California Truck Accident Lawyer

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Common causes of truck accidents

Truck accidents are a major issue on California highways, frequently leading to catastrophic damage. Understanding the various causes of truck accidents is essential for determining liability and securing maximum compensation. Below are some common causes of truck accidents in California:

What are the most common truck accidents?

There are various types of truck accidents, each with distinct circumstances and potential outcomes. Some can cause severe harm, while others may be even more destructive. Here are some common types of truck accidents:

Most common injuries from truck accidents

Truck accidents often result in severe, life-changing injuries that can impact every aspect of a person’s life. Here are some common injuries sustained in truck accidents:

Spinal Cord Injuries

These injuries can cause partial or complete paralysis, necessitating lifelong care and leading to profound changes in quality of life.

Broken Bones

Truck accidents frequently cause fractures, which may take weeks or months to heal. Severe cases might require surgery and physical therapy.

Internal Injuries

Such injuries can affect various organs and usually demand immediate medical treatment. Untreated internal injuries can lead to serious complications.

Burns

If a truck accident results in a fire, victims may suffer severe burns, leading to intense pain, disfigurement, and long-term psychological effects.

Lacerations and Abrasions

While often less severe than other injuries, cuts and abrasions can still cause considerable pain and pose a risk of infection.

Wrongful Death

Tragically, truck accidents can sometimes result in the wrongful death of a loved one, bringing both emotional and financial burdens to the surviving family members.

It’s essential to see a doctor after being involved in a truck accident. Keep in mind that not all injuries present symptoms right away, but a doctor can diagnose any underlying issues and start treatment early, helping to prevent potential complications.

Who is liable for a trucking accident in California?

Determining liability in a truck accident is often more complex than in a typical car accident. Experienced truck accident lawyers in California can help identify the responsible party. Potentially liable parties include:

The Truck Driver

If the driver was fatigued, distracted, speeding, or under the influence, they may be held responsible.

The Trucking Company

If the company encouraged excessive work hours, neglected vehicle maintenance, or failed to conduct proper background checks on their drivers, they could be liable.

The Cargo Loader

If improper loading of the cargo caused the accident, the party responsible for loading the shipment might be held accountable.

The Truck Manufacturer

If a defect in the truck or its components led to the accident, the manufacturer could be deemed responsible.

California truck accident facts and statistics

Truck accidents are a significant concern in California. According to the latest Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration data, California ranks among the top 10 states for the highest average of fatal truck accidents.

• Fatalities: In 2021, 5,560 large truck and bus crashes resulted in fatalities.
• Injury Accidents: Large trucks were involved in 126,000 injury crashes.
• Overall Crashes: There were 238,000 crashes involving large trucks, including those with injuries and fatalities.
• Truck Occupant Fatalities: 893 people in large trucks died in crashes, representing 16% of all large truck crash fatalities.
• Percentage of Fatal Crashes: Large trucks were involved in 8% of all fatal crashes in 2021.
• Truck Types: Most large truck crashes involved combination trucks (such as tractor-trailers), accounting for 72% of all large truck crashes.

What compensation can I receive after a truck accident?

Truck accident victims can seek two main types of compensation: economic and non-economic damages. In some cases, punitive damages might also be applicable.

Economic damages

Economic damages address financial losses from a truck accident, including:

• Medical Bills: This covers all current and future expenses related to the accident, such as hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for wages lost due to missed work because of the injuries. Compensation also covers lost earning capacity if the injuries are severe enough to prevent returning to work.
• Property Damage: Includes the cost of repairing or replacing a damaged vehicle.

Non-economic damages

Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses caused by a truck accident, including:

• Pain and Suffering: Covers the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensates for a reduced quality of life due to the accident.
• Emotional Distress: Provides compensation for mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD that arise from the accident.

Punitive damages

Punitive damages may be awarded if the defendant’s actions were especially egregious or malicious. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault party and discourage similar behavior in the future.

Speak to a California truck accident attorney today

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in California, reach out to J.G. Winter Law. Our experienced personal injury law firm offers skilled truck accident lawyers who can help you understand your options and advocate for your rights.

With a deep understanding of the law and a strong commitment to our clients, our California truck accident attorneys work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve. We handle the complexities of truck accident cases, including investigating the incident, establishing liability, and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf. Contact us today and take a step toward achieving justice.

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