Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
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Your safety should be your top priority
Call 911 immediately and contact the local police or the California Highway Patrol (CHP)
Ensure to collect at least the driver’s name, address, and date of birth alongside their license number and state
If you are not too injured, take good pictures of the scene and some videos if you can
Your lawyer can help you preserve the value of your case
Our experienced Fresno truck accident lawyers can evaluate your case and help you seek full compensation from the companies that caused your injuries.
Fresno sits at the heart of California’s Central Valley — a major corridor for the state’s trucking and freight activity. Every day, hundreds of commercial trucks move through key routes like CA-99, I-5, and local highways that connect the region’s agricultural and industrial hubs. This constant flow of large vehicles keeps the economy moving, but it also raises the risk of serious road accidents.
Truck accidents in Fresno aren’t rare. The mix of heavy truck traffic, busy intersections, and long rural stretches creates dangerous conditions for drivers. When a crash involves a big rig or semi-truck, the outcome is often devastating. The size and weight of these vehicles can cause severe damage even at moderate speeds, leading to life-changing injuries or fatalities.
For victims and their families, the aftermath goes far beyond vehicle repairs. There’s the physical pain of recovery, the emotional toll of trauma, and the financial stress of mounting medical bills and lost income. Many find themselves facing powerful trucking and insurance companies that have vast resources and teams of lawyers.
This page explains what you need to know about truck accidents in Fresno cases — from understanding the causes and types of crashes to knowing your legal options. You’ll also learn how a Fresno truck accident lawyer can help you seek fair compensation and hold those responsible accountable.
Truck accidents continue to be a serious public safety concern in Fresno County. With major freight routes like CA-99 and I-5 cutting through the region, heavy truck traffic mixes daily with commuters, agricultural haulers, and intercity travelers. The result — hundreds of collisions each year, many leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
According to recent data from the Transportation Injury Mapping System, there were 223 truck crashes reported in Fresno in 2024. These crashes caused 18 deaths and 292 injuries. More than half of them — 118 incidents (52.9%) — took place on state highways, where long-haul trucks dominate traffic flow. Though less common, a few collisions involved pedestrians (4 cases), bicyclists (4 cases), and motorcyclists (3 cases), showing how widespread the risk can be.
When it comes to crash severity:
As for crash type:
Nearly half of all truck accidents in Fresno led to injuries causing visible harm or pain. More than 60% were broadside or rear-end crashes — the kinds most likely to occur at intersections or in stop-and-go highway conditions. With over half happening on major state routes, these numbers highlight just how dangerous Fresno’s freight corridors have become for everyday drivers.
Sources: Transportation Injury Mapping System
Truck crashes in Fresno take many forms, but nearly all have one thing in common — the potential for severe damage and injury. The type of accident often determines how the crash unfolds, what caused it, and who may be legally responsible. Understanding these distinctions is key to protecting your rights after a collision.
A jackknife accident happens when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, folding toward the cab in an “L” shape. This usually occurs when the driver brakes too hard or loses traction on a slick surface. The trailer’s weight pushes forward uncontrollably, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. Jackknife crashes can easily cause chain-reaction pileups, especially on highways like CA-99 where trucks travel close together at high speeds.
These are common in stop-and-go traffic, construction zones, or busy intersections. Because large trucks require more distance to stop, even a brief distraction can lead to a catastrophic impact. A fully loaded semi-truck can take up to 40% longer to stop than a car. Victims in smaller vehicles often suffer whiplash, spinal injuries, or worse when struck from behind by a heavy truck.
Rollover crashes often result from sharp turns taken too fast, improperly balanced cargo, or sudden swerves to avoid obstacles. Once a truck begins to tip, it’s nearly impossible to regain control. Rollover incidents are especially dangerous on ramps, rural roads, and uneven highway shoulders, where debris and soft ground can worsen the outcome.
Among the most deadly types of truck crashes, underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides under the rear or side of a trailer. The upper portion of the car is crushed on impact, often causing fatal head or neck injuries. These tragedies are preventable through better use of underride guards, reflective markings, and proper lighting — yet many trucks still operate without these safety measures.
Every truck has large blind spots — or “no-zones” — along both sides, directly behind, and in front of the cab. When a truck changes lanes or turns without spotting nearby vehicles, collisions can occur instantly. Drivers merging near trucks on Highway 41 or I-5 face particular danger if they linger in these hidden zones.
A blown tire at highway speed can send a truck veering across lanes, shedding debris that strikes nearby cars. Poor maintenance, defective parts, or overinflated tires are common culprits. Brake failures also pose a major threat, especially on steep grades or when hauling heavy loads. These incidents often point to negligence in upkeep or inspection practices.
When a truck loses control on a crowded freeway, the results can be devastating. Chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles are common on Fresno’s high-speed corridors like CA-99 and I-5. Low visibility, tailgating, and sudden traffic slowdowns make it nearly impossible for following drivers to stop in time. Such pileups often require extensive investigation to determine fault among several parties.
Most truck accidents in Fresno don’t happen by chance — they stem from a combination of human error, mechanical failure, and systemic industry pressures. Understanding what causes these crashes can help you recognize who may be responsible and how a Fresno truck accident attorney can help hold them accountable.
Truck drivers often spend long hours behind the wheel, sometimes pushing beyond federal rest limits to meet delivery deadlines. Fatigue slows reaction time, blurs judgment, and increases the risk of drifting between lanes or falling asleep mid-route. Even a few seconds of drowsiness can be enough to cause a serious or fatal crash.
Texting, adjusting GPS systems, eating, or even reaching for items in the cab can take a driver’s eyes off the road. Impaired driving — from alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication — further magnifies the danger. In a fully loaded truck, one lapse in attention can translate into catastrophic force upon impact.
Tight schedules and pressure from dispatchers often push truck drivers to exceed speed limits. Aggressive maneuvers such as tailgating, abrupt lane changes, and unsafe passing are especially hazardous when performed by a vehicle weighing up to 80,000 pounds. At highway speeds, a truck’s increased stopping distance turns minor mistakes into major collisions.
Commercial trucks require regular inspections and upkeep to stay roadworthy. When brakes, tires, or steering components fail, accidents are almost inevitable. In some cases, responsibility falls on maintenance contractors or manufacturers that supplied defective parts.
Unbalanced or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, making trucks unstable or prone to rollovers. Overloaded trailers also strain tires and braking systems, further increasing crash risk. Federal cargo securement rules exist for a reason — when they’re ignored, everyone on the road pays the price.
Trucking companies facing labor shortages sometimes rush new drivers onto the road without sufficient training. Operating large commercial vehicles requires skill and experience — understanding blind spots, braking distances, and trailer swing. A single mistake from an unprepared driver can have devastating results.
Truck accidents tend to cause far greater devastation than standard car crashes — not just because of the vehicles involved, but because of the physics behind them. The massive size, momentum, and complexity of commercial trucks make every collision potentially life-altering for the people in smaller vehicles.
A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds — about 20 times heavier than a typical passenger car. In any collision, that sheer difference in weight means the smaller vehicle absorbs most of the force. The results are often catastrophic, especially at highway speeds.
Momentum increases with mass and velocity. Even a moderate-speed crash involving a large truck can unleash tremendous energy, crushing smaller cars or pushing them across multiple lanes. It’s the kind of impact that seatbelts and airbags can’t always protect against.
Victims of truck accidents frequently suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, crushed limbs, and severe internal bleeding. These injuries often require long-term medical care and may lead to permanent disabilities that change every aspect of life.
Because of their size, trucks rarely crash alone. A single jackknife or rear-end impact can trigger a chain reaction involving several cars. These pileups make rescue efforts more difficult and increase the risk of secondary crashes as other drivers try to avoid the wreck.
Improperly loaded cargo — especially hazardous materials, loose equipment, or agricultural goods — can spill across the road during a crash. This not only worsens the immediate damage but also endangers first responders and other motorists.
A truck traveling at 65 mph can take more than 500 feet to come to a complete stop — nearly the length of two football fields. When traffic suddenly slows, that extra distance can mean the difference between a close call and a deadly rear-end collision.
Unlike car accidents, which typically involve two drivers, truck collisions often include several responsible parties: the driver, the trucking company, maintenance contractors, or even cargo loaders. Determining fault requires detailed investigation and knowledge of state and federal trucking regulations.
Beyond the physical trauma, truck accident victims face months or years of recovery, loss of income, and emotional distress. Families often shoulder overwhelming medical bills while trying to rebuild their lives.
The force of a truck collision can cause devastating injuries, especially for drivers and passengers in smaller vehicles. Many victims face long recoveries, permanent disabilities, or lasting emotional trauma. The type and severity of injuries often depend on the crash’s speed, angle, and location, but some patterns appear again and again in truck accidents in Fresno cases.
Head trauma from striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows can lead to concussions or severe brain damage. Even with immediate care, TBIs can cause memory loss, mood changes, chronic pain, and long-term cognitive impairment.
The violent motion of a truck crash can fracture vertebrae or sever nerves, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Victims often need months of rehabilitation and lifelong medical support to manage the effects of these injuries.
The impact of a semi-truck can easily crush vehicle frames, trapping occupants inside. Arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis bones are especially vulnerable to shattering under pressure. Some victims require amputations due to severe tissue damage or loss of circulation.
Trucks carry large fuel reserves, and in high-impact crashes, ruptured tanks can ignite quickly. Burn injuries are among the most painful and costly to treat, often leading to scarring, disfigurement, and emotional trauma.
Even without visible wounds, internal injuries are common. The body’s organs can be crushed or torn by seatbelt force or blunt trauma, creating life-threatening complications that require emergency surgery.
The emotional aftermath of a serious crash can last long after the physical wounds heal. Many survivors experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression — especially when the accident involved fatalities or severe injuries to others.
The moments after a truck accident can feel chaotic and disorienting. Yet the steps you take — or don’t take — can significantly affect your safety, health, and ability to pursue fair compensation later on. Here’s what you should do immediately following a collision involving a commercial truck in Fresno.
Your first priority is safety. Call emergency services right away, even if injuries seem minor. Truck crashes often cause hidden trauma, such as internal bleeding or head injuries, that may not appear immediately. Let medical professionals assess everyone at the scene.
If your vehicle is drivable and it’s safe to do so, move it out of traffic to prevent further harm. Turn on your hazard lights and stay nearby until help arrives. Avoid standing near the roadway where passing vehicles could pose additional danger.
Use your phone to take photos or videos of everything: vehicle positions, visible damage, road conditions, skid marks, and license plates. Capture wide shots of the scene and close-ups of specific details. These visuals can serve as crucial evidence later.
Get the truck driver’s name, contact information, license number, and employer or trucking company name. Write down the truck’s USDOT number (usually printed on the cab door) and the license plate. Also, collect details from any other drivers involved.
If there are bystanders who saw the crash, ask for their names and contact information. Their statements can help clarify what happened and support your version of events.
Soon after the accident, insurance companies — including the trucking company’s insurer — may contact you for a statement. Avoid discussing fault or signing anything without first consulting a lawyer. Their goal is often to minimize payouts.
Reach out to a Fresno truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. A legal team can preserve evidence, handle communications with insurers, and begin investigating who’s responsible. The sooner you have representation, the better your chances of building a strong claim.
One of the biggest challenges in a truck accident in Fresno is determining who’s legally responsible. Unlike car crashes that usually involve just two drivers, truck accidents often involve multiple parties — each with their own insurance policies and legal teams. Understanding who may be liable is key to getting fair compensation.
The driver is often the first party investigated. Liability can arise from speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, or operating under the influence. A truck driver may also be responsible for failing to perform required pre-trip inspections or ignoring federal hours-of-service regulations designed to prevent drowsy driving.
If the driver was working for a company, their employer may share or fully bear responsibility. Trucking companies can be held liable for negligent hiring, poor training, overloading trailers, or pressuring drivers to meet unsafe deadlines. They’re also accountable for maintaining their fleet and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo can make even the most experienced driver lose control. When third-party shippers or loading contractors fail to secure freight correctly, they can be held liable for accidents resulting from shifting or falling cargo.
Sometimes, the crash is caused by a mechanical failure — such as faulty brakes, defective tires, or steering system malfunctions. In these cases, the manufacturer or parts supplier may be held responsible under product liability laws.
If the trucking company hired a separate service to maintain or repair its fleet, that maintenance provider could share blame. Negligent inspections, missed repairs, or use of substandard parts may all lead to catastrophic failures on the road.
Hazardous road conditions — like missing signage, potholes, or poor design — can contribute to truck accidents. When city, county, or state agencies fail to maintain safe roads, they too may be held partially liable, though these cases often have specific filing deadlines and rules.
Proving negligence after a truck crash takes more than pointing fingers — it requires strong, organized evidence that shows exactly how and why the accident happened. In Fresno, investigations can involve multiple agencies and insurance carriers, so gathering proof early is critical.
Law enforcement’s initial findings often serve as the foundation of a claim. These reports include details about the scene, citations issued, and officers’ observations about fault or driver behavior. A Fresno truck accident attorney reviews these records to identify inconsistencies, missing information, or clues that support your version of events.
Every commercial truck carries an electronic logging device (ELD) — often called the “black box” — that records driving hours, speed, and braking patterns. Driver logbooks must align with this data. Discrepancies may reveal hours-of-service violations, speeding, or fatigue. These digital records are time-sensitive, so your lawyer moves quickly to preserve them before they’re deleted or overwritten.
Trucking companies are required to keep detailed maintenance logs. Missing inspections or ignored repairs can be clear signs of negligence. If a brake failure or tire blowout caused the crash, these records can prove that the company neglected its duty to maintain safe equipment.
Eyewitness accounts and expert analysis bring context to the evidence. Accident reconstruction specialists, for example, can map out how the crash unfolded using vehicle damage patterns and road markings. Medical experts can link your injuries to the forces of impact. Together, these testimonies strengthen the case by turning raw data into a clear narrative.
Your medical records — from ER visits to ongoing rehabilitation — demonstrate the severity and cause of your injuries. They also help calculate economic losses like future care costs or reduced earning capacity.
Filing a truck accident claim in Fresno involves several stages — from the first consultation to a potential court verdict. Each step is designed to protect your rights, gather evidence, and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Your journey begins with a free consultation with a Fresno truck accident lawyer. During this meeting, you’ll discuss the details of your crash, your injuries, and any available documentation. The attorney will assess whether you have a valid claim and explain your legal options.
Once you hire an attorney, they begin a detailed investigation. This includes obtaining police reports, truck maintenance logs, driver records, black box data, and witness statements. The goal is to identify what caused the crash and who may be liable — whether it’s the driver, trucking company, or another party.
Your lawyer will file claims with the relevant insurance companies and handle all communication on your behalf. They’ll present evidence supporting your damages — including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering — and negotiate for a fair settlement. Many cases are resolved at this stage without going to court.
If negotiations stall or insurers refuse to pay fairly, your attorney will file a formal lawsuit in civil court. This moves your claim into litigation, signaling to the defense that you’re serious about pursuing justice.
During discovery, both sides exchange evidence, question witnesses, and gather expert testimony. Mediation or settlement conferences may also take place, giving both parties a chance to resolve the case before trial.
If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. Your lawyer presents evidence, calls witnesses, and argues for full compensation. The judge or jury then decides the outcome — though in many cases, a settlement is reached before a verdict.
Victims of truck accidents in Fresno often face overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial challenges. California law allows injured individuals to seek compensation through a personal injury claim, helping them recover the costs of medical treatment, lost income, and other damages caused by the crash.
These cover the measurable financial losses directly resulting from the accident. Common examples include:
Truck accidents often cause life-altering harm that goes beyond financial losses. Non-economic damages compensate for:
In rare cases involving reckless or intentional misconduct — such as driving under the influence, falsifying logbooks, or ignoring safety regulations — courts may award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
The value of a truck accident claim in Fresno depends on several factors unique to each case. There’s no fixed formula, but certain key elements often determine how much compensation you may recover.
The more serious your injuries, the higher your potential recovery. Permanent disabilities, chronic pain, or disfigurement can significantly increase the value of your claim due to lifelong medical costs and emotional impact.
Your total medical expenses — from emergency care and surgeries to physical therapy and follow-up visits — are central to your claim. Long recovery periods or future medical needs often raise the overall compensation amount.
Clear evidence of fault strengthens your position in settlement negotiations. If multiple parties share responsibility, such as a trucking company or maintenance provider, your attorney may pursue compensation from each liable entity.
If your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, lost income and diminished future earning capacity play a major role in determining the value of your case.
The available insurance coverage of the at-fault parties often caps how much can be recovered. Trucking companies usually carry higher limits than individual drivers, which can impact settlement negotiations.
Truck accident cases in Fresno can take anywhere from several months to a few years to resolve, depending on how complex the situation is. Some claims settle quickly through insurance negotiations, while others require extensive investigation and even court litigation.
When multiple parties share fault — such as a driver, trucking company, or cargo loader — determining liability takes longer. Each defendant’s insurer and legal team must be dealt with separately, which can extend the timeline.
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Negotiations can stall if they dispute liability or the value of damages. If settlement talks fail, your Fresno truck accident lawyer may need to file a lawsuit, adding several months or more to the process.
Once a lawsuit is filed, both sides exchange evidence and witness information in a stage called discovery. This step, combined with court scheduling delays, can push the case forward slowly — especially in counties with heavy caseloads like Fresno.
Timing is critical when filing a truck accident claim in Fresno. California’s statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for taking legal action, and missing them can cost you the right to recover compensation.
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This covers injuries like broken bones, head trauma, or internal damage resulting from the crash.
If you’re only seeking compensation for vehicle or property damage, you have three years from the accident date to file.
Certain circumstances can extend or shorten these timelines:
Delayed discovery:
If you didn’t realize your injury immediately, the clock may start from the date you discovered it.
Government vehicles:
If a city, county, or state truck is involved, you must file an administrative claim within six months of the accident.
Minors or incapacitated victims:
The filing period may pause until the victim turns 18 or regains legal capacity.
After a truck accident, dealing with insurance companies, trucking corporations, and medical bills can feel overwhelming. A skilled Fresno truck accident lawyer can handle the legal challenges while you focus on recovery. Their experience and resources can make a major difference in the outcome of your case.
Truck accidents often involve multiple parties — from drivers to trucking companies and maintenance contractors. Your lawyer conducts a thorough investigation, reviewing police reports, black box data, and witness statements to pinpoint who’s responsible.
Trucking companies move quickly to protect themselves after a crash. An attorney acts fast to preserve crucial evidence like driver logs, electronic data, and maintenance records before they’re lost or destroyed.
Insurance companies often undervalue claims or pressure victims into early settlements. A truck accident in Fresno attorney knows how to counter these tactics and negotiate for a fair and full recovery.
Your lawyer works with medical and financial experts to determine the real cost of your injuries — including future care, lost income, and emotional impact — so no losses are left unaccounted for.
If settlement talks fail, an experienced truck accident attorney in Fresno will represent you in court and present a strong case before a judge or jury.
Many people hesitate to contact an attorney after a truck accident because they worry about legal fees. The good news is that most Fresno truck accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis — meaning you pay nothing upfront. Your lawyer only gets paid if they win compensation for you.
There are no retainers, hourly charges, or hidden fees. The law firm covers the costs of investigation, expert witnesses, and case preparation. Once your case settles or you win a verdict, the attorney receives an agreed-upon percentage of the recovery.
Most Fresno truck accident lawyer offices, including RMD Law, offer free consultations. This gives you the chance to discuss your case, understand your rights, and decide your next steps without financial pressure.
Contingency arrangements align your lawyer’s interests with yours — they’re motivated to secure the highest possible compensation since their fee depends on your success. It also makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of financial situation.
At RMD Law, we believe that reputation is everything. When clients trust us with their cases, we do everything in our power to help guide them. That means personal service and sharp advocacy. We care about the details of your case because that is how we can get you the best settlement.
Nestled in the heart of California’s Central Valley, Fresno offers a delightful blend of picturesque landscapes, historical richness, and a friendly, inviting community atmosphere. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just passing through, there’s a wealth of activities and sights to enjoy.
From outdoor adventures and cultural treasures to delicious food and exciting attractions, Fresno presents countless opportunities to explore, savor, and create lasting memories.
Our past clients in Fresno have shared their experiences working with our legal team after devastating truck accidents — stories that reflect our commitment, professionalism, and record of securing meaningful results.
You’re not required by law to hire an attorney after a truck accident, but having one can greatly improve your chances of success. An experienced Fresno truck accident attorney can investigate the accident, collect key evidence like police reports, medical records, and witness statements, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and work to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
After a truck accident, your first priority should be seeking medical care, even if the injuries seem minor, since prompt treatment helps prevent complications and creates important medical records. Report the incident to the police and make sure an accident report is filed. Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, your injuries, and any relevant road conditions. Collect names and contact details of any witnesses who saw the accident. Finally, before giving statements to insurance adjusters, consult with a Fresno truck accident attorney who can protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
Yes. Under California’s pure comparative negligence system, you can still recover compensation even if you share some of the blame for your accident. However, your settlement may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you were found 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. A lawyer can help minimize unfair fault claims and strengthen your case.
In California, including Fresno, the statute of limitations for most truck accident lawsuits is two years from the date of the accident. If the injury or its complications are discovered later, you may have one year from the date of discovery. Acting quickly is crucial to preserving evidence and protecting your right to pursue a claim.
Explore our collection of guides and articles on Fresno truck accidents, reckless driving risks, and prevention tips to help you stay informed and protected on the road.
It’s crucial to understand why these crashes often cause severe harm and what factors raise the stakes. Let’s look at the specific dangers that make coastal highways so unforgiving.
California’s streets are increasingly dangerous for pedestrians, and the consequences are often catastrophic. In 2023 alone, more than 1,100 pedestrians were killed on California roadways,
These collisions don’t just leave physical scars, but also disrupt lives, families, and livelihoods. Even a small misstep can have devastating consequences when a truck cannot see you. This article will help you spot truck blind spots, stay visible, and understand your legal options if a collision happens.
Over $200,000,000 total recent personal injury wins for our clients. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers are eager to fight for you.
RMD Law found an insurance code violation by the defense insurance company in a dog bite injury case. With smart lawyering, we used the violation to argue that the $100,000 policy limits no longer applied.
The insurance company wrongfully refused to pay our client the $100k policy limit in a rollover auto accident. RMD Law refused to take no for an answer, and filed a lawsuit alleging bad faith, ultimately winning millions for our deserving client.
Confidential bad faith settlement – a negligent driver t-boned our client at a red light resulting in severe spinal injuries. The defendant’s insurance company unreasonably refused to pay the $100K policy limit. RMD Law filed a lawsuit seeking the true value of the case. Policy was opened, and the client settled for an amount vastly higher than the original limits.
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We care about your recovery. We stake our reputation on it.
Aria is a member of the prestigious Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®. He speaks English, Farsi, and Spanish.
Nicole has settled hundreds of personal injuries claims, known for her professional, honest, and caring approach.
John is a former defense lawyer turned award-winning personal injury lawyer. He speaks English and Farsi.
Associate Attorney Yen Quach started work at RMD Law in 2017 as a paralegal. Injured clients seeking justice from insurance companies can do no better than Yen.
Ryan is a caring and experienced litigator. He defended scores of depositions and understands what it takes to move a case in California.
Ariana Martin is one of RMD Law’s skilled personal injury lawyers. She brings a lot of legal experience to the table, having worked previously in the field of insurance defense.
