San Diego Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers
with over $500 Million Recovered in Compensation for Injury Clients.
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Powerful San Diego Commercial Truck Accident LawyersProtecting The Injured
In a matter of seconds, a collision with a commercial truck can forever change your life. That’s where our skilled San Diego commercial truck accident lawyers step in. If you’re injured in a truck crash caused by another driver, call us today at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation. We will help you seek compensation for medical expenses, missed wages, and pain and suffering, among other damages.
San Diego’s small business community comprises roughly 90% of the city’s business demographic. These enterprises often rely on commercial vehicles to transport automobiles, lumber, fresh produce, cement, sand, steel cargo, and other goods.
However, despite the importance of commercial trucks in many businesses and the economy as a whole, truck accidents caused by negligent truckers and trucking companies lead to devastating outcomes due to the vehicle’s size and weight. Commercial vehicle accidents usually result in major injuries and, in some cases, loss of life.
Contact our personal injury law firm if you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck accident. We will listen to your story, explain your legal options clearly, and fight for your right to fair compensation. With a winning track record, our commercial truck accident lawyers are certain we will successfully recover compensation on your behalf. Pay nothing upfront; zero fees until we win!
Settlement in a case where a client was injured while unloading commercial truck; client sustained crush injuries to legs.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
What is a commercial truck accident?
Commercial trucks, often called heavy-duty vehicles, are designed to transport goods and materials rather than people and play a pivotal role in the logistics and transportation sectors. They support the movement of goods across this dynamic border city. As essential cogs in the supply chain, these trucks navigate through local areas, across California, and into Mexico, playing a key role in supporting San Diego’s diverse economy.
A commercial truck accident involves a collision between a large truck, such as a semi-truck, eighteen-wheeler, or other heavy freight carrier, heavy-duty vehicles crucial to the logistics & transportation industries, and another vehicle or pedestrian. These incidents frequently occur on busy highways such as the I-5, I-15, and I-8, which are critical arteries for commercial transportation in and out of the region. The considerable size and weight of these trucks make accidents involving them especially severe, often resulting in significant damages and injuries compared to other vehicular collisions.
Types of Commercial Trucks
- Semi-Trucks (18-Wheelers): These are among the largest on the road. They consist of a tractor unit that tows one or more semi-trailers to carry freight. Semi-trucks (18-wheelers) are larger than other commercial trucks and have a higher carrying capacity. They are specifically designed to transport heavy loads over long distances, making them ideal for long-haul transportation and the logistics industry. However, despite their utility in the logistics industry, semi-trucks are also involved in a significant number of road accidents. Due to their size and weight, accidents involving semi-trucks can result in severe damage and injuries. It is crucial to prioritize safety measures and regulations to minimize the risks associated with semi-truck accidents.
- Box Trucks: Often used for smaller commercial deliveries, these trucks have enclosed cuboid-shaped cargo areas. Box trucks are commonly utilized in various industries, such as retail, food and beverage, and moving services. Retailers often use box trucks for local deliveries of goods to their stores, while food and beverage companies use them to transport perishable items to different locations. Additionally, individuals or businesses often rent box trucks for moving purposes, providing a convenient and efficient solution for transporting belongings. Box trucks can also be involved in accidents that result in severe damage and injuries. These accidents directly impact the victims and can have significant repercussions for the respective industries.
- Flatbed Trucks: These have an entirely flat, level ‘bed’ with no sides or roof, which is ideal for transporting heavy loads or equipment that does not fit in enclosed trucks. Flatbed trucks are frequently used to transport large and oversized equipment such as construction machinery, industrial materials, steel beams, and lumber. The open nature of the flatbed allows for easy loading and unloading of these bulky items, making them an essential choice for industries that require the transportation of heavy and irregularly shaped cargo.
- Tanker Trucks: Designed to carry liquids or gases, these are used for chemical, fuel, or water transportation. Tanker trucks that transport hazardous materials are equipped with various safety features to minimize the risk of spills or accidents. These features include reinforced tanks to withstand high pressures, multiple compartments to separate different substances, and specialized valves and seals to ensure secure containment. Additionally, tanker trucks often have emergency shut-off systems, spill containment kits, and advanced monitoring systems to detect leaks or abnormalities in real time, allowing for immediate response and mitigation of potential hazards.
- Dump Trucks: These trucks are used primarily in construction and can be unloaded by tilting the dump body. Dump trucks come in various types, each designed for specific purposes in the construction industry. For instance, standard dump trucks are commonly used for transporting loose materials such as gravel, sand, or dirt. On the other hand, articulated dump trucks are ideal for navigating rough terrain and hauling heavy loads over challenging landscapes. Additionally, off-road dump trucks are specifically built to withstand extreme conditions and are often used in mining operations or large-scale earthmoving projects.
- Refrigerator Trucks: Equipped with cooling systems, these trucks transport perishable goods by maintaining a specified temperature throughout transit. Refrigerator truck accidents can pose significant risks, especially if involved in a collision or rollover. There is a risk of chemical leaks or spills from the cooling systems, further exacerbating the dangers of the accident. For this reason, companies operating refrigerator trucks need to prioritize regular maintenance, proper training for their drivers, and safety protocols to prevent accidents.
Given the gravity and complexity of commercial truck accidents, the legal landscape surrounding them can be equally intricate
Factors such as determining liability, navigating federal and state regulations for commercial trucking, and dealing with corporate trucking companies or their insurers make these cases challenging for victims seeking compensation. If you or a loved one have been involved in a commercial truck accident, consult a personal injury lawyer specializing in commercial vehicle accidents.
At Arash Law, we have decades of experience dealing with the complexities of truck accident cases. We understand the devastating impact these accidents can have on your life and are dedicated to helping you navigate through this challenging time. We fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible and your rights are fully protected.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Let our skilled commercial truck accident attorneys in San Diego handle the burden of legal proceedings while you.
Why Should You Hire Our San Diego Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers?
Our trusted commercial truck accident attorneys have the knowledge, experience, compassion, and commitment to assist in determining liability and seeking financial recovery. For many decades, our truck accident law firm has safeguarded victims’ rights and assisted them through difficult times. We understand commercial truck accident laws and the intricate regulations governing the trucking industry.
Our San Diego attorneys, specializing in commercial truck accident cases, conduct rigorous investigations, collaborating with reconstructionist experts to cover every possible angle. We strive to maximize our clients’ monetary recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. In fact, we have recovered over $500 Million in settlements and awards for our clients. Most importantly, we treat all clients compassionately because we understand their challenges.
Common Commercial Truck Accident Cases Our Attorneys Handle
Commercial trucks have a high potential to cause significant property damage and inflict catastrophic injuries on innocent victims. Their sheer size and other physical qualities contribute to different types of accidents.
Here are some examples of cases our San Diego commercial truck accident lawyers regularly handle:
Blind Spot Accidents
These occur when a driver fails to notice another vehicle or person in their blind spot, causing a collision. Due to trucks’ wider blind zones, drivers may be unable to see other vehicles beside or behind them. If a truck driver changes lanes or turns without checking their blind spot and misses a car, the other vehicle can be severely damaged in seconds.
Underride Accidents
Underrides occur when a small car collides with a truck and slides underneath the trailer. These incidents are among the deadliest crashes. When a car or motorcycle goes under a truck, the top of the vehicle is often sheared off. This can lead to serious injuries, deaths, and the total loss of the car.
Rollover Accidents
Larger commercial trucks are more prone to rollover accidents. These crashes are often caused by shifting cargo weight on an incline or making an excessively wide turn. A truck that rolls over is a serious threat to both the driver and the surrounding motorists. Its cargo might also spill onto the road, causing secondary collisions.
Tire Blowout Accidents
Overloading can cause the truck tires to explode under pressure. When a tire blows, the driver could lose control of the vehicle. This can result in collisions, rollovers, car damage, injuries, and even fatalities.
Liability in these cases can be harder to determine. Our commercial truck accident lawyers will investigate all potential parties besides the driver, such as the tire manufacturer or the mechanic who performed maintenance on the truck.
T-Bone Accidents
T-bone collisions are among the most common road accidents. They typically occur when a commercial truck runs a red light and collides with a vehicle on its side. These types of crashes are more deadly because the side of a car provides less protection than the front or back.
A T-bone accident puts you in danger of serious injuries or even death if you’re in the vehicle that was hit on the side. The severity of injuries is determined by the force of the impact and the commercial truck’s size.
Jackknife Accidents
Jackknife accidents occur when a commercial truck’s trailer swings out of line and into the cab, causing the entire vehicle to fold in at a 90-degree angle. These frequently occur when a truck driver brakes too hard and quickly, causing the axles to lock up.
Many trucks have anti-jackknife devices installed to prevent this accident. Anti-lock brakes can also help, allowing the driver to maintain steering control during emergency braking. Ultimately, the truck driver’s attention and cautious driving are the most effective strategies to avoid jackknife crashes.
No matter what type of commercial vehicle accident caused your injuries, you should not be held financially liable for losses due to no fault of your own. With the help of qualified San Diego commercial truck accident attorneys, you can seek the compensation you deserve.
Causes And Contributing Factors In Commercial Truck Accidents
Commercial truck accidents are not the same as typical passenger car accidents. Collisions involving these large vehicles result in far more serious injuries, particularly for pedestrians, bicyclists, and occupants of other cars involved in the incident. Due to the strict rules that govern the industry, detailed investigations must be carried out.
Our commercial truck accident lawyers will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the causes. Here are some examples of contributing factors that are common in the cases we usually handle:
Driving Mistakes And Violations
Our commercial truck accident attorney in San Diego will agree that driver errors are a leading contributing factor to road accidents. Commercial truck drivers must undergo extensive training and obtain proper licensing before operating commercial vehicles. However, even with this training and certification, truck drivers can still make mistakes, such as ignoring traffic signs, that can have serious consequences.
Driving In Bad Weather Conditions
Truckers must know how to handle various and often unpredictable weather conditions, which can create hazardous driving situations that might lead to a commercial truck accident. Trucking companies and their drivers are responsible for deciding when to delay trips or pull over due to dangerous weather, especially if it’s beyond human control. They could be liable for a resulting accident if they don’t take adequate precautions to be safe on the road.
Speeding
Some employers often impose tight delivery schedules. The pressure to meet these demands could compel drivers to exceed speed limits, especially when unexpected delays occur. This tendency increases the possibility that a driver will lose control of their commercial vehicle, particularly on icy roads, steep inclines, construction zones, or banked turns. Once drivers lose control, they risk getting into accidents such as rollovers, side-turns, and T-bone collisions.
In case of a vehicle collision, stop immediately. You must report the accident to the DMV within ten (10) days by completing a Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR-1) if the property damage exceeds $1,000 or if anyone is injured or killed, regardless of the severity of the injury.
Tailgating
Driving too close behind another vehicle, especially at high speeds, frequently results in rear-end truck accidents. Tailgating endangers both drivers and other road users. Commercial trucks cannot slow down or stop as quickly as passenger vehicles, so truck drivers must maintain a safe gap between their vehicles and those in front of them. Failure to do so may result in serious injury or a fatal crash.
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Alcohol and drug abuse are serious problems in the trucking industry. Some of the drivers use these substances to cope with long hours on the road, including stimulants to keep them awake during long shifts or while driving at night. Driving under the influence is extremely dangerous, as even minor intoxication can impair a truck driver’s ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely. Such risky behavior might lead to an accident.
According to California Vehicle Code 23152(d) VC, people with a CDL are not allowed to drive a commercial vehicle if their blood alcohol level is 0.04 percent or higher. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires truck drivers to undergo random drug and alcohol testing as part of its road safety program.
Our commercial truck accident lawyers are also experts in handling DUI accident cases. We meticulously gather evidence to prove the impaired driver’s negligence, such as the police report documenting their BAC level, laboratory test results, past DUI offenses, witness statements, and more.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving occurs when a driver diverts their focus away from the road. Distractions include eating, drinking, smoking, checking the phone, adjusting the radio, or entering a location into a navigation system. Even a momentary lapse of focus can result in an accident.
Reckless Or Aggressive Driving
Reckless and aggressive driving increases the risk of a collision, especially when maneuvering a large commercial truck. These behaviors endanger the driver’s and other motorists’ safety on the road.
Here are some of the most common reckless and aggressive behaviors:
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Improper passing
- Stopping on the highway
- Ignoring traffic signs or signals
- Driving on the wrong side of the road or beyond designated lanes
- Weaving in and out of traffic
If you or a loved one is injured or killed in a commercial truck accident, it is vital for you to seek the assistance of skilled attorneys who can fight for your rights. Our San Diego commercial truck accident lawyers will hold the responsible party accountable and seek the compensation you need to recover from your injuries.
Negligent Employment Practices
Negligent Hiring Processes
- Lacking adequate background checks
- Hiring drivers with poor driving records
- Disregarding the drivers’ health concerns (e.g., sleep apnea, vision problems)
Poor Employee Monitoring
- Failing to review driving records regularly
- Ignoring routine drug and alcohol testing
- Ignoring current criminal background checks
Insufficient Training
- Failing to provide a driver training program
- Poorly assessing the drivers’ abilities before deployment
Our commercial truck accident lawyers in San Diego can successfully hold commercial trucking companies accountable for accidents caused by their negligence. We will gather and present evidence systematically to build a strong case for you and get the maximum compensation possible. Call (888) 488-1391 to get started on your claim today.
Violations In Trucking Regulations
Both state and federal regulations govern the commercial trucking industry. Here are some of the most typical truck driving regulatory violations:
- Hours of Service Violations — Drivers are limited in the number of hours and consecutive days they may operate commercial trucks. According to Hours of Service regulations, they can only drive up to 11 hours after ten consecutive hours off-duty. However, some employers occasionally allow and encourage drivers to disregard hours of service laws to expedite trucking operations.
- Cargo Violations — Failure to comply with loading, unloading, fastening, and cargo placing standards can result in major accidents. For instance, unsecured cargo could fall out of the truck and hit other vehicles.
- Weight and Size Restrictions — Exceeding the commercial truck’s length, width, and weight restrictions can impair the driver’s ability to control and stop the vehicle safely. It can also lead to longer braking distances, accelerated tire wear, and instability.
- Maintenance Violations — When commercial trucks are not properly maintained, the danger of accidents and injuries increases considerably. Neglecting this crucial aspect can lead to brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, and other mechanical failures.
In a commercial truck accident, proof of regulatory violations is critical in establishing responsibility in an injury claim. Seek the assistance of our San Diego commercial truck accident attorneys to help you make a solid argument for the compensation you deserve.
Defective Trucks And Parts
Even when trucks are carefully maintained and handled properly, accidents can occur due to malfunctioning trucks, trailers, or vehicle parts. These flaws are frequently discovered after a thorough investigation, which includes scrutinizing physical evidence, checking statements from the truck driver and other accident witnesses, and consulting with truck experts.
In these cases, the truck manufacturer of the specific parts could bear responsibility for the accident. They could be liable for defective tires, malfunctioning brakes, or faulty underride guards.
In some cases, another motorist could be at fault for a truck vs. automobile accident. That’s why it’s important to consult with the best commercial truck accident lawyers San Diego chooses for justice. We are well-versed in product liability claims against negligent manufacturers, sellers, and distributors.
Common Injuries Resulting From Commercial Truck Accidents
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
The force of a collision with a large and heavy vehicle has a high chance of leading to traumatic brain injuries, even with seatbelts and airbags. TBIs, like concussions and brain bleeds, can cause long-term cognitive, motor, and emotion regulation problems.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can occur in commercial truck accidents, potentially leading to paralysis. Victims may become quadriplegic or paraplegic, depending on the extent of the injury. These conditions require lifestyle modifications and intensive medical care.
Often, the victims go into debt to cover their expenses. A family member or two might have to leave their jobs to care for their loved ones. If you or a loved one is injured due to negligence, know you can be compensated for these losses, including pain and suffering. Contact our commercial truck accident lawyers in San Diego to learn more about your rights.
Bone Fractures & Orthopedic Injuries
Collisions involving commercial trucks also frequently cause bone fractures and orthopedic injuries to the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries cause severe pain and limited mobility, needing surgery, hardware implants, and lengthy physical rehabilitation.
Internal Organ Damage
Accidents involving large commercial vehicles can cause significant damage to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs due to brute force or penetration. These injuries are potentially fatal. They require prompt medical attention, even if the severity is not immediately obvious.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Commercial truck accidents cause soft tissue injuries such as whiplash, strains, and sprains due to sudden movements. These injuries, which affect the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, can cause significant discomfort and impede daily activities. While they are generally considered less serious than fractures or organ damage, they could still lead to high medical expenses and long-term conditions, especially if they don’t heal correctly.
Emotional & Psychological Trauma
Survivors of commercial truck accidents frequently experience severe emotional and psychological stress, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. The psychological impact of such traumatic events demands professional treatment for long-term healing.
Any type of injury should be treated immediately, even minor. If left untreated, it might worsen over time. If finances are holding you back from getting medical treatment, contact our commercial truck accident lawyers in San Diego. We can discuss your options for getting compensation and get you access to the top medical specialists who can thoroughly evaluate your injuries.
In the worst cases, these injuries lead to death. If this happens to a loved one, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. Call (888) 488-1391 today; our wrongful death lawyers in San Diego will help you file a claim and get justice for your loss.
What Types Of Damages Can Commercial Truck Accident Victims Recover?
Victims have the right to seek compensation for their injuries and other damages caused by a negligent party. Some of the economic and non-economic damages that our commercial truck accident lawyers help victims recover include:
- Medical Expenses — These include any current and future costs for treating your injuries from the commercial truck accident. You will need a medical expert’s assessment, medical records, and your doctor’s prognosis for the length of your recovery to support your claim.
- Lost Wages — Any income and benefits you miss while recovering, as well as future pay losses, can be recovered in a claim. If you cannot earn the same amount as before the accident, you may be eligible for compensation for diminished earning capacity.
- Property Damages — These are compensation for the repairs or replacement of your car and any other personal things destroyed in the truck accident (e.g., laptop, phone, and clothing.).
- Pain & Suffering — You are entitled to compensation for the physical and psychological suffering you have to bear. This includes mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
- Loss of Quality of Life — Injuries leading to disability often result in a diminished quality of life for the victim. This loss can be part of your claim, although its value is harder to prove.
- Punitive Damages — These are available in circumstances where the at-fault party demonstrated extreme reckless disregard for the safety of others. This compensation is intended to punish the at-fault person, but it is rarely awarded.
Our commercial truck accident lawyers in San Diego are dedicated to obtaining the full and fair compensation you are entitled to. We will work relentlessly to build a strong case on your behalf and defend your rights throughout the claims process. Over $500 Million recovered!
How Are Pain And Suffering Valued?
To be compensated for pain and suffering, you must quantify your losses. While medical expenses and car repair costs are simple, non-economic damages and the intangible concept of pain and suffering are more difficult to calculate. Two primary methods are used to determine the value of pain and suffering:
- Multiplier Method
This approach considers your measurable damages, like lost income and medical bills. These damages are multiplied by a value, typically between 1.5 and 6, based on the severity of your injuries. The result is the approximate value of your pain and suffering. - Per Diem Method
You estimate the number of days you were in serious discomfort owing to your injury. A daily rate is assigned, often based on your daily earnings or other relevant factors. It’s then multiplied by the total number of days to determine the monetary value of your pain and suffering.
You need to present adequate evidence to prove the value of your pain and suffering damages. This can include proof of injury, journal entries explaining your experience, mental health treatment history, and witness statements from family, friends, and caregivers.
Speak to our San Diego commercial truck accident attorneys, who will assist you with your claim. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers will help you demonstrate the full extent of your pain and suffering and other intangible losses.
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
Who Is Liable In A Commercial Truck Accident?
- Truck driver
- Truck owner
- Truck operator
- Trucking company
- Truck manufacturer
- Cargo loading company
- Truck maintenance or repair shops
- Other third parties
In most crashes between two vehicles, the responsibility is determined by who triggered the crash. However, comparative negligence may also apply when both parties share responsibility. In California, even if you are determined to be 99% at fault, you are still entitled to compensation.
The same principle applies to cases involving multiple parties. In a three-way collision with an Uber or Lyft, for example, all involved drivers may have varying degrees of responsibility. Their percentage of fault will determine how much they owe the victim.
Our commercial truck accident lawyers will conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine liability. We will gather important evidence to prove their negligence. Proof might be destroyed or lost over time, so we advise victims to speak with our experienced attorneys immediately.
How Our Attorneys Determine Fault In Commercial Trucking Accidents
Our commercial accident attorneys have extensive experience proving fault. They will thoroughly examine the wreckage, analyze police files, and interview eyewitnesses to better understand the elements that contributed to the crash.
Our investigations include reviewing logbook documents, maintenance reports, and black boxes. We examine every possible angle to determine who is at fault, such as:
- Truck Driver — We are committed to holding truck drivers accountable for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, reckless driving, or speeding to meet quotas.
- Truck Company — Arash Law has extensive experience holding commercial truck companies liable for failing to maintain trucks properly, hiring unqualified truck drivers, inadequately training truck drivers, or pressuring truck drivers to meet unreasonable deadlines.
If you’re thinking, “I need a personal injury lawyer,” you’ve come to the right place! Our commercial truck accident attorneys in San Diego have the expertise and legal resources to demonstrate fault against the negligent parties. Regardless of the type, from hit-and-run involving motorcycles and dog bites to mesothelioma, our legal team prepares each personal injury claim with the goal of maximizing compensation through a settlement or trial.
Responsibilities Of Commercial Truck Drivers
Commercial truck drivers and trucking companies have considerable duties and must adhere to rigorous standards. Operating huge commercial trucks requires particular training, skills, and physical capabilities. When safe trucking regulations are not followed, innocent motorists could sustain serious injuries and damages in truck accidents.
Semi-trucks, garbage trucks, delivery trucks, tractor-trailers, and other large vehicles that require training and a license must adhere to state and federal trucking standards. Unfortunately, irresponsible, reckless, and intentional violations of truck industry rules and procedures are prevalent, putting innocent people’s health and safety at risk.
Our San Diego commercial truck accident lawyers are committed to fighting for your rights if a negligent violator of commercial truck industry standards is accountable for your injuries.
What To Do After A Commercial Truck Accident In San Diego
- Prioritize your safety — Assess yourself and others for injuries. If you need immediate assistance, dial 911. If it is safe, move away from the wreckage, but don’t leave the scene. You could be charged with a hit-and-run.
- Report the accident — First, contact the police and fill out an official report. Next, report the accident to your insurance carrier as soon as possible. Be advised that some circumstances may require you to take a drug test following a commercial vehicle collision.
- Gather evidence — Once everyone is safe, begin documenting everything. Take photographs of all vehicles from various angles, as well as road conditions and signs that may have contributed to the collision. Take notes on what happened while it is still fresh in your mind. Solid documentation can help you recoup damages later.
- Seek medical attention — Even if you think you’re okay, you still need to undergo a further medical assessment. Your medical documents are crucial evidence in filing an injury claim.
- Hire our San Diego commercial truck accident attorneys — Contact our skilled lawyers to help you obtain justice and compensation. They can guide you through this legal maze better than anyone.
Truck Accident Statistics
Here are some figures from recent data about truck accidents across the U.S.:
- In 2021, 5,788 fatalities occurred in traffic crashes involving heavy trucks, a 17% increase from 4,945 in 2020.
- In 2022, 5,837 heavy trucks were involved in a fatal crash, up 1.8% from 2021 and 49% over the prior decade.
Alarmed by such concerning numbers, our commercial truck accident lawyers advocate not only for injured victims’ rights to financial recovery but also for stricter implementation of trucking standards in the industry and safer roads for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can Our Commercial Truck Accident Attorneys Help You After An Accident?
Here’s how our San Diego accident lawyers can help you:
- Accident Investigation — We will gather accident reports, witness accounts, and other relevant evidence.
- Insurance Company Negotiations — We will handle all discussions and negotiations with the insurance company to ensure you receive just compensation.
- Damage Calculation — We will assess your medical expenditures, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other applicable damages to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Legal Representation — If you can’t reach a fair agreement, our commercial truck accident attorneys in San Diego will be ready to take your case to court.
What Is An Hours Of Service Violation In Commercial Truck Accidents?
Federal laws set a maximum time that commercial truck drivers can operate during a certain period. This is due to the significant safety risk that sleepy driving poses to other drivers (some studies suggest that sleepy driving is nearly as deadly as drunk driving). If a truck driver exceeds this limit or doesn’t take the mandated break, they have violated the hours of service and may be held accountable for any resulting injury.
How Does Economic Pressure Negatively Impact Truck Driver Safety?
Economic pressure on commercial truck drivers can make roads less safe. Here are two examples of economic pressure:
- Pressure to meet tight deadlines — Trucking companies often exert immense pressure on drivers to meet strict delivery deadlines. When drivers fail to meet these timeframes, the company receives lower compensation for the delivery. This pressure frequently leads to violations of government-mandated hours-of-service regulations.
- Drivers are expected to drive roughly 500 miles per day — This expectation creates pressure, leading many to break safety laws, especially when faced with delays that consume their unpaid waiting time. The demand to deliver on schedule can force drivers to drive while fatigued, increasing the risk of accidents for themselves and other road users.
How Much Does A Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a lawyer varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of your case and their experience. Most commercial truck accident lawyers in San Diego work on a contingency fee basis, which means they are only paid if they win your case. Typically, they will charge a portion of your settlement or court award as their fee. Clarifying the fee structure with your attorney during the initial consultation is important to ensure you understand the terms.
What Is The Coercion Rule?
The Coercion Rule is a federal regulation that empowers truck drivers to report employers who pressure them to violate safety laws. It was enacted by Congress in 2015 as part of the Surface Transportation Assistance Act (STAA) and took effect on January 29, 2016. The STAA mandated the Department of Transportation (DOT) to create regulations to prevent coercion, and the DOT responded with the Coercion Rule.
The rule accomplishes three major things to decrease coercion and help identify organizations that engage in it, including:
- Establishing a system to let drivers report attempts to persuade them into breaching federal safety laws
- Outlining the efforts that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration should conduct when receiving a coercion report
- Establishing sanctions for companies when driver coercion is discovered
The Coercion Rule aims to eliminate pressure on truck drivers, ensuring they can comply with safety laws without feeling forced to break them for financial reasons.
Consult The Best Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers San Diego Has To Offer!
If you are injured or a family member is killed in a recent commercial truck accident, don’t waste time looking for the right San Diego personal injury attorneys to represent you. Contact Arash Law immediately, where you can find the best commercial truck accident lawyers.
Our San Diego commercial truck accident attorneys, led by the esteemed Arash Khorsandi, Esq., will work relentlessly to ensure you obtain the compensation you deserve. We’ll get your medical bills paid, recover your lost wages, and have your vehicle and other properties repaired or replaced. Call (888) 488-1391 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
Our truck accident law firm also extends its services to neighboring areas, such as Escondido, Coronado, National City, Chula Vista, Lemon Grove, La Mesa, Imperial Beach, La Presa, Spring Valley, El Cajon, Rancho San Diego, and Santee.
You can consult with us at home, at work, or online. We can also come to your location—anytime, anywhere—or provide complimentary transportation.
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