Sacramento Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our Sacramento Truck Accident Lawyers Offer Professional Legal Representation
Truck accidents can cause serious injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicle, which generate significant force in a collision. This force can result in severe harm to people in other vehicles or pedestrians. If you are injured in such an incident, our Sacramento truck accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and assist in seeking compensation for your losses. Call (888) 488-1391 to discuss your case.
Sacramento is the capital of the Golden State and the seat of Sacramento County. It is located in the northern region of the state, roughly 90 miles northeast of San Francisco. The city is home to numerous warehouses and distribution centers for national retailers and logistics companies. These centers rely on trucks to move large quantities of goods in and out of the area. While this activity supports the local economy, an increase in truck traffic can also lead to a higher likelihood of road accidents.
Many truck accidents cause serious injuries that can result in permanent disability. Unfortunately, some victims do not survive their injuries. In such cases, surviving family members may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim against the negligent truck driver or transportation company.
Whether your injuries are mild or severe, you may be able to seek compensation for all losses resulting from someone else’s negligence. Our truck accident lawyer in Sacramento can help you understand legal rights and options.
Verdict for a client who was sideswiped by a commercial truck– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
What Can Sacramento Truck Accident Lawyers Do For You?
Our law firm can handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on healing and getting your life back on track. Here’s what our truck accident lawyers in Sacramento aim to do:
- Our team will assist you in obtaining inspection reports, driver logs, maintenance records, dashcam footage, cell phone records, witness statements, and other key pieces of evidence.
- We will thoroughly examine all relevant evidence to determine the cause of the accident and identify the liable parties. Our team will also determine if the truck driver or truck company violated any Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.
- We may collaborate with industry consultants, such as accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and forensic analysts, to provide insights that can help strengthen your case.
- Our lawyers can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to pursue a fair settlement.
- If necessary, our Sacramento truck accident attorneys will represent you in court.
At Arash Law, our clients aren’t just case numbers. Your story matters to us. Our Sacramento personal injury lawyers will work diligently to help you pursue the financial resources you may need for your medical treatment and other needs.
Why Should You Hire Our Truck Accident Attorneys?
Large trucks are subject to stricter regulations than passenger vehicles. From Hours of Service (HOS) rules to maintenance requirements, our truck accident lawyers in Sacramento are knowledgeable in these regulations. We can investigate the cause of the accident and identify any potential violations by the driver or the truck company.
Our lawyers have years of experience dealing with insurance adjusters. We review settlement offers, address any challenges in the negotiation process, and seek appropriate compensation for damages. If negotiations fail, our Sacramento attorneys are prepared to take your truck accident case to court.
At Arash Law, we believe that effective legal representation starts with clear and honest communication. Our attorneys take the time to explain your rights and legal options in plain language, without overwhelming you with legal jargon. Furthermore, if coming to our office isn’t convenient, we can meet you at your preferred location.
Getting Around Sacramento Safely
The likelihood of a vehicular accident occurring increases with traffic volume. With more vehicles on the road, there are essentially more chances for something to go wrong. In a busy intersection, a driver might misjudge a gap, someone might change lanes without checking their blind spot, or a sudden stop could cause a chain reaction. The more vehicles involved, the higher the potential for these interactions to turn into accidents.
Similarly, truck accidents are most likely to occur on the major highways and surface streets where trucks are crossing through the Sacramento area. Many truck accidents in these locations involve drivers unfamiliar with the specific roads and intersections in the city. Long-haul trucks may not be able to anticipate sharp curves, sudden lane reductions, or tricky merging zones. Any misjudgment can easily lead to a devastating accident.
To help promote safety on Sacramento roads, all motorists must exercise caution and adhere to traffic rules. Car and motorcycle drivers should maintain a safe following distance and avoid lingering next to a truck when changing lanes. Furthermore, they should also never underestimate the space a truck needs to make a turn and avoid cutting one off at corners or intersections.
While following safety precautions reduces the risk of accidents, unexpected situations can still arise. If you or someone you know is injured in a truck-related crash in the Sacramento area, it’s important to understand your legal options. Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers can help you evaluate your case, explain your rights, and pursue compensation for your damages.
Where Do Truck Accidents Happen In Sacramento County?
Certain roads and intersections in Sacramento County tend to see more truck-related collisions than others. Based on experience and available traffic data, our truck accident lawyers in Sacramento have observed that crashes are more likely to occur on the county’s major highways and heavily traveled surface streets.
If you frequently drive in these areas, it’s important to stay alert and exercise extra caution:
- The Lincoln Highway (State Route 50) — This route runs east-west through the southern portion of the county. Truck accidents often happen on SR 50 due to its winding sections and single-lane stretches. These factors can make it difficult for drivers to anticipate the maneuvers of large trucks, especially when visibility is reduced.
- Interstate 5 — I-5 sees a significant amount of truck travel, particularly for agricultural goods and commercial deliveries. The highway’s long, uninterrupted stretches and high speeds can lead to serious collisions, particularly when traffic slows unexpectedly or when drivers are merging on or off the freeway.
- Interstate 80 — This major east-west highway stretches across the northern part of the county, carrying a significant amount of truck traffic traveling between Nevada and the Bay Area. The high volume of trucks, combined with multiple lane changes and exits, can create congestion and increase the risk of accidents, especially during peak hours.
- State Route 99 — SR 99 is a key north-south highway that cuts through the center of Sacramento County. The combination of heavy truck traffic, stoplights interrupting highway flow, and multiple carpool lane entrances and exits creates several potential hazards.
- Land Park Drive, near the Sacramento Zoo — Truck traffic delivering supplies to the zoo intersects with regular vehicle traffic. The limited space and potential distractions from pedestrians can increase the risk of collisions.
- Stockton Boulevard — This major thoroughfare sees a significant amount of truck traffic. Multiple lanes with frequent turns, along with pedestrian and car traffic, can create confusion and lead to accidents involving large trucks.
What Rules Do Truck Drivers Have To Follow In Sacramento?
Within Sacramento and the rest of California, truck drivers are required to follow these state and federal regulations:
- Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The process involves written tests, a medical exam, and behind-the-wheel skills demonstrations.
- Perform pre-trip inspections daily. Truck companies are responsible for ongoing maintenance.
- Observe state traffic laws, including lane restrictions.
- Undergo routine alcohol and drug testing.
- Adhere to HOS regulations, which dictate breaks, rest periods, and daily/weekly driving times.
- Check safe cargo security. Regulations outline proper loading and weight distribution practices to prevent cargo spills or loose items from becoming road hazards.
The FMSCA enforces strict compliance with these regulations through regular roadside inspections, comprehensive reviews of truck drivers and carriers, and complaint investigations.
When a truck driver violates these regulations, they are acting negligently. If this negligence results in an accident, the victim may be able to hold them liable for the damages. Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers can investigate the case and gather evidence to demonstrate the possible connection between the violation, the collision, and the victim’s injuries.
Types Of Trucks That Are Often Involved In Accidents
There are many different types of trucks on the roads in and around Sacramento. The following are some common types of trucks that can be involved in accidents resulting in injuries:
- Eighteen wheelers
- Tanker trucks for liquid cargo
- Construction trucks
- Garbage trucks
- Cement trucks
- Box trucks
- Moving trucks
- Tow trucks
- Tractor-trailer
In any accident, the type of truck involved is important. Depending on the type, the truck driver may not be the only defendant with a legal obligation to compensate you for your injuries. For instance, a malfunctioning brake system on a semi-truck could point to a maintenance oversight by the company’s mechanics. Similarly, a poorly secured load that spills onto the highway might expose the responsibility of the company that loaded the cargo.
Experienced truck accident lawyers in Sacramento can help you identify the liable parties and gather the evidence needed to support a legal claim. Our attorneys will explore all possible avenues of compensation to cover your losses and work to hold negligent parties accountable.
Common Types Of Truck Accidents In Sacramento
Here are some of the common types of collisions that our truck accident lawyers have encountered in Sacramento:
- Rear-End Collisions — Due to a truck’s significant stopping distance, a car following too closely can easily end up in a devastating collision with the back of the trailer.
- Blind Spot Accidents — Trucks have larger blind spots than regular vehicles. If a driver fails to check these blind spots before changing lanes or turning, an accident can happen.
- Backing Accidents — These accidents occur when a truck reverses into another vehicle or a person, often resulting in serious crush injuries.
- Jackknife Accidents — This type of accident occurs when the trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, like the folding blade of a jackknife.
- Wide-Turn Collisions — Wide-turn collisions occur when a large truck makes a turn, ends up needing more space than anticipated, and collides with another vehicle.
- Rollovers — Heavy trucks can roll over due to factors like speeding, sharp turns, unbalanced cargo, or tire blowouts.
- T-Bone Accidents — Also known as broadside collisions, these accidents are particularly dangerous because the impact occurs on the side of a vehicle, an area with less overall protection compared to the front or rear.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents
Many factors can contribute to truck accidents, including the following:
Truck Driver Error
Research from the FMCSA indicates that the actions of a truck driver are often a primary factor in causing an accident. In some cases, work-related pressures like strict delivery deadlines and long hours can affect a driver’s judgment and contribute to risky behaviors on the road.
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious risk factor in commercial truck accidents. Truck drivers may use prescription and over-the-counter drugs to combat fatigue during long hauls, which can impair their ability to operate the vehicle safely.
Poorly Maintained Or Faulty Equipment
Despite mandatory inspections, poorly maintained equipment remains a significant risk. Inspections might not be thorough enough to catch every potential issue, especially if they are hurried or carried out by unqualified mechanics. Moreover, companies may prioritize profit over safety, neglecting necessary repairs due to cost-cutting. Faulty brakes, overworn tires, and steering malfunctions can all contribute to serious accidents.
Speeding
Trucks require significantly more distance to come to a complete stop compared to passenger cars. Speeding extends this stopping distance, making it nearly impossible for drivers to react and avoid collisions, especially in sudden situations. Additionally, because trucks have a higher center of gravity, they’re more prone to rollovers at high speeds. Taking sharp curves or encountering uneven road surfaces while speeding can easily destabilize the vehicle.
Fatigue
Truck drivers often face pressure to meet strict deadlines. This pressure can come from businesses aiming for high delivery rates or from self-employed drivers (e.g., Amazon drivers) trying to increase their earnings. Long work hours, sometimes exceeding 10 to 12 hours per shift, can lead to fatigue.
The effects of drowsy driving are similar to those of driving under the influence of alcohol. Reaction times slow, judgment becomes impaired, and the ability to focus is affected.
Improper Loading
When cargo isn’t loaded and secured properly, it can become unbalanced. It can potentially shift during transit, making the truck difficult to control. This instability is a major cause of serious collisions and rollovers.
Driver Distractions
Truck drivers face several distractions behind the wheel. Using a cell phone, eating, and drinking while driving all take a driver’s eyes off the road. Even activities such as adjusting controls or reaching for items can affect the driver’s focus. External distractions, such as loud noises or interesting sights along the route, can be dangerous as well.
Many trucks are equipped with event data recorders (EDRs) that monitor driver activity, including steering wheel movements. Unusual data points like abrupt or jerky steering inputs could indicate the driver made a sudden correction to avoid an obstacle they didn’t notice until the last minute.
After a truck accident, a legal counsel can help collect and review evidence related to common causes like driver distraction, fatigue, or equipment failure. Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers work to identify all parties who may be responsible and explain your legal options for seeking compensation for damages. To help strengthen your case, they may work with consultants to establish the cause of the crash and the extent of your injuries.
Common Injuries In A Truck Crash
Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers have helped victims who have sustained the following injuries:
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries.
- Whiplash and neck injuries.
- Burns.
- Amputations.
- Internal injuries.
- Facial injuries.
- Scarring and disfigurement.
- Soft tissue injuries.
- Broken bones.
- Severe lacerations or puncture wounds.
- Sprains and strains.
Beyond the physical impact, victims can also suffer from psychological trauma. Truck accidents can trigger post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a debilitating condition characterized by intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance. Anxiety about driving, riding in a car, or even being on the road is also a common reaction.
What Should I Do After A Truck Accident?
In the chaos of an accident scene, it can be challenging to know what to do. However, acting quickly and strategically can prevent further danger and protect your rights. Here are suggested steps you can take:
Call 911
Your priority should be the health and safety of everyone on the scene. Call 911 for anyone who needs immediate medical attention.
Move To A Safe Location
If you can, get out of the way of traffic and find a place where you can safely wait for help. Many accidents cause secondary accidents because of “rubberneckers.” These are drivers who are paying attention to the crash instead of the road, or distracted drivers who fail to notice the disabled vehicles in the roadway. Staying clear of traffic reduces the risk of being involved in these additional collisions. It’s important to remain at the scene, as leaving could result in hit-and-run charges.
Call The Police
Law enforcement officers can contribute to everyone’s safety, move vehicles out of the path of oncoming traffic, and issue any warranted traffic citations. They will also take your statement about the accident and facilitate the exchange of insurance information.
Document Everything
Take pictures of the damage to your car, the truck, and the surrounding scene. If possible, note down weather conditions, road debris, and anything else that might have contributed to the accident.
Limit What You Say
When speaking with the other driver, keep your communication brief and focused on exchanging contact and insurance information. Avoid discussing details about the accident or admitting fault, as these statements can be misinterpreted and negatively impact your legal claim.
Get Medical Attention
After an accident, have a medical professional evaluate you promptly. Some serious injuries, like internal bleeding or brain trauma, may not show symptoms right away but can become life-threatening if untreated. Emergency rooms and urgent care centers have diagnostic tools such as blood tests, X-rays, and MRIs to detect hidden injuries and monitor vital signs for any concerning changes. It’s important to get a thorough medical examination following a crash, as the documentation can be used to support your case.
Contact A Truck Accident Lawyer In Sacramento
Truck accidents often involve complicated legal issues, such as federal and state regulations, shared liability, and evidence preservation. Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers can help you navigate these challenges and explain your legal options and your next steps. We offer a free case review to assess whether you may have valid grounds for pursuing a personal injury claim.
Settlement in a heavily disputed Truck v. Truck case. Our client was blamed by the insurance company from day one and was always told that they would never take responsibility for the collision that injured our client’s lower back. After years of litigation, Benny and the team were able to secure the full policy limits for our client months before trial.– BENNY KHORSANDI
Who Can Be Held Responsible For My Truck Accident Injuries?
Liability for truck accident injuries can extend beyond the driver to include the truck owner, such as transportation companies, delivery services, or other businesses that operate the vehicle. In cases involving defective equipment, parts, or systems, the manufacturer of the truck or its components may also be held responsible for your injuries and related losses.
Assessing liability and seeking compensation requires a careful investigation of the accident and the parties involved. Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers can help identify all potential sources of compensation and assist in filing claims against the responsible party.
How Is Fault Determined In A Sacramento Truck Accident?
Determining fault in a truck accident involves more than just reviewing what happened at the scene. It requires proving that someone was negligent. In California, a personal injury claim generally depends on establishing the following four elements of negligence:
- Duty of Care — The truck driver (and potentially other parties) had a legal obligation to drive safely and follow traffic laws.
- Breach of Duty — Legal duty was violated, such as by speeding, driving fatigued, or failing to maintain the truck.
- Causation — The breach of duty directly caused the accident and your injuries.
- Damages — You suffered actual losses, such as medical expenses, lost income, or pain and suffering, as a result.
Here’s how we investigate truck accidents to assess liability:
- Review the evidence. We may request the assistance of accident reconstructionists to examine vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and other relevant pieces of evidence. These can help determine the cause and who may be responsible for the crash.
- Collect witness statements. Eyewitness accounts can reveal details about the accident that you may have missed yourself. This relevant information can support your claim.
- Examine dashcam footage. This piece of evidence can reveal what actually happened before, during, and after the accident. Dashcam footage helps establish the facts of the case and the driver’s degree of fault in the accident.
- Look into the truck driver’s records. We will review the driver’s logs to see if they were following the hours-of-service regulations mandated by the state. Violations of this statute can be used as evidence to prove the fault of the truck driver and their company.
Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers can handle the legal legwork on your behalf so you can focus on your well-being. We gather evidence, build your case, and pursue just compensation from the party liable for the accident.
Types Of Compensation Available In A Truck Accident Claim
Here are some of the common types of compensation in a truck accident personal injury claim:
Medical Bills
The party responsible for causing the accident may be required to compensate you for the medical expenses related to your injuries. These can include ambulance fees, emergency room treatment, diagnostic tests (such as X-rays and lab work), medical consultations, follow-up visits, and pain management services. Ongoing treatments, such as physical therapy or chiropractic care, are also considered medical expenses connected to the accident.
In some cases, multiple insurance providers may be involved in covering your medical costs. If you receive compensation through a personal injury settlement, your health insurance provider might seek reimbursement for the medical bills it has paid. Similarly, if you were injured at work, your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer would cover your medical expenses initially but may also pursue reimbursement from any personal injury award.
These overlapping claims and reimbursements can be complex. Our truck accident lawyers in Sacramento can help navigate these issues and assist in resolving liens (claims by insurance companies or medical providers seeking repayment for expenses they covered). They work to pursue compensation for all your damages while coordinating with the various parties involved.
Lost Wages
If you miss work because of your accident-related injuries, you may be able to seek compensation for your lost income. This includes time off for recovery, medical appointments, or extended absences due to hospitalization or surgery.
Calculating lost wages usually involves multiplying your hourly rate by the hours missed or prorating your salary based on your regular workweek. If you lose bonuses, commissions, or overtime, those may also be pursued in a claim, though proving their exact value can be more complex. Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers can assist in documenting these losses and seeking fair compensation for all income you’ve missed as a result of the accident.
Pain And Suffering
You may seek compensation for the intangible losses you suffer after an auto accident, including pain and emotional distress. This includes discomfort from injuries and treatment, as well as the stress and frustration of missed family events, work disruptions, and changes to your daily life. Because these losses are intangible and harder to measure, insurance companies may challenge these claims.
Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers can help in documenting and proving the extent of your pain and suffering. They may work with medical professionals, psychologists, or vocational consultants to assess the psychological effects and how your injuries may affect your future quality of life and earning capacity. This expert input can support a more precise calculation of damages and help strengthen your case during negotiations or court proceedings.
Permanent Injuries
Truck accidents can lead to serious, life-threatening injuries. Many accident victims who can survive their injuries are permanently disabled due to amputations or spinal cord injuries. They may only be able to return to part-time work or a limited job role. Some might never be able to return to work at all. Others may have to remodel their homes with wheelchair ramps, accessible showers, lower countertops, or other modifications that accommodate their injuries.
These permanent injuries often result in lifelong medical expenses and ongoing pain and suffering. To properly assess and seek compensation for these losses, our Sacramento truck accident lawyer may work with expert witnesses. A vocational consultant can evaluate your ability to return to work or suggest suitable employment options. A life care planner can estimate the costs of future medical care, home modifications, assistive devices, and personal support. An economist can then calculate the total projected expenses, accounting for inflation and other economic factors.
By presenting this expert analysis, our truck accident lawyer can build a well-documented case to help you seek compensation that covers both your current and future needs related to your permanent injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accident Cases In Sacramento
What Are My Next Steps After A Truck Accident In Sacramento?
First, seek medical attention even if you don’t see any injuries or feel any pain. Then, report the accident to the police. Next, take photos and videos of the accident scene. You may also contact our Sacramento truck accident lawyers so we can assist with the collection of evidence on your behalf. Furthermore, we can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and advocate for your interests. If a settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate for fair compensation from the responsible party.
Could Shared Fault Limit My California Truck Accident Settlement?
Yes, shared fault may reduce the amount of your settlement. Under California’s pure comparative negligence system, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. However, even if you are partly responsible, you may still pursue damages proportional to the other party’s fault.
The issue of shared faults can complicate your claim for compensation. In some cases, greater responsibility may be assigned to the victim, which can affect the value of their settlement. Our Sacramento truck accident attorneys can help protect your interests by carefully reviewing the facts and advocating on your behalf during settlement negotiations.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Truck Accidents In California?
In California, the statute of limitations or legal deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the injury. If you miss this deadline, the court may dismiss your case, regardless of its merit. As a result, you may lose the right to seek compensation for your injuries through the court system.
However, there are exceptions. For instance, claims against government entities typically require filing a claim within six months. Other exceptions may apply in cases involving minors, delayed discovery of injuries, or certain types of injuries.
If the deadline is approaching and you’re wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” it may be worth speaking with one to better understand your options. Our Sacramento injury lawyers can determine the applicable deadline and any potential exceptions for your case. We can assist you in preparing and submitting the necessary paperwork within the required timeframe.
How Much Are Most Truck Accident Settlements?
Settlement amounts for truck accidents vary significantly based on factors like injury severity, medical expenses, and fault determination. Each case is unique, and compensation depends on the specific circumstances of your accident.
Here are some of the key factors that can influence your settlement case:
- The severity of your injuries.
- Impact of the accident on your life, including how it affected your personal and financial well-being.
- Who was at fault for the accident.
- Any dispute over liability.
- The at-fault party’s insurance policy limits.
Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers can analyze the specifics of your case, help gather evidence, and estimate the potential value of your claim.
How Much Do Accident Attorneys Charge In California?
Many Sacramento truck accident lawyers, including our team at Arash Law, work on a contingency fee basis. This means clients do not pay any attorney’s fees unless compensation is obtained. Please note that certain case-related expenses may still apply.
How Long Will It Take To Close A Truck Accident Case In Sacramento?
Every truck accident case is unique, and the timeline for a resolution can vary greatly. Gathering evidence and determining who is liable can take time. More serious injuries typically require more extensive medical treatment. This can prolong the case, as doctors need time to assess your medical condition and determine the appropriate treatment. Dealing with insurance companies can also be a time-consuming process.
Furthermore, if a settlement can’t be reached with the insurance company, filing a lawsuit might be necessary. Some court proceedings can take months or even years to complete. Our Sacramento truck accident lawyers can help manage legal complexities by coordinating investigations and guiding you through negotiations or court proceedings. While no case timeline can be guaranteed, legal guidance can help avoid unnecessary delays and keep your case moving forward as efficiently as possible.
Contact Our Sacramento Truck Accident Lawyers
Dedicated truck accident injury lawyers in Sacramento are available at Arash Law. Led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our experienced attorneys have handled many personal injury cases. These include car accidents, pedestrian accidents, workplace accidents, dog bites, product liability claims, slip-and-fall incidents, swimming pool accidents, wrongful death cases, Uber & Lyft accidents, and more.
Call (888) 488-1391 or contact us online to schedule your free initial consultation.
In addition to Sacramento, we represent clients across California in cities such as Modesto, Stockton, Davis, Rancho Cordova, Yuba City, Roseville, Elk Grove, Folsom, Brentwood, Fairfield, San Francisco, Riverside, San Jose, San Diego, Sherman Oaks, and other locations throughout the state.
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