Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
Rely on our experienced team to secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.
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 truck accident lawyers can evaluate your case and help you seek full compensation from the companies that caused your injuries.
Los Angeles offers a dynamic combination of urban energy and expansive suburban areas. With its stunning landscapes and thriving culture, the city presents numerous chances for discovery. Yet, as the population grows and traffic congestion intensifies, truck accidents have become an increasingly serious issue.
Truck accidents can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Even minor crashes can result in costly medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages. In such circumstances, seeking the guidance of an experienced truck accident attorney in Los Angeles can be invaluable.
This guide explores the different types of truck accidents, common injuries, and the essential steps for filing a claim. By understanding your legal rights and available options, you can safeguard your well-being and secure just compensation following an accident.
In Los Angeles, truck accident cases are governed by a variety of laws designed to ensure fair compensation for victims and to hold negligent parties accountable. Here are some key aspects:
Understanding these laws can help you navigate the legal complexities after a truck accident in Los Angeles and protect your rights.
In Los Angeles, California, the statute of limitations for truck accident claims typically depends on the nature of the claim:
It is crucial to act swiftly and consult with a lawyer to ensure that your case is filed within the correct timeframe to protect your legal rights.
California law imposes deadlines, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a truck accident claim:
Personal Injury Claims
Typically, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury.
Why Act Quickly?
Filing promptly is important to preserve evidence, secure witness statements, and gather medical records. Delaying your claim can harm your case, so it’s crucial to consult with a truck accident lawyer in Los Angeles as soon as possible to protect your rights.
In Los Angeles, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. For property damage, the period is typically three years. However, certain cases involving government entities may require filing within just six months. It’s important to consult with a truck accident attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the required time limits.
In Los Angeles, certain roads are more accident-prone due to factors like heavy traffic, road design, and high-speed driving. Some of the most hazardous roads for trucks include:
These roads are particularly hazardous for trucks due to high traffic volume, sharp curves, interchanges, and the risk of congestion, making them more susceptible to accidents. Truck drivers should exercise extra caution on these routes.
Yes, trucks in Los Angeles must adhere to certain lane regulations to ensure safety and reduce congestion. Key regulations for truck lanes include:
Truck drivers in Los Angeles must stay aware of these lane restrictions to avoid fines, accidents, and ensure smoother traffic flow.
Accidents involving large trucks in Los Angeles are particularly hazardous due to the size and weight difference between commercial vehicles and passenger cars. A collision with a heavy-duty truck can lead to catastrophic injuries, including spinal cord damage, brain trauma, and fatalities. Trucks may also carry hazardous materials, heightening the potential for fires, explosions, or environmental harm. The substantial force of the impact, coupled with the risks of driver fatigue and large blind spots, makes truck accidents especially dangerous.
In Los Angeles, truck accidents typically involve various types of vehicles. Passenger cars are the most common, especially in rear-end or side-impact crashes. Motorcycles are also frequently involved in blind spot accidents, while smaller trucks or vans may be sideswiped or forced off the road. Additionally, other commercial vehicles, such as delivery trucks or semi-trucks, often contribute to multi-vehicle accidents, particularly on busy highways or in adverse weather conditions.
Truck accidents in Los Angeles can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from mild to severe.
Truck crashes often lead to broken bones, which can affect mobility and require surgery or physical therapy for recovery.
A violent impact to the head during a truck accident can cause a TBI, leading to cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges. Timely medical care is vital for addressing these injuries.
Whiplash is a common result of truck accidents, often causing neck pain and stiffness. Seeking prompt medical care is important to alleviate symptoms and restore normal function.
Truck collisions can cause spinal cord damage, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Immediate medical attention and long-term rehabilitation are crucial for recovery.
Truck crashes can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs, often without visible external signs. Immediate medical attention is necessary.
Emotional trauma from a truck accident can lead to PTSD, resulting in anxiety, fear, and difficulty driving. Professional counseling can assist with recovery.
Truck accident cases are often more complicated than standard car accidents due to the large size and weight of commercial trucks. These cases may involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and maintenance service providers. Additionally, trucking regulations, such as hours-of-service rules and cargo loading guidelines, often come into play. Evidence such as trucking logs, black box data, and expert testimony can be crucial in determining fault and securing a fair settlement.
Proving negligence is crucial when seeking compensation after a truck accident. Here’s what you should collect to establish fault:
Capture detailed images of the accident location, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road signs, and other relevant details. These photos serve as critical evidence for your case.
Look for nearby security cameras that might have recorded the incident. Video from these sources can provide clarity on how the accident occurred.
If you or any other involved party has a dashcam, its recordings can be extremely useful in showing the events leading up to the crash.
Obtain contact details and statements from witnesses who observed the accident. Their testimonies can corroborate your version of events.
Collect statements from all parties involved in the crash, as these can help clarify responsibility or provide additional context about the circumstances.
The official police report will include key observations and evidence regarding the accident, making it an essential component for building your case.
When pursuing a truck accident claim in Los Angeles, it is essential to identify all parties who may be held accountable. Here’s a breakdown of the possible liable parties:
The driver responsible for the crash, whether due to negligent behavior such as speeding, distracted driving, or impaired driving, is typically the main liable party.
If the driver is not the truck owner, the owner could also be liable, particularly if they allowed an unqualified or reckless individual to operate the vehicle.
If the driver was working during the incident, the employer might be held accountable under vicarious liability laws.
If poorly maintained roads or faulty signage contributed to the accident, a government agency might be held liable. Claims against these entities often have tight deadlines.
If the truck or its components (like brakes or tires) were defective and caused the crash, the manufacturer may be liable.
Other individuals or entities, such as other drivers or businesses that contributed to the accident (e.g., serving alcohol to an impaired driver), could share liability.
By identifying all potentially liable parties, you can improve your chances of securing fair compensation for your damages and injuries.
Understanding the primary causes of truck accidents is essential for improving road safety.
Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react in time and amplifies the severity of collisions, making it one of the leading causes of fatal truck crashes.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, coordination, and response time. Impaired driving is a significant contributor to truck accidents in Los Angeles.
Tailgating, or following too closely, increases the likelihood of rear-end accidents, especially in heavy traffic or during sudden stops.
Failing to yield at intersections can result in dangerous T-bone or head-on crashes.
Distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting the GPS while driving are major contributors to truck accidents.
Truck drivers who engage in road rage may tailgate, cut off other vehicles, or make reckless maneuvers, heightening the risk of accidents.
Truck accidents can happen unexpectedly in numerous scenarios. Recognizing the typical types of truck accidents can help drivers stay alert and prepared.
A rear-end collision occurs when a truck strikes another vehicle from behind, often due to tailgating or sudden stops. These accidents can result in serious injuries, like whiplash or spinal damage, particularly for those in the rear-ended vehicle.
Head-on accidents happen when two trucks collide directly. The impact can lead to catastrophic damage and severe injuries. These crashes typically occur due to wrong-way driving, distractions, or impaired driving.
A rollover happens when a truck flips over, often caused by sharp turns, speeding, or hitting an obstruction like a median. These accidents are extremely dangerous due to the risk of ejection.
A T-bone crash occurs when a truck strikes the side of another vehicle. These accidents are common at intersections where drivers run red lights or fail to yield, posing significant risks to passengers on the impacted side.
Off-road truck accidents happen when a truck veers off the road due to loss of control, driver fatigue, or external factors like animals. These crashes may involve trees, guardrails, or other obstacles.
These accidents involve just one truck, which might crash into stationary objects such as barriers or utility poles. Common causes include weather conditions, mechanical failure, or driver exhaustion.
A multi-vehicle crash typically involves three or more trucks and often occurs on busy highways or in inclement weather. These accidents can lead to serious injuries and extensive property damage.
Blind spot accidents happen when a truck driver fails to check their blind spots before changing lanes, leading to a sideswipe collision. Smaller vehicles, such as motorcycles, are particularly vulnerable in these situations.
Low-speed truck accidents, often occurring in parking lots or residential neighborhoods, can still result in substantial injuries, such as whiplash or broken bones.
Merging accidents happen when truck drivers fail to safely merge into traffic, often because they neglect to check blind spots or adjust to traffic speeds, particularly on highways.
If involved in a truck accident in Los Angeles, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:
Check yourself and others for injuries. Seek medical attention immediately if anyone is hurt, even if injuries seem minor.
If possible, move the vehicle to the roadside to avoid further accidents. Use hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Call 911 to report the accident and request emergency help if necessary. Law enforcement will document the scene, gather evidence, and file a report, which is crucial for your legal claims.
Exchange contact and insurance details with the other drivers. Collect witness statements as well.
Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and traffic signs. This evidence will support your case.
Even if you feel fine, consult a doctor after the accident. Hidden injuries may worsen over time.
Report the accident to your insurer, providing detailed information about the incident.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your legal rights are upheld and will be in a stronger position to secure compensation for any damages or injuries.
By following these safety measures, you can reduce the likelihood of being involved in a truck accident in Los Angeles:
Follow speed limits, stop signs, and other traffic regulations. This ensures the safety of all road users.
Stay focused while driving, avoiding distractions such as texting or eating.
Allow enough space to stop or react in case of sudden changes in traffic or road hazards.
Regularly check your truck’s brakes, tires, and lights to prevent mechanical issues.
Anticipate potential hazards, check blind spots before changing lanes, and drive cautiously.
Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Fatigue can cause accidents. Ensure you’re well-rested before driving.
In bad weather, reduce speed and increase following distance. If conditions are dangerous, pull over until it’s safe to drive.
These precautions can help minimize the risk of a truck accident and contribute to road safety in Los Angeles.
If you’ve sustained injuries in a truck accident in Los Angeles, you may be eligible for compensation in several areas:
You can recover medical costs, including hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and other accident-related treatments.
If you’re unable to work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for both current and future lost income.
The responsible party should cover the repair or replacement costs of your truck and any personal property damaged during the accident.
Compensation may also be available for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
In cases of severe negligence or misconduct, such as reckless driving, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and discourage future dangerous behavior.
By following the correct steps, you can pursue the compensation you deserve after a truck accident in Los Angeles.
The value of your truck accident claim in Los Angeles depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. More severe injuries, long-term disabilities, or significant emotional distress typically result in higher compensation. Additionally, the extent of fault, available insurance coverage, and the strength of the evidence will influence the final value of your claim. Consulting an experienced truck accident attorney can help determine a fair settlement based on your specific circumstances.
Several key elements influence the outcome of your truck accident claim in Los Angeles:
The more serious your injuries, the higher your potential settlement due to increased medical costs and longer recovery times.
If your injuries result in permanent disabilities or significant life changes, your settlement may be adjusted to reflect the disruption to your everyday activities.
California follows a comparative negligence system, meaning if you share any fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced proportionally.
The available insurance coverage, whether from the responsible party’s insurer or your own policy, will impact the total amount of compensation you can receive.
The quality and quantity of evidence, including medical records, police reports, and witness statements, can significantly affect the strength of your claim and the final settlement offer.
The length of a truck accident case in Los Angeles depends on various factors, including case complexity and whether it goes to trial:
An experienced lawyer can help speed up the process by advocating for your interests effectively.
Truck accidents in California are more common than one might think. Here’s an overview of the data:
Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you file your truck accident claim:
Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Proper documentation is crucial for your claim.
Gather photos, witness information, insurance details, and any other relevant evidence from the accident scene.
Keep track of medical expenses, lost wages, and treatments related to the accident.
An experienced truck accident lawyer in Los Angeles can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you obtain necessary evidence.
Report the incident to your insurance company promptly, and contact the at-fault party’s insurer to begin the claims process.
Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your claim or shift blame. A skilled attorney can ensure you are treated fairly and receive the compensation you deserve.
RMD Law has an extensive history of handling truck accident claims throughout Los Angeles and California. With over $200 million in settlements, we have successfully obtained significant results for our clients.
At RMD Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. This structure ensures you receive quality legal representation without upfront costs. Let us help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
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.
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First, ensure your safety and the safety of others. Call 911 to report the crash and request medical help if needed. Exchange insurance information with the other drivers, capture clear photos of the damage and accident scene, and refrain from making statements that could harm your case. Notify your insurance provider about the accident as well.
To prove fault, you must show that the other party’s actions directly caused the crash. Gather vital evidence such as police reports, witness statements, photos of the scene, and medical records. This evidence will be crucial in building a strong case for your claim.
In Los Angeles, California law allows you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. It’s important to speak with a truck accident attorney promptly to meet filing deadlines and protect your legal rights.
Yes, even if you share some responsibility, you can still pursue a claim. California follows comparative negligence, meaning your compensation may be reduced based on your degree of fault.
While not required, hiring a skilled attorney is highly recommended for truck accident cases. An experienced lawyer will guide you through the legal process, assist with insurance negotiations, and work to secure fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Our clients’ testimonials highlight the dedication and support we offer victims during challenging times:
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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.
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.
