Santa Clarita Truck Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Powerful Santa Clarita Truck Accident Lawyers Protecting The Injured
A truck accident often leaves you with a mountain of medical bills and a stolen sense of security. At Arash Law, we understand the stress and uncertainty you’re facing. Our Santa Clarita truck accident lawyers are here to handle the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on your recovery. Call us now 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 liable parties, and secure 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 Obtain Maximum Compensation?
- Investigate the cause of the accident – Truck accidents can have many contributing factors, from driver error to mechanical problems. Our lawyers will meticulously investigate the cause to identify the liable party.
- Gather evidence to support your claim – To build a strong case, you need solid evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records. Our lawyers will work tirelessly to gather the necessary documentation to support your claim.
- Handle communication with insurance companies – Dealing with insurance representatives after an accident adds stress to your already terrible experience. Our lawyers will handle all communication on your behalf so you don’t get shortchanged.
- Negotiate a fair settlement – Insurance companies can be tough negotiators. Our lawyers will step in to negotiate with them and ensure you receive a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses.
- Represent you in court – If a fair settlement isn’t reached, our Santa Clarita truck accident attorneys will be by your side in court, representing your interests and ensuring your rights are protected.
Not sure if you have a valid claim? Fill out our “Do I have a case?” form, and our team will reach out to you.
Why Choose Our Santa Clarita Truck Accident Lawyers For Your Personal Injury Case?
In the wake of a truck accident, you may feel lost and unsure of your next steps. We can guide you in your legal fight. Our Santa Clarita lawyers understand the devastation truck accidents leave, and they can be a powerful voice on your behalf.
- Extensive Experience – We understand the legal nuances, potential roadblocks, and strategies that can make a difference in 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 persuasive arguments and develop effective legal strategies.
- 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 Experts – Our Santa Clarita law firm frequently collaborates with specialists, including investigators, doctors, and other professionals. These experts can be brought in when needed to strengthen your case.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In Santa Clarita, CA
Here are some of the factors that contribute to truck accidents.
- Speeding – When trucks travel at speeds beyond safe limits, they 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 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 contribute to jackknifing, rollovers, and collisions.
If you or your loved one was injured in a truck accident due to any of these causes, our Santa Clarita lawyers are a strong ally in your fight for just compensation.
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, the laws of physics dictate that the smaller vehicle takes the brunt of the impact. This devastating force can lead to serious injuries for car occupants.
Greater Braking Distances
Because of their immense weight, trucks require greater 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.
What Are The Key Federal Regulations For Commercial Trucks?
- 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 ensure that drivers stay 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
- 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
- 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.
Determining Liability In Truck Accidents In Santa Clarita
- 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 launch a thorough investigation to uncover all liable parties. We’ll check driver logs, maintenance records, and safety regulations to build a strong case in your favor.
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 prove 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
- 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. Ensure 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 is essential for 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 will be crucial 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. - Hire Personal Injury Lawyers
Consult our experienced truck accident lawyers in Santa Clarita right away. We will guide you through the insurance process and help you obtain fair compensation for your injuries.
Types Of Compensation For Truck Accident Victims In Santa Clarita, CA
Economic Damages
- 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 properties damaged in the accident
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and Suffering – Covers physical discomfort, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by your 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 know how to effectively document and value the full spectrum of damages you’ve suffered. We won’t let you settle for less than what you deserve.
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’d lose the chance to recover 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 investigation, allowing both parties to gather crucial evidence and secure accurate witness testimonies while they’re still readily available.
Don’t delay seeking legal assistance. Our Santa Clarita personal injury lawyers can guide you through the claims process and ensure you don’t miss any deadlines. We’ll keep track of all the important dates and take timely action.
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 legal fees upfront. Instead, the lawyer’s payment comes from a percentage of the settlement or court award if you win the case.
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 recover damages from the other party.
The amount you receive will be proportionate to the percentage of fault assigned to you. For instance, if you are found 25% at fault and the total damages are $1,000,000, you could potentially receive $750,000. Our Santa Clarita truck accident lawyers can help you calculate and obtain the maximum possible 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 Today!
Injured in a Santa Clarita truck accident? Don’t let insurance companies push you around by understating your injuries and minimizing your claim. You need a fighter in your corner — someone who understands the system and won’t back down.
Our Santa Clarita truck accident lawyers are aggressive legal advocates with a proven track record of winning against the big players. Contact us today at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation, and let us fight for what you’re owed.
We serve Santa Clarita and neighboring areas, including Castaic, Hesley Canyon, Val Verde, Del Valle, Castaic Junction, Stevenson Ranch, Pico, Sylmar, Kagel Canyon, Lang, Indian Spring, Agua Dulce, and Sleepy Valley.
