Vallejo 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 Vallejo Truck Accident Lawyers Offer Dedicated Legal Representation
Are you suffering injuries from a truck accident? Our Vallejo truck accident lawyers can evaluate your crash, advocate for your rights, and potentially help you pursue compensation. Contact us at Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
It’s unsurprising to see a semi-truck or 18-wheeler traversing Vallejo’s roads and highways. Truck accidents are also common in the area due to the city’s high population and congested traffic. Since Vallejo is located in the San Francisco Bay Area, such incidents are likely to occur.
Over 5,000 people died in truck collisions across the United States in 2022, according to data from the National Safety Council (NSC). Many more suffer from minor to life-threatening injuries. If you or a loved one is injured in these situations, our Vallejo truck accident attorneys can help explain whether you have the right to pursue a settlement or verdict.
Reasons To Consult Our Vallejo Truck Accident Lawyers
A truck accident caused by another person’s negligence might make you think you have little to no chance of having your injuries compensated. It makes sense when you consider how severe these crashes are and how complicated the claims process can be. However, our truck accident lawyers can offer experienced legal representation in Vallejo, CA.
California requires all drivers to maintain auto insurance coverage, which can be used to cover damages. You’ll need to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer to start the process of pursuing compensation. If you don’t know where to begin, call our accident hotline at (888) 488-1391. We can help evaluate whether your claims are valid or not, and if it is, you could have our attorneys take your case.
Our Vallejo truck accident lawyers can help you file it and meet all the requirements needed for the process. We’ll do all the legal legwork and mundane tasks to avoid issues that could interfere with your case’s progress so you can focus on your well-being.
Cuevas v. Salinas Farm Labor Contractor (settled on 2/22/2022) – Settlement involving a woman working as a fruit packer when her hair was caught in a running conveyor belt resulting in severe trauma to her head and scalp, traumatic brain injury, and skull fracture. In addition to this, Arash Law obtained a $14 million settlement on behalf of the client against a 3rd party.– TINA ESHGHIEH
What Is A Truck Accident Lawsuit?
There is a possibility that you may need to go to court to pursue compensation. Doing this could be a feasible option in scenarios where your damages exceed the defendant’s insurance coverage. You can file a lawsuit against the negligent party once you have tried all the preliminary options.
Once you’ve filed a personal injury claim in Vallejo, the defendant can respond in two ways: accept liability and settle it, or deny it. The former is typically the efficient option for both parties. A lawsuit extends the timeline for resolving the case. It’s also more expensive than a swift settlement. Nevertheless, even if a lawsuit is the last resort, we are prepared to advocate for your rights in a trial.
If we take legal action, the judge and jury will determine the amount you may be able to seek. Our truck accident attorneys in Vallejo, experienced in litigation, can prepare to face defendants such as large trucking companies and their insurers. We will present a well-supported case to help demonstrate the other party’s negligence and the extent of your damages.
Each aspect of the process can easily get complicated. You can thus consider seeking experienced legal representation to build your case and pursue compensation on your behalf. Our Vallejo attorneys for truck accident cases can offer dedicated representation every step of the way.
Negligence And Truck Accidents
Negligent behavior often results in severe consequences, especially when behind the wheel of a massive vehicle. Though any motorist could potentially cause a crash, truck drivers are often held to a higher standard since they have to maneuver larger and heavier vehicles. Since a simple mistake can put lives at risk, truckers should only operate large vehicles after dedicated training and must also be licensed to drive commercial trucks legally.
If a truck driver neglects their duty of care to others, anyone traveling near them is at risk of serious injury or death. There can be serious consequences for everyone involved in a truck accident, especially the victims.
As a victim, you may be able to pursue compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Reach out to our Vallejo truck accident attorneys to understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation.
Types Of Cases Our Truck Accident Attorneys Handle
Knowing the most common truck accidents helps us better understand what causes them. These are some of the cases our truck accident lawyers handle in Vallejo:
- Jackknife Accidents — This accident happens when a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle, forming a “jackknife” shape. A semi-truck could jackknife if the driver slams the brakes improperly.
- Overturn/Rollover Accidents — Trucks can roll over if the driver is speeding, especially at curves. Potholes, curbs, and debris on the road can also cause such accidents.
- Rear-End Collisions — Large, heavy vehicles can’t stop as quickly as their smaller counterparts. That’s why truckers should maintain a longer following distance. Tailgating and distracted driving can both lead to rear-end collisions. While these typically end in minor injuries in car accidents, it’s not the same for trucks versus passenger vehicles. Occupants of the smaller cars are likely to get moderate to serious injuries.
- Underride Accidents — These crashes typically happen when a car rear-ends a truck and gets stuck under the trailer. The rig ends up crushing the roof of the smaller vehicle and potentially killing its occupants.
- Blind Spot Accidents — Truckers can easily miss vehicles or pedestrians in their “no zones” or blind spots. Drivers must stay out of these areas as much as possible to avoid side-swipe accidents. Truckers are also responsible for communicating with other motorists on the road through their signal lights.
Regardless of the type of collision you’ve encountered in Vallejo, our truck accident lawyers can review and potentially take on your case. We could work to leverage our available resources, knowledge, and experience as we help pursue compensation on your behalf.
What Are The Common Causes Of Truck Accidents?
Some of the common causes our Vallejo truck accident lawyers encounter include:
- Fatigued Driving — Truckers drive for hours and hundreds of miles to meet demanding schedules. Doing this for a few days can lead to fatigue, impairing reaction time, negatively affecting judgment, and increasing the risk of an accident. That’s why drivers must comply with Hours of Service regulations, limiting their driving to 11 hours in a 14-hour window.
- Distracted Driving — Using phones while driving is one of the main causes of accidents. Truckers often use them for navigation or to prevent boredom. Unfortunately, distractions take drivers’ focus away from driving safely, contributing to accidents.
- Speeding — Trucks have longer stopping distances because of their weight and size. Pair that with speeding, and it becomes harder to avoid accidents, as the vehicle can’t stop in time. Additionally, truckers won’t have enough time to react to sudden traffic changes if they exceed the speed limit.
- Careless Driving — Tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and road rage are just some of the reckless driving behaviors that could lead to trucking accidents.
- Mechanical Failures — Poor maintenance can lead to issues like tire blowouts, brake failures, engine issues, and other mechanical problems. All these issues could contribute to truck accidents. That’s why trucking companies must keep their trucks well-maintained.
- Improper Loading — If cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transit. This movement can make the truck unstable, potentially resulting in accidents like rollovers.
- Weather Conditions — Fog and rain can greatly impact visibility, increasing the chances of colliding with other vehicles or stationary objects. Rain can also make the road slick and slippery, further increasing accident risks.
The common thing about all of these causes, except for weather conditions, is that they could be prevented in one way or another. Resting, focusing on the road ahead, driving within the speed limits, routine truck maintenance, and securely loading cargo can all help mitigate the risk of truck accidents. Trucking companies and their drivers can even plan ahead for weather-related challenges. If you think that negligence had something to do with your accident, speak with our legal team at (888) 488-1391.
Common Injuries In A Truck Accident
Due to the sheer force of a truck collision, victims are likely to sustain severe injuries, which include the following:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Hitting the head hard on solid surfaces during a traffic collision can lead to TBIs. They vary from mild concussions to severe cognitive impairments. Victims might have to take days off work with no pay, further increasing their financial burden. Our truck accident lawyers have helped injured clients pursue compensation for lost wages, including the benefits they could have earned.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The impact from a truck accident can damage the spinal cord, resulting in partial to complete paralysis. This disability can affect a victim’s life forever. They would likely require extensive medical care and lifelong rehabilitation, all of which can be financially draining.
Broken Bones
Fractures are painful and can limit mobility, even in mild to moderate cases. Unfortunately, truck collisions are more high-impact, so victims are more vulnerable to incurring moderate to severe fractures. Such injuries may require surgical intervention and physical therapy. The healing process can also be extremely painful and uncomfortable.
Internal Injuries
Organ contusion (bruising) is also common in truck collisions. Plus, if the ribs fracture, the broken bones might puncture and damage internal organs. These injuries are life-threatening and incur high medical bills.
Burns And Scarring
Colliding with a truck, especially a tanker, may lead to a fire or explosion. If that happens, victims will likely sustain burns that require multiple surgeries. Eventually, they could lead to scarring, which negatively affects confidence and self-esteem.
Emotional Trauma
Besides bodily harm, truck accident victims might also suffer from emotional trauma. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be as debilitating as physical injuries.
If you need help finding doctors in and around Vallejo, our truck accident lawyers can help you connect with them. Complete our form so we can see how we may get you the help you need.
Who Is Liable For A Truck Accident?
Multiple parties could be liable for a single truck accident. Here are some of the potentially responsible individuals and companies you can file a claim against:
- Truck Drivers — Truckers are usually the at-fault party. For example, if they cause an accident while drunk or tired, you could hold them liable for your injuries.
- Trucking Companies — Like their employees, trucking companies must follow federal and state regulations. If they hire or retain unqualified drivers, they could be held liable.
- Truck Manufacturers — Accidents can arise from defects in the truck’s design or components. In these cases, you may hold the manufacturer accountable for your damages. Our personal injury lawyers can help you file a product liability claim to seek financial reparation.
- Shipping Companies — Truck accidents can result from unsecured or improperly loaded cargo. If a truck crashes and injures you because cargo shifted during transit, you may hold the shipping and loading companies accountable.
Determining who may be liable can be challenging, but our Vallejo truck accident lawyers can help identify who is potentially at fault. We might then help you pursue a claim against them. Even if the liable party is a large company, our lawyers can still negotiate with them, advocating for your rights and claims.
What Evidence Can Be Used In A Truck Accident Claim?
Our Vallejo truck accident attorneys can independently investigate your case to find out who may be liable. Part of the process is gathering key evidence to back up your claim.
Black Box
Trucks are equipped with a “black box” that records information from the engine. It can record how long the truck has been moving, its speed, whether brakes were applied, and other significant data. Obtaining this evidence is critical. It can confirm whether the driver didn’t take the law-mandated break or went beyond the speed limit.
However, black boxes usually only store data for 30 days before deletion. That’s why you must act quickly to preserve evidence. If you’d like assistance with this task, you can contact our truck accident lawyers in Vallejo shortly after a collision.
Video Footage
We can obtain useful information from different cameras, from dash cams to red light cameras and CCTVs. Even personal videos from witnesses can be useful in establishing liability and negligence.
Company Records
These records may also help establish company liability. The driver’s file may indicate whether they have undergone proper training to operate a commercial vehicle. Additionally, our truck accident lawyers can review maintenance and inspection records.
Other Pieces Of Evidence
Testimonies from people who saw what happened can help establish the sequence of events. Meanwhile, police reports often have a theory of liability. Other documents, like medical records, can also establish the severity of your injuries and link them to the accident. Accident scene photos and statements given by accident reconstruction experts are also proof.
All of these pieces of evidence allow us to identify who was potentially at fault. We will use the proof we gather to develop a case on your behalf. When you work with our Vallejo lawyers for your truck accident case, an effort will be made to collect, analyze, and preserve all available evidence.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, don’t hesitate to call our Solano County accident attorneys. We could connect you to medical surgeons, physical therapists, and other experts in the field who can give you a chance at healing better.
How Long Do I Have To File A Truck Accident Claim In California?
Accident victims have the right to file a settlement case against the at-fault parties, but they only have a limited amount of time to act. California has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Victims only have two years from the date of the crash to file a claim or pursue legal action. Some exceptions may extend or shorten depending on the specifics of a case. Failure to file on time forfeits their right to seek compensation.
You can address this problem by consulting with our experienced Vallejo truck accident lawyers. Dial our hotline at (888) 488-1391 to initiate your truck accident claim. If you have a case, we can help you submit all necessary legal documents on time.
What Damages Can You Seek In A Truck Accident Case?
As an injured victim in a truck accident, you may be able to seek economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages are the tangible financial losses you suffer due to the accident. These damages are aimed at reimbursing you for these expenses, which can include:
- Past and future medical bills
- Property damage
- Lost wages and benefits
- Reduced earning capacity
Meanwhile, non-economic damages are intangible losses. They are subjective and do not have a direct dollar equivalent. These damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Your settlement will be based on these damages. Our Vallejo truck accident lawyers can help quantify and calculate your losses so we have a basis when negotiating with the at-fault parties.
December 2016: $22M+ verdict in a mild traumatic brain injury case. The entire details of the case can be found in the public record filings by the defendant entity that sued its defense.– BRIAN BEECHER
What Should You Do After A Truck Accident In Vallejo?
The steps you take promptly following a truck accident can affect both your immediate well-being and your potential personal injury claim. Here’s a sample guideline of what to do after a truck accident:
- Prioritize your safety. If possible, move your vehicle off the roadway. If you have any injuries, call 911 right away.
- Get immediate medical treatment, especially when your wounds are severe.
- Usually, police will be dispatched to the accident scene. If not, contact the local Vallejo PD and cooperate with them. Relay the facts, but do not add unnecessary information or make assumptions.
- Note down important details, including the truck driver’s license information, insurance details, the truck’s make and model, license plate number, and vehicle identification number (VIN).
- Take photos and videos of the damage to your vehicle, the truck, and the accident scene from various angles. Also, gather information from witnesses, including their contact details.
- Seek further medical attention, even if you feel fine. The medical records from these health assessments and treatments are helpful should you pursue legal action.
- Notify your insurance company of the accident. Explain your side of the story, but only share what’s relevant and true. Doing so can help establish the trucker’s liability and/or other negligent parties.
- Contact our Vallejo truck accident lawyers. We can help you negotiate with at-fault insurance companies. Our attorneys can also present your case to a judge and jury if your case goes to trial. Retaining our services may help you make informed legal decisions if you’re eligible to pursue compensation. Call (888) 488-1391.
Truck Accident Statistics
Motorists across Vallejo could be at risk of fatal truck crashes, which pose significant concerns across California. These accidents are likely to have severe implications for the victims and their families. They occur for various reasons, including driver error, negligent industry practices, and mechanical failures.
Here are some statistics that shed light on their frequency and impact on public safety:
- According to the same data from NSC discussed above, California had 436 deaths from large truck crashes in 2022.
- The number of large trucks involved in fatal crashes nationwide in 2022 increased by 1.8%, from 5,733 in 2021 to 5,837.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that 72% of the people who died in truck-related accidents in 2021 were occupants of passenger vehicles.
- According to the same report, 3% of truckers involved in these fatal incidents had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 grams per deciliter (g/dL) or higher.
- Around 9% of all vehicles involved in fatal accidents were large trucks.
- About 71% of fatal truck crashes happened during the day.
If you or a loved one falls victim to negligence on the road, our Vallejo personal injury attorneys, who have years of cumulative experience handling truck accidents, can advocate for your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Usual Result Of A Truck Settlement?
Truck accident settlements vary greatly, as results are typically based on the facts of the case. For example, the damages and injuries associated with the accident can significantly affect compensation.
Our truck accident lawyers in Vallejo can help you calculate and quantify your case. We can estimate how much your case is worth.
What If I Was Partially At Fault For The Truck Crash?
California is a pure comparative negligence state. This law means that victims who are partially to blame can still seek compensation for the percentage for which they are not at fault.
Unfortunately, pure comparative negligence can potentially cause disputes during the claims process or in court. For example, blame may be shifted onto you to reduce your compensation. However, our Vallejo attorneys for truck accident cases understand these arguments and are prepared to address them during negotiations.
Why Are Truck Accidents Different From Car Accidents?
Truck accidents differ from regular car accidents for several reasons. Due to their size, trucks have a greater potential of causing more damage and injuries in a collision. Consult with our Vallejo truck accident attorneys to learn how they can assist you in pursuing financial compensation for your injuries and losses.
The average tractor-trailer weighs around 80,000 pounds, which is the allowable cap weight in California. Meanwhile, a passenger vehicle typically weighs 4,000 pounds. A collision between the two can be devastating for the smaller vehicle’s occupants.
Trucks also need longer stopping distances and are more difficult to control, especially in traffic. Plus, they have big blind spots that truckers and other motorists have to consider when changing lanes. All of these factors increase the likelihood of a truck accident.
How Much Is A Truck Accident Case Worth?
Due to various factors, determining the exact worth of a truck accident claim can be challenging. Our truck accident lawyers will have to check the available insurance policies to estimate how much money you can expect to pursue from your truck wreck case.
These policies usually differ based on the type of truck, its purpose, and the cargo being transported. Additional factors include the trucking company’s size and the coverage limits they selected. In general, a trucking company’s liability coverage ranges from $750,000 to $5 million to comply with California’s minimum insurance requirements. These numbers could give you an idea of how much your case might be worth. You can ask one of our lawyers about how this liability coverage could affect any estimates for your claim.
Despite this, victims will likely be unable to pursue the full limits of an at-fault driver’s insurance policy. Conversely, that policy may be insufficient to cover the projected value of your damages. That’s why you can consider speaking to our experienced truck accident attorneys. We can help estimate the potential worth of your claim and explain the available sources of compensation you could pursue.
What Is The FMCSA?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry in the United States. Its goal is to improve nationwide roadway safety and promote safe commercial truck operations.
The agency’s responsibilities include implementing and overseeing truck safety standards and regulations, such as:
- Commercial driver’s license program
- Hours of service rules
- Drug and alcohol testing
- Vehicle maintenance standards
- Electronic logging device regulations
- Insurance requirements
Our Vallejo truck accident lawyers are well-versed in the laws and regulations governing the trucking industry. If the company fails to adhere to these standards and an accident occurs, we can help you investigate and find evidence of their non-compliance.
How Much Compensation Can You Pursue?
The amount you can file a case for depends on the facts of your truck accident case. The factors that influence your compensation include:
- Your injuries’ severity
- The total cost of your medical expenses
- Your work and its benefits
- Whether you missed work due to the accident
- How much has your lifestyle changed
- The pain and suffering you have and will likely endure
Contact our Vallejo lawyers, who handle truck accident cases, to get an estimate of the compensation you might seek.
Why Do I Need A Lawyer For My Truck Accident?
A common question we get is, “Why do I need a personal injury lawyer?” Many seem to think that getting legal representation is not worth the effort, especially for minor cases. However, doing so can be helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the claims process or have a complicated truck accident case.
Truckers and their employers aren’t the only potentially liable parties in such claims. You might be able to pursue compensation from multiple entities, including truck parts manufacturers, government agencies, and even other negligent motorists. This could mean having to negotiate a settlement with more than one insurance company, which might be even more challenging if you don’t know how these discussions usually go. For example, you may not know that you’re not legally obligated to provide insurers with a recorded statement or to sign a document. If you don’t have a lawyer to help you, you might end up committing mistakes that weaken your claim.
Working with our Vallejo truck accident lawyers can help you handle potential complications in the claims process. We can help you negotiate with one or more at-fault parties and their insurance companies, working to advocate for your interests.
Is It Worth Suing For A Truck Accident?
The answer varies on a case-by-case basis. Auto insurance can cover minor accidents. However, truck accidents typically end with more serious injuries and extensive damage, so you can generally expect a more difficult claims process. With our attorneys for truck accidents in Vallejo by your side, you can make an informed decision on whether to sue for a truck accident or not.
When Should You Hire A Vallejo Truck Accident Lawyer?
It can be helpful to involve lawyers who handle truck accident cases in Vallejo early on after a crash. In addition to having legal representatives communicate with the involved parties, we also have connections with a network of credible experts. They can help prove liability and link your injuries to the defendant’s negligence. We will also prepare physical and documentary evidence.
Hiring a lawyer may not be on your mind in the middle of a tragedy. Nevertheless, you may run into circumstances that might be better handled with dedicated legal representation, so reach out to us to learn about your rights and how to protect them while pursuing compensation from negligent parties.
Consult Our Vallejo Truck Accident Lawyers
There’s no understating the potential consequences of an accident involving trucks. It’s for this reason that strict rules and regulations govern the trucking industry. Truck drivers and their companies who violate these rules could be held liable for your injuries and other losses.
No victim deserves to suffer because of someone else’s negligence. Arash Law is here to help injured clients identify and pursue compensation from the at-fault party. You may want to consult with someone with the experience and resources to handle such potentially complicated cases. Our truck and car accident lawyers have helped injured clients across California pursue compensation for the losses they’ve incurred after traffic crashes.
Additionally, our truck accident attorneys in Vallejo take cases on a contingency fee agreement, meaning clients won’t be charged for the services of our attorneys unless compensation is obtained. However, certain case-related expenses may still apply outside of this agreement, regardless of how a case concludes.
If you have questions or want to file a claim, contact our Vallejo truck accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391.
Our personal injury law firm also helps accident victims in surrounding locations, including Benicia, Crockett, Tormey, American Canyon, Napa Junction, Middleton, Creston, Cordelia, Port Costa, Rodeo, Brazos, and Buchli.
