California Truck Accident Lawyer

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Speak to our experienced California truck accident lawyer for all your legal issues after a truck accident in California. We provide free consultation to help you through the damages. No Fees Until We Win.

Importance of hiring proven truck accident lawyers

If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury in a truck accident in California, it is vital that you contact an attorney who has experience handling these intricate cases. At the Law Offices of JG Winter, we will deal with the insurance companies for you and answer all your questions so that you can concentrate on your recovery. With resources that include industry experts, investigators, and medical professionals, we will fight for full and fair compensation for all damages you sustained, including:

$Medical expenses
$Long-term care
$Rehabilitation

$Loss of wages
$Loss of earning power
$Pain and suffering

We stand behind the principle that financial cost should not hinder your ability to attain experienced legal advocacy. It is our promise that you will not pay anything unless we win your case for you.

Call to take the first step today

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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:

Driver fatigue

An extensive problem in the transportation sector is driver fatigue. The lengthy hours that truck drivers must work are partially to blame. Federal restrictions permit commercial truck drivers to work up to 14 hours a day, with a maximum of 11 hours spent operating a vehicle. What was the outcome? Drivers who are fatigued put both themselves and other road users at serious risk.

Distracted driving

One of the main factors contributing to truck accidents is distracted driving. Eating, daydreaming, or using a mobile phone causes distraction. Regardless of the cause, the outcome is always the same: a reduced ability to focus that may lead to a catastrophic accident.

Speeding and reckless driving

Truck accidents are also frequently caused by speeding and reckless driving, frequently connected to meeting deadlines. The likelihood of an accident increases significantly when a truck travels faster than the traffic flow.

Improper cargo loading

Improper cargo loading into a commercial vehicle can result in jackknifing or rollover, which can cause serious accidents. Overloaded truck accidents are another frequent reason for truck-related occurrences, and improper loading can contribute to them.

Poor truck maintenance

Another important factor contributing to truck accidents is poor maintenance. Serious accidents can result from tire blowouts, steering component failures, and brake failures. The trucking businesses are in charge of maintaining the fleet’s quality. If they don’t, they can be considered a careless trucking company.

Substance abuse

Unfortunately, substance abuse is also a frequent cause of truck accidents. This may include alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal substances. Truck drivers impaired by these substances pose a significant risk to themselves and others on the road.

Negligent hiring

Sometimes, the trucking company may be at fault for hiring an unsuitable driver. This could involve a driver with a record of DUIs or one lacking the necessary licensing.

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:

Jackknife accidents

A jackknife accident happens when a truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the truck’s cab, resembling the shape of a folding knife. This dangerous situation often arises from sudden braking or abrupt acceleration, causing the driver to lose control. Jackknifing can lead to multi-vehicle pileups and significant road blockages, posing severe risks to other motorists.

Truck bent rims

Trucks, with their high centers of gravity and uneven weight distribution, are especially prone to rollover accidents. These dangerous incidents can happen when a driver takes a turn too quickly, navigates a curve at an unsafe speed, or when the truck is improperly loaded, causing instability.

Wide turn crashes

Truck drivers frequently swing left before making a right turn to accommodate the vehicle’s length. However, they may not fully account for the truck’s size or the traffic behind them, which can lead to accidents. This maneuver can result in cars or pedestrians being struck, as drivers and pedestrians may not anticipate the wide turn and find themselves in the truck’s path.

Blindspot collisions

Trucks have substantial blind spots, also known as “no-zones,” on all sides, making it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles. If other motorists are unaware of these blind spots and linger in them, accidents can occur when the truck attempts to change lanes or make a turn.

Truck rollovers

Due to their high centers of gravity and uneven weight distribution, trucks are particularly susceptible to rollover accidents. These can occur when a driver takes a turn too quickly, navigates a curve at an excessive speed, or when the truck is improperly loaded.

Lost load accidents

When truckers or cargo loaders improperly load freight, it can result in cargo falling off the vehicle, posing a serious hazard to other motorists. Unsecured or poorly balanced loads can shift during transit, causing items to spill onto the road, leading to accidents, injuries, or even fatalities.

Truck tire blowouts

You can see evidence of tire blowouts all over California highways. When a truck’s tire blows out, it can cause the vehicle to lose control and crash into other drivers.

Head-on collisions

A head-on collision between a commercial truck and a smaller vehicle is one of the most catastrophic types of accidents. Given the substantial size and weight of trucks, these collisions often result in severe injuries or fatalities for the occupants of the smaller vehicles.

Rear-end collisions

The immense size and weight of trucks make rear-end collisions particularly dangerous. When a truck driver fails to stop in time, often due to high speed, distractions, or following too closely, the impact can cause devastating damage to smaller vehicles. The sheer force of a truck rear-ending a car can result in serious injuries, including whiplash, spinal injuries, and even fatalities.

Underride accidents

Underride accidents are among the most deadly, occurring when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a large truck. These accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities, as the smaller vehicle’s roof can be sheared off upon impact.

T-bone accidents

Also known as side-impact collisions, T-bone accidents happen when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These accidents are particularly dangerous when a truck is involved, as the side of a vehicle offers less protection.

Truck crashes are more frequent than many realize, largely due to their size, length, and limited maneuverability compared to other vehicles. When driving near a truck in California, it’s crucial to stay alert and avoid remaining in a truck’s vicinity for extended periods. This reduces the risk of being involved in a potential accident, as trucks require more time and space to react to changes in traffic conditions.

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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?

Liability for a truck accident in California - Law Office of JG Winter

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.

California truck accident laws

California laws surrounding truck accidents are complex. Under the comparative negligence principle, more than one party can be held responsible for a truck accident. For example, the driver, the trucking company, or even the truck manufacturer could be found liable.

California enforces strict regulations on trucking companies and drivers, including laws on maximum driving time and necessary rest breaks. Violating these laws could play a significant role in establishing negligence in a truck accident case.

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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.

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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.

Areas We Serve

Sacramento Truck Accident Lawyer

Vacaville Truck Accident Lawyer

Turlock Truck Accident Lawyer

Lodi Truck Accident Lawyer

Arden-Arcade Truck Accident Lawyer

Yuba City Truck Accident Lawyer

Sonora Truck Accident Lawyer

Florin Truck Accident Lawyer

Chico Truck Accident Lawyer

Folsom Truck Accident Lawyer

Merced Truck Accident Lawyer

Woodland Truck Accident Lawyer

Tracy Truck Accident Lawyer

Rocklin Truck Accident Lawyer

Atwater Truck Accident Lawyer

Placerville Truck Accident Lawyer

North Highlands Truck Accident Lawyer

Marysville Truck Accident Lawyer

Redding Truck Accident Lawyer

Manteca Truck Accident Lawyer

Lincoln Truck Accident Lawyer

Ceres Truck Accident Lawyer

Oroville Truck Accident Lawyer

Carmichael Truck Accident Lawyer

Galt Truck Accident Lawyer

Los Banos Truck Accident Lawyer

Roseville Truck Accident Lawyer

What our clients have to say

Shyra Aranda

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I had the pleasure of working with Jeremy, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome of my case. From the very beginning, Jeremy was compassionate and understanding of my situation. He took the time to listen to my concerns and explain the legal process in a way that was easy for me to understand.

Erik Oh

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jeremy’s knowledge and expertise quickly resolved all stress and pressure and concluded with the result we were looking for. He knows the law and knew my rights - I felt extremely confident in every step because he forecasted every potential scenario and the desired outcome with the steps to get there. He was phenomenal!

Heang Chan

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The team is one of the best in California period. I've used Jeremy Winter for years and have referred friends and family over to his office and have received great feedback from them. They look out for your best interest and bring in specialists as needed to make sure you are getting the representation you need when it really matters.

California truck accident FAQs

What is the statute of limitations for California truck accidents?

California’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including truck accidents, is generally two years from the accident date. However, there may be exceptions to this rule. You should hire a truck accident attorney in for accurate information based on your circumstances.

What should I do if an insurance company calls me?

If an insurance provider contacts you, it’s crucial to consult a truck accident lawyer before providing any statements or signing any documents. Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts and anything you say could be used against you.

What If the accident was partly my fault?

Under California’s comparative negligence law, you can recover damages even if you were partly at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What evidence do you need to support your claim?

Evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and any other documentation related to the accident can support your claim. A qualified truck accident attorney can help you on the specific evidence needed for your case.

How can you prove fault in a truck accident in California?

Proving fault in a truck accident requires collecting evidence from the accident scene, such as accident reports, witness testimonies, photographs, and video footage. The truck’s black box, cell phone records, the driver’s logbook, and maintenance records could also serve as significant evidence. A Sacramento truck accident lawyer is crucial in determining the liable party and proving their fault in court.

How much does a California truck accident attorney cost?

J.G. Winter Law’s lawyers and support staff work on a contingency basis for our clients, meaning that clients won’t pay us a single penny unless and until we win your case. All contingency payout percentages are fully understood and agreed upon by our clients prior to starting our case work, and clients will have full transparency on all payouts.