in fatalities and the high number of injury crashes involving large trucks highlight the potential devastation these accidents can cause. If you’ve been injured in a recent truck accident, our Riverside lawyers can help. We will fight for your rights and ensure the responsible parties are held accountable for your damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Need A Truck Accident Lawyer?
After a devastating truck accident, you might wonder, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The answer is absolutely! Riverside truck accident lawyers are skilled in navigating insurance negotiations, gathering evidence, and building a powerful legal case to maximize the compensation you can get. Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Choose a lawyer with extensive knowledge of truck accident laws to fight for the best possible outcome.
When Do You Need A Truck Accident Attorney?
Minor fender-benders usually don’t require legal intervention. However, truck accidents are entirely different cases. Due to commercial trucks’ immense size and weight, even seemingly minor collisions can inflict serious injuries and substantial property damage. If you or a loved one are injured in a truck accident, seeking legal representation as soon as possible is crucial. Our Riverside truck accident attorneys can fight for maximum compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
What Is A Truck Accident Lawsuit?
A truck accident lawsuit is a legal proceeding where a plaintiff or injured party seeks compensation for damages. To win a lawsuit, the plaintiff must prove that the truck driver or trucking company acted negligently and that their negligence directly caused the accident.
Most truck accident lawsuits are settled before going to trial. In these cases, plaintiffs, represented by truck accident attorneys, negotiate with the defendant (usually the truck driver or trucking company) to reach a fair settlement that covers all their losses from the accident. This is because litigation is expensive and time-consuming, making settlement the preferred option for most victims.
Will Your Truck Accident Case Be Settled Or Go To Trial?
While dramatic legal battles may dominate television, the reality is that most truck accident claims are resolved through settlements. This settlement process involves negotiations for fair compensation, avoiding the need for a trial.
However, complex cases with disputed details or disagreements over legal issues may require a trial. Here, a judge or jury will weigh the evidence and deliver a verdict.
An experienced truck accident attorney in Riverside is your strongest advocate throughout this process. Their legal expertise and knowledge will ensure you’re prepared for either scenario.
How Long Will A Truck Accident Claim Take?
Unfortunately, there’s no single answer to this question. The timeline of your case depends on several factors. Straightforward cases with minor damages may be resolved within six to nine months. Conversely, claims involving significant injuries requiring lengthy medical treatment and lost wages can take upwards of a year to document and settle.
The complexity of the case also plays a role. Disputes over liability or disagreements on the extent of damages can extend the timeline.
Our experienced accident lawyers can help you navigate these variables and work toward a swift resolution. They’ll guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth resolution that allows you to move forward with your life easily.
What Roles Do Insurance Companies Play In Truck Accidents In Riverside?
Truck accident insurance companies prioritize minimizing payouts. Their focus is on protecting their profits, so aggressive defense tactics and attempts to shift blame are common. Dealing with them alone can be detrimental to your case. Negotiating with a well-resourced insurance company without legal representation puts you at a significant disadvantage.
Our Riverside truck accident attorneys can handle the claims process for you so that you can focus on your physical and emotional well-being. We’ll negotiate with insurance companies for compensation that reflects the full scope of your damages.
Am I Responsible For Paying My Medical Bills After A Truck Accident?
Unlike no-fault states, California holds the responsible party financially accountable for accident-related damages, including medical expenses.
Even if you partially contributed to the crash, you can still recover compensation proportional to the degree of the other party’s fault. So, if you were 25% at fault for the truck accident, you may still receive 75% of the compensation for medical bills and other damages. Our truck accident lawyers can help you assess the situation and determine the percentage of fault that might be attributed to each party involved.
How Much Will Hiring A Truck Accident Attorney Cost?
You shouldn’t have to worry about legal costs on top of everything else. Our Riverside truck accident law firm works on a contingency basis. This means you won’t pay a dime upfront or out-of-pocket unless we secure a settlement or win at trial. Our legal fees are covered by a percentage of the award you receive.
How Many Years Does An Accident Stay On Your Record In California?
Most vehicular accidents stay on the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) record for three years from the date of the incident, even if you’re not at fault. During this period, the accident is considered a public record, accessible by insurance companies, potential employers, and law enforcement agencies.
If the accident involved a commercial vehicle or hazardous materials, the DMV will keep it for ten years. Riverside lawyers can help you understand the legalities and potential impact of having a truck accident on your record.
Call The Experienced Truck Accident Lawyers Riverside Trusts
You don’t have to waste time searching all over the internet for “truck accident lawyers near me.” Our skilled truck accident lawyers, led by Arash Khorsandi, are more than capable of representing you. We have decades of experience in handling various cases, including:
At Arash Law, we fight hard for accident victims in settlement negotiations and at trial. Call (888) 488-1391 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. Don’t delay – the Riverside truck accident lawyers at our trusted personal injury law firm are ready to protect your legal rights.
In addition to Riverside, we serve clients in San Francisco, Riverside, San Jose, San Diego, Sacramento, Sherman Oaks, and throughout California. We have collected over $500 Million for clients across the state.
Latest Traffic Reports in California
