Experienced Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorneys
Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer
Find out why we have some of the best auto accident lawyers in Los Angeles
A truck accident may involve a commercial truck, semi-truck, 18-wheeler, but they all have potential to cause extreme damage. Truck accidents often result in serious injuries and even fatalities due to the sheer size and weight of the vehicles involved.
In 2019 there were 59 fatalities and 1,972 injuries from truck accidents in Los Angeles. [1]
Goldberg & Loren is here to help you navigate through the complexities of your truck accident case. Our experienced team of Los Angeles truck accident lawyers has a proven track record of winning substantial settlements for our clients.
Call us now to schedule a free consultation with one of our Los Angeles truck accident lawyers. We will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the process step by step.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Los Angeles
There are several common causes of truck accidents in Los Angeles, including:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to drowsy driving and decreased concentration, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Truck drivers may be prone to distractions from electronic devices, GPS systems, or eating while driving, which can result in accidents.
- Aggressive Driving: Tailgating, speeding, and sudden lane changes by truck drivers can lead to collisions with other vehicles.
- Poor Weather Conditions: Heavy rain or fog in Los Angeles can reduce visibility and road traction, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperienced truck drivers may lack the necessary skills to handle large vehicles, leading to accidents on busy Los Angeles roads.
- Mechanical Failures: Truck accidents can occur due to brake failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical malfunctions.
- Improper Loading: Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, leading to balance issues and accidents.
- Driving under the Influence: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a significant cause of truck accidents in Los Angeles.
- Road Construction: Construction zones and lane closures on Los Angeles highways can create confusion and increase the risk of accidents involving trucks.
- Lack of Maintenance: Poorly maintained trucks can suffer from brake or steering failures, leading to accidents on Los Angeles roads.
In 2021 alone, a total of 523,796 large truck accidents occurred across the United States. [2]
Truck Accident Injuries
When it comes to truck accidents, the injuries sustained can often be severe and life-altering. Common injuries experienced in truck accidents include:
- Whiplash: This injury occurs when the head and neck are forcefully jerked back and forth, causing soft tissue damage in the neck.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: The impact of a truck accident can cause serious damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis or loss of motor function. These injuries can be devastating and life-changing.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: The force of a truck accident can cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, leading to concussions, contusions, and more severe traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can result in long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
- Broken Bones: Due to the sheer size and weight of trucks, accidents often result in broken bones and fractures. These injuries can be extremely painful and require extensive medical treatment.
- Internal Injuries: The impact of a truck accident can cause internal injuries such as organ damage, internal bleeding, and damage to the chest and abdomen. These injuries can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Truck accidents can also have a significant psychological impact on survivors, leading to PTSD. This can result in anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
What Should You Do after a Truck Accident?
The following are some steps you should take after a truck accident to ensure that you are properly compensated for any damages or injuries.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately obvious but can have serious long-term consequences if not treated promptly.
- Document the Accident: If possible, take photographs of the scene of the accident, including any damage to your vehicle and any injuries you or your passengers may have suffered. Get the contact information of any witnesses who may have seen the accident and write down any details that you remember about the incident.
- Contact the Authorities: Contact the police and file a report after a truck accident. The police report will serve as an important piece of evidence when you file a claim with your insurance company or seek compensation through a legal process.
- Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer: Our skilled lawyers will help you navigate the complicated legal process, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive fair and just compensation for your damages and injuries.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Stick to the facts when speaking with the police and insurance companies and let your lawyer handle communication with other parties involved in the accident.
Table of Contents
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Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Los Angeles
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Truck Accident Injuries
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What Should You Do after a Truck Accident?
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Liability for a Truck Accident
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Compensation Available for Truck Accident Victims in California
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Statute of Limitations in California for Truck Accidents
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Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer Goldberg & Loren
Liability for a Truck Accident
If the driver was driving while fatigued, distracted, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they can be held responsible for the accident and the resulting damages. If the driver was not properly trained or did not have a valid commercial driver’s license, they can also be held liable for the accident.
The trucking company that employs the driver can also be held liable for a truck accident. If the company fails to properly maintain its vehicles, enforce safety regulations, or ensure that its drivers are properly trained and licensed, they can be held responsible for the accident.
The manufacturer of the truck or its parts can be held liable if a defect in the vehicle or its components caused or contributed to the accident. The company responsible for loading the truck’s cargo can also be held responsible if improperly loaded cargo led to the accident.
Compensation Available for Truck Accident Victims in California
In California, victims of truck accidents have the right to seek compensation for their losses and suffering. Some compensation available may include:
- Medical Expenses: This covers the costs of medical treatment, hospitalization, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical care related to the accident.
- Loss of Income: You may receive compensation for the wages lost due to the accident, including future earnings if your ability to work has been impacted.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensates for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident and injuries sustained.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the accident.
- Disability or Disfigurement: If the accident results in a permanent disability or disfigurement, you may be entitled to compensation for the lasting impact on your quality of life.
- Loss of Consortium: This compensation addresses the negative impact the accident has on the relationship with your spouse, including loss of companionship and support.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Statute of Limitations in California for Truck Accidents
The Statute of Limitations for truck accidents in California is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means that if you have been involved in a truck accident in California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage.
Failing to file a lawsuit within the specified time frame can result in your case being dismissed by the court. Once the Statute of Limitations has expired, you will no longer be able to pursue legal action for your truck accident injuries or damages.
One of our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers can assist you in determining whether any exceptions may apply to the time limits that apply to your case.
Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer Goldberg & Loren
Goldberg & Loren is a leading law firm that is dedicated to representing victims of truck accidents and helping them secure the compensation they deserve.
We:
- Investigate each case thoroughly
- Gather evidence to build a strong case
- Are dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate support
- Are committed to holding negligent truck drivers and their employers accountable
Goldberg & Loren is dedicated to helping individuals like you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims. Contact Goldberg & Loren today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step towards getting the justice and compensation you are entitled to.
FAQs
In a truck accident case in Los Angeles, proving negligence typically involves demonstrating that the truck driver or another party breached their duty of care, leading to the accident and resulting injuries. Evidence of negligence may include witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, the driver's logbooks, the truck's maintenance records, and any available video footage. Factors such as speeding, driver fatigue, distracted driving, or violations of traffic laws can contribute to substantiating a negligence claim.
If the trucking company's insurance company contacts you after a truck accident, exercise caution and consider seeking legal counsel before engaging in any discussions or providing statements. Remember that the insurance company aims to minimize their financial liability, and their interests may not align with yours. Avoid providing detailed information, admitting fault, or accepting any settlement offers without consulting an attorney. Politely decline to provide a formal statement until you have legal representation.
Los Angeles operates under a comparative negligence system regarding personal injury claims, including truck accidents. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the truck accident, you may still pursue a compensation claim. California follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule, under which your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. If you are found 25% at fault for the accident, your compensation will be decreased by 25%.
Sources:
[1] SWITRS 2019 Report. (n.d.). https://www.chp.ca.gov/programs-services/services-information/switrs-internet-statewide-integrated-traffic-records-system/switrs-2019-report
[2] Bieber, C. (2023, September 18). Truck Accident Statistics For 2024. Forbes Advisor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/auto-accident/truck-accident-statistics/
Goldberg & Loren Personal Injury Attorneys
11755 Wilshire Blvd Suite 1250
Los Angeles, CA 90025
(310) 401-3220
We fight hard for our clients who have suffered injuries from a truck accident in LA. Our personal injury lawyers fight for maximum compensation.
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