Vista Truck Accident Lawyers
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Trust Our Vista Truck Accident Lawyers To Get Compensation For Your Injuries
Getting injured in a collision with a large truck has a significant impact on your physical and emotional health. Our Vista truck accident lawyers understand this to the core. That’s why we take care of the legal technicalities, so you can concentrate on your recovery. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Truck accidents are life-altering, and it’s often the ones outside the truck who sustain more serious or fatal injuries. Because of the size and weight of trucks alone, even a low-impact collision can cause significant damage to a person or vehicle. This is more than enough reason to file a truck accident claim.
Filing a claim may sound daunting, especially on top of getting treatment for your injuries. However, you don’t have to face it alone. Our team of attorneys specializes in truck accident claims in Vista, California. We will be your voice in front of truck operators, insurance companies, and their legal teams.
Our success record is a testament to the kind of service you can expect from us—relentless but compassionate. You can trust that we will fight for your rights and not back down until you get the compensation you deserve.
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
How Our Truck Accident Lawyers In Vista Can Help You
The legal expertise of our truck accident attorneys in Vista can help you develop a winning strategy for your truck accident claim. Our lawyers will clearly explain the claims process and fight for the best outcome. We will also gather evidence that could help build a solid case against at-fault parties and their insurance companies.
Expect Arash Law to keep an open line of communication with you. This means you can reach our team anytime if you have questions or want to clarify something. If you call us right after the accident, we can advise you on what to do. We will also keep you updated on the status and progress of your claim.
Rest assured, our attorneys will handle the technical and legal aspects of your case so that you can concentrate on getting better after getting injured or losing a loved one because of a truck accident.
Should You Hire Vista Truck Accident Lawyers For A Minor Accident?
Truck accidents usually cause extensive damage. But, regardless of how minor it may seem, you should still consult a lawyer. You’d want someone on your side to fight for your rights when insurance companies start questioning them. Furthermore, lawyers know the best way to get proper compensation for any damages you suffer.
Arash Law has the experienced Vista truck accident attorneys you’re looking for! We will take your claim to court if necessary to secure your future through fair compensation.
Get in touch with us through our online form or call us at (888) 488-1391.
Leading Causes Of Truck Accidents In Vista, CA
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the critical reasons behind truck accidents can be classified into driver error, vehicle failure, and environmental conditions.
Driver Error
A lot of truck accidents happen because of driver errors, such as speeding, fatigue, and alcohol impairment. Based on the FMCSA study, these can be further classified into four categories:
- Non-performance (falling asleep due to fatigue, having a heart attack, seizure, or other physical impairments)
- Recognition (being inattentive, having external distractions, failing to observe the situation because of alcohol or drug use)
- Decision (speeding, misjudging other vehicles’ speed, tailgating)
- Performance (panicking, overcompensating, exercising poor directional control)
Get in touch with our Vista truck accident attorneys if you want to file a claim due to a driver error. We can help you get maximum compensation for another person’s negligence.
Vehicle Failure
Truck accidents may also occur because of vehicle failure. Brake problems, for example, can cause a truck to fail to stop before hitting a fixed object, a pedestrian, or another vehicle.
Problems with a truck’s tires can also cause a truck to swerve between lanes or head into oncoming traffic uncontrollably. Tire problems include blowouts, mismatched or misaligned tires, and other mechanical issues.
Cargo shifting is also classified as a vehicle failure. This is when a truck’s cargo is improperly loaded, thereby causing it to tilt during transport. A driver, especially an inexperienced one, could easily lose control of their truck when turning too fast.
Although drivers aren’t mainly responsible for truck accidents from vehicle failure, they still have a duty to keep their vehicles in check. The best way to prevent these issues is through regular truck inspections and maintenance.
Environmental Conditions
The risk of vehicular crashes increases when the roads are slippery due to heavy rain or snow. The same goes for driving at night, when there may not be enough streetlights to see the roads clearly.
Another environmental condition that may cause truck accidents is roadway problems. These include the following:
- Road defects such as potholes, debris, missing guardrails, cracked pavements, etc.
- Missing or defective streetlights and traffic lights
- Inadequate signage, especially for road work or construction
Government agencies are often the ones liable for accidents caused by roadway problems. And it’s no secret that they’re tough to go against. But don’t worry! Our truck accident attorneys in Vista are committed to fighting for your rights and just compensation.
Common Injuries In A Truck Accident
The majority of the casualties in a truck accident are occupants of other vehicles and pedestrians. The injuries they sustain range anywhere from minor cuts to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and, sometimes, death.
Here are some other injuries our Vista truck accident lawyers have witnessed throughout our years of representing victims:
- Abrasions. These are injuries you get when your skin gets scraped on the road. Mild abrasions may heal in a couple of weeks, but severe ones may leave a permanent scar.
- Burns. In some accidents, vehicles may also catch fire. A burn injury isn’t to be taken lightly, as it may cause physical disfiguration or, worse, the loss of vital bodily functions.
- Fractures and broken bones. Bone fractures are one of the most common injuries in vehicular accidents, especially when large trucks are involved. In more serious cases, the bone could snap in half and pierce through the skin, requiring surgery.
- Internal organ damage. Some injuries aren’t always visible. Due to the substantial impact of truck collisions, victims may also suffer bruises or lacerations to their internal organs.
- Spinal cord injuries. It’s also common for truck accident victims to sustain spinal cord injuries. These can cause permanent paralysis and loss of function from the chest down.
- Death. The worst-case scenario in truck accidents is death. If you recently lost a loved one in a tragic crash, our California wrongful death lawyers can help you file a claim.
How To Know If You Qualify For A Truck Accident Claim In Vista
Victims who sustained injuries in a truck accident in Vista can file a claim. But as with any personal injury case, you need to have enough evidence to prove that the other party is liable. In California, there are four factors necessary to establish negligence — duty, breach, damages, and causation. Here’s what they mean:
- Motorists have a duty to care for others, as demonstrated by driving safely and following traffic rules.
- There was a breach of duty by the driver if they rear-ended your vehicle or did not use the proper signals when turning.
- Causation links your injuries or a fatality to the truck driver’s breach of duty.
- The truck driver’s carelessness solely and directly caused your injuries or losses.
If you’re not sure whether you have a claim, our Vista truck accident attorneys can assist you. Answer our “Do I have a case?” form, and a representative will contact you about your concern shortly.
Who Can Be Held Responsible In A Vista Truck Accident?
Different parties can be at fault in a truck accident in Vista. It’s not always the truck drivers. Sometimes, even truck operators, mechanics, and cargo loaders can be held liable. Our lawyers specializing in Vista truck accidents are skilled in identifying the at-fault party.
Truck Drivers
In most cases, truck drivers are the ones at fault in an accident. However, if you were to file a claim against them, you still need to establish that their action (or inaction) caused the crash.
For example, in a head-on collision, the investigation should show that they were overspeeding on a curve. Or, you need solid evidence that they changed lanes because they fell asleep behind the wheel.
Trucking Companies Or Operators
Trucking companies may be held liable if you can prove that they hired an incompetent driver. This could mean pulling up a driver’s file and proving that they are not fit for the job or lack certain permits.
Truck operators can also be at fault for not properly and regularly maintaining the vehicle. The same goes for violating hours of service.
Truck Manufacturers and Brokers
In cases of vehicle failure, the parties at fault are truck manufacturers or parts suppliers. When filing a claim against them, you need proof that the parts they used for the vehicle were defective from the start. Furthermore, these have to have contributed to the crash.
This also applies to retailers since selling defective units also counts as contributing to the accident. Sellers are expected to know the truck’s specifications and confirm that there are no issues with the unit before selling it.
Our attorneys have experience handling truck accident cases in Vista. We will face big companies and fight for your compensation, no matter what it takes.
Truck Mechanics
Truck mechanics who repair and replace the truck’s parts could also be responsible for the accident. As with manufacturers, adding or using defective parts also makes them liable. The main difference is the timeframe. If the part was defective from the start, the manufacturers are at fault. If it becomes defective after a repair or maintenance check, the mechanics are the ones at fault.
Additionally, if there is proof of negligent maintenance, they can also be liable for the accident.
Cargo Loaders
Even those who load cargo on a truck can be responsible for an accident. Improper or unsecured loading can cause the cargo to shift while in transit. As such, it could cause an imbalance in the truck, further resulting in a rollover or loss of control.
In these cases, it’s important to work with our lawyers, who can win Vista truck accident claims against cargo loaders.
Other Motorists
Just because the truck is the largest vehicle in an accident doesn’t mean its driver is automatically at fault. Other motorists can also be liable if their actions caused the collision.
For example, the car in front of the truck did not signal before changing lanes, causing the truck to collide with them, leading to a pile-up. In this case, the at-fault party is the driver of the first car.
For an easier process, our skilled truck accident lawyers in Vista are ready to step in. We will navigate the tight deadlines and other intricacies of the legal process so we can file your claim on time.
Government Agencies
If a truck accident happens because of a roadway issue, you can hold the government responsible. However, take note that you can only file a claim against a government agency within six months of the date of the accident.
Damages You May Claim After A Vista Truck Accident
There are two types of damages you can recover after a truck accident in Vista: economic and non-economic damages. The third type — punitive damages — does not apply to all cases. However, the court can award it to victims in special cases as a preventive measure.
Economic Damages
The thing to remember about economic damages is that they are measurable. These include medical expenses, loss of income, and repair costs. In most cases, economic damages are fully reimbursed following a successful claim. This is why our Vista truck accident attorneys always remind clients to keep the receipts they accumulate in relation to the incident.
- Medical expenses
This includes all past, ongoing, and future medical expenses for the treatment you need for the injuries you suffered in the accident. Some examples include ambulance fees, hospital bills, doctor’s visits, and rehabilitation expenses.
- Loss of income and earning potential
Sustaining injuries in an accident may cause you to miss a few days of work and, therefore, lose valuable income. In addition, serious injuries, such as paralysis, permanently affect your ability to work or earn an income.
- Vehicle repair costs
In a truck accident, the chances are high that your vehicle will suffer damage and need repairs. These costs can add up quickly and take up a huge chunk of your savings. Fortunately, you can have these reimbursed by the at-fault party.
Non-Economic Damages
In a truck accident, you also suffer subjective losses, such as emotional damage. The following are also examples of non-economic damages:
- Emotional and psychological damage. Truck accidents also cause pain and suffering for victims. These may not be visible, but they are just as debilitating.
- Loss of quality of life. Life is never the same after a truck accident. The injuries you get can prevent you from enjoying life the way you used to.
- Loss of consortium. Along with losing vital bodily functions, you may also lose your ability to provide companionship for your spouse.
These non-economic damages are hard to quantify, so calculating them is more complicated. Fortunately, Arash Law has attorneys who specialize in Vista truck accident cases. We can provide an accurate estimate of these damages and get you fair compensation.
Punitive Damages
You may also claim punitive damages if you can prove that the liable party acted recklessly and on purpose. The point of punitive damages is to punish the at-fault party and prevent them (as well as other people) from doing the same thing in the future.
Our truck accident lawyers in Vista are skilled at assessing the full extent of damages to injured victims. We will use our knowledge and experience to make sure you receive maximum compensation after the accident.
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 Are The Trucking Regulations And Requirements In California?
The government has mandated a set of rules that truckers and their companies must follow in California. These are meant to keep the roads as safe as possible for everyone. Our lawyers in Vista can use these regulations and restrictions to help you strengthen your truck accident case.
Minimum Age Requirements For A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
In California, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a CDL. However, you are only allowed to drive the truck to and from locations within the state. The load you transport should also only originate from California.
Otherwise, if you want to travel between multiple states, you need to be 21 or older. This also applies to the transportation of hazardous materials and waste.
Hours-Of-Service Regulations
As per the FMCSA, cargo-hauling drivers are allowed to drive for a maximum of 11 hours within a 14-hour period. It also applies, given that the driver had ten consecutive hours off-duty. They also have to take a 30-minute rest after driving for a total of 8 hours.
These are meant to reduce cases of fatigue or sleepiness among truck drivers while on the road.
Drug And Alcohol Testing
Truck drivers’ employers are required to conduct the Controlled Substances and Alcohol Testing (CSAT) program. This is to ensure that drivers are not using drugs or alcohol, especially while on the job.
The CSAT requires a urine sample for drug testing and a breath test for alcohol testing. Employers or trucking companies can request the CSAT in any of the following instances:
- Pre-employment testing
- Reasonable suspicion testing
- Post-accident testing
- Random testing
If you have other questions regarding truck rules and regulations, our Vista truck accident lawyers can give you a clear answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions our clients usually ask before working with us to file a claim. Should you have other inquiries that are not addressed here, fill out our contact form. Our Vista truck accident attorneys are always ready to listen and explain technical legal matters.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Truck Accidents In Vista, California?
You are eligible to file a claim in Vista for up to two years from the date of the accident. If you want to make sure your claim is within the statute of limitations, our Vista personal injury lawyers, who handle truck accidents, can assist you further.
Knowing the statute of limitations is important. Once it lapses, so does your right to file a claim and receive compensation.
How Much Do Truck Accident Attorneys Charge In California?
Most attorneys and law firms charge a contingency fee, which means you won’t have to shell out any money. And if you don’t win, you won’t be charged anything.
Arash Law stands by the same principle. This is why our truck accident attorneys in Vista work extra hard to get you a fair settlement. With our skills and efforts, our law firm has recovered over $750 million for more than 3,000 clients thus far.
Truck Accident Statistics
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) 2021 crash statistics revealed that there were an estimated 523,796 large trucks involved in traffic crashes nationwide.
- In these crashes, 5,788 people died, while 154,993 were injured.
- Around 71% of those injured were occupants of other vehicles.
- An estimated 31% of multi-vehicular crashes involving trucks were head-on collisions. Nevertheless, large trucks were impacted from the rear four times more often than other vehicles.
- Most of the crashes happened during the day on a weekday. However, during the weekend, they occurred more often at night.
- In California, only 6.8% of large trucks were involved in fatal crashes. This is a relatively safe figure compared to the states in the middle of the country.
- California is second to Texas in terms of the number of fatalities. Four hundred thirty-seven people died in crashes involving large trucks. Forty-eight were truck occupants, 328 were other vehicle occupants, and 61 were non-occupants.
These figures show how dangerous truck collisions can be. And it’s all the more reason you should file a claim if you’re ever injured in one. Our Vista truck accident lawyers are always ready to assist you in this matter.
Get In Touch With Our Vista Truck Accident Lawyers Today!
Arash Law understands that lawsuits can be draining, especially while you recover from your injuries or losses. That’s why we do our best to make the whole process of filing a claim easier on your part.
Leave the legal legwork to us! Our Vista truck accident lawyers have all the resources to build you a solid claim against truck drivers and their insurance companies. We are committed to doing everything in our power to help you win your case.
If you’re ready to get on board, contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation. Our team of over 100 legal professionals is always ready to hear you out and provide assistance where it is needed.
We also work with clients in Oceanside, Carlsbad, Aviara, Escondido, Midway, Hidden Meadows, Peacock, Mira Costa, Lake San Marcos, Vineyard, North Ridge, Morro Hills, North Valley, The Greens, Loma Alta, and Richland. These aren’t the only areas we serve, though. As long as you’re in California, Arash Law can fight for your rights!
