Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorney

Why Choose a Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer at The Barnes Firm?

• Our legal team is led by over 40 attorneys across the United States with over 500 years of combined experience, including Los Angeles truck accident lawyer.
• Our mission is to help achieve the best result possible for each and every client through zealous representation, outstanding legal service, and a dedication to fighting for the maximum compensation possible.
• We have handled more than 150,000 accident and injury cases including trucking accidents, resulting in more than $2.5 billion in recovery for our injured clients.
• Best Lawyers in America, LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review, Super Lawyers, Million Dollar Advocates Forum, National Trial Lawyers, and many other respected organizations have recognized our attorneys for excellence.
• We always offer free consultations with our experienced attorneys with no obligation to hire our firm. If you choose The Barnes Firm, you pay nothing unless we obtain compensation for you.
• The Barnes Firm clients have provided reviews for us due to our outstanding and committed service and representation.
• Experience across the nation, with offices located in Los Angeles, Oakland, San Francisco, San Diego, and San Jose.

Why Do I Need a Truck Accident Attorney in Los Angeles?

After a truck accident, insurance companies will do almost anything to avoid liability for the accident and try to undervalue your claim, that is why you need a truck accident lawyer. Typically, trucking companies carry large amounts of liability coverage for their drivers, which translates to higher payouts. Hiring an experienced truck accident lawyer at The Barnes Firm will help you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries. When you choose The Barnes Firm, the team of attorneys working on your case will:

• Evaluate your case for FREE
• Investigate the circumstances of your accident to determine who is liable
• Protect you against counterclaims from the other party
• Negotiate with insurance companies
• Prepare and take your case to trial, if necessary

Our truck accident lawyers have helped many truck accident victims maximize their compensation and will fight hard to help you get the best result possible, while you focus on your health. Call (800) 800-0000 today for a FREE case evaluation.

Successful Settlements We’ve Won For Our Clients

Some injury victims are hesitant to turn to a truck accident lawyer because they’re worried they’ll have to appear in a courtroom. Our team of attorneys at The Barnes Firm has extensive experience negotiating fair settlements with trucking companies and their insurance carriers. 

Only about 5% of personal injury cases go to trial. When you have a skilled truck accident lawyer with The Barnes Firm working for you, we’ll investigate thoroughly to obtain the evidence needed to show you weren’t to blame for the wreck. 

Some of our notable recoveries include:

• $ 1,000,000.00 Truck Accident The Client was rear-ended by a truck causing back and shoulder injuries.
• $ 1,250,000.00 Truck Accident Truck made a U-turn into our client’s vehicle causing back, neck, and arm injuries.
• $3,500,000.00 Truck Accident. The client sustained shoulder, elbow, hand, and head injuries after being struck by a truck.
• $1,600,000.00 Truck Accident. The client was struck by a truck, sustaining head, neck, shoulder, and foot injuries.
• $ 1,500,000.00 Truck Accident The Client was sideswiped by a tractor-trailer tractor trailer – sustaining serious back injuries.

What Makes Truck Accidents in Los Angeles Dangerous?

Commercial trucks, including semi-trucks, big rigs, tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, and construction vehicles, travel the highways surrounding Los Angeles around the clock. 

Large trucks like big rigs and 18-wheelers, are an essential aspect of the American economy—but also pose major risks to other vehicles that they share roadways with.

Some of these oversized trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and be more than 30 feet long, causing other vehicle passengers, motorcyclists, pedestrians, or bicyclists severe injuries when involved in an accident.

Many accidents involving large commercial trucks and commercial trucks result in life-threatening injuries, and sometimes even fatalities, to those in passenger vehicles due to the weight differential.  

Los Angeles Truck Accident Statistics

Big rigs and large commercial trucks travel across the nation, transporting everything from consumer products to equipment and more. In doing so, they also end up being involved in crashes that can have fatal results. In 2021 alone, there were over 4,000 fatal truck accidents across the nation. A 17% increase from 2020 shows how these accidents are becoming more common. 48% of these large truck accidents occurred on major surface roads, while another 36% were on highways and interstates.  

Compensation Los Angeles Truck Accident Victims Can Recover

Those expenses are known as “damages” in legal terms. Damages fall into one of two categories. There are economic or tangible damages. Those are the ones any attorney can prove because all they need to do is obtain receipts for medical bills, pay stubs for lost wages, and mechanics’ invoices for automobile damage.

However, non-economic damages are very challenging to prove. These are subjective damages that are difficult to quantify, such as pain and suffering, lost quality of life, and emotional and mental trauma.  

The following is a closer look at economic and non-economic damages.

Examples of Economic Damages

• Medical expenses: All of your medical bills fall into this category. They include ambulance fees, emergency room visits, surgeries, prescriptions, etc.
• Lost wages: If you suffer a severe injury, you probably won’t be able to work for a long time. Your truck accident lawyer will work to help you recover all the money you lose while you recover. But what if you can’t return to your job? What if you have to take a lower-paying position? Your attorney will also fight for compensation to make up the difference between what you’re making and what you would have made if the accident didn’t happen.
• Property damage: Not only do you deserve compensation for your wrecked vehicle, but also any personal property the accident destroyed.

John Sheehan – Personal Injury Lawyer in Los Angeles, CA

“I am the managing attorney for the Los Angeles office of The Barnes Firm, one of the largest personal injury law firms in the nation. The attorneys at The Barnes Firm have the knowledge, experience and the resources to achieve maximum results for every client. I am proud to be a part of the excellent team of trial attorneys at the Los Angeles office of The Barnes Firm.”

Examples of Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering: A severe injury, of course, leads to extreme pain. It can also result in significant anger, worry, fear, and frustration. An experienced truck accident lawyer with The Barnes Firm will know the value of your pain and suffering. 
• Lost quality of life: If you can no longer participate in the activities you love due to your injury’s severity, you may qualify for lost quality of life damages as well.
• Emotional distress: The accident may have caused substantial anxiety and depression that has impacted your relationships with your family members and friends. You could also potentially obtain compensation for this form of non-economic damages.

What Types of Trucks Can Cause Accidents?

Various truck types can all be involved in accidents on the streets and freeways of Los Angeles. Our attorneys have identified these various types of trucks and how they contribute to truck accidents in Los Angeles: 

Big Rigs. Trucks hauling cargo trailers, also referred to as 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, or tractor-trailers are classified as commercial vehicles and require skilled operating—especially when they’re loaded and have additional weight to them.  

Tractor Trucks. Also known as bobtail trucks, these vehicles have their engine and driver cabins at the front. They can commonly be seen traveling along freeways, and it’s important to note that their substantial size poses a significant risk to drivers of passenger vehicles. 

Tanker Trucks. When accidents involving tankers occur, they can ignite or explode, significantly intensifying the overall accident.  

Delivery Trucks. UPS, FedEx, Amazon, and USPS trucks have overtaken roadways due to the national influx in online shopping. These vehicles stop frequently and significantly contribute to traffic on all roadways.  

Utility Trucks. This truck category is comprised of a diverse array of vehicles, including garbage trucks, , street cleaners, construction trucks, and more.  

How Do Los Angeles Truck Accidents Happen?

In recent years, California was ranked second in the United States for the highest number of trucking collisions and fatalities. Our team of experienced Los Angeles truck accident lawyers at The Barnes Firm has found most truck accidents can be attributed to one or more of the following:

Truck Driver Fatigue

This is a very common cause of LA truck accidents. Truck drivers often drive for extended hours and ignore guidelines and regulations about how long they are allowed to drive.

Unsecured Loads

The unsecured loads are known to be extremely dangerous and can be catastrophic if the load falls off during a truck accident.

Break Times

Longer brake time requirements are due to the heavy weight being carried. When a truck driver fails to estimate the distance needed for proper braking, a rear-end truck accident can occur.

Wrong Turning

Improper turning occurs when truck drivers do not give themselves adequate space to turn, or do not check their blind spots before turning, causing sideswipe accidents. Is extremely dangerous, and illegal, when operating a commercial vehicle.

Speeding

This is a common way to make up lost time when truck drivers are trying to meet a tight deadline but can lead to unsafe driving conditions and truck accidents.

Distracted driving

This occurs when a truck driver does not give the road their full attention. On long drives, it is easy to become distracted, leading to truck accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found that 28% of large truck accidents occur due to so-called “recognition” issues. According to the FMCSA, these issues include distractions either inside the vehicle or outside.

Poor truck maintenance

A poor maintenance can lead to truck accidents because the commercial vehicle is unsafe to operate or drive.

Fatigue

Truck drivers are under significant pressure to meet deadlines. If they miss those deadlines, they risk losing their job. Drivers will often push themselves far past their limits as a result, putting themselves and others sharing the road in danger. When drivers stay behind the wheel too long, they violate government rules. Doing so makes them liable when they cause an accident because they’re too tired to operate their truck safely.

Impairment

Truckers will sometimes get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or taking drugs. Like any impaired driver, a truck driver can cause devastating accidents.

Types of Truck Accidents We Handle

At The Barnes Firm, our team of experienced personal injury attorneys have helped thousands of people injured in truck accidents, identifying the most common types of truck accidents to be:

• Blind spot accidents
• Head-on collisions
• Side Impact/T-bone accidents
• Rollover incidents
• Rear-end collisions
• Jackknife accidents
• Speeding accidents

What Are the Most Common Truck Accident Injuries?

Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight difference between large trucks and passenger vehicles. Among the most common injuries sustained in truck accidents are:

• Traumatic brain injuries: The force of impact in truck accidents can cause occupants’ heads to strike against surfaces or objects within the vehicle, leading to concussions, contusions, or more severe traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can result in long-term cognitive impairment, memory loss, and other neurological deficits.
• Spinal cord injuries: The violent jolts and forces involved in truck collisions often lead to spinal cord damage, resulting in partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, or impaired motor function. Spinal cord injuries can result in lifelong disabilities and require extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
• Orthopedic injuries: Truck accidents frequently cause fractures, dislocations, and crush injuries to the limbs, pelvis, and other skeletal structures. Victims may suffer from broken bones, torn ligaments, or joint damage, requiring surgery, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation.
• Internal injuries: The impact of a truck collision can cause internal organs to sustain damage or bleeding. Common internal injuries include ruptured organs, internal bleeding, and abdominal trauma, which may necessitate emergency surgery and intensive medical treatment.
• Soft tissue injuries: Whiplash, strains, and sprains are common soft tissue injuries resulting from the sudden acceleration-deceleration forces experienced in truck accidents. While these injuries may seem less severe than others, they can cause significant pain, stiffness, and long-term disability if left untreated

Injuries Resulting from Truck Accidents

Due to the large size of trucks and commercial vehicles, injuries sustained in these accidents tend to be more severe. It is extremely important to seek medical attention after being injured in a truck accident as symptoms can take days or weeks to appear. Visiting a medical professional can help you identify any injuries sustained in a truck accident and start you on the road to recovery with treatment. The most common injuries resulting from a truck accident may include:

• Broken or fractured bones
• Whiplash
• Concussions
• Head injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Burns
• Spine & Back Injuriesinjuries
• Neck injuries

Who is Liable for a Truck Accident?

Liability in a truck accident can be extremely complicated, as more than one party can be responsible. These parties could include:

• Truck drivers
• Truck maintenance company
• Manufacturers
• Truck companies
• The company that loaded the truck
• Municipalities
• Third-party drivers

Steps to Take After Being Injured in a Truck Accident

Being involved in a truck accident can be a frightening experience. If you were injured in a truck accident, it is advised you take the following steps:

• Call the police to report the accident and request an ambulance, if necessary.
• Collect evidence from the accident scene, including:
  • Other driver’s personal and insurance information
  • Police report
  • Photos of the accident, vehicles, and injuries
  • Witness information
• Seek medical attention and save any medical records or bills you receive
• Contact a Los Angeles truck accident attorney at The Barnes Firm

Taking these steps can help build a strong personal injury claim and ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your accident case.

What Is the Truck Accident Statute of Limitations in California?

In California, you have two years from the date of the truck accident, or injury discovery, to file a personal injury claim. To ensure you meet this deadline, you should contact a truck accident attorney as soon as you can. Our team of Los Angeles truck accident attorneys are available 24/7 to evaluate your case for FREE, answer any questions you may have regarding your accident, and assist you in filing your personal injury claim. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 to get started.

Damages to Recover in a Truck Accident

The damages you can recover after a truck accident are based on the circumstances surrounding your accident. After investigating your case, the experienced Los Angeles truck accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm will work hard to help you recover the best result possible for your accident. This could include compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages
• Disability
• Lost future earnings
• Rehabilitation
• Nursing care
• Physical therapy
• Emotional distress, and more

If a trucking company’s negligence has injured you or a loved one, call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000. Our team of trusted truck accident attorneys is here to help you get the best result possible for your truck accident claim.

Compensation for Truck Accident Victims in California

The Barnes Firm has a long track record of helping California truck accident victims secure the money they need to cover expenses and move on with their lives. When you choose our firm, we’ll clearly explain all your legal options and help you take the best course of action. Your Los Angeles truck accident lawyer will respond to your questions and address whatever concerns you may have.

How Are Truck Accident Investigations Conducted in LA?

Accidents involving big rigs vary from standard car accidents in terms of investigation. Aside from the typical police report, trucking companies tend to investigate accidents involving their trucks themselves. In doing so, they’re looking for ways to protect their own interests. That’s why if a truck in Los Angeles has injured you or a loved one, you need an experienced Los Angeles truck accident attorney in your corner.

Truck Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims

Due to the size and impact of large commercial trucks, accidents involving them unfortunately have more fatal results. When a loved one dies in a truck accident, California law allows spouses, children, siblings, and parents to file a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim allows relatives to pursue compensation for the emotional trauma and loss of consortium they have endured because of a truck driver’s negligence. If you or someone you know has lost a loved one in a truck accident, speak with a Los Angeles truck accident lawyer at The Barnes Firm today by calling us today.

Why Truck Accidents Can Be Complicated

In Los Angeles, truck accidents can become extremely complicated for various reasons. The primary reasons for this are: 

• High Traffic Volume. Los Angeles is notorious for heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours on major highways.  
• Multiple Parties Can Be Involved. Determining the number of at-fault parties, and their respective percentages of fault, can be a lengthy and complex process.
• Urban Setting. The layout of Los Angeles includes both dense commercial and residential areas. Navigating large trucks through these narrow, congested areas is extremely difficult and poses numerous risks for accidents. 
• Legal Issues. Trucking regulations are extensive and varied at federal, state, and local levels. In Los Angeles, these regulations govern truck size and weight limits, driver qualifications, hours of service, and maintenance standards. 
• Insurance Coverage Issues. Commercial trucking companies typically carry substantial insurance policies to cover damages resulting from accidents. However, disputes over coverage limits, exclusions, and the extent of liability coverage can arise, delaying or complicating the settlement process.
• Severity of Crash. The size and weight of a commercial truck, the speed it was moving, what type of vehicle(s) it collided with, and what conditions were at play all impact the severity of the crash. 

It is beneficial to have an experienced Los Angeles truck accident attorney on your side. After a Los Angeles truck accident. At The Barnes Firm, our team will guide you through the entire truck accident claims process and will work tirelessly to help you get the best result possible. 

Get Our Team of Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorney on your Case

After a truck accident, call The Barnes Firm. Our trusted team of Los Angeles truck accident attorneys is available 24/7 to help you navigate your personal injury claim and help you get the best result possible.

Call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 today and see what your case is worth – it could be the best call you make.

Client Reviews

What our clients are saying about us

Nichole W.

The Barnes Firm was very friendly, always quick to respond to our calls, emails. When we had any questions or concerns they were there to walk us through everything. Would definitely recommend them to anyone that is looking for an attorney that will honestly fight for you and has your best interest in mind.