The trucking industry is vital to California’s economy. It ensures fresh food gets to grocery stores, delivers parts to factories, and more. It generates billions in revenue each year by moving goods like food, fuel, electronics, furniture, and clothing.
Given the high volume of trucks on California’s roads, like I-5, I-10 and I-80, accidents are inevitable due to the increased traffic and the inherent risks associated with large commercial vehicles. If you’ve been in a truck accident, an experienced California truck lawyer can help you get the compensation you need.
We are Award-Winning Trucking Accident Attorneys
Our award-winning trucking accident attorneys are dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation to truck drivers in
California. At Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, our law firm is recognized for its experience, expertise, and success in handling trucking accident cases nationally.
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys has been consistently recognized for excellence in legal practice. Listed in The Best Lawyers in America since 1993, the firm’s attorneys have received numerous Lawyer of the Year recognitions based on peer reviews.
We have board-certified attorneys in Civil Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocates and are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, restricted to those who have won significant verdicts and settlements.
Munley Law is included in the Martindale-Hubbell® Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers™ and has attorneys ranked among Lawdragon’s 500 Leading Consumer Plaintiffs Lawyers. The firm’s members belong to the American Board of Trial Advocates and the National Trial Lawyers Association, and one serves on the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College staff. Additionally, they are part of the International Society of Barristers, recognized for excellence and integrity in advocacy.
We have a proven history of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients, demonstrating our loyalty to justice and our deep understanding of the complexities of trucking accident cases. Trust us at Munley Law to be your advocates on the road to recovery.
How Our California Trucking Accident Attorneys Can Help You
If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, our attorneys are here to help. Our California truck accident team knows the laws and federal regulations surrounding commercial truck accidents and can guide you through the process. We recognize how challenging it can be to cope with an accident, both physically and emotionally, we will help you by:
- Listen to your story: Understand the full scope of your situation. We will then gather all pertinent information, including police reports, medical records, and witness testimonies. Our thorough approach ensures we build a solid case with compelling evidence to support your claims.
- Focus on securing the maximum compensation you deserve: This compensation can cover various financial burdens and damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, future expenses, and pain and suffering.
- Negotiate with insurance: Our experienced trucking accident lawyers are well-versed in negotiating with insurance companies, and we will handle all interactions on your behalf.
- Go to court: In cases where a fair truck accident settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our attorneys are skilled litigators with a strong track record of success in the courtroom. We will vigorously advocate for your rights, presenting a compelling case to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
- Ongoing support and guidance: Our team will be by your side throughout the process, offering support and guidance. We know that the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, and we are here to alleviate your burden.
From the initial consultation to the final resolution of your case, you can count on us to be your dedicated advocates. You don’t have to go through this alone. Let our experienced team help you every step of the way, ensuring your rights are protected and your future is secure. Contact Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys today to begin your journey toward recovery and justice.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in California
Truck accidents can occur for various reasons, often from a combination of driver, vehicle, and environmental factors. Some of the most common types of truck accidents are as follows:
Driver Fatigue
Truck driver fatigue is a major cause of truck accidents, posing serious risks to everyone on the road. Long hours behind the wheel can lead to decreased alertness and slower reaction times. When truck drivers don’t get enough rest, they struggle to stay awake and make quick decisions, leading to dangerous situations.
Fatigue impairs a driver’s ability to notice traffic changes, respond to emergencies, and avoid obstacles. Despite federal regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) limiting driving hours of service, tight schedules and pressure to meet deadlines often push drivers beyond safe limits. This increases the risk of severe accidents, including rear-end collisions, lane departures, rollovers, and fatal crashes.
Excessive Speed
Excessive speed is a common and dangerous factor in truck accidents, significantly reducing a driver’s reaction time. Large trucks require more time and distance to stop than motorists in smaller vehicles, so driving too fast severely limits their ability to respond to sudden obstacles or changes in traffic conditions.
Speeding also increases the severity of accidents, causing extensive property damage and severe truck accident injuries. Due to the sheer force involved, high-speed collisions are more likely to be catastrophic, endangering both truck occupants and other road users.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, quick lane changes, or road rage can lead to truck crashes.
Overloading
Overloading is a common issue in truck accidents, occurring when a truck carries more weight than it is designed for. This excess weight raises the truck’s center of gravity, making it prone to tipping during sharp turns or sudden moves. Overloading leads to longer stopping distances and a higher risk of brake failure. Additionally, it impacts handling, making the truck harder to control, especially on slopes. Overloaded trucks are more likely to experience tire blowouts and mechanical failures, which can result in serious accidents.
Mechanical Failure
Mechanical failures are a leading cause of truck accidents, posing serious risks due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Neglected maintenance can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering issues. Even with proper upkeep, manufacturing defects can cause part failures, resulting in serious accidents and significant damage.
Compensation for Truck Accident Victims in California
Truck accident victims in California may be entitled to various forms of compensation to help cover their losses and facilitate their recovery. In personal injury cases, this compensation can be divided into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses: These include hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and any ongoing treatments.
- Lost wages: Victim may be eligible to recover lost wages when they cannot earn income and compensation for reduced earning capacity if the injuries impact their ability to work in the future.
- Property damage: Damage to their vehicle and any other personal property affected by the accident.
- Future medical costs: Long-term care or ongoing treatment. These can include anticipated surgeries, therapy sessions, or other medical needs.
Non-economic Injuries
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and its aftermath. This includes the impact on the victim’s overall quality of life, such as loss of enjoyment in daily activities, relationships, and mental well-being.
- Emotional Distress: Victims may experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the accident. Compensation for emotional distress recognizes the psychological toll the accident has taken on the victim.
- Loss of Consortium: Spouses of injured victims may be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship and support, known as loss of consortium.
Punitive Damages
Victims may be awarded punitive damages in cases involving gross negligence or reckless behavior by the truck driver or trucking company. These damages punish the responsible party and deter similar misconduct in the future.
The compensation process can be complex, and navigating it without legal expertise can be challenging. Victims should consult with experienced truck accident attorneys who can help them understand their rights, evaluate their case, and pursue the fair compensation they deserve. An attorney can provide valuable guidance in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing the victim in court if necessary.
How Truck Crashes Are Different from Car Accidents
Truck crashes differ from car accidents in several key ways:
- Size and weight: Trucks are much larger and heavier, causing more severe damage and injuries in crashes.
- Stopping distance: Trucks need more space to stop, affecting their ability to avoid accidents.
- Driver regulations: Truck drivers follow strict rules on hours, rest, and maintenance, complicating fault determination.
- Liability: Multiple parties, like drivers, companies, and manufacturers, may share fault in truck crashes.
- Insurance: Trucking companies have higher insurance limits, affecting compensation and claims.
- Injuries: Truck crashes often cause more serious injuries, like brain and spinal cord damage.
These differences shape the legal and compensation process for truck accident victims.
Frequently Asked Questions about California Truck Accidents
What is the time limit to file a truck accident claim in California?
Under California law, the time limit to file a truck accident claim is generally two years from the accident date. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, applies to personal injury and property damage claims. If you fail to file your claim within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek financial compensation, so it is important to act promptly and contact our California truck accident attorneys for a case evaluation.
Who can be held liable for a truck accident?
Depending on the circumstances, liability in a truck accident can fall on several parties. The truck driver may be held responsible for evidence of negligence, such as distracted driving or speeding. The trucking company can also be liable for inadequate training or maintenance issues. Other parties, such as vehicle manufacturers or maintenance providers, may also share liability if their negligence contributed to the accident.
What should I do after a truck accident?
After a truck accident, your safety and the safety of others involved should be your top priority. Here are essential steps to follow to ensure everyone’s well-being and protect your rights:
- Check for injuries: First, assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is injured or requires medical attention, call 911 immediately for help.
- Move to safety: If it’s safe, move vehicles to the side of the road to prevent further accidents and ensure that traffic can flow smoothly.
- Call the police: Report the accident to the authorities and wait for law enforcement to arrive. A police report can be vital for your case.
- Gather information: Collect contact and insurance details from the truck driver and any witnesses. This information will be important for your claim.
- Document the scene: Take clear photos of the accident, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. This documentation can be crucial for establishing what happened.
- Avoid admitting fault: Be careful not to discuss fault or blame at the scene. Focus on getting the medical treatment you need, as discussing liability can complicate matters later.
- Consult an attorney: Contact an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and understand your rights. They can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
By following these steps, you can ensure your safety and protect your interests after a truck accident in California.
Do you represent injured truck drivers?
Yes, we do represent injured truck drivers. If a truck driver is involved in an accident and suffers injuries, they may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Our personal injury law firm has the legal experience to handle cases for injured drivers and can help file a claim for damages in your truck accident lawsuit.
Speak With a California Truck Accident Lawyer Today
Don’t wait to get the support you deserve. Contact Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. Our dedicated legal team of experienced truck accident lawyers is ready to listen to your story, thoroughly assess your case, and provide clear guidance on your legal options.
We understand the challenges you face after an accident, and we’re here to advocate for your rights every step of the way.
Contact us today to take the first important step toward securing the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
