West Covina Truck Accident Lawyers
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Our West Covina Truck Accident Lawyers Offer Professional Legal Guidance
Large trucks are vital to the American economy, and in West Covina and nearby areas, it’s not uncommon to see them on the road. Unfortunately, accidents involving these massive vehicles happen all too often and can lead to serious consequences. If you’ve been wronged in a truck accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to Arash Law at (888) 488-1391.
The sizeable dimensions and heft of trucks often lead to more catastrophic consequences in accidents than those involving smaller vehicles. If you are ever in a truck-related accident, seeking the guidance of a knowledgeable attorney is crucial. The truck accident lawyers at Arash Law are equipped to navigate the intricacies of these cases. Whether your accident involves a semi-truck, an 18-wheeler, or a tractor-trailer, having an experienced attorney can help you seek compensation for damages.
After thoroughly reviewing the specifics of your accident, our team will guide you through the next steps, whether that means pursuing a settlement or going to trial. We advocate for the rights of our clients who have been injured in truck accidents. We assist in filing claims against multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and their insurance providers.
Why Hire Our West Covina Truck Accident Lawyers
At Arash Law, a personal injury law firm in California, we focus on truck accidents and other motor vehicle collisions. Our dedicated team of attorneys in West Covina has years of experience handling truck accident claims, providing our clients with comprehensive legal representation.
Here are some reasons to consider us if you or a loved one has been injured in a crash:
- Dedicated Settlement Advocacy — We approach negotiations thoroughly and advocate for our clients’ interests with insurance companies. If the result of negotiations falls short of our demands, we’re prepared to take your case to court. Our experience in litigating truck accident claims reflects our commitment to thorough case evaluation and negotiation.
- Experienced Legal Team in Trucking Litigation — Our attorneys are familiar with trucking laws. We work to build well-documented injury claims against large trucking companies. Handling commercial vehicle cases demands preparation and legal knowledge, qualities our lawyers bring to each case.
- Investigation Skills — A compelling trucking accident lawsuit relies heavily on thorough investigations. Our legal professionals work alongside accident reconstructionists and transportation engineers to carry out critical tasks such as:
- Carefully inspecting accident scenes and the vehicles involved.
- Calculating speed and impact angles.
- Creating computer-generated reenactments.
- Reviewing warranties when equipment failures are suspected.
- Collecting essential reports from first responders.
Understanding the numerous factors that contributed to the incident is crucial for pursuing compensation. Our West Covina truck accident lawyers apply a thorough investigative approach that aims to uncover every relevant detail, laying the groundwork to support your claim.
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 Good Attorneys Can Do For Your Truck Accident Claim
If you find yourself in a truck accident, it’s recommended to enlist the help of an experienced injury attorney. Prompt action is key to gathering key evidence that could support your case. Trucking companies often send their representatives to the scene, sometimes even before the police arrive. Don’t let them jeopardize your claim; having a lawyer to protect your interests can provide essential guidance throughout the legal process.
Here are a few ways a truck accident lawyer can help:
- Comprehensive Accident Investigation — One of the lawyer’s first tasks will be to conduct a thorough investigation of the accident scene. This includes reaching out to witnesses, reviewing the official police report, and gathering any other pertinent evidence. By establishing who is responsible for the accident, your lawyer lays the groundwork for your compensation claim.
- Calculating Your Total Damages — Your attorney will aid in ascertaining the complete scope of damages to which you are eligible. This means looking beyond just medical bills and vehicle repairs to include lost wages and emotional distress. By collaborating with you, they’ll check that every avenue of compensation is explored so you can aim for a comprehensive and equitable settlement.
- Negotiating With Insurance Companies — Once your damages are assessed, your lawyer will step in to negotiate with the insurance company. It’s not uncommon for insurers to offer an initial settlement that falls short of your actual losses. West Covina truck accident lawyers will advocate on your behalf, pursuing a settlement that accounts for your losses.
Should negotiations fail to result in an agreement, you might need to pursue your case in court. However, many disputes are resolved before that point through diligent legal efforts. Our West Covina truck accident lawyers provide comprehensive representation and can help guide you through this challenging time.
Frequent Factors That Cause Truck Accidents
Truck accidents happen far more often than people realize, often resulting in significantly worse outcomes compared to car accidents due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Understanding the factors that lead to truck accidents can help in seeking justice and damages. Here are some common causes of truck accidents, with examples of possible accidents that could happen:
- Inexperience and Poor Training — Trucking requires extensive skill and proper training to promote road safety efforts. Inexperienced drivers are more prone to mistakes that can lead to accidents, such as jackknife incidents, which can occur if they suddenly brake at high speed, causing the truck to fold and lose control.
- Driver Fatigue — Long hours on the road can affect a driver’s body and mind, resulting in slowed reflexes, poor decision-making, and impaired judgment. A tired driver falling asleep can cause a head-on collision by drifting into oncoming traffic.
- Speeding — Truckers often speed to deliver loads faster, which makes trucks harder to control and stop. This increases the likelihood of catastrophic speeding-related accidents.
- Distracted Driving — Activities like texting or reaching for objects can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road. A sudden stop by the distracted driver may leave trailing vehicles with insufficient time to brake, potentially resulting in devastating underride collisions where the car becomes lodged beneath the trailer.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) — Impaired truck drivers can cause catastrophic accidents. A head-on collision may result if an intoxicated truck driver veers into the wrong lane. Other accidents, such as T-Bone, sideswipes, and rear-ends, can result from DUI.
- Unsafe Lane Changes — Trucks have large blind spots, making lane changes difficult. A sudden and unsafe lane change can cause a rollover if the truck’s cargo shifts abruptly.
- Equipment Failures — Poor truck maintenance leads to tire blowouts, brake failures, and other issues. A mechanical breakdown can lead to rollover accidents if the driver loses control.
Regardless of the type of crash you or your loved one was involved in, our West Covina truck accident lawyers can help. We have experience handling cases of this nature and can assist you in pursuing claims.
Truck Accident?
Identifying Liable Parties In Truck Accidents
Truck accident cases can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties who may share responsibility for the incident. While the truck driver is often the primary party at fault, other entities might also play a role depending on the situation.
Establishing liability is essential not only for attributing blame but also for seeking an appropriate resolution of the case. Insurance companies depend on this information to determine accountability and facilitate settlements. Additionally, understanding who is liable is crucial for legal actions, whether in court or through mediation.
Key parties that could be responsible for a truck accident include:
- Truck Driver — Common issues include traffic violations like improper lane changes and driver fatigue, which can significantly impair reaction times and decision-making.
- Trucking Company — If the company fails to properly train, supervise, or check the drivers to see if they adhere to safety regulations, it may be held liable. Additionally, inadequate maintenance of the truck or forcing drivers to exceed legal driving hours can contribute to accidents.
- Vehicle Manufacturer — Accidents can arise from defective parts or inadequate safety measures, such as brake failures or engine issues, that compromise vehicle performance. Product liability cases like this hold the vehicle or parts manufacturer liable.
- Maintenance Crew — Neglecting maintenance, using poor-quality parts, or ignoring reported vehicle issues can endanger safety and lead to accidents.
- Cargo Loaders — Improperly loaded cargo, whether due to overloading or incorrect distribution, can adversely affect a truck’s handling and stability, increasing the risk of tipping.
- Government Authorities — Poorly designed roads or insufficient signage can create hazards. If a government entity fails to address known issues that lead to accidents, it might share the liability.
Consulting our West Covina truck accident lawyers can help clarify who can be held liable by examining evidence such as accident reports and witness accounts. They may also work with accident reconstructionists to analyze the situation further.
Establishing Liability For Truck Accidents
For a victim of an accident to file a claim against the responsible party, it is essential to demonstrate that the actions of that party fall under one of two established legal concepts: negligence or strict liability.
Negligence — In California, to establish a case of negligence, the injured individual must show that the responsible party had a duty of care towards them. For instance, a truck driver’s duty of care encompasses several responsibilities, including:
- Following traffic laws and being alert for pedestrians, vehicles, and hazards.
- Controlling the truck’s speed and direction with reasonable caution while driving.
Additionally, the injured party must demonstrate that the responsible individual violated this duty of care by acting carelessly or recklessly and that this violation was a substantial factor in causing injuries or losses.
- Strict Liability — Strict liability is a legal principle that holds defendants accountable for damages regardless of negligence. In California, it applies when designers, manufacturers, or distributors produce or sell defective products that injure consumers. In truck accident cases, the focus is on the truck’s defect, not the manufacturer’s actions. Plaintiffs must demonstrate the defect, such as design flaws, manufacturing errors, or inadequate warnings. A lawyer can help to hold the manufacturer or distributor responsible and seek compensation for injured parties, especially in serious accidents.
Partial Liability — In California, plaintiffs in personal injury cases can be partially liable for their damages under the pure comparative negligence rule. This means if you are found to be partially at fault, your compensation award will be reduced by that percentage. For instance, if you are 25% at fault in a truck accident, you would receive 25% less of the final award.
You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer if the accident was partially my fault?” A lawyer can evaluate the specifics of your case, determine the extent of your liability, and help you pursue compensation for your injuries, even if you are partially responsible. Having experienced West Covina truck accident attorneys on your side can help you navigate these complexities and protect your rights.
Damages And Injuries In Truck Accident Cases
When large commercial trucks collide with passenger vehicles, serious injuries and substantial damages often result. Our car accident lawyers have handled cases where victims suffered catastrophic injuries, including spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and long-term disabilities.
If a negligent truck driver caused your losses, it’s essential to understand the damages you can pursue. West Covina truck accident lawyers can work to help you seek available compensation.
Economic Damages
Economic damages in truck injury claims aim to recoup tangible financial losses from medical bills, lost income, and other out-of-pocket costs tied directly to the crash.
- Medical Expenses — Bills from hospitalization, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and other medical services required for treating crash injuries are recoverable. Future treatment needs can also be factored in. Common injuries that fall under this category include:
- Broken Bones and Fractures
- Burns
- Degloving Injury
- Concussion
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Chest Injury
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Amputation
- Lost Income — If injuries from the truck collision prevent you from working, calculating lost wages, both those already incurred and those you may sustain in the future, is essential. Damages can account for lost promotions, benefits, and earning capacity, too. This is particularly relevant for severe injuries that lead to long-term disability or require extensive treatment.
- Other Financial Costs — Expenses like ambulance fees, costs of hiring in-home healthcare aides, and property losses resulting from the truck crash also qualify for financial compensation.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic claims focus on the more intangible, long-term personal losses tied to the emotional and physical trauma of the event.
- Pain and Suffering — Being fairly compensated for the physical anguish inflicted by crash injuries is vital. Severe neck, back, and spinal cord injuries often lead to higher pain and suffering awards. Catastrophic injuries, such as paralysis, also lead to higher compensation because they result in significant, long-term, or permanent consequences that affect the victim’s quality of life.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life — If disfigurement, disabilities, or impairment from truck accident injuries reduce your capabilities to participate in meaningful life activities you previously enjoyed, substantial damages can address this loss. This includes life-altering injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and amputations.
- Loss of Companionship — For severely debilitating or fatal truck accident injuries, depriving others of relationship connections, loss of companionship claims help address intangible emotional harms.
The Next Steps For You After A Truck Accident
After a truck accident, feeling overwhelmed is natural, but your next steps are crucial for your case. Here’s what you can do:
- Get Medical Care — Even if you feel fine, see a medical professional to document your condition. This documentation is vital for your claim and can help catch any issues early.
- Notify the Police — File a police report as soon as possible. This official record is essential for any insurance claims and strengthens your case.
- Gather Witness Information — Collect the names and contact details of any witnesses. Their accounts can provide additional support for your claim.
- Take Photos — Document the scene and vehicle damage from various angles. Your records can be valuable alongside the police report.
- Hire a Truck Accident Attorney — Consult with truck accident attorneys. A legal counsel can manage the complex aspects of your case, including evidence collection, insurance negotiations, and pursuing accountability from responsible parties.
Your health should be your priority after an accident. Seeking legal help allows you to concentrate on your well-being while protecting your rights.
Settlement in a heavily disputed Truck v. Truck case. Our client was blamed by the insurance company from day one and was always told that they would never take responsibility for the collision that injured our client’s lower back. After years of litigation, Benny and the team were able to secure the full policy limits for our client months before trial.– BENNY KHORSANDI
Evidence To Support A Truck Accident Claim
You can gather various forms of evidence to demonstrate negligence in a truck accident case. Our West Covina truck accident lawyers can help you obtain or preserve the following:
- Witness Accounts — Testimonies from people who observed the accident can offer critical insights into what transpired before the crash.
- Law Enforcement Reports — Police reports typically include important details, such as any citations given to the truck driver or other involved parties.
- Electronic Data — Many commercial trucks are equipped with devices that track metrics like speed, braking patterns, and driving behaviors. This data can be instrumental in proving negligence in an accident scenario.
- Professional Insight — Professionals experienced in accident reconstruction or trucking regulations may be enlisted to provide analysis regarding the accident’s circumstances. Their insights can help establish claims of negligence and support your case.
By collecting and presenting this evidence, those injured in truck accidents can construct a compelling case for negligence and seek damages for their injuries and losses.
Understanding The Deadline For Truck Accident Lawsuits
In California, there is a two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, including truck accident lawsuits. This time frame is designed to check if the claims are submitted in a timely manner, allowing both parties to gather evidence and prepare their cases without excessive delays. It’s important to remember that if too much time passes, such as waiting several years, seeking damages can become difficult and unjust.
To avoid missing this critical deadline, victims must keep track of the date the accident occurred. Surprisingly, many people can forget when they were injured, which could result in losing their chance to file a claim, even if only a few days have passed beyond the deadline.
Certain situations can extend or “toll” the statute of limitations. For instance:
- Age — If the injured party is a minor, the clock doesn’t start until they turn 18, allowing them to file a lawsuit once they reach adulthood.
- Health Status — If a victim experiences severe physical or mental issues due to the accident, such as being in a coma or facing a significant psychological crisis, the statute may start or resume once they heal.
- Defendant’s Location — If the person being sued leaves California, the statute of limitations can be paused, as a lawsuit can only be filed when the defendant is present in the state.
Our team of attorneys focusing on truck accidents in West Covina is committed to keeping everything organized and on track. We are committed to managing claim details and will file your case on time. There’s no need for you to stress over these timelines, besides everything else you’re dealing with after the accident. We are here to guide you through the entire process.
Truck Accident Statistics
According to an analysis done by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety on data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, in 2022, there were 4,764 deaths in large truck crashes.
- Breakdown of Fatalities — Truck accidents, especially large-scale collisions, often lead to fatalities. Here are some somber facts about truck accident-related deaths:
- About 17% were truck drivers or passengers.
- Approximately 66% were people in cars and other passenger vehicles.
- Among the fatalities, 16% were pedestrians, motorcyclists, or cyclists.
- The number of deaths in these crashes was 51% higher than in 2009, which had the fewest fatalities recorded since 1975.
- The number of truck occupants who died increased by 83% since 2009.
- Location of Accidents — Truck crashes can occur wherever there are roads. However:
- About 49% of deaths occurred on major roads (not interstates or freeways);
- About 35% happened on interstates and freeways;
- While 16% took place on minor roads.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a truck accident in West Covina, it’s crucial to have compassionate and experienced legal support on your side. Truck accidents are more than just statistics; they represent real lives and have profound, lasting impacts. Our dedicated West Covina truck accident lawyers understand this deeply.
We’re committed to pursuing compensation for your injuries and related losses. Our team of West Covina truck accident lawyers provides the support and guidance you may need during this challenging time. We’re ready to stand by you and help you navigate the difficult road to recovery with care, compassion, and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Value Of My Truck Accident Case?
It depends. Truck accident claim values are difficult to ascertain due to the fact that each case is different. Several factors can influence your claim’s worth, including the type and severity of your injuries, liability for the accident, and the extent of your damages.
Key factors include your medical bills, future medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Working with a West Covina truck accident attorney can help you assess these damages and explore all possible avenues for compensation.
Can Truck Accident Attorneys Near Me Help Me Get A Bigger Settlement?
Hiring a West Covina truck accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation through proper legal representation. They will assist you in seeking compensation from the responsible party’s insurance.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire Truck Accident Lawyers Near Me?
Many personal injury attorneys charge a fee of the total settlement. Our West Covina truck accident lawyers charge around the same amount but work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay for the services of our attorneys unless compensation is obtained through a settlement or a verdict. However, certain case-related expenses may still apply.
When Should I Hire A Truck Accident Attorney?
Consider hiring a West Covina accident lawyer after receiving medical care. Early legal counsel can help you pursue a settlement from the at-fault driver’s insurance and help build your claim while you focus on your well-being.
How Long Does It Take To Investigate A Truck Accident?
The timeline for investigating a truck accident claim can vary. On average, personal injury cases take over a year to resolve, though some truck accident claims may settle within a year, while others could take five years or more.
Factors such as the severity of the injuries, treatment duration, the complexity of the investigation, and cooperation from insurance companies all play a role in determining the timeline. Additionally, legal disputes and negotiations can further extend the process. Your West Covina truck accident lawyers will work diligently to keep your case progressing as efficiently as possible.
What If The Truck Driver Doesn't Have Insurance?
Truck drivers must carry liability insurance, but if there’s insufficient coverage, we’ll explore all options, including your underinsured motorist coverage or filing a lawsuit against the trucking company. It’s crucial to understand the specifics of your insurance policy so you know what protections you have in place. Additionally, truck accident lawyers in West Covina can help you navigate the complexities of any claims or lawsuits and work to pursue compensation for your injuries or damages.
Reach Out To Our West Covina Truck Accident Attorneys
Experiencing a truck accident can be overwhelming and terrifying. However, legal representation can offer the assistance needed to protect your rights. If another party is responsible for the collision, you shouldn’t bear the financial burden alone. Whether you opt to file an insurance claim or pursue a personal injury lawsuit, our dedicated West Covina truck accident attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process.
At Arash Law, we handle various cases, including truck collisions, Uber accidents, and Lyft accidents.
We serve West Covina and surrounding areas like Valinda, Baldwin Park, West Puente Valley, Covina, La Puente, Azusa, El Monte, Walnut, Duarte, and Glendora, as well as the rest of California. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to begin your case.
