Stockton Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our Stockton Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help You Understand Your Legal Options
Large trucks, such as semi-trucks and tractor-trailers, can seem imposing on the open road, but they play a crucial role in domestic trade in the United States. They are also notorious for causing serious traffic accidents. Stockton, with many major freeways intersecting the city, is well aware of this. All motorists in Stockton must drive responsibly to avoid accidents with trucks. However, when accidents happen, our Stockton truck accident lawyers at Arash Law provide legal assistance in seeking compensation for injuries and losses. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Stockton is a city on the San Joaquin River in California’s Central Valley. It’s the most populous city in San Joaquin County and the 11th most populous in the entire state. The city is a major hub for both agriculture and industry. Trucks play a crucial role in transporting goods produced here to other parts of the country. Interstate 5 and State Route 99, which run through Stockton, carry a large volume of truck traffic. Unfortunately, the increased presence of these massive vehicles on Stockton’s roads also means a greater risk of truck accidents.
Accident victims in Stockton may be uncertain about how to pursue compensation after a truck accident. Our skilled truck accident lawyers can gather the evidence to support legal claims and represent our clients’ interests throughout each stage of a civil lawsuit. Truck accident cases are often more complex than regular car accident cases because they may involve multiple defendants who could be liable for your injuries.
Our truck accident attorneys in Stockton can help you understand the legal options available to you. Having legal support that understands the complexities of civil litigation can help you address the issues that may arise and navigate the process.
Why Choose Our Truck Accident Attorneys For Your Claim?
Here are some of the reasons to consider choosing our truck accident lawyers to represent your claim:
- Case Assessment — We offer a free initial consultation, during which we review your case to determine if you have a claim or lawsuit. We can provide clear legal guidance on how to move forward with your case.
- No Upfront Costs — We operate on a contingency fee basis. Unless compensation is obtained, you won’t have to pay us any attorney’s fees upfront. Our lawyers understand how challenging the accident is, so we don’t want to add to your financial burden. However, you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs, regardless of the outcome.
- Accessibility — Our team is available to address your questions and concerns throughout the process. We offer flexible communication options, including phone and email. We can also arrange meetings at your convenience anywhere in California.
- Comprehensive Legal Representation — We provide each case with focused attention based on its unique circumstances. Our approach is tailored to the specific needs of your case.
Arash Law has helped clients seek compensation for injuries and losses resulting from the actions of at-fault parties, including medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
Our client experienced a spinal cord injury and a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a result of a rollover trucking accident that occurred while he was working within the scope of his employment. We secured a settlement of $5.5 million in compensation.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Hiring Truck Accident Lawyers In Stockton
After sustaining injuries and losses in a collision, you might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The answer is that it depends on the specifics of your case. Our Stockton injury law firm has the experience and knowledge necessary to handle the legal aspects of your claim. Understanding how these cases work is essential to representing your interests and advocating for your rights during negotiations and, if necessary, litigation. During the legal process, defense counsel may present arguments or evidence regarding the circumstances of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and the amount of compensation requested.
We have lawyers who are familiar with the multiple issues related to truck accident cases and understand that passenger vehicles often suffer serious injuries when they collide with a truck. The differences in weight and size can cause passenger vehicle occupants to suffer severe bodily injury or death. The average truck weighs many times more than a passenger vehicle.
State and federal laws also apply to truck accident cases. Navigating the statutes, regulations, and amended laws can make the litigation process more detailed and time-consuming. Our truck accident attorneys stay up-to-date on the trucking industry and the regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Meanwhile, the California Department of Transportation regulates trucking within the state.
Our team can help in gathering and preserving relevant evidence to support your case.
What Can Our Truck Accident Lawyers Do For You?
Our Stockton attorneys for truck accident cases can help you pursue compensation by:
- Investigating the Accident — We conduct an independent investigation to understand how the accident happened and build your case.
- Gathering Critical Evidence — As we investigate, we will collect every possible piece of evidence to support your claim. We work to identify liable parties and help you hold them accountable.
- Evaluating Your Damages — We assess your damages and determine the potential value of your claim based on the facts of your case. Aside from economic damages, non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and loss of companionship, may also be considered.
- Negotiating on Your Behalf — Complexities in the negotiation process, such as disputes over liability, delays, low settlement offers, or claims denials, often arise. We can help you address these challenges and assist you in pursuing compensation based on your losses.
- Collaborating With Industry Professionals — Arash Law has a network of professionals whose insights can help support your case. For example, we can connect you with doctors who can provide testimony to verify the severity of your injuries and assist with your treatment.
How Serious Are Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents are typically more serious than car accidents due to the sheer size and weight of trucks. Trucks can weigh 20 to 30 times more than a passenger car. Due to their greater mass, trucks exert a significantly larger force on a car during a collision, even at similar speeds.
The immense forces at play in a truck accident also translate to a higher risk of death or serious injury. Victims often sustain fractures, head trauma, spinal cord damage, and other life-threatening injuries.
Trucks have a higher center of gravity, meaning their weight is distributed higher off the ground. Unevenly loaded cargo or cargo not properly secured can significantly alter the truck’s center of gravity, making it prone to rollovers.
When a truck rolls over, it creates a much larger debris field compared to a car accident. The truck itself can block multiple lanes of traffic, and cargo can spill out onto the road, creating obstacles for other drivers. This scenario can cause secondary accidents as other vehicles swerve to avoid the wreckage.
Truck Companies And Liability Insurance
Truck companies in California are required to carry liability insurance to compensate accident victims for their injuries. The minimum insurance for most carriers is $750,000. However, the FMCSA has set specific minimum requirements based on the type of cargo the truck is carrying.
- $300,000 for household goods.
- $750,000 for general freight.
- $1,000,000 for oil.
- $5,000,000 for hazardous materials.
In addition, movers of household goods must carry cargo insurance with a minimum coverage of at least $20,000 per vehicle and $20,000 per occurrence.
However, not all victims will receive this sum if they suffered an injury in a truck accident. The economic value of any legal claim will be based on the nature of the victim’s injuries, the total medical bills, the days or months of being out of a job, and the insurance policy limits.
In accident cases involving serious bodily injuries, the victim may be able to pursue an amount greater than these minimum limits. The outcome of the case may depend on whether the truck company has sufficient cash reserves or assets, whether the truck driver was an employee or an independent contractor, and whether additional insurance policies are applicable to the case.
Hurt in a Truck Accident?
Regulations And Public Policy For Truck Drivers
Drivers who operate semi-trucks must possess a professional driver’s license. They must be cautious, observant, and alert while driving throughout the state of California. However, these drivers sometimes act negligently or recklessly. The ensuing truck accidents are extremely dangerous because individuals in passenger vehicles often suffer serious bodily injury or death.
As a result, legislators in California have enacted several regulations applicable to truckers. These regulations concern the following issues:
- The number of regulatory inspections truck drivers must perform.
- The physical records and timesheets that truck drivers must maintain while operating a commercial vehicle.
- The total amount of time truck drivers must spend off duty every day.
- The specific regions where truck drivers are prohibited from driving.
- The speed limit applicable to truck drivers.
The factors listed above are relevant to any civil lawsuit involving truck drivers. Truck accident attorneys are familiar with the technical aspects of the regulations that apply to the trucking industry. If you are unsure of your options for holding the at-fault party accountable after a collision, consider consulting with our Stockton truck accident lawyers to help you understand how you can seek financial compensation for your injuries.
Primary Causes Of Truck Accidents
What follows are some of the common causes of truck accidents in Stockton:
Overloaded Cargo
Trucks may have an excessive amount of cargo loaded onto their trailers. Trucks with too much cargo can roll over and blow their tires due to the excess weight. Unsecured cargo can also cause truck accidents when flying objects fall off the trailer and strike nearby motorists.
Inclement Weather
Weather conditions can change quickly in California, depending on the time of year a truck driver is passing through. Fog, snow, ice, and rain are among the hazardous weather conditions that can affect these drivers. Even cautious truck operators may lose control of their vehicles under these conditions. Since poor weather conditions have caused numerous accidents involving multiple vehicles, all drivers must exercise caution when encountering hazardous weather on the road.
Aggressive And Reckless Driving
Truck drivers are often frustrated, tired, and overworked due to the conditions of their jobs. These factors can increase their likelihood of engaging in reckless and dangerous behavior, including road rage. Some truckers may drive recklessly, fail to let other drivers pass, and exhibit erratic behavior.
In cases involving an aggressive or reckless truck driver, our Stockton truck accident lawyers can help gather crucial evidence. We’ll work to have access to dashcam and traffic camera footage that may serve as proof of the driver’s actions and the accident itself, as well as find any witnesses who can provide details about the truck accident.
Distracted Driving
Many commercial truck drivers use their phones while driving, which can increase the risk of accidents and put others on the road in danger. Also, these drivers may eat while driving or call families or friends, taking their minds off of safely operating their vehicles. They usually distract themselves because of fatigue. It only takes one second of irresponsible behavior for a serious truck accident to occur. Unfortunately, some of these accidents cause extensive property damage, serious bodily injury, and death.
Driving At An Excessive Rate Of Speed
Many truck drivers drive at excessive speeds. Thankfully, devices that track a truck’s speed can help reduce this dangerous behavior. Truck accidents can cause catastrophic damage, and even a slight mistake while speeding can result in a truck colliding with several passenger cars. Truck operators can help lower the risk of being involved in accidents by not driving over the speed limit.
Our Stockton truck accident attorneys can help gather and analyze evidence. We’ll check the truck’s “black box,” which may help reveal information on speed, braking, and other vital details. We can also work with accident reconstructionists who can estimate the truck’s speed at the time of the accident.
Improper Truck Maintenance
Due to the heavy loads trucks carry over long distances, they require more extensive maintenance compared to passenger vehicles. Truck drivers and trucking companies are responsible for keeping every vehicle on the road in proper working order. Negligent maintenance could cause vehicle issues, including faulty brakes and tire blowouts. These problems can contribute to truck accidents, and anyone responsible for the truck’s maintenance could be held liable if the crash causes injuries or death.
Our Stockton truck accident attorneys can gather and analyze maintenance reports, which may be used as evidence of negligent maintenance.
Driving Under The Influence
Intoxicated and drugged drivers are more likely to make driving mistakes that could result in deadly crashes. Alcohol consumption and drug intake have dire consequences, including impaired senses and clouded judgment. A trucker under the influence of these substances may not know how fast or in what direction they’re heading.
Truck drivers cannot operate vehicles with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04%. Additionally, truckers who take over-the-counter and prescription drugs that cause drowsiness and similar side effects put other road users at risk. If an intoxicated truck driver caused the accident, our lawyers in Stockton can help establish liability.
Poor Training
Handling a massive and heavy vehicle requires more training. For this reason, drivers must be properly trained and pass a test before they can operate a vehicle. With that said, there are still many untrained and unqualified truck drivers. Their lack of skills increases the risk of truck accidents due to overcompensation, wide turns, failure to check blind spots, and inadequate calculation of the truck’s stopping distance. Trucking companies may also be held liable if they do not provide proper training.
Company Negligence
Trucking companies can be held liable for negligence, including hiring unlicensed drivers, conducting insufficient truck inspections, and failing to comply with trucking regulations. Our Stockton truck accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate and examine every possible angle to have a comprehensive understanding of the case. We will work to determine the root cause of the incident and help hold liable parties accountable, including big trucking companies.
Poor Route Selection
Some truck drivers may not be familiar with Stockton’s roads and only rely on navigation systems. They might choose roads that are either one-way or have poor conditions, both of which could cause truck accidents. For example, a trucker who isn’t well acquainted with the area fails to spot a massive pothole. The sudden impact may cause a tire to blow out, resulting in the driver losing control of the vehicle and colliding with oncoming traffic.
In these cases, the entity responsible for maintaining the road may be held liable for your damages. This type of claim is extremely complicated, as the local government is typically responsible for road maintenance. Our truck accident attorneys in Stockton can handle the legwork, including filing claims on time.
The Common Types Of Injuries Victims Suffer In Truck Accidents
Traffic accidents that involve both large trucks and smaller automobiles typically cause serious bodily injury or death, because the size and weight of a truck are capable of crushing a passenger vehicle. The occupants often cannot survive these accidents, giving rise to wrongful death cases.
The injuries a victim suffers during a truck accident may cause them to lose the ability to enjoy their hobbies and relationships with their family. Below are some of the common injuries victims suffer during truck accidents:
- Disability
- Paralysis
- Wrongful Death
- Third-Degree Burns
- Fractured Bones
- Amputations
- Internal Organ Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
Although these injuries are common in truck accidents, this list does not include other types of injuries a victim may suffer, some of which could also be part of your truck accident case.
What To Do Following A Truck Accident In Stockton
There are certain steps you can take to help support your claim following an accident, such as:
- Check Yourself for Injuries — Do not leave the scene; call 911 promptly for EMTs and the police. The police will conduct their investigation and create a police report, which you can use as evidence.
- Seek Medical Attention — You may feel fine after the accident, but that could be due to adrenaline and shock masking the pain. Getting checked quickly can help prevent injuries from worsening. Additionally, a medical record will document all the injuries you sustained in the accident, along with their severity.
- Move Your Vehicle — If this isn’t possible, try to alert other motorists by using your hazard lights, cones, and night flares if you have them.
- Gather Information — Record their identification and contact details, as well as their insurance provider, policy, license, and vehicle plate numbers. If there are witnesses, write down their details.
- Take Photos and Videos — Cover various angles to show the extent of the damage you have incurred. Photograph your injuries, the surroundings, traffic lights, weather conditions, and anything else that could be useful later on.
- Notify Your Insurance Provider — Provide the necessary information. Don’t give an official or recorded statement or admit fault to anyone.
- Keep a Journal — It should detail everything you suffered through, from the treatments to the effects of the accident. The journal can help you remember what you felt during the healing process.
- Consult an Injury Law Firm — Our Stockton truck accident lawyers will explain your legal options, advocate for your rights, deal with insurers, and help you pursue compensation for your injuries.
Determining Liability In Truck Accident Cases
Truck accident cases can be more complex than automobile accident cases, primarily due to the multiple parties that may be involved.
The following are some of the potentially liable parties in a truck accident case:
- The manufacturer of the truck.
- The shipping company that made the shipping order.
- The business entity leasing the truck.
- The truck owner.
- The truck company.
- The truck driver.
- Third-party subcontractors who may be responsible for maintenance.
- A negligent motorist.
It can be challenging to distinguish between the various entities involved in a truck accident case. Our Stockton truck accident lawyers work to determine liability and help you hold them accountable. Working with us will allow you to focus on getting better from your injuries while we handle your civil lawsuit.
Truck Accident Cases Pose Special Challenges For Injury Victims
Truck accident cases can be complicated, as they pose several challenges for victims, which is why it’s recommended to work with a Stockton personal injury lawyer.
One of the potential challenges in a truck accident claim is the defendant. Besides multiple possible liable parties, injury victims might face big corporations. Think UPS and FedEx. Large trucking companies often have legal teams that focus on defending against injury claims. In truck accident cases, the process typically involves disputes over liability and a thorough review of the circumstances by all parties involved.
Additionally, truck accidents often cause considerable damage. Victims suffer catastrophic injuries that alter their lives. Compensation should cover these long-term consequences, but it may be more difficult to pursue a claim without the assistance of a lawyer. Our Stockton truck accident lawyers are connected to a network of industry professionals who can help demonstrate that these injuries have had a significant impact on a person’s quality of life.
Truck Accidents And Civil Lawsuits
As part of the claims process, our Stockton truck accident attorneys will draft the complaint, a legal document that initiates a civil lawsuit. The following are some examples of what you may need to establish in negligence claims you assert against the truck driver:
- A truck driver has operated a truck that is unsafe and has not been properly maintained.
- A truck driver has operated a vehicle for an excessive number of hours without resting.
- A truck driver has not adhered to traffic laws and regulations.
- A truck driver did not look at their blind spots before changing lanes.
- A truck driver passed through roads that were unsafe.
- A truck driver lost control of the vehicle due to excessive weight on the trailer.
- A truck driver was operating a big rig without adequate training or experience.
All drivers must adhere to the same standard of care to operate a vehicle as a reasonably prudent person would under the same circumstances. Similarly, truck drivers have a duty to those they meet on the open road. The four elements of negligence are duty of care, breach of duty, causation, and damages. Establishing these elements is crucial in a personal injury claim in California.
Types Of Evidence To Collect At A Truck Accident Scene
Our Stockton truck accident lawyers will start by investigating your truck accident. Aside from the proof you gather at the scene, we can also collect other key evidence to create a compelling case. Here are some of the pieces of evidence we can collect and use:
- Photos and videos of the accident scene, damages, injuries, and road conditions.
- Police report outlining the theory of liability and a series of events based on the authorities’ investigation.
- Medical records detailing your injuries and how severe they are.
- Witness statements.
- Truck inspection report after inspecting the truck for possible mechanical or maintenance issues.
- Black box data that accurately records critical details, including truck speed, braking, and hours on the road.
- Trucking company records, including maintenance and repair logs, driver employment history, and training records.
- Driver’s hours of service logs.
- Email and phone records that could show whether the driver was texting or talking on the phone while driving.
- Alcohol and drug test results will be used to determine whether intoxication or drug use contributed to the accident.
- In-cab camera footage can show whether a driver is tailgating, distracted, or drowsy.
Many of these pieces of evidence must be acquired promptly. Black boxes and in-cab cameras store data for only a certain number of days, after which the data is gone.
If you can’t access any of these, we can help retrieve them. Our truck accident lawyers in Stockton can help preserve important evidence. We can also collaborate with professionals, such as accident reconstructionists, to analyze the gathered data.
Why And How Do We Preserve Evidence After A Truck Accident?
Evidence can help support your claim and demonstrate how the accident occurred and the sequence of events leading up to it. We conduct thorough investigations to help determine fault and establish negligence. Establishing a case can be challenging without reliable proof, and claims may be denied or disputed in the absence of sufficient evidence.
If we take on your case, our Stockton attorneys will file and keep all relevant visual evidence and documents related to your truck accident case. Meanwhile, we will send a spoliation letter to trucking companies to help prevent the deletion or alteration of black box data and camera footage. This letter requests the preservation of critical data, as it may be necessary for potential litigation.
Trucking companies or any entity that alters or destroys the evidence indicated in the letter could face sanctions. These sanctions could be monetary. The court may also make rulings that could impair the defendant’s position.
The Economic Value Of A Truck Accident Claim
Financial losses may be significant after suffering injuries in a truck accident. In some cases, the truck driver and trucking company may be held financially responsible for compensating victims for their damages. An essential component of any truck accident case is pursuing accountability from the parties found liable for their negligent or reckless conduct. Accurately calculating the full extent of the damage is important to support a claim for compensation based on the actual losses.
Our Stockton truck accident attorneys can help calculate the damages relevant to your specific case. Both general and special damages are often included in these cases, and in rare instances, courts may award punitive damages, depending on the specific facts and circumstances. The economic value of your case may be influenced by factors such as:
- Disabilities experienced on a daily basis.
- Pain and suffering.
- Past and future lost earnings.
- Medication costs.
- Past and future medical expenses.
If you have suffered serious bodily injuries during a truck accident, you may be able to pursue compensation from the negligent party. However, the process may involve evaluating whether the injuries are attributable to the accident. Working with our skilled Stockton truck accident lawyers can help you gather the necessary evidence and resources to support your case.
How Do You Calculate Damages For Emotional Distress?
Calculating non-economic damages can be challenging. Typically, we consult industry professionals to quantify your experiences based on the impact of the accident on your life. For example, life care planners can calculate how much your disability will cost you in the long term.
Here are possible ways our lawyers in Stockton can calculate your non-economic damages after a truck accident:
- Per Diem Method — With this approach, the jury will assign the daily rate to your emotional distress. Then, they will multiply that rate by the estimated duration of the issue.
- Multiplier Method — This method is one of the personal injury lawyers’ commonly used techniques. They first calculate damages with a set dollar value, such as medical bills and lost wages. Then, they calculate non-economic damages by multiplying the estimated cost of economic damages by a specific multiplier, typically between 1.5 and 4.
Wrongful Death Claims And Truck Accidents
The surviving family members of a victim who died during a truck accident may be able to file a wrongful death claim, depending on eligibility. These family members represent the estate of the decedent. The surviving family members must still establish the defendant’s liability. Wrongful death cases often involve multiple areas of law, including civil, criminal, and property law.
In California, the following people may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim if their loved one dies in a truck accident:
- Spouse.
- Registered domestic partner.
- Children.
- Minor children of the deceased.
- Parents.
- Grandchildren, if there are no surviving children.
- Legal heirs.
- Anyone who receives financial support from the deceased.
The decedent’s loved ones may be able to seek compensation for their economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses.
- Funeral and burial fees.
- Loss of financial support.
- Loss of companionship and love.
- Pre-death pain and suffering the deceased experienced.
- Punitive damages for gross negligence.
The compensation in a truck accident case depends on the unique circumstances involved. Experienced truck accident lawyers in Stockton can help evaluate the factors affecting your claim’s value and assist with the negotiation process.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Truck Accident Cases In Stockton, CA?
The statute of limitations for truck accident cases in California is two years. That means accident victims in Stockton only have two years to file a claim. Their case will likely be dismissed if they miss the deadline, regardless of the evidence obtained. If your case is against the government, it’s important to note that the statute of limitations is only six months.
Consider consulting with our Stockton attorneys to handle your truck accident case to determine what deadline applies to your case. If you hire us, we will handle the legal work on your behalf. Even if you are still recovering, we can begin your case to help avoid missing deadlines, depending if applicable to your situation. Acting sooner will also help us acquire the necessary evidence to strengthen your claim.
Our client was sitting in his truck on the side of the road, when his vehicle was struck by a passing car. The other car was driven by a man who fell asleep at the wheel. Once he fell asleep, his vehicle drifted into traffic that was parked on the side of the road. The injuries suffered were to his neck and lower back. He underwent a spinal surgery with a great recovery. A few weeks before trial, the defense paid the policy of 1 Million.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
How Much Are Truck Accident Settlements?
A truck accident claim settlement can vary greatly based on certain factors, such as the severity of the injury, the total amount of damages, and whether the victim is partially to blame.
The insurance companies’ willingness to settle will also significantly influence the outcome. In some cases, the settlement offered may not reflect the full extent of the losses. Some individuals accept these offers to expedite the claims process.
Other factors to consider are:
- Comparative Negligence — California follows the pure comparative negligence rule. This law allows insurers or the court to assign fault to all parties involved. If there is sufficient evidence to establish that the plaintiff is partially at fault, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
- Punitive Damages — The court awards punitive damages in rare cases to punish the defendant for gross negligence or misconduct. This type of damage may sometimes be monetary in nature. Other times, it’s a set of rules the defendant must follow.
Truck Accident Statistics
Recent years have shown a slow increase in truck accident deaths and injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 5,936 people were killed, while 160,608 people were injured in accidents involving medium- to heavy trucks. These deaths and injuries were a 2% and 3.7% increase from the previous year, respectively.
In two-vehicle accidents, head-on collisions with trucks were responsible for 32% of fatalities in 2022, according to a report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Meanwhile, injuries and deaths also increased from 2020 to 2021. A previous report from the NHTSA showed that 5,788 people died from truck accidents, a 17% increase from the 4,945 fatalities in 2020. Additionally, 154,993 people were reportedly injured in these incidents, a 9% increase from the estimated 141,613 injuries in 2020.
Throughout the years, the majority of injuries and fatalities were passenger vehicle occupants, followed by truck occupants. Non-occupants, including pedestrians and bicyclists, make up the remaining percentage.
Our Stockton truck accident lawyers will guide you through the process from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents In Stockton, California
Can You Also Sue The Trucking Company?
Depending on the circumstances, you may also be able to sue the trucking company. According to the “respondeat superior” rule, employers may be held accountable for their employees’ negligence. If the trucker caused the truck accident, their employer could also be named as a liable party in your claim. Although having multiple liable parties makes a truck accident case more complicated, it can provide additional options for seeking compensation for your losses.
Our Stockton truck accident lawyers work to help you establish liability and pursue compensation in accordance with California law.
How Much Does A Truck Accident Lawyer Cost?
Many truck accident lawyers work on contingency, which means you don’t have to pay any attorney’s fees upfront unless compensation is obtained. Please note that you may still be responsible for certain case-related costs, regardless of the outcome. Our Stockton truck accident lawyers also follow the same fee structure, helping victims access legal representation without immediate legal costs. We don’t charge an hourly rate, and there are no hidden charges. We will also discuss the percentage we will take during your consultation and outline it clearly in writing.
What Happens If I Share Fault For My Recent Truck Accident?
Your compensation would be reduced according to your level of fault if you shared blame for the truck accident. For example, if you are 25% at fault, you can only pursue 75% of your compensation.
During the claims process, disputes over liability may arise, which can affect the outcome of your case. Stockton truck accident lawyers can assist with communications and negotiations related to your claim.
What Should I Do If I Were Injured In A Truck Accident While Walking Or Biking?
The key thing is to remain calm and check yourself for injuries or discomfort if possible. Take note of any wound or bruise, then call for help. If you can’t call 911, ask strangers and witnesses for help.
Once the police and EMT arrive, get immediate medical attention and cooperate with the police. Avoid discussing assumptions and accepting blame. If possible, gather as much evidence as you can. After the accident, get a more in-depth evaluation from a doctor. Also, consider consulting a Stockton truck accident attorney to help you file a claim.
What Should I Do If My Loved One Was Killed In A Truck Accident?
Consult an attorney if your loved one was killed in a truck accident in Stockton. They can answer your questions and concerns and help you file a claim to seek financial compensation for you and your family, subject to eligibility. If you choose to work with our lawyers, here’s what they can do:
- Determine if you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim.
- Work to identify potentially liable parties and help establish their negligence.
- Calculate the accident’s financial impact.
- Gather and analyze evidence.
- Advocate for your rights and represent your interests.
Our truck accident lawyers in Stockton understand that no amount of money can replace a life. While financial compensation cannot replace your loss, it may help address some of the challenges associated with unexpected expenses following such an accident.
What Should I Do If The Truck Driver Who Hit Me Is Uninsured Or Underinsured?
You may be able to pursue financial compensation under your own policy if a trucker who hit you was either uninsured or underinsured. California insurance companies typically offer uninsured motorist coverage. Although not required, it can help protect you in the worst-case scenarios. To know more about how this policy can help you and how to file a claim, consult our Stockton truck accident lawyers.
How Do I Pay For My Medical Bills After A Truck Accident?
Health insurance may cover medical expenses resulting from a truck accident. For those without insurance, medical providers sometimes accept a medical lien, which means payment for treatment can come from any compensation received in a settlement or court award.
Our Stockton truck accident lawyers can help you find legal options to seek compensation for your medical bills. We can also connect you with doctors to help with your treatment and create documentation for your injuries.
How Do I Get My Lost Wages Reimbursed After A Truck Accident?
You may be able to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. Under California law, you can include lost wages and employment benefits as economic damages. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your current job position, you may also be able to seek reimbursement for reduced earning capacity.
To document lost wages, you may present a written statement from your employer detailing your lost earnings. Additional supporting documents, such as pay stubs or an employment agreement showing your wages and benefits, can also be helpful. Our Stockton truck accident lawyers will calculate your lost wage damages and include them in the demand letter as part of your claim.
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Truck Accident Claim?
Truck accident claims can take months or even years to settle. If your case is more severe and complex, especially when many liable parties are involved and your claim moves to court, it can take years to resolve.
What Happens If I Go To Trial For My Truck Accident Case?
An insurance claim can be brought to court for several reasons. The case may involve extensive damages, there could be multiple liable parties, or the at-fault party may not be willing to settle. Once your case goes to trial, our experienced Stockton truck accident lawyers will present evidence, question witnesses, and advocate for your rights before a judge or jury.
Although many of the cases we have handled here at Arash Law are settled out of court, we are ready to take your case to court if necessary.
Can An Undocumented Immigrant File A Personal Injury Claim In California?
Yes, an undocumented immigrant can still file a personal injury claim in California. They have the legal right to pursue compensation for any damages and losses they may have suffered as a result of a truck accident, depending on the situation. These damages include economic and non-economic losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our Stockton truck accident lawyers will take your case and treat it with the same level of respect and attention we give all our cases. If English is not your first language, we can arrange for a translator to assist throughout the process.
Consult With Our Truck Accident Lawyers In Stockton
Arash Law is committed to helping our clients seek financial compensation for their injuries. We have decades of experience representing individuals who have been injured in truck accidents, helping them pursue compensation in accordance with California law. Our team focuses on each case and advocates for the rights of our clients through negotiations and litigation. Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Our car accident lawyers also help victims of car crashes, Uber accidents, pedestrian accidents, hit-and-run accidents, and DUI accidents. Our dedicated Stockton truck accident lawyers also serve neighboring cities like Manteca, Lodi, Tracy, Ripon, Galt, Brentwood, Oakley, Riverbank, Modesto, Oakdale, Antioch, and Ceres.
