Tehama County 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 Tehama County Truck Accident Lawyers Are Committed To Helping Injury Victims
Large trucks carry a lot of momentum, and the greater the force involved in an accident, the greater the chance of severe injuries. In situations that were otherwise relatively minor, big-rig crashes can still result in catastrophic or fatal trauma. We understand what one suffers after a truck accident; that’s why our Tehama County truck accident lawyers are here to help. Call (888) 488-1391 to speak with our experienced legal team and learn more about your options for seeking compensation.
Located between the Sacramento and Oregon borders, Tehama County offers a healthy and serene lifestyle. Recreational activities in the region include hiking, camping, scenic tours, golfing, boating, hunting, and fishing. It’s a picture-perfect place for everyone, but unfortunately, like in any other area, accidents happen, particularly truck accidents.
Arash Law understands the challenges victims may face after a truck accident, whether physically, emotionally, or financially. Our lawyers have handled different types of injury cases in California and helped victims pursue compensation for their losses. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning there’s no upfront cost unless we win your case. However, you may still be responsible for other case costs. Give us a call, and we will help you understand our payment structure and clarify any potential fees.
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
What Our Experienced Tehama County Truck Accident Lawyers Can Do For Your Case
If you or someone you know has been the victim of a truck accident, Tehama County truck accident lawyers can advocate for your best interests. Our team of skilled lawyers at Arash Law can help you negotiate with insurance companies.
Our advocacy and legal representation can provide the following, and more:
Investigate Your Accident
We can perform a comprehensive investigation of your case. Our lawyers will work to understand every detail of the crash, identify who’s at fault, and build your case. We can also collect information from police officers or witnesses who were present on the day of the accident.
Manage The Insurance Claims Process
We know dealing with insurance companies and legalities can be overwhelming. We can help you manage communications with the insurance representatives, the other party’s attorneys, and medical providers. Our attorneys can help you file your claim properly and within the legal time limits.
Calculate The True Value Of Your Claim
It is important to evaluate all the losses you’ve experienced, and we can help you assess them. We’ll gather all the necessary documents like medical records, bills, info about missed work and wages, or vehicle repair receipts. This helps us determine the value of your claim and assist you in pursuing the compensation you may be eligible for.
Why Hire Our Tehama County Truck Accident Lawyers For Your Case
Dealing with legal matters can be frustrating, especially when you’re going through a tough time. A lawyer can assist you in dealing with the legal legwork. First off, if you find a lawyer offering a free consultation, that’s a great opportunity to get your questions answered without any commitment. They can guide you through the legal technicalities and help you make informed decisions.
Our Tehama County truck accident lawyers offer compassionate and dedicated support to victims. From the start, we’ll look into the details of your injuries and discuss your options during our free initial case review. Our legal team can collaborate with investigators and medical experts to support your case. Our goal is to pursue all possible options for compensation, treating you with the care and respect you need during this challenging time.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents
Truck drivers, like everyone else, need to be careful on the road. If a truck causes a crash, the injured may have the right to file a claim against the at-fault party and pursue damages. Here are some of the common causes of truck accidents:
- Drivеr Fatigue — Long hours of driving contribute to fatigue. Federal regulations limit driving hours, but some drivers push it.
- Distracted Driving — Any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road is considered distracted driving. The use of a cell phone while driving and reading texts is becoming an increasingly common distraction.
- Drunk Driving — Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense that poses a significant threat on the road. A driver under the influence may display impaired judgment, slow reaction times, and poor coordination.
- Wоrn Out Tirеѕ or Brakes — When vehicles have worn-out tires or brakes, it poses a serious danger to everyone on the road. If a truck’s tires or brakes fail, it can lead to catastrophic accidents with severe consequences.
- Overweight & Unѕаfе Loads — Overweight and unsafe loads can make a truck harder to control and more dangerous. Trucks carrying excessive weight may lead to accidents, especially during turns or stops.
- Speeding — Some drivers can’t resist going too fast, which increases the risk of accidents on the road.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck accident, consider consulting with Tehama County truck accident lawyers to understand your next steps.
Types Of Injuries That Occur From Truck Accidents
While less frequent than accidents involving only cars, truck accidents can be more severe for victims and their families. When a large truck collides with a smaller vehicle, like a car, the smaller vehicle usually suffers the most damage.
Here are some common injuries from truck accidents:
- Whiplash — This neck injury happens when the head jerks forward and then snaps back suddenly, leading to symptoms like neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — The force of a truck accident can cause internal injuries, such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, or injuries to the abdominal area.
- Neck & Back Injuries — Truck accidents can result in damage to the back and spinal cord, causing chronic pain, paralysis, or loss of mobility.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — These occur when a sudden jolt or blow to the head disrupts normal brain function, ranging from mild concussions to severe damage with long-term complications.
- Lacerations & Broken Bones — The impact of a truck accident can lead to broken bones, like fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or other parts of the body, often requiring medical attention.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a truck accident in Tehama County, seeking legal assistance can help you better understand your situation. Contact our Tehama County truck accident lawyers to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
What To Do After A Trucking Accident In Tehama County, CA
Taking the appropriate steps after an incident can ensure your safety and support your potential claim. Consider doing the following:
- Call for Help — Assess the situation and call 911 if anyone is injured. Request an ambulance and police to the scene. Ask the police to file a report documenting the accident.
- Seek Medical Attention — Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, go to the emergency room or see your doctor soon after the accident. Seeking treatment is crucial for your health and provides evidence that your injuries resulted from the accident.
- Document the Crash — Take pictures of your vehicle damage, the accident scene, and your injuries.
- Exchange Information — Collect names, numbers, addresses, driver’s license details, license plate numbers, and basic insurance info from all involved. Get contact details from witnesses, and ask if they can provide statements. Be polite and cooperative, but avoid apologizing or admitting fault.
- Notify Your Insurance — Report the accident to your insurance company promptly, as some policies require immediate reporting and cooperation.
- Get Property Damage Valuation — Collect repair estimates for your vehicle, even if an insurance adjuster inspects the damage.
- Keep Track of Medical Treatment — Note all doctors and medical providers, and keep copies of records and bills. Maintain a record of how the injury affects your life, including time off work and daily challenges.
For legal assistance and guidance, contact Tehama County truck accident lawyers.
How Liability Is Established In Truck Accidents
Recovering from a truck accident and serious injuries is challenging. The legal process, coupled with determining liability, makes dealing with this situation alone overwhelming. Here are the four elements your attorneys need to prove to demonstrate the other party’s negligence:
- Duty of Care — First, you’ve got to show that the defendant owed you a duty of care.
- Breach of Duty — Next, you’ll need to prove that the other party breached their duty to use reasonable care, such as driving under the influence, violating working hour limits, or driving recklessly.
- Causation — Because of that breach of duty, you ended up getting hurt. Your attorney needs to prove that the breach caused your injuries.
- Damages — Your injuries caused by the breach of duty resulted in damages such as medical expenses, vehicle wreck resulting in repairs, and other property damage.
If you need legal help, reach out to our Tehama County truck accident lawyers. We’ll handle the legal details while you concentrate on your recovery.
Determining The Liable Party In A Tehama County Truck Accident
After a truck accident, figuring out who’s responsible can be tricky. While the truck driver may be at fault in some cases, especially if they were directly negligent or owned the truck, there could be other parties responsible for your injuries.
- Truck Driver — Whether an employee or independent contractor, truck drivers can make mistakes like texting, drinking, using drugs, or falling asleep at the wheel, leading to accidents.
- Trucking Company — Companies employing truck drivers can be responsible for their mistakes. Negligence, like hiring untrained drivers, overloading trucks, or neglecting maintenance, can lead to claims for potential compensation.
- Repair & Maintenance Shops — Shops performing faulty brake jobs or failing to meet the standard of care for maintaining large trucks can be held liable for injuries in some cases.
- Vehicle Manufacturers — Sometimes, the issue isn’t a repair job but a problem with the truck itself. Defects in tires, electrical systems, engine parts, tie straps, and other components can lead to serious accidents.
Experienced Tehama County truck accident lawyers who can guide you through the process, investigate the cause of the accident, and identify potentially liable parties.
Settlement in a case where a client was injured while unloading commercial truck; client sustained crush injuries to legs– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
The Deadline To File A Truck Accident Claim In California
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. Missing it could bar the victim from pursuing compensation.
However, certain exceptions may either shorten or extend this deadline. For instance, if the injured party is a minor, the two-year period typically begins when they reach the age of 18. When a claim involves a government entity, the claimant generally has six months to file an administrative claim. If the agency rejects the claim, there is an additional six-month window to file a lawsuit in civil court.
Tehama County truck accident lawyers can help you determine if exceptions to the deadline apply in your case and assist you in filing within the legal timeframe.
Trucking Accidents Statistics
Accidents involving large vehicles, particularly those with semi-trucks, can be more fatal than typical car accidents. The occupants of smaller vehicles are more likely to sustain severe injuries and have a lower chance of surviving.
Among all U.S. states, California experiences the highest number of injuries and fatalities in accidents involving large trucks, second only to Texas. Notably, 8% of all deaths stemming from big rig accidents occur in the Golden State.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that 4,965 people died in truck-related accidents in the US in 2020, a 1% decrease from the 5,032 fatalities in 2019. 71% of those killed in large-truck crashes were passengers in other cars and not in the trucks themselves.
In 2020, large trucks made up 8.9% of all fatal collisions in the US. Truck collisions killed at least 90 non-occupants in California, the largest number nationwide. Texas and Florida were the only states that recorded at least 50 truck-related fatalities that year.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck accident in Tehama County, contact our Tehama County truck accident lawyers to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
What Type Of Damages May Be Compensated In A Truck Accident Lawsuit?
When it comes to truck accidents and pursuing compensation, understanding the types of damages is crucial.
Economic losses cover all past and future financial expenses, like:
- Loss of income or earning potential.
- Present and future medical bills.
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation.
- Vehicle repair or replacement.
Non-economic damages are harms and losses that can’t be easily quantified, such as:
- Emotional pain and suffering.
- Loss of a career.
- Decrease in interests, hobbies, and enjoyable activities.
- General harm to your life due to the incident.
Next, punitive damages, also known as exemplary damages, are a specific type of damages that courts rarely grant. They are intended not to compensate the victim directly but to penalize the defendant for grossly negligent or malicious conduct and discourage similar behavior in the future.
Wrongful death claims, on the other hand, aim to provide compensation to the surviving family members or beneficiaries of the deceased person.
Trucking companies usually have strong legal teams, making it challenging for you to seek fair compensation. However, our truck accident lawyers in Tehama County are experienced in handling these cases. We can assess your situation and help you pursue just compensation for the damages you’ve suffered.
Truck Accident Laws And Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations define Commercial Motor Vehicles, also referred to as trucks, in two ways.
The first one says any truck used in interstate commerce to carry passengers or goods with a weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more. This includes various vehicles like delivery trucks, trailers attached to pick-up trucks, and box trucks.
The second definition is for heavier trucks called tractor/trailer vehicles. These need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate. These trucks must have a weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, and drivers must follow specific regulations, like the hours of service regulations. According to these rules:
- Truck drivers can work for a maximum of 14 hours a day, but they can only drive for 11 of those hours. The rest of the time is for breaks.
- Drivers need to rest for at least 10 consecutive hours before starting a new workday.
- Truck drivers must take regular days off, and the timing depends on the trucking company they work for.
If you’re facing challenges or have questions about a truck accident in Tehama County, California, consider reaching out to our Tehama County truck accident lawyers.
Speak To Our Dedicated Tehama County Truck Accident Lawyers
Truck accidents can leave victims with serious injuries like broken bones, brain trauma, and spinal cord issues, requiring a lot of medical care. Even with treatment, these injuries may lead to permanent impairment. The thing is, medical treatments for these injuries can be expensive. If you or a loved one has suffered harm in a truck collision, experienced Tehama County truck accident lawyers can help you understand your options under California law.
Arash Law is a team of experienced lawyers who care and are ready to help you out. Contact us at (888) 488-1391.
We also serve neighboring areas, including Willow Creek, Ukiah, Fort Bragg, Chico, Yuba City, Lincoln, Auburn, Redding, Anderson, Shasta Lake, Weaverville, Clearlake, Lakeport, Mendocino, Laytonville, Willows, Shingletown, Eureka, Fortuna, Arcata, and Trinidad.
