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Tractor-Trailer Accident Attorney Beverly Hills CA

Receive Justice for Your Tractor-Trailer Accident Injuries Sustained in Beverly Hills, CA

Conlogue Law LLP is the name you can trust regarding tractor-trailer accident issues in California. Our tractor-trailer accident attorney in Beverly Hills, CA, deeply understands the complex laws surrounding these accidents and has a proven track record of successfully representing clients in similar cases. 

Don’t let the overwhelming aftermath of a tractor-trailer accident intimidate you. Contact Conlogue Law LLP today and let our experienced legal team navigate the complexities of the legal process on your behalf. 

We offer personalized attention, strategic counsel, and steadfast advocacy to help you achieve a favorable resolution. Trust Conlogue Law LLP to protect your rights and provide the necessary representation. Take the first step towards securing your future by calling us now for a consultation.

Why Do I Need a Tractor-Trailer Accident Attorney in California?

Suppose you’ve been involved in a tractor-trailer accident in California. In that case, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of our skilled personal injury attorney. Here are some reasons why you need our Beverly Hills tractor-trailer accident attorney:

Knowledge of Complex Laws

Tractor-trailer accidents involve a complex web of federal and state laws, regulations, and industry standards. Our tractor-trailer lawyer in California deeply understands these laws and how they apply to your case. 

We can help you navigate the legal complexities, ensuring your rights are protected and maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.

Building a Strong Case

Building a strong case requires a thorough investigation and gathering of evidence. We have the resources and knowledge to conduct a comprehensive investigation. We can collect crucial evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, black box data, and surveillance footage. By preserving and analyzing this evidence, they can establish liability and strengthen your claim.

Determining the At-Fault Party

Determining liability in tractor-trailer accidents can be challenging. Multiple parties may be involved, including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or even third parties. We will employ legal strategies to prove negligence, such as driver fatigue, improper maintenance, or violations of safety regulations.

Negotiation With Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming and intimidating. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize their company’s liability. They may offer you a settlement that falls short of what you truly deserve. 

Our personal injury attorney will negotiate with the insurance company, ensuring your rights are protected and seeking fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other losses.

Courtroom Representation

If your case goes to court, having our tractor-trailer accident attorney in Beverly Hills, CA, by your side is invaluable. We will build a strong litigation strategy, present compelling arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and advocate passionately for your rights in the courtroom. 

Our courtroom experience will increase your chances of a successful outcome.

What Are the Types of Tractor-Trailer Accidents in California?

Here are some of the frequently encountered tractor-trailer accidents in California:

Rollover Accidents

Truck rollovers can result from speeding but can also happen in various other scenarios. These include steep inclines and declines, instances where tractor-trailers collide with curbs, sudden swerving to avoid obstacles or other vehicles, excessive speed when taking curves, and incidents caused by improper cargo loading.

Jackknife Accidents

These accidents typically begin when the brakes of a large truck’s drive axle become locked, resulting in the trailer skidding and eventually stopping at a 90-degree angle with the truck. During this jackknifing process, the truck driver loses control, and the truck may overturn into other vehicles, adding to the accident’s severity.

Brake Failures

Accidents can occur due to brakes that are not installed correctly or inadequately maintained. Aging brakes and sudden stops can lead to overheating issues as well. These situations can raise the likelihood of accidents, especially in larger trucks and tractor-trailers.

Runaway Truck Accidents

Truck drivers should receive training on proper braking techniques. Abruptly slamming on the brakes can lead to a runaway truck accident. 

Blind Spot Accidents

Large trucks have larger blind spots on the sides and rear of the vehicle. These “No-Zones Area,” can pose a risk to other motor vehicle drivers who do not take the necessary precautions to avoid them. 

Rear-End Accidents

When a tractor-trailer collides with a smaller vehicle from behind, the weight of the truck and its cargo can lead to severe injuries for the smaller vehicle’s occupants.

Under-Ride Accidents

When the driver of a large truck abruptly applies the brakes, vehicles following closely behind can be trapped underneath the rear trailer, leading to devastating injuries and even fatalities.

Wide Turn Accidents

These accidents, commonly called swinging turn crashes or squeeze-play accidents, happen when truck drivers misjudge the required space to complete a turn or overlook smaller vehicles in the path of their trailer.

What Are the Causes of Tractor-Trailer Accidents in California?

Overspeeding

Tractor-trailer accidents occur as a result of speeding. When truckers drive at excessive speeds, they can lose control of their vehicle, leading to collisions with other vehicles or objects. In California, most highways have a speed limit of 55 mph for truckers. 

Distracted Driving

Distractions like text messages, GPS directions, or passengers in the truck can divert their attention, leading them to neglect these necessary precautions. When a driver of an 18-wheeler becomes distracted for any reason while driving, it increases the risk of unexpected collision. 

Reckless Driving

Truck drivers face considerable stress while on the road, and some individuals resort to aggressive behavior to cope. This aggressive behavior can manifest in tailgating, refusing to let other vehicles change lanes and excessive honking. 

Exhausted Driving

Fatigue can result in slower reaction times and impaired decision-making abilities. When drivers are excessively tired, they are more prone to making unwise choices, a significant concern when maneuvering their large trucks. 

Poor Weather Condition

Poor weather conditions are also a factor in tractor-trailer accidents. Truckers must be well-prepared for such conditions, particularly when driving at night. When drivers fail to handle their large trucks appropriately, they risk losing control on the road. This can result in veering into other lanes or colliding with objects while attempting to avoid accidents with other vehicles. 

Untrained Drivers

Insufficient training or taking shortcuts during the learning process of operating 18-wheelers can lead to involvement in different types of roadway accidents. Unfortunately, some trucking companies prioritize profit over safety and may compromise on driver training.

Overloading

Cargo that exceeds weight limits can shift while the driver is maneuvering the truck, leading to loss of control and potential collisions with other vehicles. When a company overloads cargo or neglects to secure it properly, the vehicle may start swerving unpredictably, increasing the risk of accidents.

Mechanical Failures

Drivers must remain vigilant for warning signs indicating vehicle issues and promptly seek a safe location to pull over if such signals arise. 

In the case of mechanical problems, contacting assistance is crucial to ensure the safety of other road users. Mechanical failures occur suddenly due to improperly installed parts or product liability issues. 

Intoxicated Driving

It is against the law for anyone, including truck drivers, to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Federal regulations go beyond and specifically state that truck drivers are prohibited from consuming any alcohol within four hours before getting behind the wheel.

What Are the Types of Tractor-Trailer Accident Injuries?

Injuries sustained in tractor-trailer accidents can be severe due to the large size and weight of the trucks. These accidents can result in various types of injuries, which may include:

  • Head injuries resulting in Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Loss of life due to wrongful death
  • Spinal cord injuries, ranging from partial to complete paralysis (temporary or permanent)
  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Whiplash injuries
  • Injuries to the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine
  • Back pain, including strains and sprains
  • Nerve injuries, damage, numbness, and radiculopathy
  • Cuts, lacerations, and abrasions
  • Crush injuries
  • Scarring and burns
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mental health disorders

What To Do After a Tractor-Trailer Accident in California?

After a tractor-trailer accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. To ensure your well-being and protect your rights to compensation, follow these simple steps:

Move Your Vehicle to Safety

If safe and feasible, move your vehicle out of the traffic flow. Doing this reduces the risk of being struck again or sustaining further injuries while in the roadway. However, if you or any vehicle occupants are critically injured, prioritize your safety and refrain from moving the vehicle to avoid exacerbating the injuries.

It’s important to note that staying in the vehicle can be hazardous. Failing to move the vehicle when possible may contribute to a chain reaction accident. Nonetheless, if it can be done safely, take photographs of the accident scene before relocating the vehicle. These photos serve as crucial evidence to support your claim.

Report the Accident to Authorities

To protect your rights following a truck accident, it is crucial to promptly report the incident. Filing a police report is highly recommended as it facilitates the process of pursuing a claim for damages with the assistance of a personal injury attorney.

Our attorney can still assist you without a police report, making the process more challenging. Even if the damage seems minor, it is a legal requirement in California to report any truck accident to the police. 

This is because large truck accidents typically result in vehicle damage exceeding $500, the minimum threshold that necessitates police involvement. Additionally, the presence of law enforcement helps ensure the proper management of traffic while the accident is addressed.

Seek Medical Assistance

Even if you believe you have not sustained any injuries, seeking immediate medical attention following a truck accident is crucial. Doing so is important for your health and gathering the necessary documentation for your claim with our skilled personal injury attorney.

If you find yourself critically injured, your priority should be to call an ambulance for immediate assistance. Once you have been cleared by the police at the scene of the tractor-trailer accident, it is advisable to proceed to an emergency room. 

Collect Evidence

Collecting evidence is important if a truck accident has occurred. Remember to note the names of individuals you interact with and, if possible, gather their contact information. Additionally, capturing photographs at the accident scene and identifying potential witnesses can be valuable. This documentation will aid in reconstructing the sequence of events when filing your claim for damages. 

Watch What You Say

Avoid making statements such as “It’s fine” or “I’m fine” following an accident, as these remarks can be used against you and harm your case. Even if you haven’t received a medical examination yet, such statements can be interpreted as an indication of no injury, which may undermine your ability to seek compensation. 

Contact a California Tractor-Trailer Accident Attorney

Contact Conlogue Law LLP and talk with our dedicated tractor-trailer accident attorney in Beverly Hills, CA, who can assist you in initiating your claim. Our considerable experience managing tractor-trailer accident cases throughout California makes us well-equipped to support you effectively. 

Who Can Be Held Liable for My Tractor-Trailer Accident Injuries?

The following parties can be potentially responsible for causing accidents resulting in injuries involving large trucks:

  • The truck driver, whether they are an employee or owner-operator
  • The corporation, business, non-profit organization, or public entity that owns or operates the truck or employs the driver
  • The owner or lessee of the tractor
  • The owner or lessee of the trailer
  • The owner, seller, distributor, or buyer of the goods being transported
  • The operator or lessee of the tractor or trailer
  • Maintenance companies are responsible for servicing the truck if a mechanical issue contributed to the accident
  • The designer or manufacturer of the truck or trailer, if there was a mechanical or recall issue
  • The driver or entity that owns another vehicle involved in the accident
  • A public entity accountable for roadway design or maintenance concerns

How to Prove Negligence in a Tractor-Trailer Accident Injury Claim in California?

 Four elements must be proven to support a valid claim to establish negligence in a tractor-trailer accident in California. These elements include:

Duty of Care

It must be shown that the party responsible for the accident had a legal obligation to exercise reasonable care to prevent harm to others on the road.

Breach of Duty

It must be demonstrated that the party failed to fulfill its duty of care by acting negligently. This could involve violating traffic laws, driving recklessly, or not following industry safety regulations.

Causation

There should be a direct link between the breach of duty and the injuries or damages suffered by the victim. It must be established that the negligent actions of the responsible party directly caused the accident and resulting harm.

Damages

Evidence of actual harm or damages, such as physical injuries, medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, or pain and suffering, must be presented.

You can build a strong case for a tractor-trailer accident claim in California by satisfying these four elements of negligence.

What If I’m Partially Responsible for My Tractor-Trailer Accident Injuries?

Suppose you bear some responsibility for the tractor-trailer accident you were involved in. In that case, you can still have the opportunity to seek compensation. However, it’s important to note that it’s uncommon for truck accident victims to be deemed at fault for the incident.

California follows a comparative negligence system, which means you can pursue compensation if you are determined to be less than 50% at fault for the truck accident. Your settlement will be adjusted based on the percentage of fault attributed to you.

It is advisable to discuss this matter with our tractor-trailer accident lawyer, who prioritizes your best interests as opposed to insurance companies. 

How Much Is My Tractor-Trailer Accident Case Worth?

Estimating the monetary amount you may receive from a personal injury claim can be challenging as each case is unique. The extent of your injury influences the compensation you may receive. Truck accident cases typically involve more severe injuries due to the large size, weight, and structure of the involved vehicles.

Serious injuries often require extended hospital stays, and prolonged rehabilitation greatly impacts your life. Long-term injuries or permanent disabilities may necessitate financial assistance for many years or even a lifetime.

Other factors can also influence the amount you are awarded in a settlement or court judgment for a big rig accident, including:

  • The extent of your medical expenses and future medical needs
  • The impact of the injury on your ability to work and earn income
  • Pain and suffering endured as a result of the accident
  • The level of fault attributed to the responsible parties
  • Any additional damages or losses incurred as a direct result of the accident
  • Level of experience of your personal injury lawyer

These factors, among others, contribute to the overall evaluation of your case and the potential compensation you may receive.

What Damages Can I Collect for My Tractor-Trailer Accident Injury Claim?

Economic Damages

Economic damages refer to the financial expenses you have experienced due to the accident. These may include:

  • Medical expenses you have already paid and those expected in the future
  • Income lost as a result of being unable to work
  • Costs associated with repairing or replacing any damaged property

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are not easily measurable, yet they hold importance. These include:

  • Pain and suffering experienced as a result of the accident
  • Emotional distress and psychological impact
  • Loss of enjoyment of life or inability to engage in previous activities
  • Loss of companionship or consortium
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are granted when the other party’s severe reckless or negligent actions warrant additional punishment. This form of compensation is only awarded when the defendant’s level of moral responsibility justifies going beyond compensation and imposing further penalties.

What is California’s Statute of Limitations for Tractor-Trailer Accident Injury Claims?

In most cases, the time limit for filing a claim is two years from the accident date. However, waiting until the last minute to initiate the process is not advisable, as it can weaken your claim significantly. There are several reasons for this:

Evidence

Over time, evidence related to the accident can be lost or destroyed, making it more challenging to support your claim.

Fading Recollection

As time passes, people’s recollections of the incident may become less clear, affecting the strength of your case.

Questioning Delay

Both a jury and the defense may question why you waited so long to file a claim, potentially casting doubt on your motives and the validity of your case.

Government Vehicle Accidents

If your accident involved a government vehicle, the time limit to file a claim is only six months. Therefore, prompt action is crucial in such situations.

It is recommended to file a claim with our knowledgeable Beverly Hills tractor-trailer accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure the best outcome.

Individualized Legal Assistance for the California Tractor-Trailer Accident Victims

Regarding tractor-trailer accident issues in California, having a skilled tractor-trailer accident attorney by your side is crucial. Conlogue Law LLP offers individualized assistance to handle these cases. 

Our team of dedicated personal injury attorneys possesses in-depth knowledge of the laws surrounding tractor-trailer accidents and a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.

If you’ve been involved in a tractor-trailer accident in California, don’t hesitate to contact Conlogue Law LLP. Our accomplished tractor-trailer accident attorney in Beverly Hills, CA, will provide you with personalized attention, strategic counsel, and aggressive representation to navigate the legal complexities. 

Trust in our experience to fight for your rights, seek fair compensation and help you rebuild your life. Our legal team can assist you with Pedestrian Accidents, Longshore Claims, Maritime Accidents, and Airplane Crash Accidents. Contact Conlogue Law LLP today and take the first step towards securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

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