Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer
As the largest vehicles on the road, trucks can inflict significant damage. The impact of these collisions can be devastating, causing catastrophic injuries or even wrongful deaths. This leaves accident victims with a mountain of expenses, including medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and lost wages.
At Jacoby & Meyers, we understand the weight you’re carrying, and we’re here to lift that burden. For over 50 years, our dedicated Los Angeles truck accident lawyers have stood by accident victims, fighting tirelessly to secure the compensation they deserve. With a history of winning substantial settlements across the city, we’ve built a reputation as a trusted ally when life feels uncertain.
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Don’t worry; with our expertise, you’ll be able to understand your legal options, manage your case effectively to maximize your financial recovery and focus on your recovery while we handle the legal details. Call us today for a free consultation, and let’s explore how we can help you move forward.
Why Choose Jacoby & Meyers for Your Truck Accident Case?
We can’t stress this enough – the attorney you choose to work with significantly affects the outcome of your case. A lawyer who’s in it just for the money and doesn’t genuinely care about their clients can leave you with a settlement far less than what you truly deserve. That’s why it’s essential to work with a truck accident lawyer who not only has the expertise and a strong track record but is also deeply committed to fighting for your rights and your future.
Here’s why so injured victims in Los Angeles trust us to stand by their side:
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- Proven Expertise: With decades of success handling truck accident cases, we know how to win.
- No Fees Unless We Win: You don’t pay a dime upfront—we only succeed when you do.
- California Law Specialists: Our deep understanding of personal injury law and California’s truck regulations sets us apart.
- Comprehensive Support: From collecting evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, we handle every detail so you can focus on healing.
- Client-Centered Care: We’re here for you with compassionate guidance, clear communication, and unwavering dedication during this challenging time.
When it comes to your case, you deserve more than just a lawyer—you deserve an advocate. Let us show you why we’re the team you can trust.
How Can I Prove a Truck Accident Case?
When proving a claim, you must establish that a driver’s negligence or wrongful actions caused the accident. But what does being negligent mean in a truck crash?
Negligence is when someone fails to exercise the same level of care and attention that a reasonable and prudent person would have in a similar situation. In a truck collision, this can include failing to take necessary precautions, ignoring warning signs, or making driving mistakes that lead to harm or injury.
Overall, proving negligence in personal injury law means you must establish the following elements:
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- The driver was responsible for ensuring everyone’s safety on the road.
- They failed to fulfill this duty, or they acted wrongfully, risking the safety of others.
- Their behavior resulted in an accident.
- The accident caused you injuries and other damages.
While proving the truck driver’s negligence is crucial, it’s not the only factor. You must also demonstrate that you suffered actual damages due to the accident. You can demonstrate this by having the necessary evidence, like diagnoses of your injuries, medical bills, and crash photos.
Unfortunately, proving a truck accident case can be overwhelming, especially if you are recovering from your injuries. How can you collect evidence to justify your case if you need time to heal from your injuries? A lawyer for a truck accident can build and manage your claim by collecting the appropriate proof, filing the claim against the at-fault party, and negotiating with them.
Understanding Truck Accident Investigations
Investigations for truck accidents may become more complicated than auto crashes as multiple parties can be involved, such as the truck driver and the truck company. Hence, understanding truck accident investigations can help you go through the legal process and know what steps to take to secure your overall well-being.
Preliminary Investigation at the Accident Scene
The first thing you must do after an accident is to report it to the authorities. Not only does this ensure that you obtain medical treatment, but it also helps you secure a police report that can help prove your truck accident case.
Under California Vehicle Code 20008, injury victims must report an accident to the police if there are injuries or fatalities. When officers arrive, they will secure the scene, document it with photos and videos, measure key details, and interview witnesses.
A police report is not only required by law but also helps prove your case. Insurance companies use these reports to assess fault. However, while a police report can expedite the process, it’s not always required to recover compensation.
Truck Company Investigations
Truck companies conduct their own investigations to determine if their drivers are responsible for accidents and whether they should cover the damages. However, it’s important to remember that truck insurance providers are not on your side. Their goal is to find evidence to avoid liability for the driver’s actions and the damages you’ve suffered. They will often look for ways to shift the blame away from their driver, which is why having a personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and ensure a fair outcome.
Investigations Conducted by Truck Accident Lawyers
While truck companies protect their interests, your truck accident attorneys work to defend your rights. They thoroughly investigate the case, gather evidence, and establish liability.
They will:
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- Review the truck driver’s logs and ELD data for compliance and signs of overwork.
- Check the driver’s employment history, qualifications, and past violations.
- Collaborate with accident reconstruction experts to inspect the truck for maintenance issues or tampering.
- Analyze data from the truck’s black box or EDR for speed and braking information.
- Examine the trucking company’s safety policies and regulatory compliance.
- Calculate the total damages, including long-term costs for ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.
What Should I Do After a Truck Accident in Los Angeles?
Here’s what you should do after a truck crash in Los Angeles:
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- Assure Safety: If feasible, relocate to a secure area and look for any injuries.
- Dial 911: Call 911 or the Los Angeles Police Department to report the collision and make a medical help request.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries appear minor, get a complete medical treatment and assessment.
- Collect Evidence: Record the accident and any damages using pictures and videos. You may also ask for the truck driver’s information and the company where they work.
- Speak with a Lawyer for Truck Accident: Contact a truck accident lawyer to protect your rights and receive legal counsel when filing a case.
Common Injuries You May Experience After a Truck Accident
A truck accident can change your life in an instant, leaving you with injuries that range from painful to life-altering—or, in the most tragic cases, causing the loss of a loved one. The aftermath can be overwhelming, but knowing what to watch for and seeking medical care immediately can make all the difference in your recovery.
Here are some of the most common injuries victims experience after a truck accident:
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- Whiplash: Neck strain caused by sudden, jarring movements.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Often affecting the arms, legs, or ribs.
- Head Injuries: From mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
- Back and Spinal Injuries: Including herniated discs and spinal cord damage..
- Cuts and Bruises: Caused by impact or shattered glass.
- Internal Injuries: Such as internal bleeding or organ damage.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains or tears in muscles, ligaments, or tendons.
- Psychological Trauma: PTSD, anxiety, or depression often follow such traumatic events.
No matter the severity, every injury deserves attention. Seeking immediate medical care not only protects your health but also helps ensure you’re on the path to healing. Don’t wait—your well-being comes first.
Who Can I Sue in a Truck Accident?
You might think that if a truck driver causes an accident, they are automatically responsible for the damages. However, other parties may also share liability for the collision, such as the trucking company, the vehicle manufacturer, or the company responsible for maintaining the truck. Remember that determining who is liable often requires a detailed investigation to identify all responsible parties.
SCENARIO 1: The Truck Driver Is Liable
Truck drivers are responsible for ensuring safety on the road, so they should be liable for damages if the accident results from infractions. Actions like speeding, erratic lane changes, tailgating, drunk driving, distracted driving, or other negligent behaviors can establish the driver’s liability in a truck accident.
Moreover, a driver may also be liable for a truck accident, mainly if it occurs outside their regular working hours. Trucking companies are usually not liable for accidents when drivers operate the vehicle without authorization or outside their scheduled hours.
SCENARIO 2: Liability of the Truck Owner or Company
Truck owners or companies might be held accountable if their actions or inactions influenced the occurrence of a truck crash. For example, if a company imposes an unrealistic schedule requiring a driver to make multiple trips within a short period, leading to a fatigue-related crash, the company could be responsible for the damages.
Other situations where a truck owner might be liable include setting unreasonable delivery deadlines, ignoring falsified logbooks, hiring drivers with a history of impaired driving, or initiating improperly loaded cargo.
Proving a truck driver’s liability is usually more straightforward than proving the trucking company’s. The driver’s direct involvement in the accident makes it easier to establish negligence, but demonstrating the trucking company’s negligence requires a more detailed investigation. If you are faced with such a situation, our experienced truck accident lawyers can examine the facts of your case, gather all necessary information, and hold all guilty parties accountable.
SCENARIO 3: Other Parties Are Responsible
Other parties can also be liable for a truck accident. For instance, if a truck driver crashes due to an unmaintained road, the local government responsible for the road’s upkeep must be held accountable for the damages.
If there are multiple liable parties, you can also file truck accident claims against all of them. However, securing compensation from several parties can be challenging, especially while recovering from injuries. Fortunately, our trucking accident attorneys can navigate these complex situations. We have dedicated legal experts who can work on your cases separately, ensuring you get the most out of your situation to help you recover.
How Much Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth?
Truck accidents can cause severe damage both to your car and to you. Getting these injuries and damages fixed or learning how to live with them can be difficult, especially if they are permanent. They may even end up costing a lot of money.
The silver lining is that you can get financial compensation for the damages resulting from the collision. The following types of damages can be considered when determining your total damages:
Economic damages are monetary losses demonstrated through receipts or other documentation. This can be:
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- Repair costs
- Past, present, and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of financial support
Non-economic damages are the emotional or psychological impact of a crash. This may include:
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- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress from disability or disfigurement
- Loss of companionship
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Because everyone’s accident is different, everyone will qualify for other types and amounts of damages. Before creating a comprehensive list of your damages, it is a good idea to discuss your case with an experienced truck accident attorney and let them investigate your accident. They may even find proof of compensable damages you never considered.
What is the Deadline for Filing a Truck Accident Claim?
In Los Angeles, truck accident victims have a limited time to file a personal injury claim. Under California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1, you must pursue a case two years from the accident date. However, this period may vary depending on the circumstances. For example, claims against a local government entity must be filed within six months.
Given the strict deadlines for personal injury cases, it’s crucial to understand the necessary steps to save time and effort. Working with a truck accident lawyer lets you focus on your recovery, knowing that all legal deadlines and requirements are being handled.
What Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Do?
Injury victims often shy away from filing a case as they think fighting against large truck companies can be emotionally, physically, and financially draining. Aside from recovering from their injuries, they must do the legwork of proving a case.
You don’t have to go through this difficult time alone. With the help of truck accident lawyers, you won’t have to deal with the legwork of filing a claim. They will manage every aspect of the case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with the insurance company, so that you receive fair compensation for your damages. This then allows you to focus on your well-being throughout the legal process.
Here’s how truck accident attorneys can assist you:
Legal Experts to Prove Liability
Should you sue the truck driver, the trucking company, both, or someone else? Your personal injury lawyer will investigate to answer this critical question. They will also gather evidence to justify the liable party’s negligence, holding them accountable for your damages.
Increased Accountability by Fighting for MAXIMIXED COMPENSATION
Calculating the total damages is critical in determining your compensation value. Your recollections of the accident and your lawyer’s input and evidence gathered during the investigation will tell you how much compensation you may qualify for.
Professionals Cutting through the Red Tape
This step may be tedious, but how and when you submit legal forms can make or break your lawsuit. Fortunately, truck accident lawyers efficiently handle all deadlines and requirements to ensure you won’t lose your case.
Reliable Team to Manage Negotiations
We want to relieve unnecessary stress from you, as we know recovering from injuries can be physically and emotionally tolling. So, our lawyers will communicate and negotiate with the insurance provider on your behalf.
Legal Representation, Even in Courtrooms
Truck accident claims are usually resolved at the negotiating table, not in the courtroom. However, some circumstances may call for litigation. No matter where your case takes us or how long we must fight, Our lawyer will stick with you to the end.
Trusted Advice
We will explain the legal process to you in as much detail as you like, and we can help you make important legal decisions.
At our law firm, we’ve seen truck companies pull every trick in the book to downplay accidents and dodge accountability. That’s why having a savvy, determined attorney in your corner is non-negotiable. We’re here to ensure your rights are upheld, your case is expertly managed, and if the insurance companies won’t play fair, we’ll take the fight to court.
Here’s why teaming up with our truck accident attorneys is the smartest move you’ll make:
Five Reasons to Hire Our Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyers
- Transparency You Can Trust
Insurance companies thrive on confusion—they’re like magicians, distracting you with small print while they make your rightful compensation disappear. We cut through this trick with a free consultation, breaking down the legal process, your case value, and your options so you can make decisions with confidence. - Bigger Settlements, Better Results
Did you know victims who lawyer up receive 3.5 times higher settlements on average, even after fees? That’s because we know how to handle insurance companies and their sneaky tactics—like getting you to slip up in a recorded statement. We build a rock-solid case to ensure you walk away with what you’re owed, not what they’re willing to give. - Better Health, Fewer Headaches
Ignoring injuries like whiplash can turn a minor ache into a significant problem. We’ll connect you with trusted medical professionals to ensure you get the care you need—protecting both your health and your wallet. - Protecting Your Lifestyle for the Long Haul
A truck accident can put more than your car in the shop—it can upend your life. Missed paychecks, skyrocketing bills, and future uncertainties can derail your plans, from paying rent to affording a dream vacation. We fight for compensation that doesn’t just cover today’s bills but protects your tomorrow, whether it’s your career, hobbies, or financial security. - Legal Expert on Your Side
Our attorneys know the shortcuts and dead ends of personal injury, ensuring you don’t miss key details or deadlines. With us in your corner, you’ll have the confidence to move forward and rebuild after an accident.
You deserve an advocate who’s as committed to your recovery as you are. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on getting back to the life you love.
How to Choose the Best Truck Accident Lawyer
There are hundreds of truck accident law firms in Los Angeles, and you can get a lawyer if you want to hire one. However, with hundreds of law firms in the city, it’s overwhelming to choose the right one for your unique situation. Not all lawyers are created equal, and it’s crucial to find a lawyer who has the expertise, dedication, and resources to handle your case effectively.
For instance, while all lawyers are expected to know the legalities of personal injury, not everyone can juggle multiple cases at a time. You need the best truck accident lawyer in Los Angeles who can:
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- Request Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or coworkers for referrals to reputable truck accident lawyers.
- Conduct Online Research: Use legal directories and review platforms to find specialized attorneys.
- Track Work History: Look for a proven track record of successful settlements and high compensation.
- Check Credentials: Verify their education, bar membership, and additional qualifications in personal injury law.
- Read Reviews: Check client reviews for insights into their communication skills and effectiveness.
- Assess Communication Skills: Use a free consultation to gauge their ability to explain the legal process and address your concerns.
- Check Legal Team: Ensure they have a strong team of paralegals, investigators, and experts who can work on your case.
- Inquire About Fees: Confirm their contingency fee structure and ensure it suits your situation.
- Trust Your Instincts: Choose a lawyer you feel confident and comfortable with.
By following these steps, you can find an experienced truck accident lawyer who will advocate for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Questions You May Ask About Trucking Accidents
How Often Do Truck Accidents Occur in California?
Did you know that the combination of driver impairment and inattention was the second most common driver-related factor in large truck fatalities? This covers actions like driving while intoxicated, using a phone while driving, and being fatigued. In heavy truck collisions, impairment and inattention contributed to 5.2% of fatalities.
Unfortunately, according to Forbes, California had the second highest risk of truck accidents, with 364 fatal truck crashes.
How Dangerous Are Truck Accidents?
There are many different kinds of commercial trucks of differing sizes, weights, capacities, and functionalities, including:
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- Semi truck
- Delivery trucks
- Tractor trailers
- Pickup Truck
- Box Truck
- Flatbed Trucks
- Dump Trucks
- Tanker Trucks
However, most trucks are significantly heavier than ordinary cars. Therefore, oversized and heavy trucks can cause severe damage to you, your passengers, and your vehicle. In some cases, per the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), a car may even become lodged beneath a truck with potentially severe injuries.
Most common truck accident injuries that may lead to wrongful death include:
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- neck injuries
- spinal cord injuries
- fracture or broken bones
- head injuries
- internal injuries
In 2021, there were 523,796 large truck-related crashes, a significant rise from the 415,444 truck-related accidents in 2020. Truck collisions may have decreased in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the following lockdowns. However, since most of the nation loosened coronavirus-related restrictions from 2021 to now, it is unsurprising that there were more crashes in the following years.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
The most common causes of truck accidents in the United States are the following:
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- Driver Fatigue
- Driving while distracted
- Speeding
- Impaired Driving
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance
- Bad Weather
If I Don’t Have Insurance and Can’t Afford Medical Treatment, Can I File a Claim?
You can still file a claim even without insurance or funds for medical care. Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Similarly, some medical professionals may treat you on a lien basis, receiving payment only after you secure a settlement or court award.
The good news is that our Los Angeles truck accident attorneys only get paid if we win your case, and our initial consultations are free. We leverage our connections and expertise to defend your case, ensuring the best resources are dedicated to protecting your rights without any upfront costs.
If I Can’t Report to Work Due to My Injuries, How Can a Trucking Law Firm Help?
Lost wages and potential future income losses are key factors in determining your compensation. Lost wages cover the income you’ve missed due to your injuries, while potential income loss accounts for future earnings you might lose because of long-term effects on your ability to work.
Our truck accident law firm will advocate for your rights and ensure the responsible party is held accountable for your lost wages. If you’re concerned about affording a lawyer, we only get paid if we win your case, and our initial consultations are free, so there’s no risk in reaching out.
Our Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorneys Are Here for You
It is up to you to decide if you want to hire a lawyer to help you sue for damages. Before making that decision, you should consider several important factors.
First, the liable party will probably have legal representation. Their lawyers—and the lawyers employed by their insurance company—will not hesitate to undermine truck accident cases and offer you less compensation than you deserve. Confronting them alone can cause unnecessary stress.
In addition, a lawyer may not be as expensive as you think. Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices works for a contingency fee. Put another way, our payment is contingent upon our success. We get a share of the award if we can help you recover compensation. If we cannot help you, you owe us nothing.
Let our Los Angeles truck accident lawyer put your mind at ease. We can fight to recover compensation on your behalf so that you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation.
This article was written in collaboration with experienced personal injury lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers.
Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me
10900 Wilshire Blvd 15th Floor,
Los Angeles, CA 90024
24/7 Hotline12132960792
Directory
Here are essential personal injury resources in Los Angeles, CA, that can help you in case of accident emergencies:
Emergency Rooms
- Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center – 401 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015
- Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center Emergency Room – 1300 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
- Los Angeles General Medical Center Emergency Room – 200 N State St, Los Angeles, CA 90033
- PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital Emergency Room – 1230 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90017
- West Los Angeles Medical Center Emergency Room – 6041 Cadillac Ave Hospital West Tower, Los Angeles, CA 90034
Urgent Care Centers
- Silicon Beach Medical Center – 5450 Lincoln Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90094
- RapidDoc Urgent Care – 5600 Wilshire Blvd Suite A, Los Angeles, CA 90036
- Holy Cross Urgent Care – 4864 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029
- Exer Urgent Care – Downtown – 269 San Pedro St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Vermont Urgent Care & Multi-Specialty Center – 1435 Vermont Ave #100, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Local Courthouses
- Metropolitan Courthouse – 1945 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90007
- Los Angeles County Superior Court Stanley Mosk Courthouse – 111 N Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Spring Street Courthouse – Los Angeles Superior Court – 312 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- United States Courthouse – 350 W 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Los Angeles Superior Court, Central Civil West Courthouse – 600 S Commonwealth Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Disclaimer – We do not endorse these companies or profit from listing them on our website.
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