Experienced Fresno Truck Accident Lawyer
Fresno Truck Accident Lawyer
Find out why we are some of the best Fresno truck accident lawyers
Have you been injured in a truck accident in Fresno?
Our truck accident lawyers in Fresno are here to help you get the compensation you deserve. We have years of experience and a track record of success in handling truck accident cases. Our team will fight for your rights and ensure that you receive the best possible outcome for your case.
Don’t let the aftermath of a truck accident overwhelm you. With Goldberg & Loren on your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal process. We are dedicated to seeking justice for our clients and holding negligent truck drivers and companies accountable.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today to schedule a free consultation and let us help you navigate through the complexities of your truck accident claim. You don’t have to face this alone – we are here to fight for you!
What is a Truck Accident?
A truck accident is a devastating event that occurs when a commercial truck, such as a semi-truck, an 18-wheeler, or a box truck collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, or object. These accidents often result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and loss of life.
Truck accidents can happen for various reasons, including driver error, driver fatigue, improper loading of cargo, mechanical failures, or hazardous road conditions. The large size and weight of commercial trucks make them more dangerous and prone to causing serious damage in an accident.
In truck accident cases, there may be multiple parties involved, including the truck driver, trucking companies, insurance providers, and even manufacturers of faulty truck parts. Our experienced truck accident lawyers are well-versed in dealing with these parties and their representatives, ensuring that the victim receives the maximum compensation possible.
Trucks move roughly 72.6% of the nation’s freight by weight. [1]
Types of Truck Accidents
Jackknife Accidents:
These occur when the trailer of a truck swings outward, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab. These accidents often result from sudden braking or slippery road conditions. Jackknife accidents can be particularly dangerous as they can lead to multi-vehicle collisions and block entire roads, causing significant traffic disruptions.
Underride Accidents:
Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle crashes into the back or side of a truck and gets lodged beneath it. This can occur if the truck suddenly stops or changes lanes without proper signaling. Underride accidents are extremely dangerous and often result in severe injuries or fatalities for the occupants of the smaller vehicle due to the significant force and impact involved.
Rollover Accidents:
Rollover accidents occur when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. These accidents can be caused by factors such as high speeds, sharp turns, or improperly loaded cargo. Rollover accidents pose substantial risks not only to the truck driver but also to nearby vehicles, pedestrians, and property. The aftermath of a rollover accident is often characterized by debris scattered across the road and the potential for secondary accidents.
Tire Blowout Accidents:
When a tire suddenly bursts, the driver may lose control of the vehicle, leading to collisions, rollovers, or jackknife accidents. These accidents can be caused by overloading, inadequate tire maintenance, or tire defects. Tire blowouts can result in significant property damage, severe injuries, or even fatalities.
T-bone Accidents:
T-bone accidents involve a truck colliding with the side of another vehicle, forming a “T” shape. These accidents often occur at intersections when either the truck or the other vehicle fails to yield or run a red light. T-bone accidents can result in devastating injuries as the side of a vehicle offers much less protection than the front or rear.
Rear-end Collisions:
Rear-end collisions involve a truck crashing into the back of another vehicle. These accidents can occur due to various factors, such as distracted driving, following too closely, or sudden stops. Due to their size and weight, trucks can cause significant damage to smaller vehicles in rear-end collisions, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities.
In 2021 alone, a total of 523,796 large truck accidents occurred across the United States. A year prior, there were 415,444 incidents. [2]
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Fresno
- Driver Error: Fatigue, distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, aggressive driving, and reckless behavior can all contribute to driver error, leading to accidents.
- Equipment Failure: Brake failures, tire blowouts, faulty steering mechanisms, and other equipment malfunctions can cause truck accidents.
- Inclement Weather: Fresno is no stranger to adverse weather conditions, including heavy rain, fog, and strong winds. These weather conditions can create hazardous driving conditions, making it more challenging for truck drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and strong gusts of wind can contribute to truck accidents.
- Improper Loading: When cargo is not loaded properly onto a truck, it can shift or become unbalanced during transit. This imbalance can affect the truck's stability and maneuverability, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Negligent Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep a truck in safe working condition. Failure to address maintenance issues such as worn-out brakes, faulty lights, or inadequate tire pressure can lead to truck accidents.
- Intoxicated or Drug-Impaired Driving: Impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and reduced coordination can put both the truck driver and other road users at risk.
- Poor Training and Experience: Lack of experience can result in poor judgment, improper lane changes, improper braking techniques, and other errors that can contribute to truck accidents.
- Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, construction zones, and inadequate signage can all contribute to truck accidents. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and slippery road conditions can make it difficult for truck drivers to maintain control of their vehicles, leading to accidents.
Common Injuries from Truck Accidents
- Whiplash:
When a truck collides with another vehicle, the sudden force can cause the head and neck to jerk forward and backward forcefully. This can lead to strains and sprains in the neck muscles, resulting in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. - Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs):
These occur when the head suffers a blow or jolt, causing damage to brain tissue. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, depending on the force of impact. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and even changes in behavior or personality. - Spinal Cord Injuries:
Spinal cord injuries are another significant concern in truck accidents. The spinal cord plays a key role in transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to lifelong complications, such as paralysis, loss of sensation, and loss of motor function. - Broken Bones:
Victims may suffer broken ribs, arms, legs, or hips, depending on the point of impact. Fractures can be painful and require surgeries or lengthy periods of immobilization to heal properly. - Internal Injuries:
Internal injuries are also a common occurrence in truck accidents. The impact of the collision can cause internal organs to be bruised, lacerated, or punctured. These internal damages may not always be immediately apparent and can require immediate medical attention to prevent further complications. - Psychological Trauma:
Psychological trauma and emotional distress can also accompany physical injuries from truck accidents. Being involved in a traumatic event can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. These emotional injuries are just as valid and can impact a person's overall well-being and quality of life.
What to do After a Truck Accident
Check yourself and others involved for injuries and call emergency services if necessary. If it is safe to do so, move to a safe area away from traffic to avoid any further accidents or injuries.
Gather information about the accident. This includes obtaining the contact information, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance details of the truck driver and any other parties involved in the accident. Try to gather information from any witnesses present at the scene.
Document the accident scene. Take photos and videos of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and any visible damages or injuries. This evidence will be helpful when filing an insurance claim or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
Report the accident to the police. They will create an official police report detailing the incident, which will be valuable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
Seek immediate medical attention. Prompt medical evaluation will not only ensure your well-being but also establish documentation of your injuries, which will be vital when seeking compensation.
Contact our experienced truck accident lawyer. Our skilled personal injury lawyers in Fresno will guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you obtain the maximum compensation you deserve.
How Can a Fresno Truck Accident Lawyer Help You?
Our auto accident attorneys will handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf regarding your personal injury claim. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize the settlement amount or deny claims altogether.
We know the tactics used by insurance providers and will work tirelessly to protect your interests and negotiate a fair settlement.
Our team will evaluate your case and determine the types of damages you are entitled to, including economic damages, such as medical expenses and lost income, as well as non-economic damages, like pain and suffering or loss of consortium.
In the unfortunate event of a wrongful death resulting from a truck accident, our wrongful death lawyers will help you file a wrongful death claim. They will guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you meet all necessary requirements and deadlines.
Goldberg & Loren understand the emotional and physical toll a truck accident can have on your life, and we will be there to answer your questions, address your concerns, and advocate for your rights every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss your case.
Sources:
[1] Economics and Industry Data. (n.d.). American Trucking Associations. https://trucking.org/economics-and-industry-data
[2] Bieber, C. (2023, September 18). Truck Accident Statistics For 2023. Forbes Advisor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/auto-accident/truck-accident-statistics/
Goldberg & Loren Personal Injury Attorneys
2416 W. Shaw Avenue. Suite 103
Fresno, CA 93711
Have you or a loved one been injured in a truck accident in Fresno, California? You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact us to see if you have a case!
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