Santa Rosa Truck Accident Lawyers
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Get Personalized Legal Help From Our Santa Rosa Truck Accident Lawyers
Truck accidents leave victims dealing with severe consequences, including serious injuries, financial struggles, and emotional distress. If you get into a truck collision, our Santa Rosa truck accident lawyers can help you hold liable parties accountable for your losses. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to have your case reviewed for free.
Cradled by vineyards and gentle hills, Sonoma County’s Santa Rosa has transformed from a quiet ranching community into a thriving urban center. The city’s stunning landscape and robust economy attract tourists and new residents. Its serene ambiance and laid-back lifestyle contribute significantly to its appeal.
Santa Rosa is a major hub for Northern California’s retail, banking, and technology industries. These industries rely on large trucks to deliver supplies and goods across the state and country. Unfortunately, these road giants often cause accidents, jeopardizing the safety of road users.
If you get injured in a truck accident, speak to our attorneys in Santa Rosa. We will evaluate your case and determine your legal options. Our lawyers will also advocate for your rights, whether in negotiations or litigation. We aim to help you pursue damages to the full extent of the law.
What You Should Know About Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are among the most serious traffic accidents, with severe consequences. They are particularly concerning compared to regular car accidents due to the significant disparity in size and weight between the involved vehicles.
Commercial trucks can weigh a staggering 80,000 pounds, making them highly capable of inflicting severe injuries or fatalities upon impact. They can lead to substantial financial costs, forcing many families into debt.
Furthermore, truck accident claims and lawsuits tend to be more complex. They often involve multiple parties, including the driver, the truck company, and third parties. Determining liability requires a meticulous investigation and thorough review of federal and state regulations, such as hours-of-service rules and cargo securement standards.
The legal process is undoubtedly complicated. Our Santa Rosa injury law firm has decades of experience addressing the complexities of truck accident claims. Our team offers efficient case management and personalized legal representation.
Suarez v. Premium Packing (settled on 9/26/2023) – Settlement involving a man who sustained multiple orthopedic injures and a mild traumatic brain injury when he was run over by a food truck.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Why Hire Our Santa Rosa Truck Accident Lawyers?
Dealing with at-fault parties and insurance companies after an accident can be challenging, especially when they have significant legal resources. Our Santa Rosa truck accident attorneys assist clients throughout the process and provide support during these situations.
- Years of Experience — We have handled a wide variety of personal injury cases throughout the years. Our truck accident lawyers in Santa Rosa have comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local trucking laws, enabling us to identify violations and use them to help clients hold negligent parties accountable.
- Focused Representation — Our legal team understands each client’s unique challenges. We provide compassionate, personalized legal support, carefully considering your situation to build a well-supported case.
- Case Management — Furthermore, our truck accident lawyers handle all the legal work that comes with the process, from conducting a comprehensive analysis and gathering evidence to representing you in court. We conduct a thorough investigation to gather information that may support your claim.
- Settlement Negotiations — Our experience includes negotiating settlements with insurance companies and addressing issues that come with settlement offers. While most cases are resolved without litigation, our truck accident attorneys are prepared to pursue legal action if required.
- No Upfront Fees — Legal representation at Arash Law is available to victims without upfront costs. Our Santa Rosa truck accident attorneys offer contingency fee agreements, where you won’t pay attorneys’ fees unless we achieve a fair resolution for your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you won’t owe us for our legal services. Other case-related costs that will be charged separately, regardless of the outcome, will be discussed before you sign any agreement. This no-win, no-fee arrangement means you have one less financial issue to worry about while dealing with the consequences of your truck accident.
What Can Our Truck Accident Attorneys Do For Your Case?
Our Santa Rosa attorneys are committed to advocating for your rights throughout the claims process.
Our Santa Rosa truck accident attorneys do the following to support your claim:
- Determine the cause of the truck collision.
- Help prove the liability of the reckless truck driver and other parties.
- Gather evidence such as black box data, mobile phone records, reports on truck maintenance and inspections, driver’s daily logs, and witness testimonies.
- Collaborate with partners from diverse fields, including medical professionals and accident reconstructionists.
Different Types Of Trucks
Most industries in Santa Rosa rely heavily on a wide range of trucks for efficient cargo transportation. These road giants are classified based on weight, size, and function.
Our Santa Rosa truck accident lawyers have handled truck accident cases involving the following kinds of vehicles:
- Semi-Trucks — Also known as 18-wheelers or tractor-trailers, semi-trailers have enclosed trailers used to move different cargo. Their efficiency and large capacity make them ideal for long-distance transportation. However, they’re susceptible to accidents, especially when loads shift during trips.
- Flatbed Trucks — These large vehicles with open platforms are designed to haul bulky freight that cannot fit in enclosed trailers. Truckers must secure loads tightly to prevent cargo spills.
- Step Decks — Companies often utilize step decks or drop deck trailers to deliver loads too tall to fit on standard flatbeds. The extended length of these trucks contributes to significant blind spots for drivers.
- Refrigerated Trucks — Often called reefers, refrigerated trucks maintain optimal temperatures for transporting perishable goods like medicines and fresh produce. Unfortunately, the risk of spoilage often tempts drivers to exceed speed limits to reach their destination faster.
- Box Trucks — Unlike semi-trailers, box trucks are more compact and feature a cargo space directly linked to the cab. They are commonly used for local deliveries and transporting smaller loads of retail items, increasing the risk of accidents on residential streets.
- Tanker Trucks — These large vehicles transport hazardous materials such as chemicals, fuel, and water, posing a significant risk of explosions and fires.
Common Types Of Truck Accidents In Santa Rosa
Our Santa Rosa attorneys often handle cases arising from the following types of truck accidents:
- Head-on Collisions — These incidents usually occur when large trucks veer off the road, resulting in a direct frontal impact. Head-on collisions are common on narrow, two-lane roads, where vehicles might carelessly switch lanes to overtake.
- Jackknife Accidents — Jackknife accidents occur when truck drivers make sudden turns or brake abruptly, causing the trailer to swing sideways. It could sweep across lanes, potentially triggering catastrophic multi-vehicle collisions.
- T-Bone Collisions — Also referred to as side-impact collisions, T-bone accidents arise when a large truck’s cab strikes the side of another vehicle. They usually occur at intersections due to drivers not following traffic signs.
- Rollovers — Trucks are vulnerable to rollovers because of their high center of gravity. These incidents can be caused by a loss of balance due to road obstacles, sharp turns, or uneven terrain.
- Underride Accidents — These deadly incidents occur when a smaller vehicle slides beneath a truck’s rear or side. Causes include abrupt stops, limited visibility, and the absence of Mansfield guards.
- Wide-Turn Accidents — Large trucks require extra space to avoid hitting the curb or objects while turning. However, negligent truckers could make a wide turn recklessly, hitting other vehicles in the adjacent lane.
- Rear-End Collisions — These types of accidents occur when a truck crashes into the back of another vehicle. Rear-end collisions can be severe, as the impact can cause significant damage and serious injuries to the other vehicle’s occupants.
Truck Accident?
Why Do Truck Accidents Happen In Santa Rosa?
Unfortunately, truck crashes are prevalent in the North Bay, where Santa Rosa lies. Congested roadways and deteriorating infrastructure create hazardous conditions for large vehicles. Due to their immense size and high center of gravity, trucks are vulnerable to accidents on uneven terrain.
Truck accidents also frequently occur in rural areas, on interstates, and on freeways. These roads usually allow quicker travel, but the lure of speeding is a major reason for serious truck accidents.
Many truck accidents in Santa Rosa occur due to the network of highways serving as major truck routes. Some examples include Highway 101 (the Pacific Coast Highway) and State Route (SR) 116. One notable road that has logged several truck accidents is SR 12. In fact, on November 2, 2023, it became the accident site of a two-vehicle collision involving a big rig and a Mazda Protege. Victims sustained serious injuries, although authorities did not reveal the full extent.
The immense weight and size of commercial trucks amplify the force of impact in collisions, often resulting in catastrophic damage and injuries. While motorists must exercise caution, truck drivers are just as responsible for road safety. Failure to uphold this duty of care can lead to severe consequences.
If you or someone you care about gets injured in a truck accident, consult our Santa Rosa lawyers about how to hold the at-fault parties accountable. We conduct thorough investigations, preserve crucial evidence, and seek accountability for your losses.
Usual Causes Of Truck Accidents
A driver must undergo extensive training before being allowed to operate a truck. However, even the most capable individual can make mistakes and cause accidents. The cases our Santa Rosa truck accident lawyers handle often involve the following causes of collisions:
- Speeding — Many truckers drive at high speeds to meet their employers’ strict deadlines. Excessive speed significantly reduces a truck driver’s ability to stop safely in various traffic conditions.
- Aggressive Driving — This behavior is risky under all circumstances, but it’s even more dangerous when operating large trucks. Examples of aggressive driving include abruptly cutting or changing lanes, running red lights, and weaving in and out of traffic.
- Distracted Driving — Truckers can get distracted by eating, using their phones, reading, or adjusting their devices while driving. These distractions can cause them to overlook road hazards, increasing the risk of collisions.
- DUI — Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is among the top reasons for truck accidents. These substances can affect a truck driver’s coordination, judgment, and decision-making skills, thus compromising safe driving.
- Unsecured Loads — Unsecured or improperly loaded cargo can get dislodged, causing accidents. Falling debris can directly strike vehicles or create hazardous road conditions.
- Mechanical Failures — Inadequate truck maintenance can lead to catastrophic failures, including tire blowouts, brake malfunctions, and steering issues.
- Driving in Inclement Weather — Despite Santa Rosa’s generally favorable weather conditions, fog can significantly reduce visibility during mornings and evenings, making driving, especially for large trucks, extremely challenging.
Most Common Injuries Suffered By Truck Accident Victims
Collisions involving trucks can result in far more severe harm than typical car accidents. Due to their massive size and weight, trucks have the potential to inflict more catastrophic damage. Our truck accident lawyers in Santa Rosa have helped clients seek compensation for the following injuries:
- Head & Brain Injuries — Sustaining an impact on the head can result in various head injuries, such as skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These may include concussions, bruises on the brain, and blood clots, which can lead to cognitive and memory problems.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — The force of the crash can fracture or dislocate the vertebrae, damaging the delicate nerves inside. Spinal cord injuries can result in devastating consequences, including loss of motor function and sensation.
- Internal Injuries — Truck collisions can cause blunt trauma to internal organs such as the lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, and intestines. A prompt medical evaluation is crucial to diagnosing and treating these injuries before they become fatal.
- Broken Bones — Fractures can occur in different body parts, but are more common in the legs, ribs, skull, and pelvis. Depending on the severity, these injuries can significantly impact an individual’s mobility, often necessitating surgery and rehabilitation to achieve a full recovery.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — Victims often incur soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains in truck accidents. These might not be as severe as other injuries, but they can still cause intense pain and mobility issues.
- Wrongful Deaths — The loss of a loved one in a truck accident can result in significant losses. Compensation for wrongful death claims can help address the financial and emotional impacts on surviving family members. Our Santa Rosa truck accident attorneys assist with these claims and offer dedicated support during this difficult time.
Determining Liability In Santa Rosa Truck Accidents
Liability, in simple terms, means being responsible for causing harm. Determining liability in an average car crash is often straightforward. Based on the available evidence, car accident lawyers can identify who is responsible for a collision involving two drivers.
However, determining who is liable in truck accidents can be more complicated because multiple parties may be involved. Anyone who played a part in a truck accident, directly or indirectly, may be found liable for the resulting damages. The answer to who will pay the damages depends on the case details. Possible parties that may be held responsible include:
- Truck Drivers — Anyone on the road must comply with traffic laws and drive safely to keep themselves and others safe. Truck drivers must answer for the ensuing damages if they neglect these duties.
- Truck Companies — Private businesses can face legal action for improper hiring practices, inadequate training, and vehicle maintenance. Employers may also share responsibility for their truckers’ negligence or unlawful behavior.
- Shipping Entities — Some companies hire trucks to transport goods to specific locations. If their cargo or loading practices cause an accident, the shipping company may be held accountable for the consequences.
- Truck Part Manufacturers — If defective products installed in trucks cause accidents, the manufacturers, producers, and sellers may be found liable for the victim’s damages. Under product liability laws, these entities are held to a strict standard of care. They may be held liable for injuries caused by defective products even without proof of negligence.
- Government Agencies — Truck accidents are not always caused by driver error. Poor road conditions, including potholes, uneven pavement, and inadequate signage, can significantly contribute to these crashes. Construction zone hazards like improperly marked lanes or a lack of protective barriers can pose significant risks. If these hazards contributed to the collision, our construction accident lawyers can help you pursue a claim against the responsible government agency.
Those responsible for truck collisions must be held liable for the victim’s injuries and losses. Our Santa Rosa truck accident lawyers work to identify potentially liable parties and help you pursue accountability for your damages.
Proving Negligence In A Truck Accident
The concept of negligence is crucial when seeking compensation after a truck accident. Your truck accident lawyer must establish the following elements:
- Duty of Care — First, you must demonstrate that the negligent party owed you a duty of care. They must exercise caution to avoid harming others. For example, truckers and their employers are required by law to take all reasonable measures to maintain safe transportation. This obligation includes adhering to traffic laws and trucking industry regulations.
- Breach of Duty — Next, you must establish that the responsible party failed to meet their legal duty of care. Truck drivers might breach their duty of care by allowing themselves to be distracted while driving. Similarly, trucking companies could demonstrate a breach of duty by pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, which can adversely affect driver safety and compliance with safety rules.
- Causation — As a plaintiff, you must also prove that the defendant’s negligence directly caused the truck accident. In our previous example, evidence showing that the distracted trucker was using their phone will prove essential.
- Damages — Finally, you must show that you suffered financial losses after the truck collision. Examples are medical bills, missed earnings, property damage, and pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one gets harmed due to a truck driver or another party’s recklessness, it’s important to take prompt and decisive action. Our Santa Rosa truck accident attorneys work to help you establish each element of negligence.
What Are The Available Damages In A Truck Accident?
Physical, mental, and financial damages can all add up after a truck accident. California law allows victims to seek monetary reparation for economic and non-economic losses.
Our truck accident lawyers in Santa Rosa have assisted clients in seeking compensation covering the following:
- Present and future medical bills
- Surgeries and rehabilitation
- Nursing care
- Missed income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Funeral expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Inconvenience
- Disfigurements
- Temporary or permanent disabilities
- Emotional distress
- PTSD
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of consortium
Our Santa Rosa truck accident attorneys can assess the extent of your damages and provide an estimate of how much you may be able to pursue. Knowing the potential value of your claim can help you make informed decisions about your case.
What’s The Filing Deadline For Santa Rosa Truck Accident Lawsuits?
In Santa Rosa and throughout California, truck accident victims must file a personal injury claim within two years from the date of the incident. If you fail to adhere to this deadline, you may lose the opportunity to seek compensation.
However, certain circumstances allow extensions or exceptions to the standard deadlines. One key exception occurs when the government is responsible for a crash due to hazardous road conditions. In these cases, you must file a claim against the relevant government agency within six months. If the injuries from the accident aren’t immediately apparent, the statute of limitations only begins once those injuries are discovered, regardless of how much time has passed since the accident.
Taking legal action entails time. If you plan to pursue a claim, prompt action can be beneficial. Our Santa Rosa truck accident lawyers can help you gather evidence, prepare a well-documented case, and complete all necessary paperwork before the deadlines.
Steps To Take After A Truck Accident In Santa Rosa
Following a truck collision, there are steps you can take to help protect your well-being and your ability to seek compensation for the resulting injuries and losses, such as:
- Prioritize Your Safety — If you can, move your vehicle to a safe spot away from traffic to prevent further accidents, but do not leave the scene.
- Check for Injuries — Call 911 right away for emergency medical assistance. Even if you feel fine, you must see a doctor afterward. Remember that certain injuries might not be visible right after the incident, and a comprehensive medical examination may be needed to identify them.
- Collaborate With the Police — Share only the facts to help them create an accurate incident report. If you can, note down the case number and request a copy of the report later.
- Gather Evidence — Examples are photos and videos of vehicle positions, injuries, damages, and road conditions. You may also take a snap of skid marks or debris left behind. These pieces of evidence are essential in establishing what caused the accident.
- Exchange Information With All Involved Parties — Note the truck driver’s name, contact number, insurance details, and employer information.
- Report The Accident To Your Insurance Company — Relay when, where, and how the incident happened. However, avoid oversharing.
- Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 — Our truck accident lawyers in Santa Rosa are ready to provide support from day one. We will review your case and guide you through the process.
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 client’s lower back. After years of litigation, Benny and the team were able to secure the full policy limits for our client months before trial.– BENNY KHORSANDI
California Truck Accident Statistics
Truck accidents continue to take a toll on residents of the Golden State, including Santa Rosa. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that in 2022, these incidents claimed the lives of 4,764 individuals. Passengers in other vehicles accounted for the highest number of fatalities, comprising 66% of victims. Truck occupants represented 17% of fatalities, while pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists made up the remaining 16%.
The IIHS reported a concerning 51% increase in truck-related fatalities compared to the record low set in 2009. These crashes accounted for 11% of all motor vehicle fatalities in 2022.
Furthermore, statistics showed that 73% of collisions involved tractor-trailers, while 28% were caused by single-unit trucks. It also revealed that almost half of the crashes, or 49%, occurred on major roads. On the other hand, 35% of them happened on interstates and freeways, and 16% were on minor roads.
In light of the rising toll of truck accidents, our Santa Rosa truck accident attorneys are focused on advocating for victims and their families. We provide legal services to clients seeking justice and compensation for their losses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Truck Accidents
Is Hiring A Truck Accident Lawyer In Santa Rosa Necessary?
The decision to hire a lawyer after sustaining injuries in a truck accident in Santa Rosa is ultimately up to the victims. Getting legal representation is not required, but it can be beneficial in protecting your rights. Accident attorneys can help you understand your rights and options in seeking fair compensation.
Truck accident claims often involve complex issues that may require the experience of an accident attorney. Timing is also important, as there are legal deadlines for filing a claim. Our Santa Rosa truck accident lawyers can help you gather evidence and start the legal process, even in the face of unexpected obstacles.
We are focused on helping you establish the elements of negligence, negotiate with insurance companies, and evaluate settlement offers. Our compassionate team will provide clear legal guidance to support your claim.
How Much Does Hiring A Santa Rosa Truck Accident Attorney Cost?
Most truck accident attorneys in Santa Rosa get paid on a contingency fee basis. If we don’t win your case, we won’t get paid for our legal services. If we recover compensation for you, we get a percentage of the settlement or award. You can ask about the fee structure and other case-related costs that are charged separately, regardless of the outcome, to fully understand the terms before signing any agreement.
Our Santa Rosa truck accident lawyers extend contingency-based services to give victims an opportunity to pursue a legal claim against at-fault parties. Contact us to schedule a free case review.
How Long Will A Truck Accident Claim Take?
It’s difficult to predict how long it will take to settle a truck accident case. While some claims are resolved within months, many can take a year or even longer.
Various factors can influence the resolution process. These include the following:
- Duration of the investigation.
- The severity of your injuries.
- Whether multiple parties are involved.
- Your contribution to the incident.
- The willingness of concerned parties to compromise.
Our truck accident attorneys in Santa Rosa will meticulously examine your case, develop tailored strategies, and work efficiently.
Will My Truck Accident Case Go To Trial?
Various factors determine whether your truck accident claim will settle out of court or be resolved in a trial. Accepting compensation from the at-fault driver and their insurance company may result in a quicker resolution, but the amount offered may not fully address your needs during recovery. While negotiation is possible, an agreement may not often be reached.
You may initiate litigation if you cannot reach a fair settlement outside of court. The downside is that this process may take several months or even years. In such cases, our trial attorneys in Santa Rosa handle truck accident lawsuits and are ready to take your case to court. We work to present a well-supported case to the defendant and the jury.
What Is The Average Settlement For A Truck Accident In Santa Rosa?
Settlement amounts rely on different factors, including the following:
- Types of injuries sustained.
- Total out-of-pocket expenses, such as medical bills.
- Violations committed by negligent individuals.
- The number of parties involved.
- Percentage of fault.
Our truck accident attorneys in Santa Rosa aim to help you pursue a fair settlement that reflects your actual losses. We will assess the potential amount of your damages and advocate for that in or out of court. Additionally, we will explore all available options for seeking compensation.
What Happens If I’m Partly Responsible For A Truck Accident In Santa Rosa?
Even if you are partly to blame for a truck accident in Santa Rosa, you might still be eligible to pursue damages. However, since California is a pure comparative negligence state, the amount you may be able to receive will be reduced according to your percentage of fault.
For instance, if your total damages amount to $129,000 but a Santa Rosa court determines that you are 23% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by that percentage. This means you could still recover up to 77% of the damages, equaling $99,330.
Our Santa Rosa truck accident lawyers will meticulously evaluate the incident to help you prove the other party’s negligence. We will negotiate directly with insurance companies on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Am I Responsible For Paying My Own Medical Bills Following A Truck Accident In Santa Rosa?
California is considered an “at-fault” state. Under its negligence laws, individuals or entities that cause accidents are legally obliged to compensate for the victim’s damages and losses. The reckless trucker or other negligent parties should be held liable for your medical expenses if you get into a truck accident.
To hold them accountable, you must prove their negligence led to the accident and your subsequent injuries. Navigating this process is complex and challenging. Our truck accident attorneys in Santa Rosa can help you address these challenges and help you pursue compensation to the full extent of the law.
Who Can File A Truck Accident Case In Santa Rosa?
If eligible, accident victims may be able to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for their damages after a collision. This also includes all undocumented immigrants. California’s legal system emphasizes that an individual’s immigration status will not affect their legal standing. Courts cannot question this matter during litigation.
Not all victims are fully aware of their rights, which can affect how they proceed following an incident. Our Santa Rosa truck accident lawyers assist clients in understanding their legal options and represent their interests throughout the process.
Consult With Our Truck Accident Lawyers In Santa Rosa
Truck accidents usually leave victims struggling with significant damage. You may wonder, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” Arash Law can provide information about your options.
Our law firm, headed by Arash Khorsandi, has extensive experience handling truck accident cases. Our Santa Rosa truck accident lawyers are committed to helping our clients seek compensation for their injuries and losses. Call (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation with our Santa Rosa truck accident attorneys. You can also reach us online by filling out our “Do I Have A Case?” form here.
Our Santa Rosa lawyers also handle DUI accidents, Uber collisions, and more. We have access to translators, so you don’t need to worry if you speak languages other than English.
Besides Santa Rosa, Arash Law also offers our legal services in other areas, such as Roseland, Rohnert Park, Windsor, Healdsburg, Petaluma, Sonoma, Novato, Napa, American Canyon, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Vallejo, Clearlake, Larkspur, and Corte Madera.
