Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
Your safety should be your top priority — then call an experienced San Bernardino truck accident lawyer to protect your rights from day one.
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, trucking company/employer, DOT/MC numbers, trailer plate, and insurance carrier/policy.
If you are not too injured, take good pictures of the scene and some videos if you can, including skid marks, debris fields, dashcam footage, and any nearby surveillance cameras.
Your lawyer can help you preserve the value of your case. A seasoned truck accident attorney in San Bernardino, CA, can send spoliation letters to preserve black box (ECM) data, driver logs, and maintenance records before they disappear.
San Bernardino blends the vibrancy of a growing metropolitan area with the rugged beauty of its surrounding mountains and desert landscapes. As a key hub for logistics, freight transport, and commerce, the city experiences heavy truck traffic on its highways and local roads. Unfortunately, this congestion contributes to an increasing number of truck accidents.
Truck crashes can lead to severe physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Even minor collisions may result in costly medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages. Seeking legal guidance from a knowledgeable San Bernardino truck accident attorney can be essential in pursuing fair compensation and protecting your rights.
This guide covers the various types of truck accidents, common injuries, and crucial steps for filing a claim. Understanding your legal options can help you navigate the process with confidence.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in San Bernardino, hiring an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in your case. A skilled truck accident lawyer can navigate the complexities of trucking laws, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Truck accident cases often involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and vehicle manufacturer. An attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, gather critical evidence such as black box data and driver logs, and build a strong case on your behalf. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, but having a legal expert on your side helps protect your rights and increases your chances of securing fair compensation.
RMD Law is a California personal injury law firm dedicated to helping victims injured due to someone else’s negligence. We understand the devastating impact truck accidents can have on your life, and we’re here to fight for the compensation you deserve.
We offer free, no-obligation case evaluations to discuss your legal options. Call us today at (909) 328-8820, fax us at (949) 326-7000, or visit Contact Us to schedule your consultation.
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in San Bernardino, follow these steps to strengthen your claim:
Even if you don’t feel injured right away, get checked by a doctor. Medical records will serve as key evidence for your claim. Continuing treatment as prescribed also counters the insurance companies’ arguments that your injuries aren’t serious.
Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect witness contact details and obtain a copy of the police report. Ask your San Bernardino truck accident lawyer about securing ECM data, hours-of-service logs, bills of lading, dispatch notes, and maintenance histories from trucking companies.
Track all medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related costs to ensure you receive fair compensation. Document home care, mileage to appointments, and out-of-pocket costs—these add up.
An experienced lawyer can guide you through the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you gather critical evidence to support your case. Choosing a truck accident attorney in San Bernardino early helps protect deadlines and preserves evidence.
Report the accident to your insurer, but avoid giving recorded statements or accepting quick settlement offers without legal advice.
Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts. A skilled attorney can help protect your rights and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. RMD Law handles communications so you can focus on recovery.
Knowing what to do after a truck accident can make a significant difference in protecting your health, legal rights, and financial future.
Assess yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is seriously hurt. Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention to rule out hidden complications.
If the accident occurred in an active traffic area and it is safe to do so, relocate to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Contact the police to report the accident. An official police report will serve as critical evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Collect key details from all involved parties, including:
Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. This evidence can support your case.
Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Visiting a doctor as soon as possible ensures proper diagnosis and treatment. Keep records of medical visits, prescriptions, and treatment plans.
Report the accident to your insurer, but avoid admitting fault or making detailed statements without consulting a lawyer. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts.
Truck accident cases can be complex due to multiple liable parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, or vehicle manufacturer. An experienced truck accident lawyer in San Bernardino can:
Taking these steps ensures that you protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
Collecting strong evidence after a truck accident is essential to building a solid legal claim. Start by capturing clear photographs and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries. These visual records serve as critical proof of what transpired.
Additionally, obtain a copy of the official police report, as it will include vital details such as officer observations and witness accounts. If possible, secure contact details from any bystanders who witnessed the crash— their testimony may help support your case.
It is also crucial to gather information about the truck driver, including their name, driver’s license number, employer, and insurance details. If mechanical failure played a role in the accident, trucking company maintenance records can help determine liability.
Keep all medical documents related to your injuries, such as doctor visits, prescriptions, and treatment plans, as these records provide proof of your physical and financial losses. If available, surveillance or dashcam footage capturing the collision can be invaluable in establishing fault. Preserving this evidence strengthens your case and improves your chances of securing fair compensation.
Multiple parties may share fault: truck drivers (fatigue, distraction), trucking companies (unsafe dispatch, poor maintenance), cargo loaders (overweight/shifted loads), manufacturers (defects), and even road contractors.
As San Bernardino commercial vehicle accident lawyers, we pursue every liable entity to maximize recovery, including medical expenses, future care, lost income, diminished earning capacity, property damage, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering.
You need a relentless advocate— a San Bernardino truck accident lawyer with trial experience and resources to match large law firms and insurers. RMD Law offers a free consultation, handles cases on contingency (no fee unless we win), and moves quickly to preserve evidence and level the playing field with insurance companies.
Injured in a crash with a semi, box truck, or commercial vehicle? Speak with a San Bernardino truck accident attorney now. We’re ready to fight for you.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in San Bernardino
Understanding the leading causes of truck accidents can help improve roadway safety.
Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the impact of a collision. Given the high-speed limits on highways around San Bernardino, speeding is a significant risk factor.
Operating a truck under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and slows reaction time, greatly increasing the risk of an accident.
Large trucks require greater stopping distances. Following another vehicle too closely can result in rear-end crashes if traffic suddenly slows.
Ignoring right-of-way rules, especially at busy intersections, can cause dangerous side-impact or head-on crashes.
Using a phone, adjusting GPS settings, or eating while driving can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road, leading to serious accidents.
Aggressive Driving
Erratic lane changes, speeding, and reckless behavior create hazardous conditions for both truckers and other motorists.
How Can You Prevent Truck Accidents in San Bernardino?
By practicing safe driving habits and staying aware of potential hazards, motorists and truck drivers can significantly reduce the likelihood of collisions in San Bernardino.
Follow Traffic Laws
Obey all road regulations, including speed limits, traffic signals, and right-of-way rules. Adhering to these laws helps create a predictable driving environment and minimizes accident risks.
Stay Focused
Avoid distractions while driving, such as using a phone, eating, or adjusting navigation systems. Keeping your attention on the road enhances reaction time and situational awareness.
Maintain a Safe Distance
Leave sufficient space between your vehicle and large trucks, as they require more time to come to a stop. Following too closely increases the risk of rear-end collisions, especially in sudden braking situations.
Conduct Regular Vehicle Maintenance
For truck drivers and fleet operators, routine inspections of brakes, tires, lights, and other essential components can prevent mechanical failures that lead to accidents.
Practice Defensive Driving
Anticipate the actions of other motorists, remain alert for sudden lane changes, and exercise caution when navigating through congested areas or inclement weather.
Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or medications that affect judgment and reflexes significantly increases the likelihood of a crash.
Take Breaks on Long Trips
Driver fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents. Truckers should plan for adequate rest periods to maintain alertness and avoid drowsy driving.
Adapt to Weather Conditions
San Bernardino’s fog, rain, and high temperatures can affect road safety. Reduce speed, increase following distance, and use appropriate headlights in adverse conditions.
By following these safety measures, both truck drivers and passenger vehicle motorists can contribute to safer roads in San Bernardino.
Different Types of Truck Accidents in San Bernardino
Truck crashes in San Bernardino can happen in multiple ways. Recognizing the most common types can help drivers remain alert and prepared.
Rear-end Collision
These crashes occur when a truck strikes the back of another vehicle, often due to following too closely or sudden stops. Rear-end impacts can cause whiplash, spinal injuries, and significant vehicle damage.
Head-on Collisions
A head-on crash happens when a truck and another vehicle collide front-to-front. These accidents often result from driver fatigue, impaired driving, or wrong-way travel. Due to the immense force involved, head-on collisions frequently cause life-threatening injuries.
Rollovers
A rollover accident occurs when a truck tips onto its side or completely overturns. This can be caused by excessive speed, sharp turns, or unbalanced cargo loads. Rollovers pose extreme dangers to both truck operators and surrounding motorists.
Side-Impact Collision (T-bone)
T-bone accidents happen when a truck strikes the side of another vehicle, often at intersections. These collisions are commonly caused by running red lights, failing to yield, or distracted driving. T-bone crashes are particularly dangerous for occupants on the impacted side of the vehicle.
Off-road Accidents
A truck may veer off the road due to driver fatigue, mechanical failure, or sudden evasive maneuvers. This can result in crashes involving barriers, trees, or buildings, leading to extensive damage and severe injuries.
Fixed-Object Collisions
These crashes involve a truck hitting stationary objects such as guardrails, light poles, or freeway dividers. They often occur due to poor weather conditions, road hazards, or driver inattention.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups
When three or more vehicles are involved in a crash, it is classified as a multi-vehicle accident. These incidents are common on San Bernardino’s highways, especially during heavy traffic or poor weather.
Blind Spot Accidents
Trucks have large blind spots, making it difficult for drivers to see smaller vehicles when changing lanes. If a truck driver fails to check these blind spots, it can result in dangerous sideswipe accidents.
Low-speed Collisions
Even at lower speeds, such as in parking lots or residential streets, truck accidents can still lead to injuries like fractures or neck strain. Given San Bernardino’s busy streets and industrial zones, low-speed crashes are not uncommon.
Merging Accidents
Merging collisions occur when a truck fails to merge safely onto a highway or local road, often misjudging the speed of other vehicles. These crashes are particularly common on San Bernardino’s congested freeways.
Why Heavy-Duty Truck Accidents Are Especially Dangerous?
Truck accidents are particularly hazardous due to the weight and size of commercial vehicles. These crashes often result in catastrophic injuries, including spinal damage, brain trauma, and fatalities. Additionally, trucks may carry hazardous materials, increasing the risk of explosions, fires, or environmental damage. Factors such as driver fatigue, large blind spots, and longer stopping distances further contribute to the severity of truck accidents.
By understanding these risks and knowing the legal process, truck accident victims in San Bernardino can take the necessary steps to protect their rights and seek the compensation they deserve.
Common Vehicles Involved in San Bernardino Truck Collisions
Truck accidents in San Bernardino frequently involve various types of vehicles, including:
Injuries Commonly Seen in Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often lead to severe injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. Victims may suffer from both immediate and long-term health complications, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Fractures and Broken Bones
The force of a truck collision can cause broken arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis injuries. In severe cases, fractures may require surgery, metal plates, or screws to facilitate healing. Complications such as infections or mobility issues may prolong recovery.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Head trauma from a truck crash can result in concussions, brain swelling, or even permanent cognitive impairment. Symptoms like confusion, dizziness, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating may develop over time, requiring ongoing medical care.
Whiplash and Neck Strains
Rear-end collisions frequently cause whiplash, which damages soft tissues in the neck. Symptoms include stiffness, headaches, and restricted movement, sometimes leading to chronic pain that affects daily activities.
Spinal Cord Damage and Paralysis
Truck accidents can result in herniated discs, nerve damage, or complete spinal cord injuries, potentially leading to paralysis. These injuries often require surgery, rehabilitation, and lifelong medical assistance.
Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage
The force of impact may injure internal organs such as the liver, spleen, or lungs. Internal bleeding may not be immediately noticeable but can become life-threatening without prompt medical attention. Symptoms like abdominal pain, dizziness, or fainting should never be ignored.
Burns and Severe Lacerations
Fires, fuel leaks, or hazardous cargo spills can cause burns, leading to excruciating pain, scarring, and the need for skin grafts. Additionally, shattered glass and debris can result in deep lacerations, potentially causing permanent nerve damage or infections.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
The emotional impact of a truck accident can be as debilitating as physical injuries. Many victims suffer from PTSD, experiencing nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, and depression. Therapy and counseling may be necessary to cope with the psychological aftermath.
High-Risk Truck Routes in San Bernardino
Certain highways and streets in San Bernardino are more prone to truck accidents due to heavy traffic and frequent trucking routes.
Trucking Rules and Regulations in San Bernardino
San Bernardino enforces specific trucking laws to enhance road safety.
Designated Truck Routes
Certain streets are designated for truck travel to reduce congestion in residential areas. Large trucks must follow these designated paths.
Lane Restrictions
Trucks are often prohibited from using the far-left lanes on highways like I-10 and I-215 to improve traffic flow and minimize merging accidents.
Weight and Size Limits
Some roads have weight restrictions to prevent damage and enhance safety. Trucks exceeding these limits must use alternative routes.
Time-Based Delivery Restrictions
In some areas, truck deliveries are restricted to certain hours to reduce congestion during peak travel times.
Truck Accident Laws in San Bernardino
Truck accident cases in San Bernardino are subject to both California state laws and federal trucking regulations, which affect liability and compensation:
Comparative Negligence
California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Federal Safety Regulations
Truck drivers and trucking companies must comply with FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) regulations, which cover driver rest periods, truck maintenance, and cargo loading requirements. Violations of these rules can be crucial in proving negligence.
Insurance Requirements
Commercial trucks operating in San Bernardino must carry higher levels of liability insurance than standard vehicles, ensuring that victims can recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Defective Equipment Liability
If an accident was caused by a mechanical failure, such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or steering issues, the manufacturer or maintenance provider could be held responsible.
Statute of Limitations in San Bernardino Truck Accident Cases
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in San Bernardino, it’s important to know the deadlines for filing a claim:
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Taking legal action as soon as possible can help secure key evidence, obtain witness testimonies, and ensure your medical records are properly documented. Consulting a San Bernardino truck accident lawyer early on can help protect your legal rights and strengthen your case.
Filing Deadlines for San Bernardino Truck Accident Claims
California law imposes strict time limits for filing truck accident claims:
Filing promptly ensures evidence is preserved, and witness recollections remain fresh. Consulting a San Bernardino truck accident attorney early on can help protect your legal rights.
How Much Time You Have to File a Claim in San Bernardino
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. For property damage claims, the statute of limitations is three years. However, if a government entity is involved—such as if a poorly maintained road contributed to the crash—you may have only six months to file a claim. Acting quickly is crucial to preserving evidence and protecting your rights, so consulting a truck accident lawyer in San Bernardino as soon as possible is highly recommended.
How Truck Accident Cases Differ From Other Personal Injury Claims
Truck accident cases in San Bernardino tend to be more complex than standard car accident claims due to the size, weight, and regulations governing commercial trucks. These cases often involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or maintenance provider. Additionally, federal and state trucking laws regulate areas such as driver working hours, load limits, and vehicle inspections, which may play a role in determining liability. Key evidence, including driver logs, black box data, and expert witness testimony, is often required to build a strong case and secure fair compensation.
Compensation You May Recover After a Truck Accident
If you were injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical Expenses
Covers costs related to emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and long-term treatments.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be eligible for compensation for both current and future lost earnings.
Vehicle Repairs
Reimbursement for damages to your car or, in severe cases, the cost of replacing your vehicle.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
Punitive Damages
In cases of extreme negligence, such as reckless driving or intentional misconduct, additional compensation may be awarded as a penalty.
Taking the right legal steps increases your likelihood of securing fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
How Much a San Bernardino Truck Accident Claim Could Be Worth?
The value of your truck accident claim in San Bernardino depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and property damage. More serious injuries or long-term disabilities typically result in higher compensation. Other factors, such as the level of fault assigned to each party, available insurance coverage, and the strength of your supporting evidence, will also influence your settlement. Consulting with an experienced truck accident attorney can help you determine a fair compensation amount based on your unique situation.
Factors That Influence Truck Accident Settlements in San Bernardino
The value of a truck accident claim depends on various factors, including:
The Severity of Injuries
More serious injuries typically result in higher compensation due to medical costs and long-term care needs.
Impact on Daily Life
If your injuries cause permanent disabilities or major lifestyle disruptions, this may increase your settlement.
Degree of Fault
Under California’s comparative negligence rule, your compensation may be reduced if you are partially responsible for the crash.
Insurance Coverage
The available coverage from the at-fault party’s insurance policy and your own policy can impact your final payout.
Strength of Evidence
Well-documented medical records, police reports, and witness statements can significantly affect your settlement.
Typical Timeline for a San Bernardino Truck Accident Case
The length of a truck accident case in San Bernardino varies depending on the complexity of the claim and whether it proceeds to trial:
Straightforward Cases
If liability is clear and injuries are minor, settlements may be reached in a few months.
Complicated Cases
If there is a dispute over fault or the injuries are severe, the case may take a year or more to resolve.
Trial Cases
Cases that go to court can take significantly longer, sometimes lasting months or even years due to legal proceedings.
Post-Settlement
Once a settlement is agreed upon, it can take several weeks for the compensation to be processed and distributed.
An experienced truck accident lawyer in San Bernardino can help move your case forward efficiently and work to secure a fair settlement as quickly as possible.
Truck Accident Statistics in San Bernardino
Truck accidents in San Bernardino have shown a slight decline over the past three years, but the number of fatalities and injuries continues to fluctuate.
Despite slight year-to-year fluctuations, truck accidents continue to pose a major risk in San Bernardino. The high percentage of crashes on highways, frequent rear-end collisions, and involvement of vulnerable road users highlight the need for better safety measures. Addressing issues like traffic congestion, driver fatigue, and road design could help reduce the number of these devastating accidents.
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.
San Bernardino offers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and historic landmarks, making it a great destination for visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re exploring the city for the first time or looking for something new to do, here are some of the best ways to enjoy your time in San Bernardino:
San Bernardino’s food scene offers a mix of classic American favorites, diverse international flavors, and hidden local gems. Here are some must-try dining experiences:
San Bernardino offers something for everyone, whether you’re exploring the outdoors, diving into local history, or enjoying a fantastic meal.
First, check for injuries and call 911. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries take time to appear. Take photos of the accident scene, get contact information from witnesses, and exchange insurance details. Be cautious about what you say—admitting fault could hurt your claim.
Evidence such as police reports, accident scene photos, medical records, and witness statements can help establish liability. If the truck driver violated federal trucking regulations, logbooks and black box data may also serve as critical proof.
For personal injury claims, you generally have two years from the accident date. Property damage claims allow for a three-year filing period. If a government vehicle was involved, you may need to act within six months.
Yes. Under California’s comparative negligence law, you can still pursue compensation, but the amount you receive will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
While you’re not legally required to have an attorney, working with a San Bernardino truck accident lawyer can make a significant difference. A skilled lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Families in San Bernardino rely on us to handle their truck accident cases with compassion and commitment. Here’s what they have to say:
Learn more about truck accidents and legal processes in San Bernardino by exploring our blog.
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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.
