Orange County Semi Truck Accident Lawyer
According to data from the Statewide Integrated Traffic Record System (SWITRS) in the Transportation Information Management System (TIMS), 294 truck crashes in Orange County resulted in 7 fatalities and 393 injured victims in 2021.
Semi truck ‘big rig’ accidents are common in California. Large and heavy vehicles can result in devastating outcomes. Tragically, in the majority of accidents, the occupants of the smaller vehicle are more at risk of serious harm. For instance, in 2020, per injury facts gathered by the National Safety Council (NSC), among all big rig accident fatalities, 10% of the victims were truck drivers, while the rest 90% were smaller vehicle occupants or pedestrians.
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What Is a Semi Truck?
A semi truck consists of a trailer and tractor. The tractor unit detaches from the trailer, which contains five or more axles. Both units together can weigh over 10,000 pounds with the trailer empty and up to 80,000 pounds when loaded.
Causes of Semi Truck Accidents
Some common causes of Orange County semi truck accidents are:
Fatigue
Based on the Hours of Service regulation by the FMCSA, a commercial truck driver must take 10 hours off after a 14-hour long drive. But due to a shortage of truck drivers, many operators work far past the limit. The lack of rest leads to fatigue, causing truckers to be physically unable to pay attention to the road.
Negligence
In most reported cases of semi truck accidents, the driver was speeding, driving while fatigued, drinking and driving, or driving distracted.
Mechanical Failures
Mechanical failures can include manufacturing defects, poor truck maintenance, brake failures, tire blowouts, etc.
Overloading
Tire blowouts can occur when the trailer load limit is exceeded. At the same time, the trailer’s center of gravity becomes much higher than that of the tractor, leading to devastating jackknife accidents.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Unpredictable weather conditions or unmanaged roads can make it harder for the driver to retain control. The slightest disturbance can lead to a dangerous swerve, putting the truck driver and other vehicles around him at risk.
Improper Securing of Cargo
The cargo carried by a semi truck can easily move or fall off if it is loaded improperly. The sudden movement inside the trailer can lead to imbalance, leading the truck driver to lose control.
Negligent Trucking Companies
In some cases, trucking companies act negligently regarding timely vehicle maintenance,, following load limits, properly training drivers, and preparing rushed schedules.
Injuries from a Semi Truck Accident in Orange County
Some common injuries caused by semi truck accidents in Orange County are:
- Head injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Fractures
- Muscle injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Burns
- Lacerations
- Neck and shoulder injuries
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What Should You Do After a Semi Truck Accident?
If a semi hits you, the first thing to do is check yourself and others involved for injuries. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and ask for emergency care if needed. The police or the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will also arrive to check the accident scene and manage any further dangers.
No matter how mild or severe the accident, all parties must stay at the scene except for the victims who need emergency care. Exchange contact information with all involved parties and also the witnesses. Take pictures if possible.
After seeking medical attention, reach out to an Orange County semi truck accident lawyer for legal advice.
How Can an Attorney Help You Win an Injury Claim?
In California, one can legally represent themselves throughout the settlement negotiations and the litigation process. But there is a huge difference between handling a personal injury case on your own and working with a lawyer.
If you are injured in a semi truck accident, remember the defendant’s insurance company represents its interests. Often, accident victims are tempted by their initial offer as it may seem like a lot at first. However, insurers rarely offer full compensation unless a lawyer is involved.
An Orange County truck accident lawyer will review your accident case and advise whether you need legal representation. They will educate you on the law and insurance policies to help you understand the compensation you deserve.
At the same time, they will investigate the accident thoroughly and negotiate with the defendant’s insurance company to negotiate. If there is a disagreement, they will file a lawsuit and represent you throughout the litigation procedures.
Semi Truck Insurance
Semi truck accident cases can be complicated as they are associated with trucking company insurance. Every company is required to have commercial auto insurance for the truck drivers and the cargo. In most cases, the insurance covers liability and monetary damages, including injuries, property damage, and cargo damage per the minimum insurance requirements. Some companies provide additional uninsured motorist coverage.
What Compensation Are You Eligible for in a Semi Truck Accident?
A semi truck accident victim is eligible for three types of damages. The first is economic damages, which cover monetary losses like medical expenses, property repair costs, lost wages, physical therapy, etc. Non-economic damages cover non-monetary damages like the pain and suffering you endured from the accident. While punitive damages apply only in cases where the defendants acted outrageously.
"We never lose sight of the pain and suffering of your recovery, not to mention emotional trauma that lasts for years."
Contact Top Rated Orange County Semi Truck Accident Lawyer Near You
It can be extremely overwhelming to demand compensation after experiencing a traumatic accident while you are still recovering. If you or a loved one has been injured in a semi truck accident in Orange County, seeking legal advice and representation can help you recover fair compensation for all you lost.
Nordean Law’s team of expert attorneys has years of experience handling semi truck accident cases. We utilize a wide range of resources and work with experts to build an undeniable case for your accident claim. Call us at 888.527.1267 for a free consultation today.