Speak To An Attorney Today 323-524-8994

Truck Accident Attorney Los Angeles

Los Angeles freeways are a jungle, and big rigs are the apex predators. One wrong move and you could be facing life-changing injuries. That's where our team steps in as your legal warriors dedicated to getting you the justice and compensation you deserve after a truck accident.

Why Truck Accidents Are a Different Beast

Forget fender benders. Truck crashes are complex legal battles. Here's why:

Size Matters: An 80,000-pound truck can turn your car into a crumpled mess.

Who's to Blame? It could be the driver, the trucking company, or even the cargo loader.

Hidden Dangers: Federal regulations and truck maintenance play a huge role.

Don't Get Crushed by the Insurance Game

Truck drivers are supposed to maintain specific liability policies to cover damages, but often utilize tactics to reduce claim values. Don't go at it alone. We'll fight for your right to compensation, including:

·         Medical Bills: Past, present, and future.

·         Lost Wages: Get back on your feet financially.

·         Pain and Suffering: We'll make sure your physical and emotional trauma is recognized.

·         Wrongful Death: If you lose a loved one, we'll hold them accountable.

What is the average settlement for a truck accident in California?

We know that in the case of a truck accident, there is probably one thing on your mind: just how much compensation you might receive. Each case involving a truck accident is unique, and the compensation will depend on several factors.

Truck accident attorney Los Angeles

 

The Severity of Your Injuries Dictates Your Compensation

The extent of your injuries directly impacts the potential settlement amount. Here's a general breakdown:

Minor Injuries: For relatively minor injuries like bruising, whiplash, or small cuts that require minimal medical attention, your settlement will typically be on the lower end of the spectrum.

Severe Injuries: Injuries requiring surgery, broken bones, or significant pain and suffering can lead to substantial settlements. These cases often involve ongoing medical treatment and lost wages.

Catastrophic Injuries or Wrongful Death: In tragic cases involving severe, life-altering injuries or wrongful death, the potential settlement amount is significantly higher. These cases often involve extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and loss of future earnings.

Remember, these are general estimates, and each case is unique. Factors like the specific nature of your injuries, the impact on your quality of life, and the liability of the parties involved will all influence the final settlement amount.

To get a more accurate assessment of your potential compensation, it's crucial to consult with an experienced truck accident attorney. They can evaluate the specific circumstances of your case and provide you with a personalized estimate.

What factors affect the settlement amount in a truck accident case?

The settlement amount in a truck accident can be determined by several kinds of factors. Determining the severity of the injury and the overall effect on the victim's life is facilitated by these factors.

  • Severity of Injuries: The severity of your injuries will significantly influence the settlement. The settlement will be higher if the injury is more critical or catastrophic, while the compensation will be lower if the injury is milder.
  • Property Damage: The replacement or repair cost of your vehicle is included in the settlement amount. This could be the reason for a higher settlement amount, as vehicles are known to cause more substantial damages in the event of a collision.
  • Liability and Fault: Comparative negligence in California allows, at the time of settlement, consideration of the percentage of fault of a victim in the accident. If the other party is found to hold greater liability, you will be entitled to a bigger settlement.
  • Insurance Policies: Commercial vehicle drivers are required to maintain insurance policies that are more expensive than those of other drivers. In the event of a truck accident, the settlement for victims may be increased as a result of the increased policy limits of trucking companies.
  • Long-Term Impact: A professional truck accident lawyer will also consider the future medical expenses, loss of earning capability, and trauma that would almost be routine in this sort of accident and finalize a settlement amount.

We know that trying to figure out this process can be very stressful. Conversely, the outcome of your case can be significantly impacted by having the assistance of a Los Angeles truck accident attorney. We will gather all the necessary information to ascertain the exact amount of compensation you are entitled to, and we will then advocate to ensure that your settlement accurately represents the complete extent of your injuries and losses.

Truck Accidents - Not Your Average Car Crash

Truck accidents aren't just bigger, they're way more complicated. These behemoths on wheels can cause catastrophic damage and figuring out who's to blame can be a legal nightmare.

The Size and Weight of the Problem

These things are massive. When they collide with a regular car, it's like a wrecking ball hitting a ping pong ball. The damage is severe, and the injuries can be life-altering.

Who's to Blame?

It's not always the driver's fault. Sometimes, the trucking company, the cargo loader, or even the manufacturer is responsible.

The Red Tape

The trucking industry is heavily regulated by federal and state laws. Navigating these rules requires a skilled attorney who knows the ropes.

The Numbers Don't Lie

Truck accidents are a serious problem. Every year, thousands of people are killed or injured in these crashes. That's why it's crucial to have a strong legal team fighting for your rights.

Don't Get Crushed

If you've been in a truck accident, you need a lawyer who can level the playing field. We'll fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Causes Truck Accidents in Los Angeles?

Human error, mechanical failure, and other factors could be some of the elements involved in truck accidents in Los Angeles. Truck crashes are much more devastating than ordinary car accidents because of their size and weight—a fully loaded large truck can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds. To help build a solid legal case against the responsible party and avoid future tragedies, it is essential to understand the reasons behind these accidents.

A few major causes of truck accidents in Los Angeles are mentioned below:

Driver Negligence

Truck driver actions and inactions are the leading cause of accidents. Common examples include:

Fatigue

Distracted Driving

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

Poor training

Failure to obey traffic signals

Large blind spots

Truck Maintenance Failures

Proper inspections and maintenance are required to ensure that the truck operates safely. Lack of due diligence can result in:

Brake Issues

Tire Blowouts

Overweight trailers

Loads that aren't secured properly

Environmental Factors

Although some of these are outside the control of humans, they still have a part in the accidents, among them:

Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and debris can destabilize heavy trucks.

Adverse Weather: Rain, fog, or slippery roads can make it harder for trucks to stop or maneuver safely.

Types of Trucks and Accidents We Handle

There are many kinds of truck accidents, and there are many different types of vehicles involved. Here handle:

  • Semi-Trucks and 18-Wheelers:
    As big as these vehicles are, the highways just about belong to them, and their size can mean major problems in accidents. At 80,000 pounds fully loaded, a crash will cause a great deal of damage and injury. Whether the problem is negligent driving, equipment malfunction, or bad cargo security, we may be able to assist you.
  • Delivery Trucks:
    There are now an insane amount of delivery trucks from companies like Amazon and FedEx on the road. Aggressive delivery personnel are also driven to meet stringent deadlines, which can lead to awful blunders, resulting in severe accidents. We make delivery companies liable for injuries caused by their vehicles.
  • Tanker Trucks:
    Tanker trucks are huge and carry hazardous materials, so they're a bit of a double threat. Accidents involving tanker trucks can lead to serious consequences like fires, explosions, or chemical spills, which can cause widespread harm.
  • Utility Trucks:
    Utility vehicles—like garbage trucks, postal trucks, and construction vehicles—often move through neighborhoods and residential areas. When accidents happen, especially at high speeds or during emergencies, the damage can be significant. These cases become even more challenging when government-owned vehicles are involved, as strict deadlines must be met to file legal claims.

Types of Accidents We Handle

  • Jackknife Accidents:
    A unique hazard to semi-trucks, jackknife accidents occur when the truck's cab and trailer fold into an acute angle, resembling a pocketknife. This can result in multi-vehicle collisions, causing extensive damage and injuries. Factors like sudden braking or slippery roads often contribute to these incidents.
  • Underride Collisions:
    Underride accidents happen when a passenger car is lodged under a truck's rear or side. These are among the most dangerous accidents, often resulting in fatalities. Federal safety regulations require trucks to have underride guards, and failure to comply can lead to liability.
  • Rollover Accidents:
    A rollover occurs when a truck tips onto its side, often due to sudden movements, sharp turns, or unbalanced cargo. These accidents can block multiple lanes of traffic and cause severe injuries to nearby motorists.
  • Cargo Spills:
    Improperly secured cargo can fall from trucks, creating hazards for other drivers. Spilled cargo can lead to direct collisions, pile-ups, or dangerous road conditions. Our team investigates these cases thoroughly to determine liability, whether it lies with the trucking company or cargo loaders.

Don't Get Rolled Over. Fight Back.

If you've been in a truck accident, you need a legal team that handles injury cases. Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. is here to fight for you. We seek to get you the compensation you deserve.

What Are Common Truck Accident Injuries?

Victims of these collisions frequently endure significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Understanding the types of injuries common in truck accidents is essential to appreciate the gravity of these cases and the importance of seeking legal assistance.

Truck accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. The most common truck accident injuries are:

  • Head, back, and neck injuries
  • Cuts, lacerations, and bruises
  • Orthopedic injuries
  • Permanent scarring
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injuries, up to and including paralysis (full, partial, permanent, and/or temporary)
  • Burns
  • Broken bones/fractures
  • Internal injuries
  • Wrongful death
  • Whiplash injuries
  • Cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine injuries
  • Back pain, including strain and sprain
  • Nerve injuries and damage, numbness, and radiculopathy
  • Crush injuries
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental illnesses
  • Amputations and disfigurement

Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. understands the profound challenges truck accident victims face. Our compassionate and experienced team fights to secure the compensation you need for medical care, lost income, and emotional recovery. Contact us today to discuss your case.

Who is Liable in a Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a truck accident can be a complex process due to the number of parties involved and the unique nature of these cases. Establishing fault is crucial to ensure you receive fair compensation, and it requires a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the accident.

California operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning liability can be shared among multiple parties. If you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of the awarded damages.

Who is typically responsible for causing trucking accidents? 

Establishing fault in a truck accident requires identifying the responsible parties and proving their negligence. The following are the primary parties that may be held liable:

Truck Driver:
Errors such as fatigue, speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence can lead to devastating accidents. Truck drivers are obligated to follow strict federal and state safety regulations, and any breach of these can result in liability.

Trucking Company:
Employers may be held responsible under vicarious liability if the driver was acting within the scope of their employment during the accident. Trucking companies may also be directly at fault for negligence in hiring, training, or failing to maintain their fleet.

Cargo Loaders:
Improperly loaded or overloaded cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and result in accidents. Cargo loaders are accountable for adhering to safe loading practices.

Truck Manufacturers:
Defective parts, such as faulty brakes or tires, can lead to accidents. When mechanical failures are caused by design flaws or manufacturing defects, the manufacturer may be held liable.

Third-Party Maintenance Companies:
Trucks require regular maintenance to function safely. If a maintenance provider fails to inspect or repair a critical issue, they may share responsibility for an accident.

Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C., has the experience to uncover liable parties and secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Let our skilled accident attorneys handle the complexities of your case while you focus on recovery.

Truck Accident Evidence Needed to Build a Strong Truck Accident Claim

To successfully prove your claim and secure the compensation you deserve, gathering compelling evidence is crucial. A skilled truck accident attorney will ensure no stone is left unturned in building a strong, well-supported case. Here's a breakdown of the essential types of evidence required for your claim:

1. Black Box (Electronic Logging Device/Event Data Recorder) Data

Every commercial truck is equipped with a black box, also known as an electronic logging device (ELD). This device records vital data, such as:

  • The truck's speed at the time of the crash.
  • Driver's hours of service (HOS) to check for violations of rest requirements.
  • Sudden braking or acceleration patterns.

This data is often pivotal in proving driver negligence or mechanical failure. Without immediate legal action, trucking companies may attempt to delete or withhold this information.

2. Police Reports and Crash Scene Photos

A police report creates an account of the accident, including details like:

  • The officer's assessment of fault.
  • Statements from involved parties.
  • Traffic violations were noted at the scene.

Crash scene photos complement this by capturing critical visual evidence, such as vehicle damage, skid marks, and road conditions, providing a clear picture of what happened.

3. Witness Statements

Eyewitnesses can provide unbiased accounts of the accident. Their testimonies can:

  • Confirm events leading up to the crash.
  • Support claims of reckless driving or negligence.
  • Counter attempts by the trucking company to shift blame.

An attorney ensures these statements are collected promptly to avoid fading memories or lost contact.

4. Truck Maintenance Records

Poor maintenance is a common cause of truck accidents, making maintenance records vital. These documents reveal:

  • Whether the truck was inspected and repaired on schedule.
  • Any prior reports of faulty brakes, tires, or engine issues.
  • Neglect by the trucking company or third-party maintenance providers.

This evidence can expose systemic issues and strengthen your case against negligent parties.

5. Dashcam Footage

Dashcam footage provides a real-time account of the accident. It can capture:

  • The moments leading up to the crash.
  • Unsafe driving behavior by the truck driver.
  • Environmental conditions, such as poor visibility or road hazards.

This objective, unaltered evidence often plays a decisive role in reconstructing the crash and determining fault.

How We Help Secure Accident Evidence

We act swiftly to preserve critical evidence before it's lost or altered. Our team collaborates with experts, subpoenas essential records, and leverages technology to strengthen your case. With our dedication, you'll have the support needed to navigate the complexities of a truck accident claim and achieve the justice you deserve.

Contact our Los Angeles truck accident attorneys today for a free consultation.

What Compensation Can You Claim After a Truck Accident?

After a truck accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for medical expenses, including future treatments, lost wages due to missed work or diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering for both physical and emotional distress, property damage to your vehicle, and wrongful death claims for families who have lost a loved one.

We're committed to helping victims recover the full compensation they deserve. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be eligible for various types of damages, including:

·         Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments. Future medical costs related to your injuries are also factored in.

·         Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity: Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries and any long-term impact on your ability to earn a living.

·         Pain and Suffering: Financial acknowledgment of the physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life caused by the accident.

·         Property Damage: Reimbursement for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and other personal belongings damaged in the crash.

·         Wrongful Death Claims: For families who have lost a loved one in a truck accident, compensation can include funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support.

Call us today for a free consultation.

What Are the Legal and Insurance Challenges in Truck Accident Cases?

Truck accident claims can be incredibly complex, often involving unique legal hurdles and pushback from powerful trucking company insurers. Here's how these challenges can impact your case:

Facing Insurance Adjusters: Trucking companies and their insurers are well-equipped with experienced adjusters who aim to minimize payouts. Without legal representation, victims may be pressured into accepting low settlements.

Navigating Federal and State Regulations: Truck accidents are governed by strict federal rules under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and California-specific laws. Understanding and leveraging these regulations is critical to building a strong case.

Statute of Limitations in California: Victims have a limited timeframe to file a claim. Missing this deadline can result in losing the right to pursue compensation entirely. Acting quickly ensures your case is preserved and properly documented.

Why Hire Our Accident Lawyer?

We stand out as your dedicated advocate. Here's why we're the right choice for your case:

  • In-Depth Legal Expertise: We California laws and personal injury cases.
  • Proven Results: Our track record includes settlements for clients, even in the face of complex liability disputes.
  • Access to Top Resources: We collaborate with witnesses, to strengthen your case with undeniable evidence.
  • Client-Centered Approach: Your needs come first. We prioritize clear communication, keeping you informed and involved at every step of the legal process.
  • Trusted by Clients: Past clients commend our professionalism, compassion, and ability to deliver results. Their testimonials reflect our dedication to achieving justice.

When you're navigating the result of a truck accident, choosing the right legal team can make all the difference. You want to secure the compensation you deserve.

California Truck Accident Statistics

According to recent reports, California consistently ranks among the top states for truck-related crashes.

·         Truck accidents in California accounted for approximately 7% of all vehicular accidents statewide.

·         Nationally, 9% of all vehicle accident fatalities in 2021 involved large trucks. In the same year, 5,788 deaths and 155,000 injuries were reported in large-truck crashes across the United States.

·         Most fatalities in large-truck accidents are occupants of other vehicles (72%), reflecting the devastating impact trucks can have on smaller passenger cars.

·         Truck occupants account for 17% of fatalities, while non-occupants, including pedestrians and bicyclists, make up 11%.

·         A significant percentage of accidents occur on major highways like I-5, I-10, and US-101 due to high traffic volumes. Many accidents involve factors like driver fatigue, maintenance issues, or violations of federal trucking regulations.

If you've been affected by a truck accident, our team of experienced attorneys is here to guide you through every step of the legal process.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in California?

In California, you typically have two years to file a truck accident personal injury claim from the date of the truck accident. This is the state's statute of limitations for most accident-related lawsuits. If the claim involves property damage or wrongful death, the timeline for those claims differs. This is not legal advice, and you should always consult with a qualified truck accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss any deadlines.

10 Steps to Do After a Truck Accident – 10 Steps to Take?

Here are the 10 steps to take after a truck accident:

  1. Ensure safety: Move to a safe location if possible.
  2. Call 911: Report the accident to the police and request medical help.
  3. Check for injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries.
  4. Exchange information: Collect names, contact details, and insurance information from all parties involved.
  5. Document the scene: Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
  6. Get witness information: Collect contact details of any witnesses.
  7. Avoid admitting fault: Do not discuss blame at the scene.
  8. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor to document potential injuries.
  9. Notify your insurance: Report the accident to your insurance company.
  10. Consult a truck accident attorney: Get legal advice to ensure your rights are protected.

What If I'm Partially at Fault in Truck Accident in California?

In California, if you're partially at fault in a truck accident, you can still recover compensation due to the state's comparative negligence laws. Your settlement may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you're 30% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 30%. It's important to consult with a Los Angeles truck accident attorney to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.

Seek Justice – Contact Us Today!

Don't wait—schedule your free consultation with our Los Angeles personal injury lawyer now! We understand the devastating impact a truck accident can have on your life. Our Los Angeles truck accident lawyers are dedicated to helping victims like you recover the compensation you deserve. Whether you're dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or emotional trauma, we are here to fight for your rights. We offer a no-cost, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and determine your best course of action.

Contact us today: 323-524-8994

Or simply fill out the contact form to get started.

We operate on a No Win, No Fee basis, meaning you don't pay anything unless we win your case.

Contact Us Today

Fassonaki Law Firm, P.C. is committed to answering your questions about Personal Injury law issues in Los Angeles, Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Woodland Hills, West Hills, and the San Fernando Valley.

We'll gladly discuss your case with you at your convenience. Contact Us today to schedule an appointment.

Menu