Big Rig Accident Attorney in Los Angeles

Big Rig Accident Attorneys in Los Angeles

Call our Los Angeles experienced big rig accident attorneys for more information on how you may be eligible to recover the compensation you need to move forward with your life. Big rig accidents can cause catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. They may even lead to fatalities if a big rig collides with a bicyclist, motorcyclist, or pedestrian. 

It takes an experienced personal injury lawyer to make sure that you get the compensation you need and the justice you need by holding the negligent party responsible. Several different parties could be held accountable in a big rig accident, but to better determine who the responsible party is for your case, call our top-rated Los Angeles lawyers.

Our top-rated Los Angeles lawyers offer free one-on-one case evaluations. Contact us today to schedule a one-on-one case evaluation with our highly rated legal team. During this case evaluation, you will have the opportunity to get to know our attorneys better as we ask various questions to determine how we can strengthen your truck accident claim.

What is a big rig?

A big rig is also referred to as a semi-truck. A big rig could include a tractor truck, a trailer truck, or an 18-wheeler. Essentially, big rigs are commercial vehicles used to transport goods from one point to another. This is especially common in Los Angeles, as the city is heavily populated and has a constant need for goods throughout the county.

Following the global pandemic, many people turned to online shopping. This online shopping trend then led to an increase in the number of delivery trucks and semi-trucks on the road as people became accustomed to the fast delivery times of their orders. As a result, the number of big rig accidents has increased, particularly in major cities like Los Angeles.

Could I Receive Compensation for a Big Rig Accident in Los Angeles?

If you’ve been involved in a big rig accident in Los Angeles, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries and other related damages. However, the amount and type of compensation depend on several key factors, such as the nature of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and the liability of the parties involved. This article breaks down the various factors that influence the compensation you could receive and offers insights into what you can expect after a big rig collision.

Understanding Comparative Fault in Los Angeles

One of the primary considerations in determining compensation is the concept of comparative fault. In Los Angeles, the law allows injured parties to recover compensation even if they were partially responsible for the accident. This is known as the “comparative fault rule,” which means your percentage of fault may reduce your compensation. For instance, if you were found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.

Q: Can I still receive compensation if I’m partly at fault?
A: Yes, under California’s comparative fault laws, you can still receive compensation even if you were partially at fault. The compensation you receive will be adjusted according to your level of responsibility.

Key Factors That Influence Compensation

The compensation you might receive after a big rig accident is influenced by several factors, including:

1. Liability of the Other Party:
   Determining liability is crucial in any big rig accident case. Was the truck driver or the trucking company at fault? Did the driver violate traffic regulations, such as speeding or driving under the influence? If the trucking company was negligent in maintaining the vehicle, this could significantly impact the compensation you receive. Establishing liability often requires a thorough investigation by an attorney who specializes in truck accidents.
2. Time Spent Out of Work:
   Big rig accidents often result in serious injuries that can prevent victims from returning to work. If your injuries are severe enough to impact your ability to work, you may be entitled to lost wages or loss of earning capacity. This includes compensation for the time you missed work and for any future loss of income if you’re unable to return to your previous occupation. For example, a back injury could prevent someone from sitting at a desk for prolonged periods, making it difficult to resume a typical office job.
3. Severity of Injuries:
   Big rig accidents are known for causing catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and multiple fractures. The more severe your injuries, the higher your medical bills and the more compensation you could receive. In some cases, victims require long-term care or permanent lifestyle adjustments, which can lead to substantial financial burdens.
4. Medical Expenses:
   Medical bills are a significant component of compensation. After a big rig accident, you may face hefty expenses for emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatments. You may also be able to claim compensation for future medical expenses if your injuries require long-term care.
5. Property Damage:
   Due to the size and weight of big rigs, accidents often result in significant property damage. If your vehicle was involved in an accident, you may be eligible for compensation for repairs or, if it’s deemed a total loss, for its replacement value. Even damage to personal property inside your vehicle could be covered.

How to Maximize Your Compensation

To maximize your compensation, it’s essential to work with an experienced attorney who understands the complexities of big rig accidents in Los Angeles. A Big rig accident attorney can help gather evidence, establish liability, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. They can also ensure that all your damages—both economic (e.g., medical bills, lost wages) and non-economic (e.g., pain and suffering)—are accounted for in an accident with a big rig. To discuss your case specifically, please get in touch with us to schedule a complimentary, risk-free consultation.

Big Rig Accident Statistics in Los Angeles: A Deep Dive

Big rig accidents are a significant concern in Los Angeles County, impacting hundreds of lives each year. The sheer size and weight of these trucks make them especially dangerous when involved in collisions, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. Understanding the statistics surrounding these accidents is crucial for both drivers and policymakers to take informed actions that could potentially save lives.

How Common Are Big Rig Accidents in Los Angeles?

According to recent data, Los Angeles County experiences approximately 2,000 injuries caused by big rig accidents in a single year. This staggering number reflects the high volume of commercial traffic in the area and the inherent dangers associated with large trucks on crowded roadways.

Who Are the Victims in Big Rig Accidents?

Statistics show that 67% of fatalities in big rig accidents involve the occupants of the other vehicle, rather than the truck driver or occupants. This is a sobering reminder that smaller vehicles often bear the brunt of these catastrophic events. Meanwhile, only 10% of fatalities involve the truck occupants, highlighting the disproportionate risk to regular commuters.

Why Are Big Rig Accidents on the Rise in Los Angeles?

Over the past five years, Los Angeles County has seen a 30% increase in fatalities related to big rig accidents. This uptick can be attributed to a combination of factors, including increased traffic volumes, driver fatigue, and potential issues with truck maintenance and regulatory compliance. For a detailed examination of how traffic patterns and safety regulations impact accident rates, check out KCRW’s in-depth article on California traffic safety.

California: A Hotspot for Big Rig Accidents

The issue isn’t isolated to Los Angeles County. California ranks among the top 10 states for big rig accidents in the United States, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). With a high density of interstate trucking routes and a thriving logistics industry, the state faces unique challenges in managing large volumes of truck traffic.

Q&A: Common Concerns About Big Rig Accidents

Q: What are the primary causes of big rig accidents in Los Angeles?
A: The leading causes include driver fatigue, distracted driving, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and aggressive driving behaviors. Weather and road conditions can also significantly contribute to these accidents.

Q: Are there any particular highways in Los Angeles County that are more dangerous for big rigs?
A: Yes, highways such as the I-5, I-405, and I-10 see a higher incidence of big rig accidents due to their heavy traffic and complex interchanges.

What Can Be Done to Reduce Big Rig Accidents?

Reducing big rig accidents in Los Angeles will require a multi-faceted approach, involving stricter regulations, better driver training, and improved road design. Enhanced monitoring of truck maintenance and more stringent enforcement of hours-of-service regulations are also crucial steps.

The Impact of Big Rig Accidents on Local Communities

The ripple effects of big rig accidents extend beyond the individuals involved. These accidents often lead to long traffic delays, increased insurance premiums, and emotional trauma for victims and their families. The economic impact on local communities, including road repair costs and emergency response resources, is substantial.

How can I prevent a big rig accident?

Although you cannot 100% prevent a big rig accident because of other drivers on the road, we recommend that you take some steps to avoid any future big rig accidents:

• Never drive close to a big rig. Ensure that you never enter a big rig’s blind spot.
• Always maintain a safe distance between yourself and the big rake to ensure that you do not tailgate the truck.
• Do not pass a truck that is moving slowly or turning slowly. Usually, big rigs need ample space to turn and may drive straight towards you.
• Never run a red light, and always ensure that you obey all necessary laws in Los Angeles County.
• Speeding is one of the most common causes of accidents with big rigs.
• Always ensure that you scan your surroundings and remain aware of other drivers and vehicles at all times.
• If you notice that a big rig is swerving on the freeway, make sure that you keep a safe distance from it. Unfortunately, fatigued driving is a prevalent reason for big rig accidents in Los Angeles.
• If you see a drunk driver behind a big rig, be sure to report it.

Speak To An Experienced Los Angeles Big Rig Accident Attorney Today

If you have been involved in a big rig accident or know someone who has been involved in a big accident, the best thing you can do for yourself is get the medical care and attention you need. Medical care and attention will be critical not only to help you physically but also when determining the cost that you should be owed from the responsible party. A medical professional will also be able to decide on any future care you may need.

Another smart move that you can make after a big rig accident is having a highly qualified big rig attorney on your side. Unfortunately, immediately after an accident, we have witnessed several accident victims get calls from insurance companies in an effort to settle for a lesser amount. We recommend that you refrain from speaking to insurance companies until you have talked to our Los Angeles accident attorneys. 

At Heidari Law, we are committed to providing accident victims with the highest-rated legal care they deserve. We work diligently to ensure that our clients’ rights are protected. Our big rig accident attorneys are on standby and ready to help you every step of the way. Whether it is a settlement or a judgment, our attorneys are not afraid to stand up for your rights and fight aggressively on your behalf. Call Heidari Law Group today for a free consultation and case review.