Hollister, California Truck Accident Lawyer
If you reside, work, or otherwise commute in and around Hollister and San Benito, California, you have likely been inconvenienced—at the very least—by the increased traffic caused by area construction. There is no easy way in or out of Hollister, and the recent construction has only made it worse.
Large commercial trucks are forced onto the small area highways, leading to an influx in truck accidents on Highway 156, 152, and 25. Recently, a multi-vehicle accident on Highway 152 involving a semi-truck and at least two other vehicles led to significant injuries and vehicle damage.
If you or someone you love was recently injured in an incident involving a big rig, you should consult a Hollister, California truck accident lawyer to discuss your legal options. If you live in Hollister, or anywhere in California, you have rights available to you. Our skilled Hollister truck accident lawyers will explain what you should know.
Contact us online or call (408) 539-1147 today for a free consultation.
Commercial tractor-trailer trucks have a unique size, design, and movability. Because of this, in addition to traditional types of accidents (e.g., rear end, front impact, etc.), several types of accidents are common and unique to these trucks.
Jackknife Accidents
You have probably heard the term, “jackknifed tractor-trailer” before, and that is because it is a common type of big rig accident. A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer swings perpendicular to the cab. The truck ends up in an “L” shape with the trailer at a 90-degree angle to the cab. Jackknife accidents can be catastrophic for several reasons. As the truck is jackknifing, it can wipe out other cars sharing the roadway. It can also very quickly block lanes of traffic, causing accidents when other cars are attempting to stop suddenly. Jackknife accidents have the potential to cause massive pile-ups.
Rollover Accidents
Trucks have a high center of gravity and a tall stature, making them at a greater risk of rolling over. The risk increases when the trailer’s cargo load is unevenly distributed.
Override Accidents
Override accidents can be devastating to the passengers in the car in front of the truck. Override accidents are as they sound and happen when the truck drives over the top of the car in front of it. Because the truck is so much larger, it can crush the car it rides over.
Underride Accidents
As you may have guessed, underride accidents are the exact opposite of override crashes, which happen when a car rear-ends a tractor-trailer, causing it to go underneath it.
These types of truck accidents usually occur when the truck is stopped or driving slowly and a car collides into the back at a high rate of speed. Unfortunately, the consequences of underride accidents can be immediate, catastrophic, and deadly.
Common Causes of California Truck Accidents
There are infinite causes for truck accidents, and many are similar to those of any motor vehicle.
However, there are some causes for truck accidents that we routinely see in Hollister, California.
Inadequate Rest and Sleep
Commercial truck drivers spend countless hours on the road, often for long periods without a break or rest. While certain regulations mandate the amount of rest per time spent driving, drivers often rush to meet delivery deadlines and ignore those guidelines.
Unqualified Drivers
All big rig drivers are required to have, at minimum, a valid commercial driver’s license, and there are often additional qualifications that drivers of certain trucks must meet.
However, it is sadly all too often that unqualified drivers end up behind the wheel. This may happen when the trucking company fails to perform thorough background and driving record checks. The company itself can be held liable for its negligent hiring practices should one of its drivers cause an accident and injuries.
Dangerous Cargo Load
Improper or unsafe cargo loads can lead directly to accidents, especially rollover accidents. If the weight in the trailer is not evenly distributed, it can be catastrophic.
Mechanical and Manufacturer Defects
Commercial trucks spend an exorbitant amount of time on the road, much more so than the average private passenger vehicle. They must be well maintained and inspected for mechanical or manufacturing defects. Inadequate maintenance, a manufacturing defect, or failure to properly maintain a big rig can cause an accident.
Other common causes of truck accidents include driving while intoxicated, reckless driving, and distracted driving (e.g., texting, eating, or talking on the phone while behind the wheel). No matter the cause, the consequences of a truck collision can be horrific. After seeking necessary medical treatment, you should speak with a seasoned Hollister, California truck accident lawyer.
Types of Injuries in Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Victims of these accidents can suffer from a variety of injuries, each with its own set of challenges and long-term effects.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to understand the potential injuries and their implications. Consulting a Hollister truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Here are some common types of injuries sustained in truck accidents:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). TBIs are among the most serious injuries resulting from truck accidents. They can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, potentially leading to long-term cognitive impairments, emotional difficulties, and physical disabilities.
- Spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly affecting the victim’s quality of life. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Broken bones. Fractures are common in truck accidents due to the high-impact forces involved. Victims may experience broken arms, legs, ribs, and other bones, necessitating surgeries and prolonged recovery periods.
- Internal injuries. Internal injuries, such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, and ruptured blood vessels, can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. These injuries may not be immediately apparent, making prompt medical evaluation crucial.
- Burn injuries. Burn injuries can occur in truck accidents involving fires or explosions. These injuries can lead to severe pain, scarring, and the need for reconstructive surgeries, significantly impacting the victim’s physical and emotional well-being.
Understanding these injuries and their potential long-term effects is vital for victims seeking justice and compensation. A Hollister truck accident attorney can provide legal support and expertise to handle your case effectively.
If you or a loved one has suffered from any of these injuries due to a truck accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance to ensure your rights are protected and to help you on the road to recovery.
Who Is Liable for a Truck Accident?
In a truck accident, there may be several parties that are potentially liable for your injuries. It is not always as simple as the truck driver being liable. The trucking company, manufacturer, mechanic, warehouse, shipping company, and more may be partially responsible for causing the accident. Identifying and proving party liability to ensure maximum compensation is more difficult than it sounds.
In California, an employer can be held vicariously liable for its employee’s negligence when the employee is acting within the ordinary scope of his or her employment and, as a result of the employee’s actions, someone is injured. This is often the case in truck accidents. In other words, the trucking company may be liable for the negligence of its driver-employee.
Gonzalez & Jones, APC, has the experience, skill, and resources necessary to assist you in identifying all possibly liable parties.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in California
Being involved in a truck accident can be a traumatic and confusing experience.
Knowing the following steps to take immediately afterward can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve:
- Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries;
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if necessary;
- Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries;
- Obtain contact information from the truck driver, witnesses, and any other parties involved;
- Collect the truck driver’s insurance details and the name of the trucking company;
- File a report with the police and get a copy for your records; and
- Notify your insurance company about the accident.
Do not admit fault or make detailed statements about the accident to anyone other than the police. Even if you don’t feel you’ve suffered any injuries in the immediate aftermath, getting a medical evaluation is essential as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Finally, seek advice from truck accident attorneys in Hollister to discuss your case and understand your legal options. These steps can help ensure your safety and strengthen your case as you seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
Do I Need a California Truck Accident Lawyer?
There is no legal requirement to hire a lawyer to pursue a truck accident claim or lawsuit. However, these wrecks often cause severe injury and damage, and a claim can quickly become complex. Investigating and determining liability can be challenging and time-consuming.
It is best to have an experienced Hollister truck accident lawyer advocating on your behalf, negotiating with the insurance companies, and arguing at trial if necessary. Our team can handle your case from inception through finish while you focus on your recovery.
What Is the Process for Truck Accident Claims?
Navigating the process for truck accident claims can be complex.
Understanding the following steps can help you manage your expectations and make informed decisions:
- Investigation and evidence gathering—collect evidence such as black box data, driver logs, and eyewitness testimony;
- Filing a claim—be sure to file a claim with relevant insurance companies, submitting all necessary documentation and evidence;
- Negotiation and settlement—settlements are negotiated between your lawyer and the insurance company; and
- Litigation—if you cannot reach a settlement, the case may go to litigation.
If you have any questions about the claims process or don’t know where to start, call the personal injury team at Gonzalez & Jones, APC to discuss your options.
Frequently Asked Questions About California Truck Accidents
How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim?
The statute of limitations for truck accident claims varies by jurisdiction. In California, you generally have two years to file a personal injury claim from the accident date. However, the statute of limitations may be tolled in certain circumstances, such as when the injured party is a minor or the defendant is out of state.
What Compensation Can I Recover in a Truck Accident Case?
Victims of truck accidents can recover various types of compensation, including economic damages (e.g., medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage) and noneconomic damages (e.g., pain and suffering and emotional distress). In some cases, you may also receive punitive damages if the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious.
Can I Sue for a Truck Accident If I Was Partially at Fault?
Yes. You can still sue for a truck accident even if you were partially at fault. California follows comparative fault laws, which means your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation without barring recovery. Understanding the extent of your liability is crucial, so be sure to speak with a truck accident lawyer in Hollister as soon as possible.
How Long Does a Truck Accident Case Take to Resolve?
The duration of a truck accident case can vary widely. Some cases settle in a few months, while others may take several years if they go to trial. Factors influencing the timeline include the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and the willingness of both parties to negotiate.
Contact an Experienced Hollister Truck Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, seeking legal help is crucial to protect your rights and secure fair compensation.
At Gonzalez & Jones, APC, our truck accident attorneys have decades of experience practicing in California, understand the complexities of such cases, and are dedicated to providing the support you need.
We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Contact us online or call (408) 848-2208 today to get started.
At Gonzalez & Jones, APC, we are a boutique law firm providing a small, family-friendly approach with big firm results to our clients for the last 40 years. Truck accidents can have long-lasting consequences on your life. Let us help you get the recognition, justice, and compensation you and your family deserve! Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
Call us at 408-848-2208 or use our online contact form to set up your consultation.
