1What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
Call 911, get medical help, gather evidence, and contact a truck accident attorney before speaking with insurers.
2How are truck accidents different from car accidents?
They often cause more severe injuries, involve multiple liable parties, and are subject to complex federal and state trucking regulations.
3Who can be held liable for a truck accident?
Potentially the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, cargo loaders, or maintenance providers.
4What causes most truck accidents?
Common causes include driver fatigue, speeding, distracted driving, improper loading, and mechanical failures.
5Should I speak to the trucking companyās insurance adjuster?
No. They aim to minimize payouts. Direct all communication to your lawyer.
6How is fault determined in a truck accident?
Through police reports, black box data, driver logs, maintenance records, and accident reconstruction experts.
7What is a truckās āblack boxā and why is it important?
Itās an electronic logging device that records speed, braking, and driving hoursācritical evidence in proving fault.
8Can I recover compensation if Iām partly at fault?
Yes. Californiaās comparative negligence law allows recovery even if you share some fault, but your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
9What damages can I claim after a truck accident?
Medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and in some cases punitive damages.
10How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in California?
Generally, two years from the accident date, but some cases have shorter deadlines.
11What if the truck driver violated federal trucking regulations?
That violation can strengthen your claim and prove negligence.
12Can I sue the trucking company as well as the driver?
Yes. Employers can be liable for their driverās actions under āvicarious liability.ā
13What if the accident was caused by unsecured or overloaded cargo?
The cargo loader or shipping company may be held liable for improper loading practices.
14What evidence is crucial in a truck accident case?
Black box data, driver logs, dashcam footage, witness statements, and maintenance records.
15Will my truck accident case go to court?
Many cases settle out of court, but some go to trial if the parties cannot agree on fair compensation.
16How long will it take to resolve my truck accident claim?
It depends on the severity of injuries, complexity of evidence, and settlement negotiationsāanywhere from months to over a year.
17What if a truck accident results in a wrongful death?
Family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.
18Are truck drivers often overworked?
Yes, and driver fatigue is a major factor in many accidents. Federal law limits driving hours, but violations occur.
19Do I need a lawyer who specializes in truck accidents?
Yes. Truck accident cases are complex and require knowledge of both personal injury law and trucking regulations.
20How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?
At Hillstone Law, you pay nothing upfront, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win.
