Every year, thousands of California drivers share roads with semi-trucks weighing up to 80,000 pounds. While these trucks play a critical role in commerce, their size and weight make accidents involving them devastating.

If you’re involved in such an accident, the choices you make immediately after can significantly impact your recovery—financially, physically, and emotionally.

What can you expect from this article?

We’ll cover the complexities of semi-truck accident claims, the injuries often sustained, the role of an attorney, and the steps you need to take following an accident. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to protect your rights and why partnering with experienced legal counsel is essential.

Understanding the Complexity of Semi-Truck Accident Claims

Car accidents are complicated enough, but accidents involving semi-trucks are a different ballgame. Here’s why:

Unlike car accidents, semi-truck claims often involve several parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and independent contractors. Determining who is liable can be an intricate puzzle.

Semi-truck operators must adhere to federal regulations set by entities like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Violations such as exceeding driving hour limits (to meet tight delivery schedules) or neglecting proper maintenance can play a critical role in proving negligence.

Insurance companies representing trucking entities are usually well-funded and have formidable legal teams aiming to reduce or outright deny payouts. They bank on victims being ill-prepared to handle the complexities of these claims.

A team with deep knowledge of federal regulations and state-specific nuances in your corner is crucial to leveling the playing field.

Common Injuries in Semi-Truck Accidents

Semi-trucks are up to 20 times heavier than passenger vehicles. The physics of such an impact often leaves victims with catastrophic injuries. Here are the most common ones:

  1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

These can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term memory, cognitive, or motor impairments.

  1. Spinal Cord Injuries

From herniated discs to permanent paralysis, spinal injuries are common and often life-altering.

  1. Fractures and Broken Bones

The sheer force of a collision can shatter bones, leaving victims needing multiple surgeries or lengthy recovery periods.

  1. Internal Injuries

Damage to organs like the liver or lungs often requires emergency surgery—and may go unnoticed without immediate medical examination.

Even “minor” truck accidents can result in long-term pain and suffering. Busy roadways like the I-5 and I-10 are hotspots for these catastrophes, making it all the more urgent for victims to seek legal and medical help without delay.

The Role of a Semi-Truck Accident Attorney

A skilled attorney does much more than file paperwork. Their multi-faceted role is designed to protect you during an inherently uneven battle. Here’s what they bring to the table:

1. Comprehensive Accident Investigation

Your attorney will reconstruct the accident by analyzing the scene, obtaining police reports, recovering electronic logging device (ELD) data, and working with accident reconstruction experts.

2. Gathering Crucial Evidence

From medical records to truck driver logs and even black box data, they ensure no stone is left unturned in building your case.

3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Remember, the insurance company’s primary goal is minimizing their payout. Your lawyer’s negotiation skills and legal knowledge are your best defense against lowball offers.

4. Litigation When Necessary

Although most claims are settled out of court, a reputable attorney won’t hesitate to take your case to trial if it means securing the compensation you deserve.

By entrusting your case to an experienced truck accident attorney, you gain a partner ready to take on the complexities so you can focus on recovery.

5. Expertise in Truck Accident Law

A truck accident attorney has expertise in truck accident law and can help you navigate the complex regulations and laws surrounding commercial trucking.

6. Experience with Truck Crash Cases

An experienced truck crash lawyer has handled numerous cases and can provide valuable guidance and representation. They can help you build a strong case and advocate for your rights.

7. Ability to Determine Liability

A truck accident attorney can help determine liability in your case, including identifying responsible parties such as the truck driver, trucking company, or vehicle manufacturer.

Steps to Take After a Semi-Truck Accident

Feeling overwhelmed after an accident with an 18-wheeler is natural. But specific steps can help protect your rights and set you up for a stronger case:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Seek medical attention immediately after a truck accident, even if you don’t think you’re injured. Medical records can serve as valuable evidence in your truck accident case.

2. Document the Scene

Use your phone to take photos and videos of:

3. Obtain Contact Information

Gather names, phone numbers, and insurance details from the other driver(s), as well as any witnesses.

4. Inform Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance carrier, but avoid admitting fault or stating specifics about the accident until you’ve consulted an attorney.

5. Refrain from Speaking to Third Parties

Avoid discussing the accident whether it’s the trucking company’s representative or insurer. Direct these conversations to your lawyer.

6. Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer

Contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident. They can help you navigate the claims process and advocate for your rights.

Injured in a Semi-Truck Accident? Frantz Law Group Can Help

Semi-truck accidents can upend lives in an instant. But you don’t have to face the fallout alone—Frantz Law Group is here to help.

Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the complexities of semi-truck accident claims. We’ve successfully fought for truck accident victims across California, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. Whether it’s a car accident, motorcycle crash, or a slip-and-fall case, we’re committed to fighting for your rights.

Every second matters. Contact us today for a free consultation, and take the first step toward rebuilding your life.

Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone—Frantz Law Group has your back.