Keosian Law LLP provides dedicated representation for individuals injured in collisions with commercial trucks, tractor-trailers, and other large commercial vehicles throughout California. We understand the devastating impact these accidents can have on victims and their families. Truck accident cases are uniquely complex, involving federal regulations, multiple potentially liable parties, and powerful trucking companies with teams of attorneys and investigators. Our firm has the experience, resources, and determination to level the playing field and fight for the full compensation our clients deserve. Free, confidential consultation at (866) 222-2020.
Compensation in Truck Accident Cases
Due to the severe nature of commercial truck collisions, compensation is often substantial. We pursue medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and punitive damages when appropriate. Unlike passenger vehicle accidents, truck cases often involve multiple insurance policies with combined limits in the millions.
Our Truck Accident Claim Process
From the moment you contact us, our Los Angeles truck accident attorneys take immediate action: free case evaluation, evidence preservation with spoliation letters, independent investigation with accident reconstruction specialists, establishing liability under FMCSA regulations, documenting damages with medical and economic experts, and aggressive negotiation or trial.
Frequently asked questions
Who can be held liable in a truck accident case?
Truck accident cases often involve multiple liable parties beyond just the truck driver. Potential defendants may include the truck driver, the trucking company that employs the driver, the owner of the truck or trailer, the cargo loading company, truck and parts manufacturers, maintenance providers, and government entities responsible for road maintenance. Our attorneys investigate all potentially responsible parties to maximize your compensation.
What makes truck accident cases more complex than car accidents?
Truck accident cases are typically more complex than standard car accidents because injuries are often more severe due to size and weight disparity, multiple liable parties may share responsibility, federal regulations add layers of complexity, trucking companies have rapid response teams and experienced defense attorneys, evidence like electronic logging devices and black box data requires specialized knowledge, and insurance policies often have higher limits with more at stake.
What federal regulations apply to commercial trucks?
Commercial trucks are subject to numerous federal regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), including Hours of Service rules limiting driving time to prevent fatigue, drug and alcohol testing requirements, Commercial Driver's License standards, vehicle maintenance and inspection requirements, cargo loading and securement regulations, electronic logging device requirements, and size and weight limitations. Violations of these regulations can be crucial evidence in establishing negligence.
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including truck accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you are filing a claim against a government entity, you must file an administrative claim within six months. However, truck accident cases require significant investigation and preparation, so it is advisable to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after your accident.
What types of evidence are important in truck accident cases?
Critical evidence in truck accident cases includes electronic logging device data showing driver hours, black box data recording speed and braking, driver qualification files and training records, truck maintenance and inspection records, driver cell phone records, drug and alcohol testing results, dash cam or traffic camera footage, accident scene photos and measurements, witness statements, police reports, and cargo loading documents. Much of this evidence is controlled by the trucking company and can be destroyed if not promptly preserved through legal action.
How are damages calculated in truck accident cases?
Damages in truck accident cases include economic damages such as current and future medical expenses, lost wages and diminished earning capacity, property damage, rehabilitation costs, home modifications, and in-home care. Non-economic damages address pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement, and loss of consortium. In cases involving extreme negligence, punitive damages may also be available.
How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer in California?
Keosian Law LLP handles truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront and owe no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of the recovery we obtain, and we advance the costs of investigation, expert witnesses, and litigation.
Why should I act quickly after a California truck accident?
Time is critical in truck accident cases because electronic logging device and black box data can be overwritten or legally destroyed within months, trucking companies dispatch rapid response teams to the scene within hours to build their defense, witness memories fade and physical evidence disappears, and California's two-year statute of limitations limits your window to file. The sooner you contact our firm, the sooner we can preserve evidence and begin our investigation.
What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
If you are involved in a collision with a commercial truck, call 911 and report the accident so an official police report is created, seek medical attention immediately even if injuries seem minor, photograph the vehicles, scene, road conditions, and any visible truck company markings or DOT numbers, collect contact information from the driver and witnesses, do not give a recorded statement to the trucking company's insurer, and contact an experienced truck accident attorney before accepting any settlement offer.