Truck Accident FAQ
Answers From Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorneys
Accidents involving commercial vehicles involve a lot of unique elements not typically found in most auto accident cases. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a wreck involving a commercial truck of any type, working with an experienced legal team can help you navigate the complex legal journey ahead and pursue the compensation you deserve.
At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, our personal injury lawyers fight for victims injured in truck accidents and all types of traffic collisions throughout Los Angeles and beyond, and we know the concerns victims and their families commonly have. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions we receive about truck accidents.
Why are truck accident cases different from other auto accidents?
Commercial vehicles and trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. Because of this, they are more difficult to stop and maneuver when potential dangers arise, and they can cause extensive damage when they cause collisions. Victims injured in truck accidents often experience catastrophic injuries, if not fatal injuries, which means they typically require more compensation to cover their damages and their future needs.
Why do truck accidents happen?
As with any auto accident, truck accidents can happen for a number of reasons. However, many of these reasons can be prevented if not for the negligence or failures of truck drivers and trucking companies. Common causes of accidents include driver error, mechanical error, and poor vehicle maintenance.
What safety regulations apply to the trucking industry?
Because commercial trucks have such an overwhelming potential to cause wide-scale harm, the trucking industry is heavily regulated by the state and federal government. Drivers are required to meet strict training and licensing requirements, as well as strict drug and alcohol policies. Trucking companies must comply with regulations to regularly inspect, maintain, and load their vehicles. Additionally, trucking companies are responsible for ensuring drivers operate safely and not while fatigued. In fact, federal regulations designed to prevent tired truckers are known as Hours-of-Service rules, and they place strict limitations on how long drivers can be behind the wheel and on duty, and when and for how long they must take breaks.
How can truck accident victims recover compensation?
Every case is unique, and a thorough investigation into an accident is necessary in order to determine whether truck drivers and trucking companies can be held liable for a crash. Our attorneys look closely for signs of negligence and regulation violations that if avoided, could have prevented a crash. When this is presented clearly, victims have the ability to hold the at-fault parties responsible for their damages, including their medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost work wages, among other damages.
