Ontario Truck Driver Error Lawyer
Truck Driver Errors Lead to Serious Truck Accidents in Ontario and the Inland Empire
Careless acts and poor decision making by motorists are behind most California traffic crashes, but the tragic consequences are magnified when truck driver error leads to an accident. Data compiled by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) shows that operator negligence plays an unfortunate role in truck collisions. Every year, there are around 330 fatal truck accidents, leading to 370 lives lost. Plus, another 9,700 people are injured in crashes involving 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, semis, and other large commercial vehicles. The problem of truck driver error is especially profound in the Inland Empire, a major trucking hub in Southern California. More than 40 people are killed and almost 900 people are hurt in San Bernardino County truck accidents annually.
If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a truck accident, driver error will be a key factor in recovering the compensation you deserve. Strong proof and a solid legal strategy are critical, so you can trust our team at Caruso Law Offices, P.C. to support your interests. Please contact our office today to schedule a free consultation with an Ontario truck driver error lawyer, and read on for some important information.
Liability in California Truck Accident Cases
Negligence may be the reason behind motor vehicle collisions, but there is a very specific definition of the term under state personal injury laws. You must have evidence showing that the crash occurred because the operator failed to exercise reasonable care when driving. Some causes of truck accidents may be familiar to you because they are not exclusive to truck drivers. A motorist behind the wheel of any vehicle may be negligent by, speeding, failure to yield, or texting while driving.
However, there are some acts of negligence that are unique to operators of commercial vehicles. Examples of truck driver error include:
- Taking turns too quickly with a fully loaded trailer;
- Failing to comply with Hours of Service (HOS) rules on rest breaks, leading to truck driver fatigue;
- Violating federal regulations on drug and alcohol use by CDL holders, which are stricter than the rules for other motorists; and
- Neglecting to conduct proper inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
Reasons Truck Crash Claims are More Complicated
Operating a semi takes training, attention to detail, and skill to manage, heightening the risks when truck driver error leads to collisions. The length of the vehicle, weight, infinite number of parts, and many other factors make these incidents far more dangerous than other traffic accidents.
Still, the legal process for recovering compensation is also more complex when comparing truck and auto collisions. Consider the following:
- The massive devastation of a truck accident means substantial losses for victims, particularly medical costs from severe, catastrophic injuries.
- Surviving family members have rights after a fatal California truck accident, but wrongful death actions encompass additional legal principles.
- Truck insurance policies range into the millions of dollars in coverage, so insurers work even harder to fight your claim.
There are often multiple at-fault parties in a truck accident claim, including employers, mechanics, logistics companies, and manufacturers of defective parts.
Two Types of Monetary Damages in a Truck Collision Case
Our Ontario truck driver error attorneys at Caruso Law Offices, P.C. are prepared for the challenges as we pursue all potential parties for compensation. Our lawyers are active members of The Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, the largest association of plaintiff attorneys specializing in commercial truck accidents. Our first step will be filing an insurance claim, but we are equally skilled at truck accident litigation. We will seek monetary damages falling into two different categories:
- Economic Damages: Some of your losses have a dollar value attached, such as medical care. You have records regarding the costs of treatment, so you may qualify to recover these amounts. If you were unable to work because of truck accident injuries, you might also be eligible for lost wages.
- Noneconomic Damages: Other losses are less definable because they are subjective and personal to you. Even if you do not have documentation, it is possible to obtain noneconomic damages that represent how truck crash injuries have impacted your life. You might be eligible for pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring and disfigurement, and related losses.
Discuss Your Options with Our Ontario Truck Driver Error Attorneys
An overview of the laws is helpful, but retaining experienced legal representation is essential for protecting your rights. For more information on compensation and the legal process in a California truck accident claim, please contact Caruso Law Offices, P.C. You can set up a complimentary case review with an Ontario truck driver error lawyer by calling (909) 937-4480 or going online. Whether you choose to consult with us by phone or in person at our Ontario office, the consultation is always free.
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