Truck accidents are some of the most devastating events on the road. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make them significantly more dangerous than regular passenger vehicles, and when accidents happen, the consequences can be severe—or life-altering.
At Frantz Law Group, we understand the challenges truck accident victims face. With years of experience as Orange County truck accident lawyers, we’ve helped countless individuals and families rebuild their lives after these traumatic events. Immediate action can make all the difference, and it starts with understanding your rights.
Did you know? According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), almost 5,000 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal crashes in 2020.
In this article, we will explore the dangers of truck accidents, common injuries, who may be at fault, and how an experienced lawyer can help you protect your rights.
The Dangers of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are more than just larger-scale car crashes—they’re catastrophes waiting to happen. The average commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, compared to a standard passenger vehicle’s 3,000 to 4,000 pounds.
This disparity often spells increased risk of severe injuries and fatalities.
Why Are Truck Accidents More Severe?
- Size and Weight: Trucks cause significantly greater impact and damage, leading to catastrophic injuries for smaller vehicles.
- Road Conditions and Braking Time: Trucks require longer stopping distances, making quick reaction times harder in emergencies.
- Cargo Challenges: Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can cause rollovers, jackknifing, or debris falling into traffic.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are often preventable, with these being the leading causes:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours behind the wheel, often exceeding federal regulations, impair focus and reaction time.
- Distracted Driving: Just like passenger car drivers, truck drivers are not immune to texting, eating, or other distractions.
- Improper Maintenance: Neglected brakes, worn tires, or defective equipment put everyone on the road at risk.
- Reckless Driving: Speeding, aggressive maneuvering, or driving under the influence amplifies the likelihood of accidents.
Pro Tip: Getting legal advice early after an accident can be critical in determining liability and protecting your rights.
Common Injuries from Truck Accidents
The injuries resulting from truck accidents can range from severe to life-threatening. Here are some of the most common injuries victims experience, along with their long-term repercussions.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Even with airbags, the force of a truck impact can lead to head injuries, causing memory loss, cognitive dysfunction, or permanent brain damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries
A severe blow to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis, leading to lifelong changes and costly medical treatments.
Broken Bones
Arms, legs, ribs, and other bones are often broken due to the intense force of collisions. These injuries may require surgeries, rehabilitation, and months of recovery.
Internal Injuries
Damage to internal organs like the liver, kidney, or spleen can lead to internal bleeding—a life-threatening condition requiring immediate surgery.
The physical, emotional, and financial toll of these injuries can be overwhelming. That’s why appropriate compensation matters—medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care costs add up fast.
Who May Be at Fault in a Truck Accident?
One of the most complex aspects of truck accident cases is identifying liability. Unlike a car accident, multiple parties can be held accountable in a truck crash.
Potentially Liable Parties
- The Truck Driver: Reckless driving, fatigue, or distraction often places the driver at fault.
- The Trucking Company: Companies may push drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines or fail to enforce proper vehicle maintenance.
- Manufacturers: Defective truck parts—like faulty brakes or tires—could make manufacturers responsible for an accident.
- Cargo Loaders: Shifts in improperly loaded goods can destabilize a truck and cause accidents.
Each case is unique, and determining who is at fault requires meticulous investigation. Because of this complexity, an experienced attorney becomes critical in building your case.
How an Orange County Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident is no simple task. From insurance companies to multi-party liability, the legal system can feel overwhelming.
This is where an experienced lawyer steps in—to handle these complexities so that you can focus on recovery.
What Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Do?
- Investigate the Accident: A skilled truck accident lawyer will gather evidence like traffic camera footage, driver logs, and black box data to build a solid case.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. An attorney ensures you’re not taken advantage of and fights for the compensation you deserve.
- Pursue Claims: Whether it’s medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or property damage, an attorney ensures all damages are considered in your insurance claim.
- Trial Representation: If settlements fail, a skilled truck accident lawyer is prepared to take your case to court.
At Frantz Law Group, we specialize in truck accident cases. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that truck accident victims receive justice—and maximum compensation.
Experience and Expertise in Truck Accident Cases
Look for a law firm that specializes in truck accidents and has a proven track record of success in these complex cases.
An experienced truck accident lawyer should have a history of winning big for their clients.
They should also have a deep understanding of trucking regulations and liability to recover compensation that you very much deserve.
Trust Frantz Law Group to Fight for You
Truck accidents can drastically change lives, but you don’t have to face the challenges alone. With Frantz Law Group, you get more than legal representation—you gain a partner dedicated to fighting for your rights. Here’s why our clients trust us.
Why Choose Frantz Law Group?
- Experienced Attorneys: Decades of experience handling complex truck accident cases.
- Dedicated to Clients: Personalized attention tailored to your specific needs.
- Strong Track Record: Proven results showcasing our ability to deliver justice and compensation.
- Free Consultation: Get a no-obligation consultation to understand your options.
- Contingency Fee Basis: No payment unless we win your case.
If you or your loved ones have been impacted by a truck accident in Orange County, don’t delay.
Schedule your free consultation today.