Santa Clarita Truck Accident Lawyers
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Santa Clarita Truck Accident Lawyers Helping You Navigate The Legal Process
A truck accident may leave you with medical bills and a stolen sense of security. At Arash Law, we understand the stress and uncertainty you may be facing. Our Santa Clarita truck accident lawyers can help you handle the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on your recovery. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Santa Clarita is located northwest of Los Angeles, nestled in the foothills of the Angeles National Forest. In part, its thriving community is fueled by the efficient flow of goods and services. Large trucks play a vital role in this network, but their size and presence on the roads can also pose safety concerns.
If you or your loved one is injured in a truck accident in Santa Clarita, we’re here to help you understand your rights and options. Our truck accident lawyers will investigate, identify the parties who may be liable, and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Settlement in a case where a client was injured while unloading commercial truck; client sustained crush injuries to legs– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
How Can Our Santa Clarita Truck Accident Lawyers Help You Pursue Compensation?
Our Santa Clarita truck accident lawyers are here to stand by your side, offering our knowledge and experience to help you seek compensation for damages. We aim to do the following:
- Investigate the Cause of the Accident — Truck accidents can have many contributing factors, from driver error to mechanical problems. Our lawyers will thoroughly investigate the cause to identify parties who may be liable.
- Gather Evidence to Support Your Claim — To build a case, you need to gather evidence, such as witness statements and medical records. While generally inadmissible as evidence, police reports may also help in establishing the events that led to your accident. Our lawyers will work diligently to gather the necessary documentation to support your claim.
- Handle Communication with Insurance Companies — Dealing with insurance representatives after an accident can be challenging. Our lawyers will handle all communication on your behalf and protect your interests throughout the process.
- Negotiate on Your Behalf — Insurance companies may be firm during negotiations. Our lawyers can represent your interests and negotiate with them, steering the discussions toward fair compensation.
- Represent You in Court — If a settlement isn’t reached, our Santa Clarita truck accident attorneys may advise you to take your case to court.
If you want to know if you may have a valid claim, complete this “Do I Have A Case?” form here. Our team will reach out to you after reviewing your case.
Why Choose Our Santa Clarita Truck Accident Lawyers For Your Personal Injury Case?
In the aftermath of a truck accident, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your next steps. We can guide you through the process of handling your legal claim. Our Santa Clarita lawyers understand the devastation that truck accidents can cause and are prepared to advocate on your behalf.
Here’s what our lawyers offer:
- Legal Experience — We possess the experience and resources to guide you through the legal nuances, potential roadblocks, and strategies that may impact your case.
- Analytical Skills — Our lawyers possess sharp problem-solving abilities. They can dissect complex legal cases, analyze information, and develop a clear understanding of the situation. These skills allow them to craft evidence-based arguments and develop legal strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.
- Clear Communication — Throughout the process, our lawyers will keep you informed and answer your questions clearly. We aim to make you feel comfortable discussing your case openly and honestly.
- Network of Professionals — Our Santa Clarita injury law firm collaborates with professionals from various fields, including investigators, doctors, and more. These expert witnesses can be brought in when needed to support your case.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In Santa Clarita, CA
Here are some of the factors that may contribute to truck accidents.
- Speeding — When trucks travel at speeds beyond safe limits, they may become harder to control, especially on winding roads or during harsh weather conditions. The force of impact in a speeding-related collision can be catastrophic.
- Distracted Driving — We live in an age of distractions. Truckers who divert their attention from the road — whether due to texting, adjusting the radio, or glancing at a GPS — put themselves and others at risk. Even a momentary lapse can lead to a serious accident.
- Driver Fatigue — Long hours behind the wheel can lead to fatigue, impairing a truck driver’s judgment and reaction time. Federal regulations limit driving hours, but violations still occur. Fatigued drivers may drift out of lanes, miss traffic signals, or fail to brake promptly.
- Alcohol or Drug Use — Some truck accidents may involve drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These can cause drowsiness, impaired coordination, and reduced alertness.
- Weather and Road Conditions — Santa Clarita experiences its share of rain-slicked roads. Wet surfaces reduce traction, making it challenging for trucks to stop or maneuver. Slippery road conditions may contribute to jackknifing, rollovers, and collisions.
Why Are Big Trucks So Dangerous?
The most evident danger is the truck’s massive weight. A typical car weighs around 4,000 pounds, while a loaded semi-truck tips the scales at a staggering 80,000 pounds. In a crash, smaller vehicles may not be able to withstand this weight, potentially leading to severe damage and serious injuries.
Apart from their size and weight, trucks may also become dangerous for the following reasons:
Longer Braking Distances
Because of their immense weight, trucks require longer stopping distances than cars. A truck driver may not be able to avoid an unexpected hazard in time, even if they’re following the speed limit.
Blind Spots
Large trucks have extensive blind spots, particularly on the sides and directly behind the trailer. Furthermore, some trucks have front blind spots up to 11 feet longer than sedans and 7 feet longer than SUVs. Passenger vehicles can easily disappear from a truck driver’s view, creating a dangerous situation.
Wider Turns
Big trucks, due to their extended length and wheelbase, require significantly more space to execute turns. When navigating a corner, the rear wheels follow a wider arc or turning radius than smaller vehicles. The driver must be skilled enough to swing the cab and trailer out wide to complete the turn without clipping curbs or other obstacles.
Accidents involving big trucks can be very different from the crashes our car accident lawyers handle. Our truck accident lawyers in Santa Clarita can help you handle the unique issues that may arise in these cases.
What Are The Key Federal Regulations For Commercial Trucks?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the national standard for commercial truck safety. These regulations cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Driver Qualifications — Drivers must hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with endorsements specific to the vehicle they operate. They must undergo regular medical examinations.
- Vehicle Maintenance — Trucks must be inspected and maintained regularly to minimize the risk of breakdowns and accidents. Depending on the vehicle’s age and use, there are mandated pre-trip, periodic, and annual inspections. The mechanics performing maintenance must be qualified and keep detailed records of all work done.
- Secured Loading of Goods — The FMCSA dictates how loads must be secured to prevent them from shifting or falling during transport. Distributing weight evenly throughout the trailer is also crucial. Uneven weight distribution can cause the truck to become unbalanced, posing a serious rollover risk.
- Hours of Service — The federal hours of service (HOS) regulations are designed to help keep drivers awake and alert. Key provisions include a maximum driving time of 11 hours after ten consecutive hours off-duty, a maximum on-duty limit of 14 hours, and a mandatory 30-minute break every 8 hours.
State Regulations Trucking Companies Must Follow
California enforces all FMCSA regulations and adds its own layer of safety measures. Our truck accident lawyers can use these rules and regulations to establish a trucker’s or their company’s liability. Here are some key points:
- Age Limit — The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires commercial truck drivers to be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) carrying cargo that originates and terminates within state lines. Meanwhile, truckers should be at least 21 years old to drive for interstate commerce or transport hazardous materials/waste.
- Weight Limit — California has weight limits on certain roads. For example, commercial vehicles with three or more axles or a gross vehicle weight of 9,000 pounds or more are prohibited on State Route 2.
- Speed Limits — Commercial trucks and other large vehicles cannot exceed speeds of 55 mph on most highways.
- Lane Usage — Drivers are required to use truck-only lanes when they are available. If there are three or fewer lanes traveling in each direction (excluding carpool lanes), trucks must use the far right lane. If there are four or more lanes in each direction, trucks can use the two right-hand lanes.
Injuries From Truck Accidents In Santa Clarita, CA
Trucks can cause injuries that are much more serious than those sustained in regular car accidents. Here are some examples of these injuries:
- Spinal Cord Injuries — The force of a truck accident can severely damage the spinal cord and even cause partial or complete paralysis.
- Neck and Back Injuries — The sudden impact of a collision can cause strains, sprains, and even herniated discs. These injuries can lead to chronic pain and mobility limitations.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — These are injuries to the brain that occur as a result of a sudden, violent blow to the head. They can lead to cognitive problems, headaches, memory loss, and other issues that can significantly impact daily life.
- Amputation and Disfigurement — The crushing force of a truck accident can lead to the loss of limbs or serious disfigurement. Recovering from these injuries requires extensive medical care and, often, prosthetic devices.
- Internal Injuries — Internal bleeding and organ damage are serious complications that can arise even if there are no external signs of injury.
- Burns — If a fire breaks out during an accident, victims may suffer from first-, second-, or third-degree burns.
- Facial Injuries — Lacerations, broken jaws, and dental injuries can occur from debris in the vehicle or airbags deployed.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — The trauma of a truck accident can lead to lasting emotional and mental health issues.
The road to recovery after a truck accident can be a long and costly process. Medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs can quickly pile up. Our experienced truck accident lawyers in Santa Clarita can help you pursue compensation for these losses. We can handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on healing.
Determining Liability In Truck Accidents In Santa Clarita
Truck accidents often involve multiple potentially responsible parties, including:
- Truck Driver — Driver negligence is a common cause of accidents. Examples include speeding, distracted driving, or fatigue.
- The Trucking Company — Truck and logistics companies can be held responsible if they pressure drivers to violate safety regulations, fail to do routine maintenance on their trucks, or hire unqualified drivers.
- Other Parties — Depending on the situation, other parties might be liable. This could include the truck owner (if separate from the trucking company), a parts manufacturer if a defective part caused the accident, or even the cargo loader if improper loading contributed to the crash.
Our Santa Clarita truck accident lawyers will conduct a thorough investigation to help identify the parties who may be liable for the accident. We can check driver logs, maintenance records, and safety regulations to gather evidence that may support your claim.
Gil v. Anderson Plumbing: verdict by a Los Angeles County Superior Court jury in Van Nuys awarded to a man who was injured when his vehicle was struck from behind by a large commercial plumbing van. Benny was part of the trial team that obtained this verdict.– BENNY KHORSANDI
How To Establish Negligence
Liability hinges on the concept of negligence. The injured party must demonstrate that the other party’s actions or inaction caused the accident. To establish negligence, you need to show that these four elements are present:
- Duty of Care — Every driver on the road, including truck drivers, has a legal obligation or duty to drive safely and follow traffic laws.
- Breach — The at-fault party failed to uphold their duty of care. For example, if a truck driver is speeding, driving recklessly, or not following regulations, they are breaching their duty.
- Causation — The breach of duty must have directly caused the accident. It’s not enough to prove that the truck driver was negligent. Your Santa Clarita truck accident lawyer must also demonstrate that this negligence led to the wreck.
- Damages — The victim must have suffered actual harm, which can be physical, emotional, or financial. Damages could include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
What To Do After A Truck Accident In Santa Clarita, CA
The moments after a truck accident in Santa Clarita are critical. Knowing what steps to take can make a huge difference in protecting your health and rights. We recommend doing the following steps:
- Prioritize Safety — If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further collisions. Turn on your emergency flashers to alert other drivers. Check if everyone involved is okay. If there are injuries, call medical assistance immediately.
- Contact the Authorities — Report the accident to the local Santa Clarita police. They will create an official report, which can be helpful in insurance claims and future legal proceedings.
- Seek Medical Attention — Even if you feel fine, seek medical care promptly. Your health is a priority, and some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Gather Information — Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and any other parties involved. Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, license plates, and road conditions. These may be helpful for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Notify Your Insurance Provider — Inform your insurance company about the accident. Provide accurate details and follow their instructions. Refrain from giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal advice.
- Contact Personal Injury Lawyers — Consider consulting our experienced truck accident lawyers in Santa Clarita. We will guide you through the insurance process and help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries.
Types Of Compensation For Truck Accident Victims In Santa Clarita, CA
Here are some of the different types of compensation you may be able to pursue:
Economic Damages
These are quantifiable financial losses with clear dollar amounts attached. They are intended by the law to compensate you financially after the accident. Common economic damages include:
- Medical Bills — Past and future medical expenses related to your injuries, including visits, hospitalizations, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications.
- Lost Wages — These include lost income if you’re unable to work due to your injuries or if your ability to work is permanently compromised.
- Property Damage — Covers repairs or replacement of your vehicle or other personal property damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages recognize the very real but less tangible aspects of your suffering. They compensate for the pain and disruption the accident has caused to your life. Examples include:
- Pain and Suffering — Covers physical discomfort, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by your injuries. The extent of the pain and suffering depends on the severity and long-term impact of the injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life — Considers how your injuries may limit your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
- Loss of Consortium — Compensates spouses for the loss of intimacy, companionship, and support due to the accident’s impact on the relationship.
Punitive Damages
These are awarded in rare cases where the truck driver’s actions were intentional, malicious, or exhibited a reckless disregard for safety. Punitive damages are meant to punish the negligent or at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Not all damages are readily apparent. Our Santa Clarita truck accident lawyers can help you document the full extent of your losses and estimate the damages you may pursue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Filing A Truck Accident Claim In Santa Clarita?
The statute of limitations is a legal deadline that determines how long you have to initiate a lawsuit after an event. For personal injury cases, including truck accidents, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss the time limit, the court will likely dismiss your case, regardless of its merits. This means you may lose the chance to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Physical evidence can deteriorate or disappear. Skid marks fade, debris gets cleared, and road conditions can change. Memories also weaken with time. Witnesses may forget key details about the accident. The two-year window encourages a timely filing, allowing both parties to gather crucial evidence and secure accurate witness testimonies while they’re still readily available.
It may be wise to refrain from delaying seeking legal assistance. Our Santa Clarita personal injury lawyers can guide you through the claims process and help you avoid missing deadlines. We’ll keep track of all the important dates and manage the statute of limitations applicable to your case.
How Much Do Truck Accident Lawyers Charge?
Most truck accident lawyers in Santa Clarita, including us here at Arash Law, charge on a contingency fee basis. Under this arrangement, you don’t pay any attorney’s fees unless we secure compensation on your behalf. The lawyer’s payment comes from a percentage of the settlement or court award obtained. However, you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs, such as filing fees.
What If I Was Partially At Fault?
California is a pure comparative negligence state. Even if you were partially responsible for the accident, you could still pursue damages from the other party.
The amount you can seek will be proportionate to the percentage of fault assigned to you. For instance, if you are found 25% at fault, your potential compensation will be reduced by that same percentage. Our Santa Clarita truck accident lawyers can help you estimate your potential claim and pursue fair compensation for your losses, even if you were partially at fault.
Truck Accident Statistics
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), trucks were involved in 6.8% of all fatal crashes nationwide, with California having the second-highest number of deaths (437) behind Texas (806).
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) also reported that 5,904 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal crashes, an 18% increase from 2020.
Schedule A Consultation With Our Santa Clarita Truck Accident Attorneys
Injured in a Santa Clarita truck accident? Seeking legal support may be helpful in avoiding mistakes throughout the insurance claims process. We can communicate and negotiate with insurers on your behalf.
Our Santa Clarita truck accident lawyers are dedicated legal advocates with experience helping clients handle complex cases and seek accountability from corporations. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
We serve Santa Clarita and neighboring areas, including Castaic, Hasley Canyon, Val Verde, Del Valle, Castaic Junction, Stevenson Ranch, Pico, Sylmar, Kagel Canyon, Lang, Indian Springs, Agua Dulce, and Sleepy Valley.
