Pasadena Truck Accident Lawyer

Pasadena Truck Accident Attorney

The same massive size and weight that allow trucks to carry heavy cargo also make them a potential source of serious injury for anyone involved in a truck-related accident. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, a Pasadena truck accident lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Truck drivers can be held liable for damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering.

At Duque & Price, we understand the complexities of truck accident claims and are dedicated to supporting victims every step of the way. Our experienced team works tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and your case is handled with the attention it deserves.

Legal Representation That Gets Results

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Pasadena or surrounding areas, you need a legal team that can secure the compensation you deserve. At Duque & Price, our Pasadena personal injury attorney is committed to providing focused, client-centered representation.

We take on a select number of cases to offer personalized service. From investigation and property damage handling to trial preparation, we’re here to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you need. We take a client-focused approach that puts your needs and interests first every step of the way.

What To Do Following an Accident

After a truck or car accident, prioritize your safety and the safety of your passengers. Check for injuries and call emergency services immediately to ensure medical attention is provided as soon as possible. Once EMS and police arrive, document the accident scene by taking photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible damages or injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and the truck driver. Make sure to get the name of the trucking company as well.

Avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be misconstrued by insurers or other parties. Notify your insurance company promptly, but be cautious about speaking with representatives from the trucking company’s insurer without legal guidance. Truck accidents often involve complex investigations, so taking these steps not only protects your rights but also strengthens your potential future claim.

Determining Liability

Truck accident cases can be more complex than typical collisions because liability often extends beyond the driver. The trucking company may share responsibility if they fail to enforce proper hiring practices, training, or vehicle maintenance. Liability can also involve third parties, such as cargo loaders if improperly secured freight caused the accident.

Proving fault requires a thorough investigation, including analyzing driver logs, maintenance records, and the truck’s black box data. Traffic violations, such as speeding or distracted driving, may also indicate negligence.

In multi-vehicle accidents, determining liability becomes even more challenging, requiring evidence from accident reconstruction or eyewitness accounts. Legal experience is crucial for navigating these complexities and ensuring all responsible parties are held accountable, maximizing the victim’s potential compensation.

Common Causes and Types of Truck Crashes in Pasadena, CA

A striking 80% of Pasadena’s fatal and serious injury collisions occur on only 13% of the city’s roadways. In 2023, 5,472 people were killed in collisions involving large trucks, which marked an 8% decrease from the 5,969 fatalities recorded in 2022.

Truck collisions are caused by a wide range of factors. Distracted driving is one common cause of collisions involving commercial vehicles and large trucks. Smartphones, navigation systems, and other distractions can take a driver’s attention off the road. The consequences of this form of negligence can lead to serious collisions that leave passengers and drivers in nearby vehicles contending with serious and potentially life-altering injuries.

Driver fatigue is another pervasive problem within the trucking industry. When truck operators fail to take breaks or put in long hours, fatigue can set in, which can lead to slower reaction times and other dangerous driving behaviors. Speeding is another dangerous factor that can greatly increase the time it takes for a large vehicle to come to a complete stop. Other potential causes of truck collisions include poor maintenance, improper loading, and drunk driving.

Truck collisions in California take many forms. A jackknife crash occurs when a truck’s trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle, often during sudden braking. A rollover happens when a truck tips onto its side or roof, frequently due to high speeds, sharp turns, or shifting cargo. Lost-load incidents arise when improperly secured cargo spills onto the roadway.

Evidence That Can Strengthen Your Claim

Building a strong truck collision claim requires decisive action. Your attorney can secure crucial evidence that can support your claim and protect you from false accusations. Electronic logging devices (ELDS) and records of duty status (RODS) data can verify the driver’s hours, route, and compliance with break laws.

Records from engine control modules (ECMs) include dashcam footage that can show how the truck driver handled the situation. Post-collision drug and alcohol test records can show whether the driver was 100% sober at the time of the collision. Inspection logs can also play a key role in establishing whether any third parties share liability.

Case Timeline: What to Expect

While no two truck accident claims unfold exactly alike, there are common steps that many follow. Early on, multiple parties may have an interest in establishing fault. Investigations by insurance carriers and the injured party’s personal attorney may seek data from driver logs, ELD data, maintenance records, witness statements, and other key forms of evidence to determine which party or parties are financially liable for the collision.

As you recover from your injury at Huntington Hospital at 100 W. California Boulevard or Adventist Health Glendale at 1509 Wilson Terrace, your attorney can track the financial losses that you incur due to the collision. These often include medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Once sufficient evidence is gathered, your attorney can begin negotiating with the at-fault driver’s insurer or the trucking company they worked for.

A strong claim often leads to fair compensation through a negotiated settlement. In cases where a fair settlement is not offered, your attorney can pursue a civil claim at the Los Angeles County Superior Court, which is located at 300 E. Walnut Street in Pasadena.

Why Legal Representation Is Crucial Following a Truck Collision

Legal representation is essential after a truck accident due to the unique challenges these cases present. The legal teams for trucking companies and their insurers often attempt to minimize liability, making it critical for victims to have an advocate on their side. When you hire a truck accident lawyer to handle negotiations with insurers, you stand a strong chance of securing the compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering that you are owed.

Truck accidents often involve extensive evidence, such as driver logs, maintenance records, and black box data, which attorneys can gather and analyze. A Pasadena truck accident attorney can also work with crash accident consultants to reconstruct the accident and prove negligence.

If a settlement cannot be reached, an attorney can build a strong case for litigation based on state truck accident laws. By managing these complexities, legal representation allows victims to focus on recovery while ensuring their rights are protected and compensation is maximized through a strong truck accident claim.

FAQs

How Much Is My Vehicle Worth After an Accident?

After an accident, your vehicle’s value depends on its pre-accident condition, the extent of damage, and its repairability. Even with repairs, diminished value often affects resale potential. Compensation for property damage claims may include repair costs and loss of value. An attorney can help calculate the full impact of the accident and negotiate for a settlement that accurately reflects your financial losses.

How Are Settlement Amounts Determined for a Truck Accident?

Settlement amounts are calculated by considering factors such as medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Additional elements like long-term disabilities or emotional trauma may increase the amount. Attorneys work to identify all possible damages, gather supporting evidence, and negotiate with insurers to ensure the settlement reflects the true scope of the victim’s losses.

How Can You Negotiate a Higher Settlement After a Truck Accident?

To negotiate a higher settlement, provide clear documentation of your damages, including medical bills, missed work, and repair estimates. Avoid accepting the first offer, as insurers often start with low amounts. An attorney can strengthen your case by presenting evidence, challenging undervalued claims, and advocating for a settlement that fully compensates your losses.

How Long Does an 18-Wheeler Claim Take?

The duration of an 18-wheeler personal injury claim depends on factors like the complexity of the case, the willingness of the parties to settle, and court schedules. Some cases resolve within months, while others may take years if litigation is required. An experienced attorney can streamline the process by managing negotiations, gathering evidence, and ensuring deadlines are met for a timely resolution.

Schedule Your Consultation With a Pasadena Truck Accident Lawyer Today

A truck accident can leave you with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and significant financial strain. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Pasadena or the surrounding areas, Duque & Price is here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Our experienced team can take steps to maximize your compensation by carefully examining the full extent of your injury and financial hardships.

We take on a select number of cases to ensure that each client receives the attention their situation requires. Whether through settlement negotiations or litigation, our trial-ready legal team will fight for your rights every step of the way. Contact our office today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights.