San Dimas Truck Accident Lawyer

San Dimas Truck Accident Attorney

When navigating a truck accident, there are unique considerations to be aware of. These incidents can involve serious injuries, complex liability issues, and federal and state regulations. A San Dimas truck accident lawyer from The Law Offices of Christian J. Amendt can be a critical ally for personal injury victims, as they can provide legal insight and steadfast advocacy.

Unique Considerations in Accidents Involving Trucks

Accidents that involve trucks, like semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, or other types of commercial vehicles, differ from typical car accidents. This is because of the size of the vehicles, their operation under specific federal and state regulations, and the complexity of determining liability. There are several key considerations to keep in mind if you are navigating the legal process after an accident with a truck.

Trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and accidents with these large vehicles can cause catastrophic damages and severe injuries. Truck accidents may result in life-altering injuries or fatalities.

In a truck accident, there may be multiple potentially liable parties. These can include:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• Freight loaders
• Truck manufacturers
• Maintenance providers

Under the respondeat superior principle, employers may be held liable for their drivers’ actions if the driver was acting within their scope of employment.

Federal laws establish:

• Limits on driving hours for truck drivers
• Vehicle inspection and maintenance requirements
• Regulations around cargo loading and securing

All these factors may apply during a truck accident claim.

Due to the complexity that often accompanies truck accident cases, working with a lawyer who has experience in commercial vehicle litigation is essential. They can navigate the laws, handle trucking companies, and ensure fair compensation.

How a Truck Accident Lawyer Can Support Their Clients

A truck accident lawyer in San Dimas can offer the unique support a client may need to navigate the complexities of truck accident claims. Below are key ways they can help you:

• Investigating the Accident: Lawyers can perform a detailed investigation into the details of the accident to determine fault. They may look at black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records to determine the status of the driver and vehicle at the time of the accident. They can investigate trucking companies, specific drivers, maintenance crews, and cargo loaders for potential negligence.
• Navigating Federal and State Laws: Lawyers understand both the federal and state laws that impact truck accidents and govern truck safety liability. They can see if divers and/or companies complied with rules on hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading.
• Managing Insurance Companies: Lawyers can handle all interactions with insurance companies. They can combat aggressive insurance tactics that are in place to minimize deserved payouts. Crucially, they can also guide their clients on how to handle interactions with insurance companies, as this can be challenging.
• Assessing and Maximizing Damages: Your lawyer can accurately assess the amount of loss that you have suffered because of the accident. They can examine the full extent of both economic and non-economic damages, like medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
• Representation in Court: Lawyers can prepare your case for trial if settlement negotiations with insurance providers and the at-fault parties are unfruitful. They can present a strong legal case in the courtroom by showing evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and advancing a persuasive argument before a judge or jury.
• Protecting Client Rights: Ultimately, your lawyer can work to protect your rights. California follows a pure comparative negligence system. Even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you could still recover at least some of your damages. In that situation, your lawyer can work to minimize your percentage of fault.

FAQs About San Dimas, CA Truck Accident Law

How Much Are Most Truck Accident Settlements?

The value of truck accident settlements is highly varied, as each case is unique. A truck accident settlement amount is determined by understanding the total extent of the losses an individual has faced and will face in the future due to the accident. If an individual has suffered significant property damage and serious injury, their settlement amount should reflect this severity of impact. Both economic and non-economic damages are considered.

How Long Does an Accident Stay on Your CDL Record in California?

In California, the length of time an accident stays on a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) record will vary, depending on the type of the violation and its severity. While more basic accidents may last only a short time, a serious accident, where the driver is found to be at fault, can stay on their record longer.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for car accidents includes two different deadlines. If an individual is seeking compensation for injuries caused by the other driver’s negligence, the statute of limitations is two years. If an individual needs to file a claim for damages to the vehicle or other property in the incident, they have three years to file a property damage claim.

What Happens If You Don’t Report an Accident in California?

In California, failing to report an accident can have serious legal, financial, and practical consequences. The outcome will depend on the specific circumstances of the accident and whether an individual was required to report the incident to the DMV, their insurance provider, or law enforcement. Failing to report the accident, depending on the incident’s severity, can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. Furthermore, if you suffered losses, you may be unable to recover them through a claim.

Contact a Trusted Truck Accident Lawyer in San Dimas

While you are deciding how to respond to a truck accident, it is important to consult an experienced truck accident lawyer. They can guide you through the legal process and help determine which legal action is ideal for you and your desired outcome. Schedule an initial consultation with The Law Offices of Christian J. Amendt today. Once you do, you can meet with a lawyer who can take the time to understand your unique situation and offer an accurate assessment.