San Francisco 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, callΒ (888) 488-1391 β We’re here 24 hours a day.
Determined San Francisco 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys
Dedicated To Making You Stronger
Large trucks, particularly 18-wheelers, travel across San Francisco daily to deliver goods. While they help keep the economy moving, their sheer size and weight pose a significant risk to the motorists they share the road with. If an 18-wheeler accident causes you injuries, don’t hesitate to hold the negligent parties accountable. Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys will help advocate for your rights. Call us today at (888) 488-1391 to have your case reviewed for free.
San Francisco captivates visitors with its undeniable charm. Tourists are often filled with awe as they gaze upon its Victorian architecture, cable cars, rich coastline, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The city is also a culinary paradise, boasting savory and award-winning cuisine. Michelin-starred restaurants, such as 7 Adams, Acquerello, and Atelier Crenn, cater to the discerning palate.
Given San Franciscoβs vibrant environment, it’s no wonder that trucks are a constant presence around the city. Many big box chains, for instance, utilize 18-wheelers to deliver food ingredients, kitchen supplies, and other necessities. These heavy-duty vehicles also transport commercial equipment, consumer goods, raw materials, and fuel.Β
Unfortunately, 18-wheelers can cause catastrophic injuries when operated by reckless truckers. Contact our lawyers in San Francisco immediately if you or a loved one is injured in an 18-wheeler accident. We will help you seek compensation for your recovery needs and other damages. While our injury law firm understands that no amount of money can pay for the trauma you sustained, it can provide crucial support as you and your family rebuild your disrupted lives.
What Is An 18-Wheeler Accident?
An 18-wheeler accident isn’t like a typical motor vehicle crash. It involves a massive truck that poses a far higher risk of severe or fatal harm. Sadly, 18-wheeler accidents are a recurring problem in cities like San Francisco that accommodate heavy truck traffic.
For instance, a pedestrian was killed after being struck by a commercial truck in Tenderloin, San Francisco, on May 23, 2024. The San Francisco Police Department said the victim was transported to the hospital but died due to injuries sustained. The investigation is still ongoing, but what’s clear is that nothing will ever be the same again for the victimβs family.
Legal cases involving 18-wheeler collisions tend to be more complicated than the average car accident. Determining liability can be intricate as it often involves multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loader, and parts manufacturers. Negotiations and litigation also demand specialized expertise. Furthermore, various federal and state laws, such as the hours-of-service and weight limit rules, may complicate things even more.
Due to these circumstances, handling claims for compensation can be challenging for victims who are still trying to recover. You need to have a reliable and experienced legal representative on your side. Our San Francisco attorneys, who specialize in 18-wheeler accidents, are committed to guiding you through this difficult time.
Suarez v. Premium Packing (settled on 9/26/2023) β Settlement involving a man who sustained multiple orthopedic injures and a mild traumatic brain injury when he was run over by a food truck.–Β TINA ESHGHIEH
Why Trust Our San Francisco 18 Wheeler Accident Attorneys
Navigating the legal system after an 18-wheeler crash can be daunting for injured victims. Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys can help safeguard your rights to fair compensation and secure the most favorable outcome for your case.
Our San Francisco personal injury attorneys have many decades of combined experience handling claims against truck drivers, shipping companies, and other parties potentially liable in an 18-wheeler collision. We have a deep understanding of the legal nuances and relevant federal and state rules that may kick in.
Our proven track record of building strong cases and negotiating favorable settlements ensures you receive the care and compensation you deserve. Let our San Francisco lawyers handle the legal burden of your 18-wheeler accident case while you focus on your recovery. You can count on our unwavering support from start to finish.
How Can Our 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyers Help Win Your Case?
Hiring our San Francisco lawyers can make a significant difference in the outcome of an 18-wheeler accident case. We are dedicated to ensuring you receive fair compensation and justice.
Hereβs how we can help you win your case:
- We will leverage our knowledge of the laws governing the trucking industry to obtain a favorable case resolution.
- Our injury law firm will assist in investigating the incident and acquiring sufficient evidence to substantiate your claim.
- We will determine who is responsible for the accident and calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
- Our accident lawyers will negotiate reasonable payment for your injuries and damages with insurance companies. We know that claim adjusters will employ deceptive schemes to convince you to accept lowball offers. However, we won’t allow them to take advantage of you. We will aggressively fight for the compensation you are owed.
- If out-of-court negotiations fail to yield a fair settlement, our 18-wheeler accident attorney in San Francisco is prepared to take your case to court.
Common Types Of 18-Wheelers In San Francisco
Our truck accident lawyers have handled cases involving the following types of vehicles:
- Semi-Trailer Trucks β The logistics industry utilizes semi-trailer trucks to carry stackable loads weighing up to 53,000 pounds. Unloading them is also easy, as truckers only need to remove the trailer’s tent cover from the top, side, or rear.
- Flatbed Trucks β As their name implies, flatbed trucks are large vehicles with open and flat cargo beds. They don’t have roofs or sides, so they can conveniently haul heavy cargo like pipes, lumber, building supplies, and carts.
- Jumbo Trailer Trucks β These 18-wheelers share similar qualities with semi-trailers, only that they have a G-shaped floor and smaller wheels. Their lightweight and spacious characteristics make them perfect for moving large items.
- Tail Lift Trucks β These trucks are distinct due to their lifting device, which efficiently loads and unloads shipments. Despite their relatively smaller size, they can carry as much as 4,400 pounds. Tail lift trucks are particularly well-suited to distribution operations.
- Refrigerated Trucks β These large vehicles can regulate their inner temperature, allowing them to transport perishable items like agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, fruits, and vegetables.
A large truck accident is a devastating event with serious repercussions. However, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Contact our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys at (888) 488-1391 to see how we can help.
Hurt in an 18-Wheeler Accident?
Types Of San Francisco 18-Wheeler Accidents
Due to their size and weight, commercial trucks, including 18-wheelers, carry inherent risks. Their drivers must exercise extreme caution since even a small mistake can lead to collisions that might result in catastrophic injuries and even deaths.
Our San Francisco attorneys have handled the following types of 18-wheeler accidents:
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife accident happens when an 18-wheeler’s trailer swings out to the side, creating a 90-degree angle. These incidents mainly occur due to a negligent truck driver mishandling the vehicleβs 80,000-pound weight across the trailer.
For instance, a distracted trucker does not notice a road obstacle ahead until the last minute. To avoid a collision, the driver must come to a full stop or steer clear of the road hazard quickly. However, abruptly applying his brakes can cause the trailer to skid and jackknife.
Although these unfortunate events can occur anywhere, they typically happen on off- and on-ramps, curved highways, or any location where a truck could potentially fishtail. Thatβs why you must be careful when passing through the following routes:
- I-80 or Father Junipero Serra Freeway
- I-480 or Embarcadero Freeway
- I-80 westbound off and on-ramps at 5th and Harrison streets
- U.S. 101 southbound on-ramp at 10th and Bryant streets
- U.S. 101 northbound off-ramp at 9th/Bryant streets
- I-80 westbound off-ramp at 8th Street
Unfortunately, a jackknifed 18-wheeler can violently swerve out of control, sweeping multiple vehicles and causing severe injuries and property damage. If you are a victim of an 18-wheeler accident, contact our attorneys in San Francisco. We can help you obtain compensation from the responsible parties and their insurance companies.
T-Bone Accidents
Crashes may occur when an 18-wheelerβs front end collides with the side of another vehicle, forming a βTβ shape. These incidents, called T-bone or broadside collisions, often send smaller cars spinning out of control or flipping over.Β
Most T-bone accidents occur at intersections, including those along Harrison, Stillman, Bryant, Taber, and Federal Streets. If a trucker does not yield to oncoming traffic or disregards traffic signs, T-bone collisions can happen.Β
Broadside collisions are disastrous for the occupants of smaller vehicles, especially since the sides of cars lack safety features that protect those seated there. As a result, victims often suffer catastrophic injuries and substantial property damage.
If you sustain injuries in a T-bone incident, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Don’t worry about your medical bills; our San Francisco lawyers specializing in 18-wheeler accidents will help you obtain reimbursement for them.
Rollover Accidents
An 18-wheeler weighs thousands of pounds and has a higher center of gravity than a smaller car. While these features are beneficial in navigating rough terrain, they also affect the vehicle’s stability and make it prone to rollovers.
There are two types of rollover accidents:
- Tripped Rollovers β An 18-wheeler topples over after colliding with a curb, road barrier, overpass, or stationary object.
- Untripped Rollovers β The large truck crashes without touching any external obstacle. Slippery surfaces, poor steering, or excessive speed can cause an 18-wheeler to lose control.
Regrettably, rollover accidents may result in catastrophic bodily harm and even fatalities, especially when the 18-wheeler lands directly on smaller vehicles. Victims often require immediate medical attention, extensive surgical operations, and a lengthy recuperation period.
If you find yourself in this situation, call our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys. We will help you process your claim for compensation so you can focus on your recovery.
Underride Accidents
Underride accidents typically pose a far greater threat to the victims. These incidents happen when a small car collides with a large vehicle that stops abruptly. The following car doesnβt get enough time to stop, causing it to slide underneath the truck’s trailer and get stuck between its wheels.
Some of the contributing factors to underride accidents include:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Reduced visibility
- Absence of underride guards in trucks
- Slippery surfaces
Unfortunately, the height difference between the vehicles involved prevents safety devices, such as airbags, from being deployed, leaving passengers unprotected. It may also cause the car’s roof to break and crush the occupants inside.
Even if the victims escape with their lives, underride accidents often result in severe injuries and financial hardship. Whatever the case, you don’t have to deal with this burden alone. Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident lawyers are ready to help you navigate this challenging time. Contact us today at (888) 488-1391 to discuss your case for free and with no obligation.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of accidents in San Francisco and the rest of California. These occur when an 18-wheeler collides with the back of the car ahead of it.
Rear-end crashes between trucks and other vehicles can happen anywhere, but these incidents frequently occur in traffic-congested areas. Due to their immense size and weight, large trucks require significant stopping distances. Distracted or speeding truck drivers may be unable to brake in time, striking the leading vehicle’s bumper.
The force created by a crashing 18-wheeler is enough to cause serious injuries, pain, and suffering to the occupants of the smaller vehicle. Victims may need long periods of medical care and rehabilitation to recover fully. This healing process can lead to missed work and lost wages.
If you get into this situation, you shouldn’t let the responsible parties off the hook. Call our San Francisco 18 wheeler accident lawyers as soon as you can. We will help establish the negligence of the truck driver, their employer, and other potentially liable parties to get compensation for your injuries and losses.
Why Do 18-Wheeler Accidents Happen?
- Driver Error β Most truck collisions occur due to driver error. When truckers speed or drive when theyβre distracted or fatigued, they might be unable to spot road hazards and stop promptly. Our DUI accident lawyers have also handled cases involving intoxicated truck drivers.
- Overloading β Although the federal government strictly requires truckers to adhere to cargo securement rules, others still donβt. When truckers disregard weight regulations, overload their vehicles, or fail to secure cargo properly, loads can shift or spill during transit. Cargo displacement can lead to loss of control and mechanical failure.
- Poor Truck Maintenance β Truck companies must regularly inspect their 18-wheelersβ tires, engine fluids, lights, and other vehicle components. Inadequate maintenance increases the likelihood of mechanical failures.
- Driving During Inclement Weather β Despite having year-round sunny weather, San Francisco does experience adverse weather conditions. Rain and storms can significantly reduce truck drivers’ visibility, and wet and slippery roads increase the risk of 18-wheeler accidents.
- Dangerous Road Conditions β Highways with potholes, bumps, and uneven surfaces pose a significant risk to truckers. Inexperienced drivers may easily lose control while passing through these dangerous roads.
Common Injuries Sustained In An 18-Wheeler Accident
- Head & Brain Injuries β Unrestrained passengers could get thrown out of the vehicle and knock their heads on hard ground in an 18-wheeler crash. This incident may cause them to sustain concussions or serious head trauma that leads to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Back Injuries β 18-wheeler accidents often result in severe back injuries, including strains, sprains, and herniated discs. These injuries can cause chronic pain, limited mobility, and, in severe cases, spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis.
- Internal Injuries β The blunt force trauma sustained by 18-wheeler crash victims may lead to organ damage, internal bleeding, and ruptured blood vessels. These injuries may not be immediately apparent and can worsen without prompt medical attention.
- Burns β Collisions involving 18-wheelers can result in fires or explosions, causing severe burns to victims. These injuries can lead to excruciating pain and permanent scarring. They also often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Fractures β A strong 18-wheeler collision may break the bones of victims. Fractures may require surgeries, depending on their severity. Severely crushed limbs may have to undergo amputation to avoid complications.
- Wrongful Deaths β Our semi-truck accident lawyers in San Francisco have handled cases that involved the untimely deaths of victims. These tragic incidents not only result in immense emotional suffering for families but also significant financial losses.
Who Is Liable In An 18-Wheeler Accident?
Establishing liability in an 18-wheeler collision is more complicated than in a regular traffic accident. One successful trip entails the efforts of multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle maintenance providers, and cargo loaders.
Our attorneys in San Francisco can help you find out whose negligence caused and contributed to the 18-wheeler accident. Potentially liable parties may include the following:
Truck Drivers
Most 18-wheeler crashes happen due to the truck driver’s negligence. Some hit the road impaired or distracted, while others blatantly violate traffic rules. If their recklessness causes an unfortunate incident, they become the primary party accountable for the injuries and damages sustained by the victims.Β
Truck Companies
In San Francisco and throughout California, truck companies and other “for hire” motor carriers maintain a non-delegable duty. They are responsible for the negligent actions of their on-duty truck drivers, even though these drivers may be classified as independent contractors. If a truck driver causes an accident, the trucking company may be held responsible along with the driver.
Aside from their truckers’ recklessness, companies may also be held liable in the following ways:
- Neglecting regular vehicle inspection
- Lax hiring and screening process for truck drivers
- Failing to provide sufficient training
- Imposing unrealistic delivery deadlines
If an 18-wheeler accident causes you injuries, call our San Francisco lawyers immediately. We will investigate and identify the responsible parties, including the driver and the trucking company. By examining the driver’s history and the company’s practices, we can determine the full extent of liability and pursue maximum compensation
Cargo Loaders
Federal law mandates that truck drivers and shipment companies follow cargo securement rules to avoid incidents like jackknifing and rollovers. However, some disregard this strict protocol. If this neglect of duty causes a truck to lose control and tip over, cargo loaders may face liability for the damages suffered by the victims.
Truck Manufacturers
Truck manufacturers may be accountable for 18-wheeler accidents caused by defective parts. The following components are critical to vehicle safety:
- Tires
- Brakes
- Lights
- Windshield wipers
- Underride guardrails
- Fuel tanks
- Hydraulics
Even a small manufacturing flaw can lead to major truck accidents. For instance, a defective windshield wiper may cause the driver to lose vision and crash into oncoming traffic.
If you suspect that a defective truck part contributed to your 18-wheeler accident, contact our San Francisco attorneys. We will investigate the cause of the accident and hold the responsible manufacturers accountable for your injuries.
Government Offices
Victims may also file a claim against government offices, particularly in cases arising from the following:
- Dangerous road conditions
- Construction zones
- Deficient traffic management
- At-fault vehicles steered by government employees
To know whether you have a case, consult our 18-wheeler accident lawyers in San Francisco. We will thoroughly assess the specifics of the incident to assess your potential legal options.
Proving Negligence In An 18-Wheeler Accident Case
18-wheeler accident victims must prove negligence to hold someone liable for the harm they’ve sustained. To establish that the defendant was negligent, you must demonstrate the following elements:
- Duty Of Care
First, you must prove that the responsible party owes you a duty of care. This legal obligation requires drivers to exercise reasonable care to prevent harming others on the road. For instance, truckers are responsible for stopping at red lights to avoid hitting other vehicles.
- Breach Of Duty
Next, you need to demonstrate that the defendant disregarded their legal obligation. They might have breached their duty by failing to do what a reasonably careful person would in a similar situation. A driver who runs a red light has breached their duty of care to other motorists.
- Causation
You must also show that their breach of duty caused the accident and your injuries. Following the previous example, the truck driver who disregarded the red light ended up colliding head-on with your car, causing a traumatic brain injury.
- Damages
Finally, you must prove that the injuries you sustained in an 18-wheeler accident resulted in life-altering damages. These damages may include medical bills, lost wages, and property damages. You can support your claim by presenting solid evidence, such as:
- Photos and videos of the accident scene
- Witness interviews
- Police report
- Reconstruction expert testimonies
- Bills and invoices
Β
Establishing negligence can be a complicated process. Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys can handle the legal intricacies for you. With many decades of experience, we are adept at proving liability and building a strong case for our clients.
Damages You Can Recover After An 18-Wheeler Accident
An 18-wheeler accident often results in catastrophic injuries and significant financial losses for victims. However, California law allows accident victims to obtain compensation from negligent parties. If you are a victim of an 18-wheeler accident, our lawyers in San Francisco will help you recover the following damages:
- Hospital bills
- Future medical treatments
- Missed earnings
- Loss of potential income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurements
- Disabilities
- Loss of quality of life
- Loss of consortium
- Funeral and burial expenses
In addition to compensatory damages, a judge may award punitive damages in cases involving gross negligence or willful intent. These damages aim to punish the offender and discourage others from committing the same.
The damages you may get depend significantly on the circumstances and evidence presented to the insurance company or court. To ensure you receive what you are due, let our 18-wheeler accident attorneys in San Francisco work on your case. We will carefully evaluate the losses you incurred to maximize your recovery.
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 clientβs lower back. After years of litigation, Benny and the team were able to secure the full policy limits for our client months before trial.–Β BENNY KHORSANDI
What To Do After An 18-Wheeler Accident In San Francisco
- Stay at the accident site. California law requires each individual involved in a traffic incident to stop and cooperate with the authorities and other parties. If someone flees, our hit-and-run accident attorney will file a claim against them.
- Check whether you sustained injuries. Call 911 if you or someone else needs immediate medical attention. After that, make sure to visit your doctor. You might not know it, but you might have suffered injuries that donβt exhibit symptoms immediately.
- Notify the California Highway Patrol or local police within 24 hours and get a copy of the accident report. If the incident resulted in injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,000, you must also notify the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Document the accident. Secure photos and videos of the crash site, your injuries, and damaged properties if you can. You may also request written statements from witnesses if there are any.
- Get the involved partiesβ names, contact numbers, vehicle registration, and insurance details. Take note of the truck driverβs employer as well.
- Inform your insurance company. Provide them with basic details about the accident, but don’t share any personal opinions about what happened or admit guilt. Keep in mind that they may turn everything you say against you.
- Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391. Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident lawyers are ready to provide legal assistance so you can obtain justice and the maximum compensation you deserve.
Statistics On 18-Wheeler Accidents
Accidents involving 18-wheelers pose a significant threat to road safety. According to the National Safety Council, 5,837 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes in 2022. This figure rose by 1.8% compared to 2021 and 49% in the last ten years, accounting for 6% of all involved vehicles.
In the same year, 120,200 were involved in injury crashes, marking a 2.5% increase from 2021. Since 2016, the number of these accidents has climbed by 18%, while the rate of incidents per 100 million large truck miles driven has risen by 5.7%.
These figures show how fatal and injury-causing 18-wheeler crashes continue to rise at an alarming rate despite efforts to improve road safety. Our lawyers in San Francisco are committed to providing compassionate legal services to 18-wheeler accident victims. We have the experience and resources to handle complex cases and secure maximum compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About 18-Wheeler Accidents
Do I Need A Lawyer In Filing An 18-Wheeler Accident Claim?
After a catastrophic 18-wheeler crash, you might ask, βDo I need a personal injury lawyer?β The answer is yes. You will need legal assistance from good 18-wheeler accident lawyers San Francisco residents turn to.
The injuries you sustained in the incident have serious and long-term consequences. However, you might find holding someone accountable for your pain and suffering challenging, especially when multiple parties are involved. Determining how much youβre owed can also be complicated. Additionally, insurance companies may attempt to deceive you with lowball offers that often fall short of covering the full extent of your damages.
Arash Law can help. Our San Francisco lawyers can handle any challenges arising from 18-wheeler accident claims. We will handle the stressful legal legwork for you and protect your rights throughout the process.
Can I Sue For My 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries Even If I Was Partially At Fault?
Yes, you may still be eligible to pursue a claim despite being partially responsible for an 18-wheeler collision. Californiaβs legal system works under a pure comparative negligence rule. This doctrine allows plaintiffs to obtain compensation for their damages even if they contributed to the accident. However, the percentage of fault assigned to them by the court will reduce the amount they would receive. For example, if youβre 21% at fault for a rollover accident that caused $140,000 in damages, you may still recover 79% or $110,600.
Unfortunately, while the law offers recourse for partly liable victims, insurance companies frequently exploit it to their benefit. Insurance companies often attempt to shift more blame onto accident victims to lower the amount they have to pay. To protect your rights and maximize your compensation, seek legal guidance from the best San Francisco attorneys specializing in 18-wheeler accidents. We will help you deal with claim adjusters and counter their dirty tactics.Β
How Long Should I File An 18-Wheeler Accident Case?
According to Californiaβs statute of limitations, victims of 18-wheeler accidents should file their cases within two years of the incident. While the court strictly implements this time limit, it may grant exceptions depending on the circumstances.Β
Talk with our lawyers in San Francisco to learn about the deadlines that best apply to your 18-wheeler accident claim. We know the law, so we can advise you of the time frame you should follow.Β
Can Undocumented Immigrants File For Personal Injury Claims After An 18-Wheeler Accident?
In California, undocumented immigrants may still pursue an 18-wheeler accident case. The law emphasizes that residency status shall not influence a victimβs right to sue a negligent party. The same protection applies to wrongful death claims, regardless of the deceasedβs immigration status.
If youβre an undocumented immigrant injured in an 18-wheeler accident, consult our attorneys in San Francisco. We will provide expert support and representation to help you rebuild your life after this traumatic event.Β Β
Can I Still Get Legal Assistance In San Francisco Even If I Donβt Speak English?
Absolutely. The staff at Arash Law can speak various languages, such as Spanish, Farsi, Korean, Filipino, Italian, Hebrew, and more. Our San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys will make sure that language barriers don’t prevent you from receiving the legal help you deserve.
As one of the biggest law firms in California, we are committed to providing compassionate and accessible legal services. We also operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t owe us any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your case.
Reach Out To The Best 18 Wheeler Accident Attorneys San Francisco Trusts
Accidents involving 18-wheelers are traumatic and life-altering. If you are injured in one, seek the help of the San Francisco 18-wheeler accident attorneys at Arash Law. Led by the esteemed Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our attorneys will aggressively represent you to obtain the justice you deserve.
With our extensive legal knowledge and experience, you can trust us to handle your case with care and expertise. Let us shoulder the legal burden while you focus on healing. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Our San Francisco lawyers also handle accident claims involving cars, pedestrians, Uber, Lyft, motorcycles, and bicycles. We also work on dog bite cases and slip-and-fall accidents.Β
Our legal services also extend to nearby cities and locations, such as Daly City, Tiburon, Alameda, Oakland, South San Francisco, San Bruno, Albany, Berkeley, Piedmont, Mill Valley, Pacifica, Richmond, Corte Madera, Millbrae, Larkspur, Tiburon, Alameda, South San Francisco, and San Bruno.
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