San Diego Delivery Truck Accident Lawyers
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San Diego Delivery Truck Accident Lawyers Offering Clarity, Support, And Legal Know-How
Delivery trucks can get involved in accidents just like all other vehicles. If you’ve recently suffered injuries in a collision with a delivery truck from FedEx, UPS, Amazon, or other similar couriers, our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers are here to help. We will guide you through the process of filing a claim for compensation. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
It is much easier and more convenient for people to shop online and have their purchases delivered to their doorsteps these days. As a result, some courier services are under pressure to keep up with the ever-increasing demands. Unfortunately, more delivery trucks on the road mean a heightened risk of accidents.
San Diego has several congested roads, with Interstate 5 and U.S. 163 causing significant delays for freight transportation. The demands of following a tight schedule and completing deliveries on time tend to make truck drivers more careless on the road, potentially causing accidents.
Truck accidents often bring catastrophic injuries to the occupants of smaller vehicles and leave them with significant property damage. Our personal injury law firm offers guidance and legal assistance to victims injured in delivery truck accidents in San Diego and the rest of California. We’re committed to working with you to seek compensation for your injuries and losses.
A farm worker, suffered multiple broken bones and other orthopedic injuries resulting from an auto accident where the defendant driver attempted to make a left turn in front of our client in heavy fog.– ARASH KHORSANDI
How Our San Diego Delivery Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help With Your Claim
Our lawyers have the knowledge and experience to handle truck accident claims. Representing many injured victims for years, we can develop a strategy tailored to your specific situation.
We leverage our understanding of the law to build a well-supported case to help you pursue compensation. Our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers also utilize our extensive resources to gather sufficient evidence to back up your claim.
With our negotiation skills, we can handle communications with the potentially at-fault party, advocating for your interests throughout the process. Our San Diego attorneys can help you pursue compensation that reflects the extent of your losses.
What Our Delivery Truck Accident Attorneys Can Do For Your Case
Our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers can provide the following support:
- Comprehensive Case Review and Investigation — We’ll examine the different aspects of your case to uncover the potential causes of the accident and identify who may be liable.
- Claim Value Estimation — Our personal injury lawyers collaborate with medical specialists, accident reconstructionists, and other industry professionals to assess the extent of your losses. In doing so, we can give you a realistic estimate of your claim’s potential value.
- Thorough Evidence Gathering — We will be meticulous in preserving, finding, acquiring, and compiling proof that may support your claim.
- Tailored Case Strategy — Each case has varying circumstances and requires a specific combination of strategies. Our lawyers can provide you with legal support tailored to your specific case.
- Skilled Negotiation With the Liable Party — Challenges may arise when pursuing a claim, such as disputes or denials. We can negotiate on your behalf and help you seek compensation.
- Skilled Court Representation — Sometimes, the liable party might refuse to settle. In this case, our delivery truck accident attorneys in San Diego can take your case to court if it is an appropriate legal action for your situation. We can present the evidence we’ve collected to a judge or jury.
- Convenient and Constant Communication — You can reach us at any time with questions regarding your case. We will also provide updates on your claim’s progress. Our delivery truck accident lawyers aim to facilitate a smoother claims process. We can work around your schedule and handle the legal legwork, allowing you to focus on your well-being.
Common Types Of Delivery Truck Accidents
Delivery truck collisions can take several forms and present various risks for road users. Here are some common types of delivery truck accidents our San Diego lawyers can handle:
- Rear-End Accidents — Delivery trucks are larger and may take longer to stop than smaller vehicles. As such, drivers who follow too closely behind another vehicle can crash into its rear and injure its passengers. In other cases, smaller vehicles may rear-end a delivery truck that stops suddenly without using proper signals.
- Side-Impact Collisions — These accidents often occur at intersections when delivery truck drivers fail to yield the right of way or run a red light. Side-impact or T-bone collisions usually happen at high speeds, causing significant damage and catastrophic injuries to the involved parties.
- Head-on Collisions — In some cases, delivery trucks swerve into the opposite lane and crash into other vehicles. Due to the severe impact, the drivers and passengers in the front seats are susceptible to sustaining serious injuries.
- Sideswipe Accidents — Delivery drivers sometimes fail to see other vehicles, especially those in their blind spots, when changing lanes. This can lead to accidents where the side of the delivery truck strikes another vehicle. High-speed sideswipe accidents can lead to severe or even fatal injuries.
- Rollover Accidents — Unsecured cargo or excessive speed on curves can cause delivery trucks to tip over and roll onto their sides. These accidents are extremely dangerous, as they can affect multiple vehicles at once. Their freight can also fall on the road and pose a hazard to other road users.
Our San Diego attorneys are familiar with different kinds of delivery truck accidents. We can help you investigate who may be at fault and build your claim accordingly.
What Causes Most Accidents Involving Delivery Trucks?
Our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers understand that various factors contribute to these collisions. Here are the common causes of delivery truck accidents:
Driver Errors
Most accidents involving delivery trucks happen because of driver errors. Both the truck driver and another driver have the potential to make these mistakes. These include the following:
- Making sudden stops, turns, or lane changes.
- Tailgating or failing to maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
- Going over the speed limit.
- Failing to slow down on curves.
- Running a red light.
- Making improper or illegal turns while trying to correct navigation errors.
- Driving under the influence (DUI).
- Driving while distracted.
- Driving while drowsy or fatigued.
Unsecured Cargo
When a truck makes a sharp turn, unsecured cargo can shift its center of gravity, causing the vehicle to flip over. An improperly closed door might also cause the cargo to fall out of the back of the truck, potentially hitting other road users or causing other accidents.
We can handle cases of this type. Our experienced delivery truck accident lawyers in San Diego can gather relevant documents to determine if unsecured cargo caused your accident.
Vehicle Failure
Defective parts cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, resulting in crashes. Faulty brakes, blown-out tires, failing suspensions, and numerous other mechanical issues can contribute to truck accidents.
If you’re injured in a collision due to vehicle failure, our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers can help you pursue a claim against the potentially negligent party. It could be the trucking company, the manufacturer, or the mechanic who worked on the truck.
Inclement Weather
It’s usually sunny in San Diego. Yet, the occasional heavy rains, strong winds, and fog can make it harder for drivers to navigate the roads. Inclement weather means poor visibility. When drivers can’t see the road clearly, they are more likely to be involved in accidents. Slippery roads caused by rain or snow also make it harder for drivers to control their vehicles.
Many people assume that they can’t seek compensation for weather-related accidents. However, it’s quite rare for no one to be at fault in such cases. Like all other road users, delivery truck drivers are advised to take extra caution in inclement weather. Unfortunately, some may fail to adjust their driving behaviors, which might make them liable for accidents.
Contact our delivery truck accident lawyers. We can help you establish the negligence of the at-fault party through the evidence available in your case.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Delivery truck drivers also get into accidents because of potholes, debris, malfunctioning traffic lights, missing guardrails, a lack of warning signs, and other road hazards. In San Diego, 64 bridges are structurally inadequate, making it extremely dangerous for trucks to cross them.
These conditions increase the risk of accidents, especially for truckers who are unfamiliar with an area. For example, they may not notice a pothole and figure out how to drive around it until it’s too late. There could also be some glass shards that puncture their tires, causing them to swerve and collide with other vehicles.
Our San Diego delivery truck accident attorneys can help you pursue compensation from negligent parties. These could include government entities that are supposed to address such issues promptly.
Usual Injuries Sustained In Delivery Truck Accidents
Due to their size and weight, delivery trucks are more likely to cause serious injuries in accidents. High-impact crashes can also lead to victim fatalities. In such incidents, San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers can provide legal support to victims and their families. Here are some common injuries victims sustain in delivery truck accidents:
- Burn Injuries — If the delivery truck contains flammable materials, a collision can cause the vehicle to go up in flames, leaving victims with burns. Friction from skidding on the road can also cause burn injuries.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — Many victims get concussions from hitting their heads on the vehicle’s airbags, dashboard, or windows. Mild TBIs might limit a victim’s cognitive functions temporarily, but severe cases could lead to coma or even death.
- Whiplash — The sudden back-and-forth movement of the head during an accident strains the neck muscles. Whiplash often heals within a few weeks, but some victims experience permanent nerve damage.
- Fractures — As with car accidents, a large number of victims sustain broken bones that cause extreme pain and limited mobility. Splints or casts can help fractures heal on their own, but some injuries require the insertion of metal rods. In severe cases, limbs might need to be amputated due to extensive damage.
- Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs) — The bundle of nerves connected to the brain, known as the spinal cord, could also sustain serious injuries in a delivery truck accident. Severe SCIs may develop into paralysis or TBIs for some victims.
- Deaths — Unfortunately, many delivery truck accidents end in fatalities, especially for the occupants of smaller vehicles and pedestrians. In these cases, the victim’s next of kin may have the right to file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. Our San Diego personal injury attorneys can help through the legal process.
Mistakes To Avoid After A Delivery Truck Accident
Not Seeking Medical Attention Right Away
Some symptoms may not appear until days after an accident. Not seeking medical attention right away means you risk your injuries worsening. Untreated medical conditions can cause more complications or even lead to death eventually.
Medical records can also help establish a link between your injuries and the accident. Refusing or delaying a medical evaluation after a crash can be cited as a reason to deny your claim.
If you’re unsure where to seek medical attention, our delivery truck accident lawyers can connect you with physicians or medical facilities in the San Diego area. We can help you get a thorough assessment and treatment for your injuries.
Not Showing Up For Doctor’s Appointments
Skipping important medical appointments can raise doubts about your commitment to treating your injuries. This could lead insurance companies to question the severity of your injuries and potentially decrease the value of your claim.
If you are unable to attend an appointment, it’s crucial to reschedule promptly and provide a clear explanation to your doctor. Our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers can assist you with this and help you find a solution if possible.
Adding Your Speculations To The Police Report
Refrain from adding unnecessary details or your own opinions when reporting the accident to the police. The officer would add that information to the police report, which could potentially complicate your case.
Saying “Sorry”
Anything you say after an accident can be used against you. Even an apology unrelated to the accident could be misconstrued as an admission of fault.
Our attorneys, who handle delivery truck accident cases in San Diego, CA, often advise clients to refrain from discussing the incident with others. They could potentially jeopardize their claims if their statements were misinterpreted. Furthermore, doing so could affect their account or recollection of the accident when it’s time to report it.
Posting On Social Media
Your posts can be taken out of context. When presented in a bad light, anything on your social media accounts can affect your case. Your photos, videos, and comments can be used in an unfavorable way.
Our lawyers understand that some harmless social media posts can jeopardize personal injury cases. We can guide you on how to avoid similar circumstances.
Giving A Recorded Statement
You may be asked to give a recorded statement about the accident so your claim can be processed. Think twice before doing so. Saying the wrong thing on the record could impact your claim.
Our delivery truck accident lawyers can handle communications with all the parties involved. We will say only what is necessary and advocate for your rights throughout the case.
Agreeing To A Settlement Offer Right Away
Before you can even file a claim for the accident, you may get a quick settlement offer. Agreeing to it immediately can provide you with access to financial compensation. However, this settlement may not be able to account for any additional medical expenses or costs you incur in the future.
If you need help assessing whether an offer is fair, seek legal guidance from our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers. We can help you seek compensation that reflects the extent of your injuries and losses.
Not Consulting A Lawyer
Many victims ask, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” While some people handle these claims independently, having legal representation can be beneficial in more complex cases.
By working with an attorney, you can account for your potential damages under the guidance of a skilled professional. Their knowledge and understanding of the legal system allow them to build a case tailored to your specific situation.
Some victims may be worried about the costs that come with hiring San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers for personal injury claims. When you hire us, though, you won’t have to pay us attorney fees unless we obtain compensation on your behalf.
Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, allowing us to offer our legal services at no upfront legal costs. Some case expenses still apply regardless of the outcome. We can clarify this arrangement during our meeting.
Who Is Liable In Delivery Truck Accidents?
Depending on the outcome of the investigation by our San Diego delivery truck accident attorneys, the following parties could be held partially or entirely liable for your injuries:
- Delivery Truck Driver — Delivery truck drivers can be held responsible for accidents if they do not yield the right of way, go over the speed limit, or engage in other negligent actions. They may also face liability if they suddenly stop, causing the vehicle behind them to rear-end their truck.
- Driver of Another Vehicle — A third-party driver may also bear responsibility for a delivery truck accident if they were negligent. For example, they ran a red light, causing a truck to stop suddenly. The driver of the vehicle trailing behind didn’t have time to react and instead slid underneath the truck.
- Trucking Company — Trucking companies are in charge of keeping the vehicles in check. They should also make sure their drivers don’t drive past the allowable hours of service. Any violation of this can make them liable for a delivery truck accident.
- Truck Manufacturer or Mechanic — If a pre-existing vehicle defect caused the accident, the delivery truck manufacturer could be held liable. If it occurred after a repair or maintenance check, the mechanic could be at fault.
- Government — Claims can also be filed against a government entity if the accident occurred due to roadway issues that could have been addressed. Some examples of these are potholes, defective traffic or street lights, and damaged roads.
Regardless of who is at fault, our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers can help you build a case to demonstrate the liable party’s negligence.
How Do You Establish Negligence In A Delivery Truck Accident?
Knowing who caused a delivery truck accident isn’t enough. To establish grounds for a claim, you also have to show that they acted negligently.
Negligence is the failure to take reasonable care in a given situation. In the context of traffic accidents, this pertains to any behavior that endangers the safety of other road users and leads to injuries and losses.
There are four elements our attorneys must establish to demonstrate negligence in a delivery truck accident claim:
- Duty of Care — The liable party should have a duty to care for you and keep you safe. For example, road users must keep others safe by adhering to traffic rules. Truck operators must keep their drivers safe by promptly addressing mechanical issues.
- Breach of Duty — There should have been a breach of this duty, such as any action (or inaction) by the at-fault party that endangers other individuals. This can include forcing truck drivers to work past the allowable hours or failing to fix a cracked pavement despite several reports.
- Direct Causation — You must have evidence that the breach of duty directly led to the accident. For example, driving while drunk caused a truck driver to swerve, striking a pedestrian.
- Damages — The accident should have resulted in injuries and losses. You have to compile medical records and bills to back up your physical and emotional damage. Additionally, you have to show repair quotes or receipts detailing property damage to your vehicle.
Our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers have extensive experience in this area. We will investigate your accident and seek out evidence that shows the elements of negligence in your case.
December 2016: $22M+ verdict in a mild traumatic brain injury case. The entire details of the case can be found in the public record filings by the defendant entity that sued its defense.– BRIAN BEECHER
Comparative Negligence Laws In California
California follows pure comparative negligence laws. Even parties who are 99% at fault for an accident can claim damages for the 1% for which they are not liable. The court will look at the facts of the case and assign a percentage of fault to all involved parties. If, for example, the court finds you 25% at fault for a delivery truck accident, you will only be able to pursue up to 75% of the total damages.
Keep in mind that case results may vary depending on many factors. Delivery truck accident lawyers in San Diego can advocate for a fair evaluation of liability in such cases.
Damages You Can Claim In Delivery Truck Accidents
After suffering injuries in an accident, victims can seek compensatory damages from the liable party. These damages can be either economic or non-economic, including the following:
- Past, ongoing, and future medical expenses.
- Loss of income and earning capacity.
- Property damage.
- Pain and suffering.
- Loss of companionship.
- Reduced quality of life.
In rare and extreme cases of gross negligence, the court might also grant punitive damages to victims. These awards are often high-value and intended to deter future similar actions by the at-fault party and others. Our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers can help evaluate the potential value of your claim.
What To Do After A Delivery Truck Accident
If you feel a little lost after a delivery truck accident, our attorneys have come up with this simple guide to help you:
- Get to Safety First — If possible, carefully move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further danger. Once safe, call 911 immediately and request assistance.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention — Once emergency responders arrive, let them give you first aid. Even if you don’t see any injuries or feel any pain, it’s essential to get yourself assessed by medical professionals.
- Report the Accident to the Police — When law enforcement arrives on the scene, they will ask you for information about the accident. It is important to tell them only the details that you’re sure about. This will keep the official report as factual as possible.
- Document the Scene — Take photos and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, the vehicle damage, skid marks, and the weather and road conditions. These will help accident reconstructionists and support your case later on.
- Collect Information — While waiting for the medics and police, try to ask for the contact information of the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Collect the contact details of any possible witnesses to the accident.
- Speak With Our San Diego Delivery Truck Accident Lawyers — A quick call to our attorneys after the accident can help you understand your rights and options. Our legal team can assist you in handling your case and guide you on how to protect your legal interests throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our San Diego delivery truck accident lawyers answered some questions that victims frequently ask:
What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Delivery Truck Accident Claims?
Generally, you can file a delivery truck accident claim up to two years after the accident date. However, if it’s against a government agency, you only have up to six months to file an administrative claim. There are more exceptions to this rule. Delivery truck accident lawyers can help you understand these legal deadlines and determine if an exception applies to your case. They can also guide you through the filing process, keeping the deadlines in mind.
How Much Are Most Delivery Truck Accident Settlements?
The amount you can pursue for a truck accident claim may vary, depending on the specific details and the extent of the injuries. If you want to know how much your claim is worth, our delivery truck accident lawyers in San Diego can give you an estimate based on relevant documents.
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Delivery Truck Accident Claim?
Claims can take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years, depending on how willing the parties are to settle. If the parties fail to reach an agreement and the case escalates into a lawsuit, the resolution process may span several years.
If you want to pursue compensation for your injuries, our San Diego delivery truck accident attorneys are here to provide legal support. We can assist you in navigating the legal aspects of your claim and help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses.
How Often Do Delivery Trucks Get Into Accidents?
According to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 2,640 UPS trucks were involved in accidents in California from May 2022 to May 2024. Most of these incidents (1,686) involved only the delivery trucks being towed. However, 889 UPS-involved accidents resulted in injuries, and another 65 trucks were involved in fatal crashes.
FMCSA data from the same timeframe also revealed the involvement of 2,733 FedEx trucks in accidents across the state. Around 1,728 (63.2%) were involved in tow truck crashes, 915 (33.5%) in injury collisions, and 90 (3.3%) in fatal accidents.
This data doesn’t necessarily mean that the delivery truck drivers were at fault for these accidents; it just means that they were involved. Nonetheless, if you are injured in a delivery truck accident — regardless of whether it’s a tow, injury, or fatal crash — seek legal assistance from our San Diego lawyers right away.
Consult With Our Delivery Truck Accident Lawyers In San Diego
Delivery truck accidents can be life-altering. If you’ve been injured in one, you may be able to pursue a claim for your losses. Whether you’re suing a driver or a large trucking company, seek legal assistance from our delivery truck accident lawyers in San Diego. We are ready to help you seek accountability from the at-fault party through the legal process.
Call us at (888) 488-1391 to discuss your case and options. We can handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on healing from your injuries. Get a free initial case review with one of our San Diego truck accident lawyers.
We also serve the following areas: Coronado, National City, Chula Vista, Lemon Grove, Bonita, La Mesa, Imperial Beach, La Presa, Spring Valley, El Cajon, Rancho San Diego, Santee, Bostonia, and Lakeside.
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