A Truck Accident Attorney Can Help You
Any type of car accident can be a life-changing event, but commercial truck accidents have even more potential for devastation—such collisions often result in catastrophic injuries, property damage, and lasting pain and suffering.
If you or a family member has been injured in a big rig accident, you need competent, compassionate legal representation. The Advocates are experienced truck accident attorneys who are ready to help. We will do everything we can to get you fair compensation for your truck accident claim.
Why The Advocates?
The Advocates will be by your side from the moment you contact us to the day your case is settled. We can help you:
Understand the claims process
We are available 24/7 to answer questions and provide updates on your case.
Build your case
Your legal team will help gather evidence and keep track of medical records to build your claim.
Negotiate with adjusters
Insurance companies are notorious for trying to avoid offering fair settlements to injury victims. We will fight for the compensation you deserve.
Take your case to court
Most cases are settled in negotiations, but if the other party refuses to make a fair offer, we will represent you in the courtroom.
The Advocates Are Here for You. We Are Prepared To:
- Help you access adequate medical treatment
- Work with you to understand your medical bills
- Communicate with your employer regarding your injuries
- Meet with you at your home or place of work if you can’t make it to our office
- Compile your medical records
California Semi-Truck Laws and Accident Statistics
California truck accident statistics
- In 2021, California had the third-highest number of non-occupants killed in large truck crashes, behind Texas and Florida.
- Large trucks make up about 7% of the vehicles involved in fatal motor vehicle accidents in the state.
- Nationwide, 5,700 large trucks were involved in fatal accidents in 2021.
- Around 63% of semi-truck crashes happen during daylight hours.
Common causes of truck accidents
- Distracted driving: Many truck drivers travel long stretches through remote areas. It is easy to “zone out” or become otherwise distracted.
- Drowsy driving: When driving many hours at a time, truckers may become tired behind the wheel.
- Drunk driving: In 2021, more than 1,400 traffic fatalities in California involved at least one driver under the influence of alcohol.
- Mechanical failure: One of the most common causes of semi-truck crashes is faulty equipment.
- Improper passing or turning: Drivers of passenger vehicles may fail to realize that large trucks are unable to stop as quickly as smaller cars. Cutting off a tractor-trailer is dangerous and can be deadly.
Common truck accident injuries
It is not unusual for commercial vehicle accidents to cause severe injuries, especially for occupants of other cars involved in the crash. Some common types of truck accident injuries are:
- Traumatic brain injuries and other head injuries
- Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Broken or missing teeth
- Ligament tears or strains
- Cuts, scrapes, and bruises
What is the speed limit for semi-trucks in California?
While many highways and interstates in California have posted speed limits from 65-70 miles per hour, the maximum speed limit for trucks with three or more axles is 55 miles per hour.
How many hours can a truck driver work at one time?
Trucking companies often pay truckers on a per-mile basis. This incentivizes truck drivers to work long hours, which can lead to driver fatigue and present a hazard to everyone on the road.
To address this concern, the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA) created the Hours of Service Rule, a federal regulation limiting how many hours a trucker may drive at once.
The Hours of Service Rule lays out the following guidelines:
- Truckers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty.
- Drivers may only be on-duty, driving or not, for a maximum of 14 consecutive hours.
- Drivers are required to take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving.
- In adverse conditions, the 11-hour and 14-hour maximums may be increased by up to 2 hours.
How long do I have to file a truck accident case?
All personal injury claims are subject to a statute of limitations, or time limit for filing your case. Truck accident victims in California have two years to file a lawsuit with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
If you believe you have a valid injury case, it is a good idea to contact an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Once the statute of limitations expires, you will lose your right to a claim.
What types of damages can I seek in a truck accident lawsuit?
If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries after an accident with a semi-truck, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your damages. Exactly how much your case is worth will depend on the circumstances surrounding your case.
Some common damages in truck accident cases include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Property damage
- Non-economic damages, like emotional distress
- Funeral and burial expenses (in the case of wrongful death)
The best way to know how much your case is worth is to speak with a personal injury lawyer. The Advocates offer free case evaluations to help you understand your legal options.
Why should I hire a truck accident attorney?
After your accident, the at-fault party’s insurance company may try to avoid offering you a fair settlement for your damages. A personal injury attorney can build your case and negotiate with adjusters to help you obtain maximum compensation.
The Advocates injury law firm is ready to help. We will take on the stressful parts of the claims process so you can focus on feeling better. With an Advocate on your side, you are never alone.
Contact us today for a free consultation. You deserve an attorney who will fight for your recovery. You deserve an Advocate.