When semi-trucks, tankers, or other trucks collide with passenger cars, the consequences can be catastrophic. Those involved might face overwhelming medical bills, extended rehabilitation, lost income, and profound physical and emotional suffering. The aftermath of these accidents requires specific legal knowledge that goes beyond standard automobile collision cases.

Our Hemet truck accident lawyers at Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel (LMSCR) bring decades of experience to transportation-related injury cases. Our legal team understands the many factors involved and the tactics insurance companies use to minimize compensation. We meticulously investigate each case and build compelling arguments for our clients, aggressively arguing for fair compensation so they can focus on the healing process.

What Makes Truck Accidents Different From Car Accidents?

Truck accidents differ substantially from standard passenger vehicle collisions in several critical ways. Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, creating tremendous force during impacts. This weight disparity means passenger vehicle occupants absorb most of the collision force, resulting in more serious injuries.

The legal landscape surrounding truck accidents involves additional layers of complexity. Commercial drivers must follow Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations governing hours of service, maintenance requirements, and load restrictions. Trucking companies must maintain detailed records and adhere to strict safety protocols.

The third way that these crashes differ is the potential for multiple parties being involved. Although the truck driver is typically the first party looked at, there might be others responsible in addition to – or instead of the driver.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident?

In addition to the driver, these parties could hold responsibility for your crash:

• The trucking company may be liable for improper hiring practices, inadequate training, or encouraging drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations. Maintenance contractors might share liability for mechanical failures.
• Cargo loading companies could be liable for improperly secured loads.
• Vehicle manufacturers or parts suppliers may bear liability for defective components that contributed to the crash.
• Government entities responsible for road design or maintenance could face claims if dangerous conditions played a role.

Our Hemet truck accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations to identify all potentially liable parties. This comprehensive approach helps maximize compensation by accessing multiple insurance policies and responsible entities.

What Compensation Is Available After a Truck Accident?

Truck accident survivors deserve full compensation for their economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include quantifiable financial losses such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, property damage, and future medical care. These damages can be calculated with relative precision based on bills, pay records, and economic projections.

Non-economic damages address subjective losses including physical pain, emotional suffering, diminished quality of life, disfigurement, and loss of consortium. While more challenging to quantify, these damages often represent a substantial portion of truck accident compensation. In cases involving particularly egregious behavior, such as intoxicated driving or knowing violations of safety regulations, punitive damages may also be available to address wrongdoing and deter similar conduct.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit In California?

California imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits after truck accidents. Generally, you have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit against private parties. That statute of limitations is similar to wrongful death claims related to truck accidents, but the clock starts ticking the day the person passes, instead of the crash date.

Failing to meet these deadlines can permanently bar your right to compensation, regardless of case merit. Additionally, evidence disappears quickly after truck accidents. Electronic logging devices overwrite data, witnesses become difficult to locate, and physical evidence deteriorates. Our Hemet truck accident lawyers recommend contacting us promptly after your accident to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?

The actions you take following a truck accident can significantly impact your physical recovery and legal claim. If possible, move to safety and call 911 to report the accident. Seek medical attention even if injuries appear minor, as many serious conditions develop symptoms gradually. Document the scene by taking photographs of vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.

Collect information from the truck driver including name, contact details, license number, employer information, and insurance details, and gather contact information from witnesses who observed the accident. Report the collision to your insurance company but limit your statements to basic facts; avoid discussing fault or giving recorded statements to any insurance representatives before consulting with our Hemet truck accident lawyers.

How Do Trucking Companies Fight Accident Claims?

Trucking companies and their insurers use sophisticated strategies to minimize liability after accidents. They may attempt to place blame on other drivers, road conditions, or vehicle manufacturers to deflect responsibility.

Insurance adjusters might also offer quick settlements before you understand the full extent of your injuries or long-term implications. They may even request broad medical authorizations to search for pre-existing conditions unrelated to the accident. Our Hemet truck accident lawyers counter these tactics by conducting independent investigations, working with qualified medical professionals, and handling all communications with insurance companies to protect your rights throughout the claims process.

Why Choose LMSCR for Your Truck Accident Case?

Our law firm brings significant truck accident claim experience to every case, and no detail is insignificant. We maintain a network of accident reconstruction analysts, medical professionals, economic consultants, and industry experts who strengthen cases with authoritative testimony. Our attorneys stay current with evolving transportation regulations and industry standards that affect liability determinations.

We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. This approach allows access to high-quality legal representation regardless of financial circumstances. Our Hemet truck accident lawyers can provide personalized attention to your claim, maintaining regular communication and adapting our strategies to your specific circumstances and goals.

Let Our Hemet Truck Accident Lawyers at LMSCR Protect Your Rights After a Truck Accident

Our Hemet truck accident lawyers offer compassionate support coupled with aggressive advocacy that helps clients obtain the compensation necessary for medical care, lost income, and other damages. For a free consultation, call our Ontario or Victorville, California office at 909-889-1131 or complete our online form. LMSCR proudly serves clients in San Bernardino County, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Colton, and Riverside County.