The Barnes Firm

LOS ANGELES — Truck accidents often have deadly consequences for the occupants of passenger vehicles that collide with large semi-trucks/tractor-trailers.  A Los Angeles truck accident lawyer says some trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while passenger vehicles on average weigh approximately 4,000 pounds.  The difference in size between a truck and a passenger vehicle is drastic, demonstrating that a collision, especially one on a freeway at high speed, can be catastrophic.

According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2017, there were a total of 3,602 traffic accident deaths in California.  Of this total, 361 deaths involved large trucks, which is approximately 10 percent of all traffic fatalities.  Victims killed in accidents involving large trucks are typically occupants of passenger vehicles. While truck drivers can sustain fatal injuries, they are in a much better position as the larger vehicle when colliding with a passenger vehicle.

Causes of California Trucking Accidents

The number of large trucks on California roads and highways each day is staggering compared to many other states, and southern California is the country’s second largest metropolitan area.  Therefore, truck accidents happen daily.  While LA’s congested traffic may be a factor in many truck accidents, other causes of truck accidents include, but may not be limited to, the following:

• Distracted driving (texting, talking on the phone, changing the radio station, putting on makeup, among others);
• Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including prescription drugs, such as opioids, and some over-the-counter (OTC) medications);
• Speeding;
• Failure to yield;
• Failure to signal;
• Drowsy driving;
• Falling asleep at the wheel;
• Brake failure;
• Weather conditions (rain, wind, sleet, snow, and fog);
• Tire failure; and
• Medical conditions (such as suffering a stroke, heart attack, or seizures while driving).

A Los Angeles truck accident lawyer says the time of day and traffic congestion may also be a factor in some truck accidents. However, it’s important to keep in mind that motor vehicle accidents are more likely to happen at night, regardless of how congested traffic may be.

The Permanent Consequences of Truck Accident Injuries

Any injuries sustained in an auto accident can be horrific, permanent, life-altering, and potentially fatal.  However, injuries sustained in truck accidents may be considerably worse given how overpowering a large truck is when slamming into a passenger vehicle.  The varying types of injuries many people sustain in truck accidents include, among others, the following:

• Broken or shattered bones;
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs);
• Amputation;
• Neck, back and spinal cord injuries which may result in partial or complete paralysis;
• Internal organ damage;
• Internal bleeding;
• Soft tissue injuries;
• Burn injuries; and

Not only do truck accident injuries cause physical and mental pain and suffering, but they place a significant financial burden on injury victims.  Medical bills may be life-long, and the total amount can exceed tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars.  Many people have filed for bankruptcy simply because medical bills became unmanageable.  Additionally, if a truck accident victim is no longer able to work because of his or her injuries, the inability to work is another financial burden that makes an already bad situation worse.

As such, truck accident injury victims may have the option to pursue legal action against the party responsible for causing the accident, which may be the truck driver as well as their employer and/or any other driver involved in the accident.  By pursuing legal action, accident victims could obtain compensation which is can help pay for medical bills, account for lost wages, and account for physical and mental pain and suffering.

Contact The Barnes Firm Today to Schedule Your Free Consultation

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a Los Angeles truck accident, it’s imperative to act quickly to speak with an attorney – even before you speak with any insurance adjusters. Because truck accidents can be complicated and involve multiple parties, speaking with a Los Angeles truck accident lawyer can help you have a good understanding of your legal options.  To schedule your FREE consultation to discuss your situation, contact The Barnes Firm today by calling (800) 800-0000 or by completing a free case evaluation form online.

The Barnes Firm (800) 800-0000