When it comes to accidents involving commercial vehicles, the complexities are often far greater than regular car accidents. In Los Angeles, where busy freeways and congested streets are commonplace, accidents involving big rigs, delivery trucks, and other commercial vehicles can cause devastating injuries.
At Compass Law Group, LLP, we are dedicated to helping victims of commercial vehicle accidents secure the compensation they deserve. Our Los Angeles commercial vehicle accident lawyers are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process.
Why Choose Our Los Angeles Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorneys
When choosing a commercial vehicle accident lawyer, it’s essential to find a team with experience, dedication, and proven results. Our attorneys have the experience and expertise necessary to handle the complexities of commercial vehicle accident cases.
Expertise in Commercial Vehicle Accident Cases
With years of experience, we understand the regulations and laws that govern the trucking industry in California and nationwide. We focus on getting the best possible outcome for our clients, whether through settlements or trial verdicts.
Proven Track Record of Success
We have secured major settlements and verdicts for our clients, recovering compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our history of success in commercial vehicle accident cases speaks volumes about our commitment to securing justice for our clients.
Personalized Client Care
We understand that being involved in a commercial vehicle accident can be overwhelming. That’s why our Los Angeles commercial vehicle accident attorneys provide compassionate, personalized legal representation. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide guidance through every step of the process.
Understanding Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Los Angeles
The most common types of commercial vehicles involved in accidents include big rigs, delivery vans, utility trucks, and tanker trucks. Each of these vehicle types poses unique challenges in terms of liability, legal claims, and the potential for catastrophic damages.
The legal processes and claims involved in commercial vehicle accidents differ significantly from those of regular car accidents. Commercial vehicle accidents often involve multiple parties, including the driver, the trucking company, and potentially other stakeholders such as cargo loaders or maintenance providers.
Additionally, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets stringent regulations for commercial vehicles, and violations of these regulations can play a significant role in your case.
Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Commercial vehicle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. Understanding the most common causes of these accidents can help victims and their families determine liability and strengthen their legal claims. The primary causes include:
Driver Negligence
In many commercial vehicle accidents, driver negligence is a major contributing factor. This can include driver fatigue, distracted driving, reckless driving, or driver inexperience.
Company Negligence
In addition to driver error, the trucking companies that employ these drivers may be at fault. Company negligence can look like poor vehicle maintenance, failure to train drivers properly, or knowingly hiring unsafe drivers.
External Factors
External factors can also play a significant role in commercial vehicle accidents. These can look like improper cargo loading, defective vehicle parts, or hazardous road conditions.
Types of Commercial Vehicle Accidents We Handle
At Compass Law Group, LLP, we handle a variety of commercial vehicle accident cases, ranging from rollovers to runaway trailers.
Here are some of the most common types of accidents we handle:
- Rollover Accidents
- Jackknife Accidents
- Underride/Override Collisions.
- Wide-Turn and Blind Spot Collisions
- Runaway Trailer Accidents
- Lost Cargo/Load Accidents
Common Injuries in Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Commercial vehicle accidents often result in serious, life-changing injuries. The size and weight of these vehicles, combined with high speeds, create conditions that can cause severe harm to victims.
Common injuries from a commercial vehicle collision include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and Spinal Cord Injuries
- Amputations, Fractures, and Crush Injuries
- Burns, Lacerations, and Internal Organ Damage
- Emotional Trauma and PTSD
- Wrongful Death
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Commercial Truck Accident Case?
Determining liability can be complicated, as multiple parties may share the responsibility for the crash. It’s crucial to identify all the parties involved to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
The potential parties who can be held liable include:
- The Truck Driver: They may be directly responsible if the accident was caused by their negligence, such as speeding or failing to adhere to traffic laws.
- Trucking Company: The trucking company that employs the driver could also be held liable, particularly if the accident occurred due to negligent hiring, improper training, or failure to maintain the vehicle.
- Cargo Loading Company: If the accident was caused by improperly loaded or unsecured cargo, the cargo loading company could be at fault.
- Vehicle/Parts Manufacturers: In cases where faulty parts contribute to the accident, the vehicle or parts manufacturer could be held liable for defective design or manufacturing defects.
- Maintenance Providers: Third-party maintenance providers could be responsible if the accident was caused by improper maintenance or failure to repair a mechanical issue.
- Government Entities: In some cases, government entities may be liable, particularly if the accident was caused by poor road conditions, unsafe infrastructure, or inadequate signage.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
If you have been involved in a commercial vehicle accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation based on the severity of your injuries. Here's a breakdown of the types of damages you may be able to claim:
Economic Damages
These damages compensate for financial losses resulting from the accident, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical treatments related to the injury.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for wages lost due to the inability to work while recovering.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries leave you unable to work in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for the lost earning capacity.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages compensate for intangible losses, such as:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and recovery process.
- Emotional Distress: Compensation for the mental anguish, anxiety, or depression caused by the accident.
- Loss of Consortium: If the accident affected your relationship with your spouse, you may be entitled to compensation for the loss of companionship and intimacy.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the defendant’s behavior is particularly reckless or malicious, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
Steps to Take After a Commercial Vehicle Accident in Los Angeles
It’s important to act quickly to protect your rights and preserve evidence for your case. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do immediately after an accident:
1. Ensure Safety and Call 911
First and foremost, call 911 as soon as you can. They will send emergency personnel to your location.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Care
If you haven’t already received medical attention at the scene, go to a hospital for a full evaluation. Medical records will play a crucial role in supporting your claim.
3. Gather Evidence and Witness Information
Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any injuries. Get contact information from witnesses who saw the event.
4. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Without Legal Counsel
Insurance companies will try to settle quickly, often for less than what you deserve. Don’t speak to insurance adjusters without first consulting an attorney who can help protect your interests.
5. Contact a Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer Immediately
As soon as possible, reach out to a Los Angeles commercial vehicle accident lawyer. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, deal with insurance companies, and ensure that you are fully compensated.
How We Investigate and Build Strong Cases
At Compass Law Group, LLP, we take a meticulous approach to investigating commercial vehicle accidents. We work with accident reconstruction experts and gather critical evidence to build a strong case.
Our investigation includes:
- Use of Accident Reconstruction Experts: We often employ accident reconstruction experts to analyze the scene and determine how the accident occurred.
- Gathering Black Box and Driver Log Data: Many commercial vehicles are equipped with black boxes that record critical data, such as speed, braking, and GPS locations. We will gather and analyze this data to determine if the driver was following safety protocols.
- Reviewing Maintenance and Inspection Records: Our team reviews the vehicle’s maintenance and inspection records to determine if the accident was caused by poor maintenance or neglected repairs.
- Identifying Systemic Safety Violations: If systemic safety violations played a role in the accident, we will uncover this information to strengthen your case.
Statute of Limitations for Commercial Vehicle Accident Claims
When pursuing a claim for a commercial vehicle accident in Los Angeles, it's crucial to understand the time limits for filing a lawsuit. These deadlines, known as the statute of limitations, vary depending on the type of claim and the parties involved.
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can bar you from seeking compensation for injuries sustained in the accident.
If the accident involved a government-owned vehicle, you must file a notice of claim within six months of the accident. Afterward, you may have limited time to pursue further legal action.
Why You Need a Los Angeles Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer
Dealing with the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident can be overwhelming. From navigating the legal complexities to dealing with multiple insurance companies, you need an experienced Los Angeles commercial vehicle accident lawyer by your side.
Our team will work to make the claim-filing process as smooth as possible by:
- Dealing with Aggressive Insurance Defense Teams: Insurance companies often have aggressive legal teams working to minimize their liability. Our team will negotiate with insurers to ensure you get the full compensation you deserve.
- Maximizing Settlement vs. Trial Readiness: Our experienced attorneys will be able to assess the full extent of your damages and fight for a fair settlement. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, we’re prepared to take your case to court to pursue the compensation you deserve.
- Navigating Federal and California Trucking Regulations: Commercial vehicle accidents are subject to both federal and state regulations. We will make sure that these regulations are used to your advantage in building a strong case.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a commercial vehicle accident, it’s essential to seek legal representation as soon as possible. At Compass Law Group, LLP, we offer free consultations and work on a no-win, no-fee basis to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Let us fight for your rights and help you recover from the financial burden of a commercial vehicle accident. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start your case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is my claim worth?
The value of your claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, medical expenses, and lost wages. A commercial vehicle accident lawyer will assess your case to determine the potential value of your claim.
How long will my case take?
The length of your case depends on factors such as how complicated the liability is and whether a settlement can be reached. While some cases settle in a few months, others may take a year or more to resolve.
Can I afford a commercial vehicle accident lawyer?
Our team of attorneys works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
What if I were partially at fault?
California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your degree of responsibility.
Do commercial vehicle accidents differ legally from car accidents?
Yes, commercial vehicle accidents are subject to additional laws and regulations, including federal trucking laws. Additionally, multiple parties may be involved in a commercial vehicle accident, making the claims process more complex.
