Los Angeles is a bustling and chaotic city filled with people going about their lives. The vast network of highways is often congested with both civilian and truck traffic, and commercial trucking is a common sight. Unfortunately, this increase in trucks on the road leads to a higher risk of serious vehicle collisions involving big rigs and 18-wheelers. If you’ve been injured in one of these crashes, seeking help from a Los Angeles truck accident lawyer can make all the difference in securing the compensation you need to recover.
At Compass Law Group, LLP, our experienced truck accident attorneys in Los Angeles are ready to fight for your rights and help you navigate the legal system after an accident. We understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a truck accident can be, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Truck Accident Statistics in Los Angeles
- According to the California Highway Patrol, the state of California had over 6,500 accidents involving large trucks.
- In 2014, almost 4,000 people died and over 100,000 people were injured in California due to an accident involving a large truck.
- Almost 80% of truck accidents occur on a weekday. Of that percentage, around 70% of those accidents happened during the daytime.
- From 2013 to 2017, Los Angeles has seen a gradual increase in the number of truck accidents each year. This number went up from 1,600 in 2013 to almost 2,000 in 2017. This number only continues to gradually increase.
Types of Truck Accidents in Los Angeles
When we say truck, what kind of vehicle are we referring to? There are pickup trucks, semi-trucks, and even garbage trucks. Each of these styles of trucks comes with its own set of risks for the driver and other cars on the road. Their massive size and slower speeds put them at a greater risk of getting into an accident, and it is important to know the potential dangers that come from each.
Common types of truck accidents include the following:
- Tractor Trucks: Semi-trucks come in two main parts: the main cabin and the massive cargo trailer. When the main cabin is driven on the road without a cargo trailer, it is considered a tractor truck. Seeing a tractor truck on the road is a fairly common sight, but their lack of a trailer doesn’t make them any less dangerous. They are still large motor vehicles that can do some serious damage in the event of a collision.
- Big Rigs: Also known as 18-wheelers or semi-trucks, big rigs are tractor trucks attached to a full cargo trailer. They require a specific set of skills and expertise to drive safely. This added length and weight make collisions even more dangerous, especially for smaller passenger vehicles. There is no such thing as a tiny fender bender when a big rig is involved.
- Tanker Trucks: As the name suggests, these are massive trucks that include a tank full of chemicals or other liquids. These trucks have a history of catching on fire or exploding in a collision due to the dangerous materials they transport. This creates a new level of danger for pedestrian vehicles, as crash victims can also experience severe burns and smoke inhalation.
- Commercial Vehicles: Any larger commercial vehicle carries a greater risk of injury in the event of an accident due to the vehicle’s size and shape. This includes delivery trucks, garbage trucks, utility trucks, and other vehicles people use for business purposes.
Common Injuries in Los Angeles Truck Accident Cases
- Head and Brain Injuries: These can include concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), hematomas, broken bones, and torn muscles in the neck and shoulders.
- Spinal Injuries: Spinal injuries from a commercial truck accident can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis in parts of the body. Any injuries to the spinal cord need to be taken seriously and addressed by a medical professional as soon as possible.
- Internal Injuries: Not all injuries are as visible as a cut or gash. Damage to your internal organs or muscles can have just as many complications as an open wound, which is why truck crash victims need to visit a medical professional as quickly as possible.
- Broken Bones and Lacerations: Even minor cuts and scrapes need professional medical attention to make sure they heal properly. From a broken bone to a cut on your hand, you deserve compensation for your injuries after a truck accident.
- Death: Some truck accidents are severe enough to be fatal, and this is devastating for families and loved ones. If you have lost someone due to a truck accident, you deserve to seek justice for their wrongful death.
What Causes Truck Accidents in Los Angeles?
- Speeding: Drivers not abiding by traffic laws or going above the speed limit put themselves and others at a greater risk of a truck accident.
- Distracted Driving: Looking at your phone or maps increases your odds of getting into a truck accident.
- Unsafe Cargo Loading and Unloading: If truck cargo is not properly secured, it can fall off and lead to serious injuries to other drivers or pedestrians.
- Blind Spot Crashes: Trucks have many blind spots due to their size and shape. Cars hiding in these blind spots can cause a commercial truck accident.
- Improper Braking: Braking too late or too aggressively can cause a serious truck accident.
- Equipment Failure: If the equipment on a truck breaks or fails, such as a truck tire blowout accident, it can be extremely dangerous for everybody on the road.
What To Do After a Truck Accident
- Call 911 to report the accident and get emergency medical services on their way.
- If you are seriously injured, seek immediate medical attention above everything else.
- Take pictures of the scene and all vehicles involved in the accident.
- Get eyewitness testimonies.
- Fill out a police report.
- Contact truck crash lawyers such as Compass Law Group, LLP.
Why You Need a Truck Accident Attorney
Navigating the legal system on your own can be confusing and overwhelming to begin with. When you add in the complexities of dealing with a trucking company and other third parties, the maze becomes even more complicated. Lucky for you, Compass Law Group, LLP is ready to guide you through the process. Our attorneys will point you in the right direction and take care of negotiations with third parties, such as the other driver and the trucking company.
We know our way around Los Angeles’ local regulations and specific insurance company tactics, getting you the maximum settlement amount for your accident.
How Can Compass Law Group Help?
At Compass Law Group, LLP, our clients come first. Our client-centered approach allows us to create a custom game plan to help you win your case and earn the maximum settlement amount. We know California’s legal system from front to back, and we are ready to fight by your side and handle negotiations with the other parties involved.
Trucking companies will try to be sly and sneak out of paying you a fair settlement, but Compass Law Group, LLP has experience dealing with these kinds of people. Leave the dirty work to us, and trust we will use the law to get you the compensation you deserve.
Damages Available in California Truck Accidents
- Economic Damages: Loss of wages, medical bills, rehabilitation, long-term care, broken property, replacement of property, and more.
- Non-Economic Damages: Loss of quality of life, pain and suffering, loss of companionship, psychological ailments such as PTSD, and more.
California Statute of Limitations in Truck Accidents
In the state of California, there is a time limit on how long you can wait to file your truck accident claim. This is known as a statute of limitations, and it prevents people from attempting to file a claim years after an incident occurs.
In California, the statute of limitations for a truck accident is 2 years from the date of the accident. If you wait longer than 2 years to file a claim, you will not earn any compensation for the accident. Delays in filing can slow down the whole process and harm your chances of earning a settlement, which is why it’s important to file your claim as soon as you can.
How Much Is Your Truck Accident Case Worth?
If you are going through the process of filing a truck accident claim, you want to know what your case is worth. This way, you can prepare for negotiations and know what a fair settlement amount would be.
So how much is your case worth? The short answer: it depends. There are many factors involved in valuing your claim, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- How expensive your medical bills are
- How much long-term care you need
- How much income you lost
- The severity of the property damages
- The amount of fault placed on each party
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?
The liable party for the truck accident can vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Parties who can be found liable for a truck accident include:
- The truck driver
- The truck driver’s employer
- The trucking company
- The manufacturer who made the truck
- The mechanic who worked on the truck
- Other government entities
Truck Accident Liability Examples
- If the truck was not properly loaded, the workers who loaded it up could be held liable for the accident.
- If the truck driver was driving recklessly, they would be held liable.
- If the road was not properly labeled or marked, the local government bodies could be held liable.
- If the truck broke down, leading to the accident, the mechanic who worked on the truck may be held liable.
What If I Was Partially at Fault?
If you are found partially at fault for the accident, do not panic. You can still receive a settlement for the accident. California uses a rule of comparative negligence. This means the percentage you are found to be at fault will impact the amount of compensation you can earn. For example, if you were found 20% at fault, then you can recover up to 80% of your losses from the accident.
How to File a Truck Accident Claim in California
Filing a truck accident claim in California involves several key steps to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Follow these essential steps to help you navigate the claims process effectively after a truck accident in Los Angeles:
- Get in touch with a truck accident attorney.
- Document the accident as much as you can.
- Collect witness testimonies.
- File a claim with your insurance provider.
- Keep a journal after the accident to record injuries and recovery.
- Work with your attorney to determine the cause of the accident.
- Know your rights and the statute of limitations.
- File the legal claim.
- Negotiate a settlement with the help of your attorney.
- Work with your attorney throughout the process to receive legal advice and help.
Schedule Your Free Consultation with A Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer
Looking for a truck accident attorney in the Los Angeles area? Compass Law Group, LLP will point you in the right direction and fight for your rights. We know all the tips and tricks in the book to get you the maximum compensation for your case, and we will fight until we win. And the best part: you do not pay us a nickel for our services unless we win your case. Our clients come first, and we know how to fight dirty.
Contact Compass Law Group, LLP today at (310) 289-7126 to schedule a free consultation or to speak with one of our expert attorneys. Our team is here to help you!
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Choosing a Legal Team for Your Truck Accident Claim
Have you been seriously injured in a truck accident? Let Compass Law Group assist you. Our experienced truck accident attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve to move forward with your life. Whether you’ve suffered a brain injury, severe burns, spinal cord damage, or loss of limb, we’re dedicated to securing the maximum damages for you and your family.
We’ve successfully obtained millions of dollars in compensation for our clients and understand how to safeguard your rights. Utilizing our extensive legal expertise and strategic approach, we’ll seek substantial damages to cover your medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and provide justice for your physical and emotional suffering.
Once you’re a client of Compass Law Group, our dedicated team will stand by your side, offering personalized support and effective legal guidance. You won’t pay any attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Contact us today for a consultation.
Our comprehensive list of services isn’t limited to the information mentioned above. Our team of Los Angeles-based auto accident attorneys is equipped to handle various personal injury cases without any upfront costs. You don’t pay unless we win.
We combine years of experience with cutting-edge technology and tactics to outsmart the opposition in every case. Don’t settle for less—trust the best truck accident attorneys in Los Angeles County and throughout Southern California. Contact a Los Angeles truck attorney like us if you’ve been involved in a truck accident and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
