Truck & Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Crashes with semi-trucks, delivery vans, and company vehicles often cause severe injuries. These cases involve trucking companies, employers, and large insurers, and the evidence can disappear quickly.
What to do after
- Get medical care right away and follow your doctor's treatment plan.
- Photograph the truck, its company name, DOT number, and license plate.
- Collect witness names and phone numbers.
- Do not speak with the trucking company or its insurer about the crash.
- Call us quickly so we can demand that the company preserve its records.
We help you get the care you need
Many of our clients do not know where to turn after an injury, or how they will pay for treatment. Our team helps connect you with experienced doctors, specialists, and physical therapists, and works with your providers so you can focus on your recovery. Clients can be seen with no upfront costs.
How California law applies
Evidence must be preserved fast
Trucks carry electronic logging devices and event data recorders. Driver logs, maintenance records, and dispatch data can be lost if they are not requested promptly.
More than one party may be responsible
The driver, the trucking company, the owner of the trailer, a loading company, or a maintenance shop may share responsibility.
Federal safety rules apply
Commercial drivers must follow federal hours-of-service and inspection rules. Violations can be strong evidence of negligence.
Employers answer for their drivers
In California, an employer is generally responsible for a driver's negligence while the driver is working.
What you may be able to recover
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring, disfigurement, or disability
- Property damage and out-of-pocket costs
Common questions
Is a truck accident different from a car accident?
Yes. There are usually more parties, more insurance policies, and federal regulations involved. Early investigation matters even more.
The truck driver was an independent contractor. Can I still recover?
Often, yes. Responsibility depends on the relationship between the driver and the companies involved. We look at every possible source of recovery.
How long do I have to file?
Generally two years for injury claims in California, and six months if a government vehicle was involved. Do not wait to call.
Related articles
This page provides general information about California law, not legal advice. Every case is different. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.