A truck accident can turn your world upside down in the blink of an eye. Because of their massive size and weight, commercial trucks can cause devastating damage, leaving victims and their families grappling with physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
But here's the good news: you don't have to face this journey alone. At Vaziri Law Group, our San Gabriel truck accident lawyers are here to help you every step of the way. With over $1 billion recovered for accident victims, we have the experience, resources, and determination to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Let our San Gabriel personal injury lawyers shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery.
How Are Truck Accident Cases Different from Car Accidents?
Truck accident cases are significantly more complex than standard car accident claims. Here's why:
1. Larger Vehicles, Greater Damage
Commercial trucks, such as semi-trucks or 18-wheelers, can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. The impact of these massive vehicles can cause severe injuries, extensive property damage, and even loss of life.
2. Multiple Liable Parties
Unlike car accidents, where fault often lies with one driver, truck accidents can involve several responsible parties, including:
- The truck driver.
- The trucking company.
- The cargo loading company.
- Vehicle or parts manufacturers.
An experienced San Gabriel truck accident attorney will investigate your case thoroughly to identify all liable parties.
3. Strict Federal and State Regulations
The trucking industry is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and state laws. These rules cover everything from driver work hours to vehicle maintenance.
Violations of these regulations—such as exceeding hours-of-service limits or failing to maintain the truck properly—can be critical in proving negligence.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident Case?
Determining liability in a truck accident case is often more complex than it seems. Here are the key parties that may be held responsible:
- The Truck Driver: If the driver was fatigued, distracted, or under the influence, they may be held liable for the accident.
- The Trucking Company: Companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, maintaining their fleets, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
- The Cargo Loader: Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo can cause trucks to become unstable, leading to accidents.
- Manufacturers or Maintenance Providers: Faulty parts, such as brakes or tires, or negligent maintenance may also contribute to a crash.
An experienced San Gabriel commercial truck accident lawyer will investigate every aspect of your case to identify all liable parties and hold them accountable.
What Damages Can I Recover After a Truck Accident?
Here's a breakdown of the damages you can recover after a truck accident:
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the tangible, measurable costs directly resulting from the accident. These include:
- Lost Wages: If your injuries kept you from working, you can recover compensation for the income you lost during your recovery period.
- Medical Expenses: Medical costs associated with your accident injuries
- Reduced Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or reduce your ability to earn in the future, you can seek damages for this loss.
- Property Damage: You can recover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are less tangible but just as important. They compensate you for the emotional and psychological impact of the accident. These include:
- Pain and Suffering: Financial compensation for the physical pain and challenges caused by the injuries you sustained.
- Emotional Distress: Truck accidents can have a deep emotional impact, leading to issues like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. These damages address the psychological hardships you've endured.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: When your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities you once loved—such as spending time with loved ones, hobbies, or sports—you may be eligible for compensation.
- Loss of Consortium: If the accident has negatively impacted your relationship with your spouse or family, including loss of companionship or intimacy, you may be able to recover damages for this loss.
Wrongful Death Damages
If a truck accident tragically results in the loss of a loved one, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. Damages in these cases may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses.
- Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided.
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support.
How to Protect Yourself After a Truck Crash
Taking the right steps after a truck accident can protect your health and strengthen your case:
-
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Some injuries, like internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms right away. It's crucial to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. -
Document the Scene
If you're able, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your vehicle. Collect contact information from witnesses and the truck driver. -
Don't Speak to Insurance Adjusters
Insurance companies may use your statements against you to minimize your claim. Let your truck accident attorney handle communication on your behalf. -
Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer
The sooner you have legal representation, the better. An experienced attorney will ensure evidence is preserved and your rights are protected.
Contact a San Gabriel Truck Accident Law Firm Today
Recovering from a truck accident is a long and often difficult journey, but you don't have to face it alone. At Vaziri Law Group, we understand the devastating impact a truck accident can have on your life, and we're here to help you through it. We have a proven track record of success in securing maximum compensation for our clients.
If you're searching for a San Gabriel truck accident lawyer, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us handle the legal details.
Plus, with our “no fees unless we win” policy, you can rest assured that you won't pay anything upfront—we only get paid when we recover compensation for you.