Santa Cruz 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.
Our Santa Cruz Truck Accident Lawyers Offer Dedicated Legal Guidance
In the busy city of Santa Cruz, roads are filled with trucks transporting goods and materials. While these highway giants play an important role, they also pose a significant risk of causing life-altering accidents. If another party caused your injuries due to negligent or reckless conduct, our Santa Cruz truck accident lawyers can help you seek financial compensation. Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391, and learn how we can help you navigate the claims process.
Arash Law’s Santa Cruz truck accident lawyers understand the challenges that arise in truck accident cases. Our team leverages knowledge and experience to advocate for fair compensation and the rights of accident victims.
It can be difficult to know what to do after being injured in a truck accident. If you have questions about your situation, our team is available to discuss your case and explain your rights and options under California law.
Paz v. Airfax Logistics (settled on 5/26/2020) – settlement in a case involving a client who was involved in a trucking accident and sustained a traumatic brain injury and other trauma.
– TINA ESHGHIEH
Hiring Santa Cruz Truck Accident Lawyers To Handle Your Claim
Truck accident cases can be complex because they could potentially involve multiple liable parties. It’s also common for trucking companies to have legal teams and insurers who carefully review claims and defend against liability. However, experienced truck accident attorneys in Santa Cruz can coordinate the legal process, deadlines, and documentation, allowing you to focus on recovery.
At Arash Law, we have an in-depth understanding of state and federal trucking regulations, which is important in determining liability. Our Santa Cruz truck accident lawyers apply this understanding when assessing evidence and collaborating with accident reconstruction professionals to identify the causes of a crash. We deal with insurance companies, advocating for our clients as they seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
What Should You Do After A Truck Accident In Santa Cruz?
Your response after a truck accident, at the scene, and in the days that follow can impact your potential pursuit of compensation for injuries and damages. Here’s a list of things you need to do after a truck accident in Santa Cruz:
- Prioritize Safety — Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call emergency services if there are injuries or if the accident has caused significant damage.
- Exchange Information — Obtain details from the other driver(s) involved: name, contact information, insurance details, and license plate numbers. Don’t forget to gather information from witnesses, if any, and take notes or photographs of the accident scene.
- Notify the Authorities — Report the accident to the Santa Cruz Police Department or California Highway Patrol as required by law. Obtain a copy of the accident report for your records.
- Seek Medical Attention — Even if you feel fine initially, it’s crucial to get a medical evaluation to check if there are no hidden injuries. Keep records of all medical examinations, treatments, and expenses.
- Document the Scene — Take photographs of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, any damage, and road conditions. Note down any pertinent details about the accident while they’re fresh in your memory.
- Contact Your Insurance Company — Notify your insurance provider about the accident promptly. Be honest and accurate in describing the incident to your insurance company.
- Consult With an Attorney — Our Santa Cruz truck accident lawyers offer free initial consultations. They can determine whether your case has merit, help you talk to insurance companies, and assist you in filing a personal injury claim if necessary.
- Follow Up on Repairs and Claims — Get estimates for vehicle repairs from professional mechanics or body shops. Stay proactive in following up on your insurance claims and any legal proceedings.
The Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In Santa Cruz
Commercial trucks are also referred to as tractor-trailers and semi-trucks. These vehicles are capable of causing serious accidents that result in serious bodily injury or death. A negligent driver is typically responsible for these accidents, but environmental elements can also contribute to truck accidents.
The following are the most frequent causes of trucking accidents in Santa Cruz, California:
- Improperly Loaded Trucks — Truck accidents may occur when the truck is overloaded with cargo. In some cases, the enclosure holding the cargo malfunctions. These mechanical problems are likely to cause severe truck accidents. The company that owns or leases the truck may be liable under these circumstances.
- Design and Manufacturing Defects — Design defects and manufacturing defects are capable of causing truck accidents. The entity that manufactured the truck may be liable for any injuries caused by the truck accident.
- Driving While Intoxicated — No driver should operate a motor vehicle if they are intoxicated. Impaired drivers put many lives at risk if they engage in this irresponsible and negligent behavior.
- Driving at Excessive Speeds — Work duties and order requirements may cause some truck drivers to speed. Driving at high speeds reduces reaction time and increases the likelihood of collisions.
- Not Focusing on the Road While Driving — This behavior is also known as distracted driving, and it is dangerous. Some drivers may be distracted because they are using the radio, eating food, or using their mobile phones while driving.
- Fatigued Driving — Legislators have passed laws in many jurisdictions that restrict the total amount of time a trucker can drive within a specific period of time. The laws regulating truck drivers are revised constantly, and some of the newest time restriction laws were passed during legislative sessions in 2021. However, many drivers continuously ignore these regulations and put other lives at risk. Fatigue may cause truck drivers to fall asleep while driving; it can also impair their judgment.
The Injuries Accident Victims Suffer During Truck Accidents In Santa Cruz
Accident victims may suffer serious bodily injury, or worse, death, during truck accidents. Some of the most common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, neck injuries, and severe burns. Other injuries sustained by truck accident victims include internal organ damage, fractured bones, and road rash.
The mountain of medical bills associated with treatment for these injuries may include prescription costs, medical devices, sessions with medical specialists, and hospital visits. Property damage is also a major component of many truck accident cases.
If another party’s actions or inaction contributed to the crash, they may be legally responsible for the financial losses you sustained. Having knowledgeable Santa Cruz truck accident lawyers on your side can help you understand how to seek monetary compensation for your injuries.
Santa Cruz Truck Accidents And Comparative Negligence
After a truck accident, it’s best to avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault or responsibility. Feelings of confusion or shock at the scene may lead to unintentional misstatements about how the collision occurred. Investigators and legal professionals can later examine the evidence to determine what actually happened.
Comparative fault laws apply in California. Working with experienced Santa Cruz truck accident attorneys can help you understand how these laws apply to your situation. With legal support, you can stay informed, protect your rights, and pursue fair compensation.
Dealing With Insurance Adjusters
Insurance adjusters may contact you soon after a truck accident to discuss your claim. While this process may seem routine, be cautious about what you share. You are not required to provide recorded or written statements, and doing so without legal guidance could affect your case later on. Insurance representatives evaluate claims on behalf of their companies, so let your attorney handle communications to avoid misunderstandings or premature settlements.
At Arash Law, our Santa Cruz truck accident lawyers can provide guidance and support. With the assistance of your truck accident attorneys, you can protect your rights and work towards obtaining fair compensation for your losses.
The Recommended Time To Retain Santa Cruz Truck Accident Lawyers
You should consider hiring Santa Cruz truck accident attorneys after you are involved in a truck accident. The sooner your lawyers can begin working on your personal injury claim, the sooner you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of your case.
It is possible that important evidence will be lost if you wait too long to retain a truck accident lawyer. Some eyewitnesses may not be available months after the date of an accident. The facts of the case may become less memorable as months pass after the truck accident. Prompt action gives your lawyer more time to evaluate your case and prepare a well-supported legal strategy.
Truck Accident Cases And Financial Compensation
Passengers in smaller vehicles often suffer serious bodily injuries during truck accidents. Some of the common injuries suffered by passengers include amputations, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Unfortunately, some passengers in smaller vehicles may suffer permanent disability or death due to the severe impact of a truck accident.
Accident victims may be able to pursue economic damages and non-economic damages. Essentially, these damages measure the losses a victim suffered and the compensation that will make them whole. Economic damages refer to easily measurable financial losses. The following are examples of economic damages:
- Property damage
- Automobile repair bills
- In-home care
- Lost future earnings
- Lost earnings
- Counseling costs
- Physical therapy
- Ambulance bills
Non-economic damages are more subjective. These damages are more difficult to calculate. What follows are examples of non-economic damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Amputations
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Anxiety
2019: $27M confidential settlement in a case involving multiple plaintiffs.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents In Santa Cruz
It is important to ask questions when you speak with your Santa Cruz truck accident lawyers. The following are some of the most important questions prospective clients ask regarding truck accident cases.
If My Family Member Died During A Truck Accident, Is It Possible For Me To File A Civil Lawsuit?
Surviving family members have the option to file a wrongful death action. In such cases, damages may include the medical expenses incurred before the individual’s passing, as well as funeral and burial costs.
Additionally, the decedent’s anticipated future earnings and the financial support they would have provided can be considered when determining compensation. With the help of Santa Cruz truck accident attorneys, the surviving family members can also seek damages related to the psychological pain and loss they endured after the decedent’s death.
Can I File A Civil Lawsuit If I Am An Undocumented Immigrant?
Yes, you have the right to file a civil lawsuit. Your immigration status does not determine your right to seek compensation for harm you’ve suffered. Generally, defense counsel cannot raise questions regarding your status as an undocumented immigrant, though limited exceptions may apply under California law. Your accident attorneys can handle every aspect of your civil lawsuit.
Will I Pay For My Santa Cruz Truck Accident Lawyers Upfront?
Our firm works under a contingency fee agreement. This means that you won’t be charged for the services of our attorney unless compensation is obtained through a settlement or a verdict. However, certain case-related expenses may apply.
Connect With Our Santa Cruz Truck Accident Lawyers
Receiving proper compensation from the trucking company or insurer can be challenging. However, our Santa Cruz truck accident attorneys can assist you in navigating the complexities of the personal injury claims process. Our team can advocate for your rights and help you pursue just compensation for your case.
Arash Law has represented many clients in various cases, including truck accidents. Schedule a free initial consultation with our Santa Cruz truck accident lawyers by calling (888) 488-1391 or using our online form to learn about how we can help you with your claim.
Our services extend to numerous places in California, including Seabright/Midtown, Westside, Live Oak, Soquel, Watsonville, La Selva Beach, Downtown Boulder Creek, Rio Del Mar, Scotts Valley, Ben Lomond, Capitola, Davenport, UC Santa Cruz, Bonny Doon, Pasatiempo, and Seacliff. When you need legal assistance, our Santa Cruz truck accident lawyers are available to assist you.
