Imagine driving down the freeway, minding your own business, when suddenly a massive 18-wheeler slams into the back of your vehicle. The force of the impact is catastrophic, and in an instant, your life is turned upside down.
This is the harsh reality that many victims of truck accidents face in Southern California and beyond. Truck crashes are among the most devastating types of collisions on our roads. These behemoth vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, dwarfing the average passenger car. When a truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the results are often devastating, leading to severe injuries, permanent disabilities, and even loss of life.
At Libra Law Firm, our dedicated Orange County truck accident attorneys fight tirelessly for truck wreck victims, helping them receive the compensation they deserve. We’re eager to help you, too. Consult with us for free and let’s discuss how we can help you. Call Libra Law Firm at (888) 565-3214 today.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
Being involved in a truck accident can be an overwhelming experience. However, the actions you take immediately following the collision can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. Here are some crucial steps to take after a truck accident:
- Prioritize safety: Move to a safe location away from the flow of traffic if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and set up flares or warning triangles to alert other drivers.
- Call for emergency assistance: Contact 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured. Even if you don’t feel hurt, it’s essential to get checked by medical professionals, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Getting medical help right away also documents your injuries, which may come in handy as proof in court.
- Document the scene: If it’s safe to do so, take photographs and videos of the accident scene, including any visible damage, the positions of the vehicles, skid marks, and the surrounding area. These visual records can serve as crucial evidence later on.
- Gather information: Collect the names, contact information, and insurance details of all parties involved, including the truck driver, their employer (the trucking company), and any witnesses. Also, make note of the truck’s license plate number, the DOT (Department of Transportation) number, and any other identifying information.
- Avoid admitting fault: Do not apologize or admit fault, even if you believe you may have contributed to the accident. Such statements can be used against you later in the legal process.
- Notify your Insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the accident, but avoid providing detailed statements or signing any documents until you have consulted with an experienced Orange County truck accident lawyer.
- Contact a truck accident attorney: Truck accident cases can be complex, involving multiple parties and intricate regulations. Consult with a skilled Orange County truck accident lawyer from Libra Law Firm as soon as possible to protect your rights and safeguard your claim to compensation.
By following these steps, you can help preserve crucial evidence and strengthen your legal case. It’s essential to act promptly and seek legal guidance from an experienced attorney. Your consultation with Libra Law Firm is free, so you risk nothing by reaching out to us.
Types of Semi-Truck Accidents and Big Rig Crashes
Common types of truck collisions in Orange County include:
- Underrides or crush accidents: These occur when a smaller vehicle becomes trapped or crushed beneath a larger truck, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
- Lane change accidents: Due to their massive size and blind spots, trucks can easily collide with smaller vehicles when changing lanes, causing severe side-impact collisions.
- Truck jackknife accidents: These happen when the trailer of a semi-truck swings out at an angle from the cab, potentially blocking multiple lanes of traffic and causing chain-reaction collisions.
- Wide-turn accidents: Large trucks require a wider turning radius, and when they fail to account for this, they can strike vehicles in adjacent lanes or on the sidewalk.
- Road blockage crashes: Overturned or jackknifed trucks can completely block roadways, leading to multi-vehicle pileups and significant traffic disruptions.
- Cargo spillage: Cargo that’s improperly secured or overloaded can shift during transit, affecting the balance and control of the large truck. Hazardous materials can also spill onto the road.
- Truck trailer incidents: Detached or improperly coupled trailers can become deadly projectiles, striking other vehicles or causing the truck to lose control.
- Sideswipe accidents: These occur when a truck’s trailer or cab strikes the side of another vehicle, often due to improper lane changes or merging.
- Intersection crashes: The sheer size and limited maneuverability of trucks can lead to collisions at intersections, especially when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way.
- Rear-end accidents: Due to their immense weight and longer stopping distances, trucks can easily rear-end smaller vehicles, causing severe injuries to occupants.
The sheer size and weight of big rigs and semi-trucks make them inherently difficult to control and maneuver, especially in congested areas like Orange County. Their massive blind spots and inability to brake quickly also contribute to the severity of these collisions. It’s not uncommon to see large trucks involved in accidents with motorhomes, RVs, and motorcycles.
Underride truck accidents, in particular, have been on the rise in recent years and are considered one of the most hazardous types of crashes involving passenger vehicles.
It’s vital to document the circumstances of your truck accident as well as your injuries. This will help your potential truck accident lawsuit against the liable party. Get the help of our experienced Orange County truck accident lawyer at Libra Law Firm to see your legal options and start building your case.
Holding Negligent Parties Accountable
Truck accidents can occur due to a variety of reasons, including:
- Driver fatigue
- Distracted driving
- Improper maintenance
- Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo
- Defective truck parts
- Reckless or aggressive driving.
Regardless of the cause, if the accident was a result of negligence, the responsible parties must be held accountable. At Libra Law Firm, we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice for our clients. Our Orange County truck accident lawyers will fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve for:
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disabilities or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death (in cases involving fatalities).
We understand that no amount of money can undo the trauma and suffering you’ve endured, but it can provide the financial resources necessary to rebuild your life and move forward.
Why You Need an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
Navigating the legal landscape after a truck accident can be a complex process. Trucking companies and their insurers are well-equipped with teams of lawyers whose sole purpose is to minimize their liability and pay out as little as possible. This is where an experienced Orange County truck accident lawyer can make all the difference.
At Libra Law Firm, our attorneys have a deep understanding of the intricate laws and regulations governing the trucking industry. We know how to investigate these cases thoroughly, gathering evidence from various sources, including:
- Truck’s black box data
- Driver’s logbooks
- Maintenance records
- Eyewitness accounts
- Accident scene evidence.
Armed with this crucial evidence, we can build a strong case against the negligent parties, whether it’s the truck driver, the trucking company, or a third party responsible for the accident.
Compensation Claims and Damages for Truck Accident Victims
The physical, emotional, and financial toll of a truck accident can be overwhelming. Victims often face mounting medical expenses, lost wages, and a long road to recovery. When you work with Libra Law Firm, our Orange County truck accident lawyers will thoroughly examine the impact of your injuries to assert the maximum compensation you deserve. We can pursue compensation for a wide range of damages including:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses: This includes past, present, and future costs associated with hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, medical equipment, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost wages: If your injuries have prevented you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, including future earning potential if you’ve suffered a permanent disability.
- Property damage: We’ll seek compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering: Truck accidents can inflict severe physical pain and emotional anguish. We’ll fight for compensation to account for your suffering.
- Emotional distress: The trauma of a truck accident can lead to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. You may be entitled to compensation for the emotional toll of the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries have prevented you from participating in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed, you may be able to recover damages for this loss.
- Permanent disabilities or disfigurement: In cases where the accident has resulted in permanent disabilities or disfigurement, you may be eligible for compensation to account for the long-term impact on your quality of life.
Wrongful Death Claim from an Orange County Truck Crash
In the tragic event of a loved one’s death due to a truck crash, the surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim. If successful, this can provide compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of the deceased’s expected earnings and benefits
- Loss of love, companionship, and guidance
- Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before their death.
Though no amount of money can replace the life lost, financial compensation can significantly cover your expenses, alleviate the burden, and allow you to focus on your healing. Our experienced Orange County truck accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong legal strategy to maximize your compensation. We’ll negotiate aggressively with insurance companies and, if necessary, take your case to trial to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Compassionate Representation for Truck Accident Victims
At Libra Law Firm, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate representation to our clients. We understand that you’re going through one of the most challenging times of your life, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
From the moment you contact us, you’ll be treated with the utmost respect and empathy. Our attorneys will take the time to listen to your story, understand your unique circumstances, and tailor our legal strategy to your specific needs. We’ll handle all the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on your recovery and healing process. You can count on us to keep you informed and involved throughout the entire process, ensuring that you’re never left in the dark.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orange County Truck Accidents (FAQs)
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Orange County?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a truck accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Orange County truck accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet deadlines.
How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?
At Libra Law Firm, we use a contingency fee system, which means you don’t pay any upfront fees or costs. Our attorneys only get paid if we win a settlement or award for you. Our fees are a percentage of the settlement or award we obtain on your behalf.
What if the truck driver was an employee of a company?
If the commercial truck driver was an employee of a company at the time of the accident, you may be able to pursue compensation from that company. Under the legal notion of “respondeat superior” (Latin for “let the master answer”), the trucking employer can be held responsible for the actions of their employees while they are on the job. Talk to an attorney from Libra Law Firm. We are experienced in this area of law and can guide you on your best options.
What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
If the truck driver was an independent contractor, the liability may fall on the driver themselves or the company that hired them. In these cases, it’s crucial to have an experienced attorney who can thoroughly investigate the circumstances and determine all potentially liable parties.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, it’s possible as California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. An experienced Orange County truck accident lawyer can help ensure that your share of fault is minimized and that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
How long does a truck accident case typically take?
The duration of a truck accident case can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the willingness of the insurance companies to negotiate a fair settlement. Some cases may be resolved in a matter of months, while others may take years if they proceed to trial. Your Orange County truck accident lawyer will provide you with a realistic timeline based on the specifics of your case.
What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?
If the truck was carrying hazardous materials, such as chemicals or toxic substances, the consequences of an accident can be even more severe. In these cases, additional parties may be held liable, and the compensation you’re entitled to may be higher due to the increased risk and potential for long-term health effects.
If You or Your Loved One was Injured in a Truck Accident in Orange County, Contact Libra Law Firm Today
With Libra Law Firm, you’ll get a dedicated team of Orange County truck accident lawyers ready to fight for your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (888) 565-3214 for a free, confidential consultation. Remember, you don’t have to face this battle alone. With Libra Law Firm by your side, you can rest assured that your case is in capable hands, and your best interests are our top priority.
