Frequently Asked Questions
Why are truck accident cases different from car accidents?
Trucks cause far more serious injuries, federal safety rules apply, and several parties can share liability, which makes these cases more complex and higher stakes.
Who can be held liable in a truck accident?
Liability can extend beyond the driver to the trucking company, the broker, a maintenance contractor, the cargo loader, or a parts manufacturer, depending on the cause.
What evidence matters most in a truck accident case?
The truck's electronic logging device, the engine control module, driver logs, and maintenance records are critical, and they can be lost quickly, so it is important to act fast to preserve them.
How much is a truck accident case worth?
Because injuries are often severe and commercial policies are larger, these claims can be substantial, but value always depends on your specific injuries and losses.
What federal rules apply to truck drivers?
Commercial drivers must follow Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration rules, including hours-of-service limits and inspection requirements, and violations can help prove a claim.
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in California?
Generally two years from the crash, but evidence disappears fast, so contact a lawyer early to send preservation notices to the trucking company.
What if I was partly at fault?
You can still recover under California's comparative negligence rule. Your compensation is reduced by your share of fault rather than denied.
How much does a truck accident lawyer cost?
Nothing upfront. We work on contingency, so you owe no attorney's fees unless we recover, and the consultation is free.
Should I talk to the trucking company's insurer?
Be careful. Trucking insurers often send investigators to the scene quickly, so avoid recorded statements and quick settlements until you have legal advice.
Do you handle truck accident cases statewide?
Yes. From our Woodland Hills office we represent people injured in commercial truck crashes throughout California.