Orange County 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer

In 2020, Orange County had 294 truck accidents, resulting in 7 deaths and 393 injuries, per the Statewide Integrated Traffic Record System (SWITRS) data in the Transportation Information Management System (TIMS). The sheer size of an 18-wheeler ensures devastating accidents, and the lives of injury victims and their families are altered in seconds.

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What Are 18-Wheeler Accidents?

An 18-wheeler accident is a collision involving a large commercial truck, known as a semi-truck or tractor-trailer. These trucks are commonly used for transporting goods over long distances and can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. Due to their weight and size, 18-wheeler accidents can cause significant damage to other vehicles and severe injuries to individuals involved in the crash.

When an 18-wheeler accident occurs, it can be complex to determine liability and damages. In some cases, multiple parties may be responsible, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, or the manufacturer of the truck or its components.

18-Wheeler Accident Statistics 

In 2020, the FMCSA reported 415,000 large truck crashes, of which 4,444 (about 1%) were fatal, while 101,000 (about 24%) caused injuries to one or more people, showing how dangerous and life-threatening large truck accidents can be.

Dangers Of 18-Wheeler Accidents In Orange County

What Kind of Injuries are Sustained?

Victims of 18-wheeler accidents in Orange County will likely suffer severe injuries requiring substantial medical care. Due to the significant differences in power, weight, and size between a regular car and an 18-wheeler, this outcome is not surprising. 

Common injuries from these accidents include:

  • Concussions 
  • Deformity 
  • Amputation
  • Broken bones 
  • Whiplash
  • Burns
  • Brain, neck, and back injury
  • Muscle strains and ligament sprains
  • Contusions, cuts, and crushing injuries
  • Heavy bleeding and lacerations
  • Blindness 
  • Coma 
  • Wrongful death

Typically, our lawyers at Nordean Law ask for the documents prepared by your doctor during or right after your medical examination or accident. These documents not only detail your injuries and their expected duration, but they also assist us in establishing the potential economic damages.

California Laws For 18-Wheeler Trucks

Under California’s regulations, a maximum speed limit applies to 18-wheeler trucks traveling on state roads. These trucks are prohibited from exceeding 55 mph. This rule remains in effect even on interstates and freeways that usually permit other vehicles to travel at 65 and 70 mph.

Other vehicles towing objects, such as trailers, campers, or cars, must follow a 55 mph speed limit. Additional regulations are in place to prevent slow-moving trucks and traffic from using the fast lane. Large trucks following the 55 mph law are mandated to stay in the rightmost lane unless passing or making a left turn.

Hear From Our Community Of Satisfied
Clients

Raydrea E.
Raydrea E.
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The best lawyer in the area! He and his team will take great care of you. They are very good with taking questions and answering them without lying to you. I will use Sam and his firm for any cases I might encounter. Highly recommend!!
Ricardo Dagher
Ricardo Dagher
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I was rear ended on the highway by a driver that was not paying attention. He didn’t even slow down. After the collision, I couldn’t even walk. Sam and his team helped me every step of the way. They made sure that I received the best treatment. I don’t know what I would’ve done without them. They fought the insurance company to make sure I received full value for my car. Sam was able to get all my bills covered and on top of that held the other driver and his insurance company accountable. I received the settlement that I deserve and helped me move with my life after an accident that changed my life.
Aldo Z.
Aldo Z.
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Nordean Law is working in my injury case and can't thank them enough. Sam and his team have been reaching and keeping me informed with all pending matters. I appreciate that because with all that is currently going in right now, I need some stress off my shoulders. Thank you Nordean Law!!!
Diana S.
Diana S.
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Sam Nordean is a great lawyer. He handled my case with the utmost professionalism. After taking my case, Nordean was always very straightfoward about all proceedings. He never sugarcoated things and was very honest. As the client, I appreciated that Sam Nordean would advise me about the proceedings but that my opinions and voice was also heard. Sam Nordean fought for me as the victim in my case and I was very happy with the outcome. Sam Nordean is a great lawyer and I would recommend him for anyone in need of a personal injury lawyer.
Erica Z.
Erica Z.
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If you are worried about your claim you should contact Nordean Law. Sam Nordean and his team are not only true professionals with integrity, but also sincerely care about their clients well being and state of mind throughout the process.
Michael Ruddle
Michael Ruddle
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My family and I were involved in an auto accident. I was referred to Sam Nordean through a good friend of mine who is a current client. That meant a lot to me. I called Sam immediately and he answered the phone. I thought, "Wow, an attorney who actually answers his phone". I explained to him what had happened and he and his Team immediately took over. They have already taken care of our property damage issue and are making sure we have the best medical treatment available. We still have a ways to go, but I know Sam is working hard for my family. And, when I call him he still picks up. Thank you Nordean Law
Donna Melik
Donna Melik
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I can’t thank the Nordean Law group enough! The amount of clarity they provide by walking you through every single step is beyond relieving. The entire team is so professional! And they truly fight for justice! Our family has been with them since 2017 and appreciates all the hard work! Don’t look any further, go for the representation of Nordean Law
 Boyce Osife
Boyce Osife
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Very knowledgeable and experienced law firm. Very polite service representatives who care about your needs and help you find the right help.
Alice Alqueen
Alice Alqueen
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Nordean Law, APC represented me and helped me through my insurance case when they refused to pay my bills. Sam was very patient, experienced, and well-knowledgeable such qualities are hard to find in one attorney. No matter how many times I called or asked questions he was always attentive and understanding. I would recommend them to anyone in a heartbeat! Thank you for winning my 2 cases!
Sukhwinder Kaur
Sukhwinder Kaur
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Sam and his team are amazing. My mom experienced a major fall and ended up getting seriously hurt. Sam and his team stood by her side every step of the way and took her under their wing making sure she got all the care that she needed. Communication is key to any relationship rather it be business or personal and Nordean law made sure their was no confusion and all points were made aware to both parties. Thank you sharmin, Alyssa, patty and Sam ! Your time and hard work is definitely appreciated!

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Steps To Take After An 18-Wheeler Accident?

In the event of an 18-Wheeler accident, the priority is to ensure the safety of everyone involved and immediately call for medical assistance. Staying at the accident scene is crucial until you have notified the police, as leaving the scene is against the law.

Obtaining a police report is essential for your case. When speaking with the police, provide only factual information about the accident and refrain from taking responsibility or downplaying the involvement of others. Additionally, gather evidence and information about all parties involved.

Finally, seeking the advice of an experienced lawyer who specializes in Orange County 18-Wheeler accidents, such as Nordean Law, is highly recommended. We provide free consultations and expert legal advice to help guide you through the process.

Commercial Truck Company Insurance In Orange County

California Vehicle Code § 16020 requires all motor vehicle owners and drivers to have insurance and carry evidence of financial responsibility while driving. Most commercial trucking operations carry large insurance policies.

While Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UMC) and Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM) are not mandatory in California, you can add them to your policy. In compliance with California law, all auto insurance providers must offer UMC/UIM coverage. These types of coverage can provide additional protection when the other driver is underinsured or uninsured.  

What If You Don’t Have Insurance?

Without insurance in California, paying for damages after a car accident can be challenging. While the state mandates a minimum coverage limit, it also has the nation’s highest number of uninsured drivers. This minimum coverage, called “15/30/5,” covers up to $5,000 for property damage or collision coverage, $15,000 for bodily injury coverage or death, and $30,000 for total bodily injury or death per accident to all victims in the other vehicle combined, if the insured driver is at fault.

Unfortunately, many California drivers cannot afford the minimum coverage. This leaves them responsible for paying for damages out-of-pocket or relying on private health insurers or government programs like Medicare and Medi-Cal. Insurance coverage is crucial in an accident to avoid such significant financial consequences.

When To Hire A Lawyer To Make Your 18-Wheeler Injury Claim?

To make your 18-wheeler injury claim, knowing when to hire a lawyer is essential. Here are some main circumstances when you should get a lawyer after your truck accident:

  • Multiple parties may be liable.
  • The claims process is complex.
  •  You have significant damages.
  •  Your injuries may prevent you from working, increasing damages
  • The opposing insurer may resist paying the full damages
  •  You may be accused of being partially or fully at fault for the accident.
  • A professional legal strategy is needed.

In such situations, hiring a qualified attorney can help you navigate the legal complexities of pursuing your 18-wheeler injury claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Compensation Recovered Out Of An 18-Wheeler Truck Accident?

Regarding accidents involving 18-wheelers, the settlement amounts are typically higher than other accidents. Truck accident settlements can range from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars and even seven figures.

However, the exact settlement amount depends on various factors, such as the extent of the injuries sustained, the medical expenses incurred due to the accident, the impact on the victim’s daily life, and the pain and suffering experienced by the victim. These factors play a significant role in determining the final settlement amount. Ultimately, the settlement amount will be unique to each case and dependent on the specific details of the accident and its consequences.

"We never lose sight of the pain and suffering of your recovery, not to mention emotional trauma that lasts for years."

Contact Top Rated 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Near Me

Wading through the intricacies of trucking insurance can be difficult. It can leave you uncertain about what to say or how much to demand, particularly when presented with unfamiliar situations. Enlisting the assistance of a reputable lawyer improves your chances of obtaining a fair settlement and provides legal advice and assistance as you recuperate from your injuries.

Nordean Law employs a group of skilled attorneys who are dedicated, approachable, and skilled at obtaining positive outcomes. The 18-wheeler accident lawyers at Nordean Law have a wealth of experience in aiding victims in receiving the highest possible compensation. 

We work with various resources and professionals to ensure the best representation possible in court. Contact us today for a no-cost consultation, and we will assess your case to determine the most effective approach.

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$1,250,000

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