Truck accidents are a serious concern on the busy highways of Southern California.
With a high volume of commercial trucks on the road, from big rigs to delivery trucks, accidents involving these massive vehicles can have devastating consequences.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to understand your rights and what steps you should take to protect yourself.
In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of truck accidents, common injuries, and how a truck accident attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Why Are Truck Accidents So Dangerous?
The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make accidents far more dangerous than typical car crashes.
A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, compared to the average passenger vehicle which weighs about 4,000 pounds. This size disparity means that any collision with a truck can lead to catastrophic injuries or even fatalities for the occupants of smaller vehicles.
In Southern California, highways like the I-5, I-10, and I-405 are heavily trafficked by commercial trucks, making the risk of accidents even greater. Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight deadlines, which can lead to dangerous driving behavior.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Several factors contribute to truck accidents, many of which are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers are often on the road for long hours, which can lead to fatigue and drowsy driving. While federal regulations limit the number of hours a truck driver can be on the road, some drivers and companies push these limits to meet delivery deadlines. Fatigue greatly reduces a driver’s reaction time and decision-making abilities, leading to accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Just like other drivers, truck drivers can become distracted by their phones, GPS systems, or even eating while driving. Given the size and speed of a truck, even a few seconds of distraction can result in a devastating crash.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Truck drivers sometimes speed or drive aggressively, especially when they’re running late. Speeding makes it harder to stop or control the truck, increasing the likelihood of a collision.
- Poor Truck Maintenance: Trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they’re safe to operate. Brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine issues can all cause accidents. Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles, but some cut corners to save costs.
- Improperly Loaded Cargo: Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced or difficult to control. This can lead to rollovers or jackknife accidents.
Common Injuries in Truck Accidents
Due to the size and force of trucks, injuries sustained in accidents are often severe and life-altering. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The force of impact can cause significant brain trauma, leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or total paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care and rehabilitation.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a truck accident can cause multiple fractures, often requiring surgery and extended recovery times.
- Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding and organ damage are common in truck accidents due to the force of the collision.
- Fatalities: Tragically, many truck accidents result in death, leaving families devastated and facing financial burdens like medical bills and funeral costs.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying treatment could harm your health and your claim.
- Report the Accident: Contact the police and make sure an official report is filed. This documentation will be crucial for your case.
- Gather Evidence: If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses, and exchange information with the truck driver.
- Don’t Speak to Insurance Companies: The trucking company’s insurance provider will likely try to contact you. It’s important not to make any statements or sign anything without consulting an attorney, as this could harm your case.
- Contact a Truck Accident Attorney: Truck accident cases are complex and often involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, and manufacturers. A skilled truck accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process, investigate the accident, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How a Southern California Truck Accident Attorney Can Help
Truck accident cases are not the same as typical car accidents. They involve unique challenges, such as understanding federal trucking regulations and determining liability among multiple parties. An experienced truck accident attorney can:
- Investigate the Accident: We’ll gather evidence, including driver logs, truck maintenance records, and eyewitness accounts, to determine who is at fault.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies will try to minimize your payout. We’ll fight to ensure you receive full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
- Represent You in Court: If the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to trial and fight for your rights in court.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to get the help you need.
Contact our experienced truck accident attorneys in Southern California today for a free consultation.
We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.