Navigating Trucking Accident Claims

The state's size and busy roads make it a prime location for trucking accidents, with thousands of commercial trucks daily. Understanding trucking accidents and California personal injury law is crucial for ensuring victims receive the support and legal representation they need.

What Are Trucking Accidents?

Trucking accidents involve commercial trucks, such as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, and other large vehicles for transporting goods. These accidents are a severe problem in California, and various factors can cause them:

  • Driver fatigue, as truck drivers often work long hours and may not get enough sleep, leading to drowsiness and impaired driving
  • Distracted driving, as truck drivers may be distracted by their phones, GPS devices, eating, drinking, or other activities while behind the wheel
  • According to the Federal Motor Carrier Saftey Administration (FMCSA), alcohol contributes to about 3% of trucking accidents, while drugs are a contributing factor in about 2% of accidents
  • While truck companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles and ensuring they operate safely, some companies may cut corners to save money, putting their drivers and others on the road at risk
  • Poor road and weather conditions
  • Equipment failure

The most common injuries sustained in trucking accidents include:

  • Broken bones
  • Head injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Burns
  • Long-term disability
  • Other injuries requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation

Due to commercial trucks' large size and weight, these accidents can be hazardous and often result in serious injuries or fatalities. The case is tried under personal injury law when trucking accident victims pursue legal action.

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California Trucking Laws

California has strict regulations and compliance requirements for commercial trucking companies operating in the state.

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) enforce these regulations to ensure that trucks are properly maintained, drivers are adequately trained, and companies follow safety protocols. Some examples of the regulations that trucking companies must comply with include the following:

  • Maximum weight and size limits for trucks
  • Mandatory rest breaks for drivers
  • Regular vehicle inspections and maintenance
  • Drug and alcohol testing for drivers

California trucking companies must also provide their drivers with proper training and education. This includes:

  • Training on safe driving practices
  • Defensive driving techniques
  • How to properly operate and maintain a commercial truck
  • Specific training requirements for drivers who transport hazardous materials, such as undergoing specialized training to ensure they can safely handle and transport these materials

Commercial trucks in California must also be equipped with certain safety features to help prevent accidents, such as:

  • Anti-lock brakes
  • Electronic stability control
  • Blind spot warning systems
  • Collision avoidance systems
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Legal Options for Victims of Trucking Accidents in West Covina

Victims of trucking accidents in California may be entitled to compensation for their injuries through personal injury claims. To file a personal injury claim, the victim must prove that the truck driver or trucking company was negligent and that their negligence caused the accident and resulting injuries. Negligence can include:

  • Speeding
  • Driving under the influence
  • Failing to maintain the truck properly

If the victim is successful in their personal injury claim, they may be awarded compensation for the following:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering

Other legal options

Wrongful Death Claims

If a loved one is killed in a trucking accident in California, their family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the truck driver or trucking company. To file a wrongful death claim, the family must prove that the truck driver or trucking company was negligent and that their negligence caused the accident and resulting death.

Product Liability Claims

If a product defect caused the trucking accident, the victim or their family could file a product liability claim against the manufacturer. To file a product liability claim, the victim or their family must prove that the defect in the truck or parts caused the accident and resulted in injuries or death.

Insurance Coverage

Trucking companies must carry insurance coverage to protect themselves and others in the event of an accident. Victims of trucking accidents in California may be able to file a claim with the trucking company's insurance company to receive compensation for their injuries or the death of a loved one.

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Truck Accident Representation From a Real Trial Firm

While personal injury cases such as truck accidents can be difficult and time-consuming, they can also reward those who successfully obtain compensation. The process allows individuals to hold others accountable for their actions and receive compensation for their injuries.

Insurance companies may try to offer a settlement that is less than what the victim or their family members are entitled to, and most lawyers want to settle your personal injury case quickly. Settling means that you agree to accept money in return for dropping your action against the person who injured you, absolving the other side of any further liability. 

Fiore Legal is not your average law firm. We are a real trial firm looking at your issue from a different perspective than lawyers who will pressure you into settling, whether or not it’s your choice. Because we always have your best interests at heart, we would never settle a case unless for the total value. We’re here to represent you in your pursuit of justice, whatever that takes.

Fiore Legal Is Here For West Covina

Being involved in a truck accident is stressful enough-knowing that you have a team that will help you from start to finish is invaluable when facing legal issues. You deserve a truck accident lawyer invested in your case as a West Covina community member, not just someone looking to make a quick buck from settling for less. You deserve Fiore Legal.

We’re dedicated to helping those facing powerful insurance companies with eight locations and over thirty team members. With a tireless work ethic, we’re here as your confidant, providing extensive experience and empathy. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

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