California truck accident lawyer

California has specific laws and regulations governing truck accidents, designed to protect all road users:

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) — Drivers must hold a valid CDL to operate commercial motor vehicles, with strict training and testing requirements.
• Hours of Service (HOS) — Federal and state rules limit driving hours per day and week to prevent driver fatigue.
• Weight and size limits — Restrictions on axle weight, total vehicle weight, and overall length. Overweight or oversized trucks pose significant road risks.
• Maintenance and inspection — Carriers must keep trucks in safe operating condition. Poor maintenance can cause accidents and liability.
• Drug and alcohol testing — Required at hiring and through random checks. Impaired drivers face penalties and CDL loss.
• Negligence and liability — The truck driver, trucking company, cargo loader, or maintenance provider may be liable when negligence causes a crash.
• Comparative fault — If you share blame, compensation is reduced by your share of fault. You can still recover even if you are more than 50% at fault.
• Statute of limitations — Typically two years from the accident date for personal injury or wrongful death claims.
• Tort system and insurance — California is not a no-fault state for these claims. The at-fault party's insurer typically pays damages, but all drivers must carry minimum liability coverage (currently $30,000 / $60,000 / $15,000 under SB 1107).
• Reporting requirements — Trucking companies and drivers must report certain accidents to the California DMV within specified timeframes.

Truck accident cases are complex — federal FMCSA rules, multiple defendants, and corporate insurers are often involved. Consult Nordean Law for guidance based on your specific situation.

1. Seek medical attention immediately — injuries may not appear right away. Documentation by a healthcare professional is vital for your claim.
2. Report the incident to police — if the driver may be under the influence or other crimes occurred, officers may file charges. Police reports support insurance claims and litigation.
3. Gather witness information — names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses for anyone who saw the crash.
4. Photograph the scene — all vehicles from multiple angles, tire tracks, damaged lights, debris, and road conditions. Personal photos supplement the police report.
5. Keep conversations brief — check on others' wellbeing, but avoid detailed discussions that could hurt a future case.
6. Contact a California trucking accident attorney — before speaking with insurers or accepting a settlement. We investigate negligence and identify all liable parties and coverage.