Truckee Truck Accident Lawyer

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Every year, many Californians are met with the consequences of big rig crashes, facing not only physical pain from injuries but also financial and emotional hardships. When an individual is injured or a family is deprived of a close relative in such an incident caused by a negligent party, dealing with the legal process may be overwhelming. This is especially true when the primary focus should be on recovery. That is where an experienced trucking accident attorney comes in. A skilled lawyer will protect the rights and interests of their client in these cases and work toward a successful case resolution on their behalf.

At our personal injury law firm, our truck accident lawyers serving Truckee, California, understand the challenges involved in big rig crash cases. Let us handle all aspects of your case so you can focus on your recovery. Call (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly case advice.

Since 1982, our law office has brought to the table the commitment, knowledge, and resources necessary to serve clients in Nevada County and across the state of California. Choosing AutoAccident.com for your Truckee truck accident case means selecting a legal team that is dedicated to obtaining justice and maximum compensation on your behalf. Our lawyers are here to be your advocate in your journey toward maximum compensation and justice. Reach out to our law office today for a free case review, and let your story be told. We are available anytime to assist you through this difficult time.

Common 18-Wheeler Wrecks in California

The sheer size, weight, and momentum of big rigs mean that even crashes at low speeds can lead to catastrophic consequences for occupants in passenger vehicles. Some of the common types of tractor-trailer collisions that occur on roads in Truckee, California, include:

  • Rollovers
  • T-bone accidents
  • Rear-end crashes
  • Wide turn wrecks
  • Jackknife collisions
  • Blind spot accidents
  • Collisions involving lost loads
  • Underride or override crashes
  • Crashes involving hit-and-run drivers
Collecting Evidence in Truck Accident Cases

Evidence in 18-wheeler collision cases must be gathered and preserved immediately. It is not uncommon for evidence in these matters to be altered or destroyed over time. A truck accident attorney will draft a spoliation letter outlining what evidence must be preserved and maintained in its original condition. This letter puts the opposing party on notice that a claim is being brought forward, and appropriate action must be taken accordingly.

Why is Immediate Medical Treatment Important?

The aftermath of injuries from an 18-wheeler wreck, regardless of their severity, may significantly impact an individual’s life. While some injuries may heal with time, others may lead to long-term consequences or permanent disabilities. It is essential to seek immediate medical treatment. When there is a gap in medical care or delayed treatment, the insurance company may dispute reported injuries and claim that they are unrelated to the crash or not as severe as reported. Once medical treatment has been sought, it is crucial to retain legal counsel to protect your rights and seek maximum compensation on your behalf.

What Losses Can Be Recovered in a Semi-Truck Collision Case?

When an individual has sustained injuries in a big rig crash through no fault of their own, the consequences can be life-changing. The emotional trauma, physical pain, wage loss, property damage, medical bills, and other losses can be overwhelming. Fortunately, California law recognizes this and allows injured parties the right to hold the at-fault party financially accountable for relevant losses. This is accomplished through a bodily injury claim against the opposing party. Each personal injury case is unique, and the recoverable losses will be specific to the facts and circumstances of the matter.

By bringing a bodily injury claim, an injured party can potentially recover current and future medical expenses, lost earnings, diminished earning potential from permanent disability or injury, loss of enjoyment of life, pain and suffering, and other associated losses. If a family loses a loved one in an 18-wheeler crash, they may be eligible for damages through a wrongful death action. Recoverable losses may include mental anguish, medical bills for final injuries sustained by the deceased (via survival action), lost income for the family household, loss of companionship, and more.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Commercial Truck Accident?

In California, personal injury and wrongful death claims arising from commercial truck accidents must demonstrate the opposing party’s negligence to reach a favorable case resolution. Whether the incident results from the truck driver’s negligence, insufficient truck maintenance, or non-compliance with state and federal regulations overseeing the trucking industry, these factors serve as the foundation for proving liability. Aside from the trucker and trucking company, liability may also fall on a manufacturer for flawed truck parts, a third-party loading company, government entities for road defects, and more.

Insurance carriers representing truck drivers and trucking companies are focused on minimizing claim payouts. They often employ various defense tactics following a big rig crash. Claimants often experience strategies such as adjusters making quick lowball offers, disputing liability for the incident, and claiming that injuries are unrelated to the accident. Retaining legal counsel immediately can ensure an independent and comprehensive investigation is conducted to identify all defendants. The right lawyer will know how to effectively counter defense strategies by insurers and opposing counsel.

What is the Filing Deadline for a Big Rig Crash Case?

Claimants must follow a specific timeframe outlined by state law. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. Most cases must be filed no later than two years from the accident date. Specific exceptions may apply wherein the statute of limitations may be extended or shortened. For instance, a case against a government entity must follow a six-month deadline. Conversely, an injured minor has two years from their 18th birthday to file in civil court. To protect your right to compensation and ensure that negligent parties are held accountable in your Truckee truck accident case, you need an experienced attorney.

Truckee Truck Accident FAQ

How can comparative fault affect a semi-truck collision case?

Commercial truck accident cases may prove more challenging by California’s comparative fault rule. Under this rule, a claimant may seek damages even if they share liability for the incident. The amount of compensation awarded will be decreased based on the degree of fault the court has assigned to them. A deep understanding of truck accident laws is necessary to navigate these nuances, underscoring the need for an experienced attorney.

How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a big rig crash case?

Most personal injury lawyers take commercial truck accident cases on contingency, meaning there are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs. Clients do not have to pay unless their attorney secures compensation on their behalf. Upon a successful resolution to a case through an insurance settlement or court-ordered award, the agreed-upon fee will be deducted. By retaining legal counsel on a contingency fee agreement, you can focus on recovery, knowing that your case is in good hands.

Contact a Trucking Accident Attorney Serving Truckee, CA

At AutoAccident.com, our legal team understands the complexities involved in big rig crashes, including the legal challenges, emotional toll, and lasting effects on all aspects of your life. With our commitment to support you, rest assured that your rights and interests will be protected. Contact us for a free consultation today, where our skilled Truckee truck accident attorneys can explore your options for a future where justice and maximum compensation are obtained. Call (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400 to receive free, friendly advice on your potential case from one of our experienced injury lawyers.

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