Rio Vista Truck Accident Lawyer

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Rio Vista is known as the gateway to the Delta region. Situated near the banks of the Sacramento River, the city is an easy drive between the state's most vigorous metropolitan sectors, Sacramento and San Francisco. Large commercial trucks travel through the city often to deliver goods.

An accident with a semi-truck can cause devastating and fatal injuries. If you or a loved one has been severely injured in an accident involving a large commercial truck, you may be able to seek financial restitution in a truck accident lawsuit. Call our experienced truck accident lawyer in Rio Vista at (707) 564-1900 for a free consultation.

The Risk of Truck Accidents

Commercial truck drivers often work around the clock to deliver essential items to consumers. Despite our dependence on semi-truck transport, these large vehicles can be a risk factor for other motorists sharing the road. With more than three million truck drivers on the road every year, an accident involving one of these big rigs is bound to happen.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 112,000 injury accidents involved large trucks in 2018. Unfortunately, many of these collisions happen in California. Recent data shows California is one of the states with the highest number of truck accidents in the last 10 years.

Causes of Truck Accidents
Like other vehicle crashes, truck accidents are complicated. Most truck crashes are caused by the careless and reckless actions of the truck driver. Several factors can contribute to a truck crash. Distracted driving, driving under the influence, and driving fatigue are the three top factors. Other factors that can increase the risk of an accident with a semi-truck include: 
  • Driving for longer than the established hours of service
  • Driving with a too-heavy load
  • Failing to secure cargo properly
  • Speeding on roads or highways
Who is Responsible for a Truck Accident?

Depending on the accident, multiple parties may be responsible for a truck accident. Not all crashes are caused by the truck driver. This means the accident can result from a faulty part or a mechanical failure. If so, the manufacturer can be liable for your injuries and losses. Even if the truck driver was negligent, the trucking company could be responsible for improperly training the driver.

Holding Truck Companies Liable for Improper Maintenance

When a commercial truck is improperly maintained, it can malfunction on a road or highway. That's why state and federal regulations require trucking companies to inspect and maintain their vehicles properly. However, many truck companies neglect to maintain their vehicles until too late. Some parts that can malfunction include the steering components, hydraulic system, tires, and air brake system. If any of these parts failed and caused a terrible accident, the injured party may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the trucking company, along with the truck driver.

What Evidence Will Be Collected to Prove a Truck Accident Case?

To establish a successful truck accident case, an investigation must be done as soon as possible to ensure all evidence can be collected and preserved. The types of evidence that can be used in a truck accident case include:

  • Eyewitness statements
  • Logbooks that are required to be maintained
  • Truck maintenance records
Why You Need an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer

Many truck companies will try to reduce their liability by arguing that the drivers are independent contractors, not employees. Therefore they are not responsible for the driver's negligent actions. You'll need an experienced truck accident attorney to handle these complicated situations to ensure all responsible parties are liable for your injuries and damages.

Watch the video below to learn about the damages you can claim in a truck accident claim.

Rio Vista Truck Accident Lawyer

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in an accident involving a large commercial truck in or near Rio Vista, please call our experienced injury lawyers today at (707) 564-1900 or (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly case advice. See a list of our past cases on our verdicts and settlements page.

Editor's Note: updated [cha 8.18.23] Photo by Zetong Li on Unsplash cha [cs 697] bw

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