
Top Truck Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles
Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed in truck accidents across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021 alone, there were 4,714 fatalities involving large trucks, representing a 13% increase from the previous year. That same year, there were an estimated 147,000 injuries from large truck crashes. These numbers reveal the devastating toll that truck accidents can take on victims and their families.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, you may feel overwhelmed. You’re likely grappling with physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty. Morales Law Firm understands these challenges and is dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process. Our team of experienced attorneys will fight to get you the compensation you deserve, ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way.
Call us today at (626) 521-5402.
What Are Some of the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents are rarely straightforward. They often involve complex layers of liability, with contributing factors from drivers, trucking companies, and even vehicle manufacturers. Knowing the common causes of these accidents can shed light on who is responsible and how much compensation you may be entitled to. Some of the most frequent causes of truck accidents include:
- Driver Fatigue: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict regulations on the hours that commercial truck drivers can work, known as the Hours of Service (HOS) rules. However, violations are still common, with tired drivers causing significant accidents. In fact, the FMCSA reports that fatigue is a factor in 13% of all truck accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Like car drivers, truckers may use their phones, eat, or engage in other distractions behind the wheel. Distracted driving accounted for 8.2% of fatal large truck crashes in 2020, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- Speeding: Commercial trucks require a longer stopping distance than smaller vehicles. The IIHS notes that trucks traveling at high speeds have a much higher likelihood of causing accidents, especially in heavy traffic or adverse weather conditions. In 2020, 17% of truck drivers involved in fatal crashes were speeding at the time of the accident.
- Improper Cargo Loading: Incorrectly loaded or secured cargo can cause a truck to tip over or lose control. In 2019, 10.9% of fatal crashes involving large trucks were due to vehicle or equipment failure, such as load issues, according to the FMCSA.
- Mechanical Failures: Regular maintenance is critical for large trucks. Brake failures, tire blowouts, or steering malfunctions are common mechanical problems that can lead to deadly crashes. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has found that 29% of truck accidents involve brake-related issues.
In truck accident cases, identifying the exact cause is critical. A thorough investigation ensures that all liable parties, whether the driver, trucking company, or vehicle manufacturer, are held accountable. At Morales Law Firm, we leave no stone unturned in determining the root cause of your accident.
What Should I Do After a Truck Accident?
Truck accidents are traumatic, and the aftermath can be overwhelming. Taking the right steps immediately after the accident can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim. Here’s what you should do if you’ve been involved in a truck accident:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Truck accidents often result in severe injuries, and some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Whether you feel hurt or not, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is crucial. A medical professional can assess your condition and document your injuries, which will be vital for your claim.
- Call the Police: A police report will serve as an official record of the accident. Make sure to give the responding officers a detailed account of what happened, but avoid making any statements that could be seen as admitting fault.
- Document the Scene: If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and your injuries. Try to get contact information from witnesses who may have seen the crash.
- Don’t Admit Fault: While you should cooperate with the authorities, be cautious about admitting fault to the truck driver, witnesses, or insurance adjusters. Even saying something as innocent as “I didn’t see them” can be used against you later in court.
- Contact an Attorney: Truck accident claims are highly complex, involving federal regulations and multi-party liability. It’s in your best interest to contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible to start building your case.
By following these steps, you’ll be in a stronger position to recover compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
Types of Trucks and Accidents
Truck accidents are diverse in nature, with different types of vehicles involved. Here are the most common types of trucks seen on the road, as well as the types of accidents they are prone to:
- 18-Wheelers (Semi-Trucks): These massive vehicles, weighing up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, are frequently involved in fatal accidents. According to the FMCSA, large trucks accounted for 13% of all fatal crashes in 2021, with 18-wheelers representing the majority of these incidents.
- Tanker Trucks: Tanker trucks carry liquids such as oil or gasoline, making them especially dangerous in accidents. In the event of a collision, hazardous materials may spill, creating environmental hazards or risking explosions.
- Flatbed Trucks: These trucks transport oversized cargo that may be difficult to secure. Improperly loaded cargo can fall off or cause the truck to become unbalanced, leading to catastrophic accidents.
- Garbage Trucks: Operating in residential areas, garbage trucks pose a risk due to their size and frequent stops. In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) noted that garbage truck workers had one of the highest rates of fatal occupational injuries.
Each type of truck presents unique risks, and understanding these can help build a stronger legal case. Morales Law Firm has extensive experience with a wide variety of truck accident types and will ensure that the specifics of your case are fully examined.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often result in serious, life-changing injuries. Here are some of the most common injuries seen in truck accidents:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of TBI, accounting for 20% of all cases. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, often leading to long-term disabilities.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can cause partial or complete paralysis, significantly affecting a person’s quality of life. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), motor vehicle crashes are responsible for 38.6% of all spinal cord injuries in the U.S.
- Broken Bones: Fractures and broken bones are common injuries in truck accidents due to the sheer force of the collision. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) reports that severe fractures often require surgical intervention and months of rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma from a truck crash can cause internal injuries to organs like the liver, lungs, or spleen. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening without prompt medical attention.
- Burn Injuries: Fires or explosions can occur in truck accidents, particularly when fuel or hazardous materials are involved. Burn injuries can lead to permanent scarring, disfigurement, or even death.
No matter the extent of your injuries, recovering compensation is essential for covering medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and the long-term impact on your life. Morales Law Firm is dedicated to securing the financial resources you need to recover and rebuild.
The Truck Accident Legal Process: What to Expect
The legal process for truck accidents is complex, often involving multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and insurers. Here’s what you can expect if you file a truck accident claim with Morales Law Firm:
- Free Case Evaluation: We begin with a comprehensive consultation to discuss the details of your accident, injuries, and the potential legal claim.
- Investigation: We’ll gather evidence, including police reports, driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 32% of large truck crashes are caused by vehicle or equipment failures, making maintenance records critical.
- Filing the Claim: Once all the evidence is compiled, we’ll file a formal claim with the at-fault party’s insurer or, if necessary, in court.
- Negotiations: Trucking companies and insurers may offer lowball settlements to resolve cases quickly. We’re experienced in negotiating for the full value of your claim and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
- Litigation (if necessary): If the trucking company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court and argue on your behalf.
- Settlement or Verdict: Whether through a settlement or trial, our goal is to secure maximum compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
At every step of the process, we’ll keep you informed and advocate for your best interests.
Should I Accept the Trucking Company’s Settlement Offer?
After a truck accident, you may be contacted by the trucking company’s insurance adjuster with a settlement offer. While it may be tempting to accept this offer to cover immediate expenses, it’s important to understand that these initial offers are often much lower than what you deserve.
Trucking companies are notorious for offering “lowball” settlements to protect their bottom line. According to data from J.D. Power, insurance companies paid out an average of 19% less in truck accident claims than victims initially requested. Accepting a low settlement means you may not have enough to cover future medical costs, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Before agreeing to any settlement, speak with an experienced truck accident attorney at Morales Law Firm. We can evaluate the offer and advise you on whether it truly reflects the value of your case. If not, we’ll negotiate for a fairer amount.
What Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth?
The value of your truck accident claim depends on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your ability to work, and whether any long-term disabilities result from the accident. Generally, victims can seek compensation for:
- Medical Bills: This includes both current medical costs (such as surgeries, medications, and hospital stays) and future expenses related to ongoing care or rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income during your recovery period.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering addresses both the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. This is often a significant portion of a truck accident settlement.
- Property Damage: You can recover costs for damage to your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the accident.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries are severe enough to prevent you from returning to work permanently, you may be entitled to compensation for lost future earnings.
Calculating the true value of a truck accident claim requires a detailed understanding of the law and the financial impact of your injuries. Morales Law Firm will work with financial experts to ensure that all of your current and future losses are considered when negotiating your settlement.
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FREE Case Evaluation
At Morales Law Firm, we know how devastating truck accidents can be. Our team of experienced attorneys is committed to providing aggressive, compassionate representation for truck accident victims throughout Los Angeles and beyond.
Call us today for a FREE case evaluation to discuss your options. We’ll guide you through the legal process, fight to secure the compensation you deserve, and ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.