What to Do After a Truck Accident in Los Angeles? 2024

Motor vehicle accidents can be extremely traumatic events. From fender benders to severe collisions, these instances can make us feel uneasy and, in some cases, thankful to be alive. However, when these accidents occur with a truck, they can be life-altering. Commercial trucks share the road with every other type of vehicle but often pose a significant threat due to their size and inability to maneuver. It is important to know what to do after a truck accident in Los Angeles.

Every accident is different, but what you do after an accident could make a difference in the amount of compensation you could recover.

Immediately After an Accident

If you are involved in an accident with a truck, there are several important steps to take. Before proceeding with anything else, you should call 911. Not only will this initiate a police response to the scene to make a report, but it will also initiate medical attention. While you may not be immediately aware of your injuries, an accident with a truck deserves an evaluation at the scene to ensure you do not need further emergency services. If you are clear, proceed with the following:

• Speak with the police on the scene. Be sure that a police report is taken and that they do not just speak with the other driver or witnesses but that they also speak with you. This will document the accident.
• Exchange information. Be sure to collect information from the truck driver including their license, insurance, and company for whom they work. This is important because the driver is not just representative of themselves in the accident, but also the company for which they work. The accident will be investigated to see if there was any training negligence on behalf of the company.
• Witness information. Be sure to collect the names and contact information of any witnesses on the scene. They may have video or photo evidence they can provide you, as well as make statements to the police for the report.
• Document the scene. If you are able, document the scene as much as possible. This should include photographing the place where the accident occurred, street signs, road conditions, weather conditions, direction of travel, and more. Every detail matters. The accident will be your word against the truck driver’s. Documentation can help corroborate what happened.
• Seek medical attention. While you may be evaluated at the scene, you should still seek a thorough check-up at a hospital or by your doctor. Injuries after an accident may not immediately present themselves because of shock, adrenaline, or because they are internal. A full evaluation will help to identify these potential injuries before they worsen.
• Contact an attorney. Truck accidents should always be supported by a truck accident attorney. The insurance companies and the businesses for which the truck represents will try to settle the incident as quickly, quietly, and minimally as possible. A truck accident attorney will make sure that you recover the damages you are owed without being undercut by an offer from the other party.

These are just a few of the most important steps you can take after an accident. With your attorney, you can work with your insurance company and negotiate with the other party. Your attorney will represent you during the process so that you can remain focused on healing. In some severe cases, your medical needs may keep you out of work or significantly impact the work you can physically do. Your attorney will guide you through compensation options for this as well.

Statute of Limitations

If you and your attorney decide to file a claim against the driver or the business for which they work, you will need to understand the statute of limitations within which you must file. For most accidents, the statute of limitations is two years from the time of the accident. If, however, the driver or the truck represents a government entity in an official capacity, the time drops to just six months in which you must file.

FAQs

Q: Is it Illegal to Leave the Scene of an Accident in California?

A: Leaving the scene of an accident in which you are involved is illegal. If you are in an accident, you must remain at the scene, check for injuries to the other party, call 911, and wait to ensure you and the other driver have exchanged information. In some truck accident cases, the driver does not want to lose their ability to work and may leave thinking they will not get caught. If this happens, be sure to notify law enforcement immediately.

Q: What Is the Average Settlement for a Truck Accident in Los Angeles?

A: The settlement you may receive from your truck accident will depend on the circumstances of the incident. There is no set amount of compensation that is awarded. Any determination will be dependent on the severity of your injuries and the costs to treat them, the amount of time you missed work, the ability to return to work, damage to your vehicle or other property, and more. Your attorney will guide you through the possible compensation you could receive.

Q: Can I File a Claim Against the Trucking Company After an Accident?

A: Yes, you can file a claim against a trucking company in Los Angeles following an accident. If there are issues with driver training, not following state guidelines for truck operation, or the company is overworking their drivers, causing impairment, they can be held liable for the damages in your accident. Your attorney will investigate the cause of your accident to ensure accountability is upheld.

Q: What Is the Number One Cause of Trucking Accidents?

A: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has identified driver error as the number one cause of trucking accidents. In their report, driver error accounted for over 50% of all trucking accidents. Driver error was related to issues of falling asleep, medical emergencies, distracted driving, and driving unsafely, such as speeding or panicking. These types of behaviors can limit a driver’s reaction time, causing an accident.

Los Angeles Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one have been injured in a motor vehicle accident with a truck, you should seek the help of a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. You will have many questions and may feel overwhelmed. With the help of an attorney from Amendt Law, you can have the support you deserve and the answers to your questions. Contact our offices today. Se habla español.