Torrance Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck Accident Attorney in Torrance, CA

Trucking is a major component of the California economy. Freight trucks in California are vital for delivering goods, but they can pose major safety risks to those in standard-sized vehicles such as sedans or SUVs. If you or a loved one has suffered from a truck accident in Los Angeles County, contact a Torrance truck accident lawyer to get the compensation you’re entitled to.

Trucking in California

Truck drivers can be more susceptible to accidents due to the size of their vehicles and the long hours required for transport. However, there are strict regulations in place to prevent drivers from exhausting themselves, including strict Hours of Service (HOS) and drug/alcohol testing.

If a truck driver violated these regulations and an accident resulted, they could be found at least partially at fault. A truck accident lawyer will be able to help you identify the fault in your accident, specifically if there was negligent behavior displayed on behalf of the truck driver.

With 6,829 freight trucking businesses, California and the Los Angeles metropolitan area face large amounts of interstate travel from freight trucks. For Californians who use busy routes for work or other daily necessities, this can place them at heightened risk of an accident with a freight truck or other oversized vehicle.

Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer Shaffer Law

With over 30 years of experience in personal injury, Shaffer Law is uniquely qualified to handle your truck accident case. Founding attorney Douglas D. Shaffer is dedicated to his clients’ satisfaction, advocating for them every step of the way. He has successfully represented many clients, recovering over $100 million for his clients’ injuries. If you were injured in a truck accident, don’t hesitate to get skilled legal counsel today.

Truck Accidents in Torrance, CA

In 2023, 392 Californians died from large truck crashes– the second-highest truck accident fatality rate in the country. If you are the victim of a truck accident in Torrance, don’t hesitate to get the representation you deserve. These accidents are often more severe than car-on-car crashes, resulting in extensive injuries, medical bills, and emotional distress.

In Torrance, there are several roads where drivers may be particularly susceptible to accidents. The I-405 and State Route 91 freeways are busy roads that endure heavy traffic during peak rush hours. These roads are notorious for rear-ending, with Torrance experiencing 647 deaths and serious injuries due to vehicular accidents in 2023 alone.

Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer for a Truck Accident Claim?

In California, you are not required to hire a truck accident lawyer for a truck accident claim. It is important to note, however, that truck accidents differ greatly from standard vehicle collisions. When a truck accident occurs, multiple parties may be suspected of fault.

Truck carriers, truck drivers, manufacturers, and car drivers may all have varying degrees of responsibility in the crash, which can lead to a lengthy litigation process. In these cases, it is highly advisable to have your own personal injury attorney.

California is a “pure comparative negligence” state. This means that even if a party is 99% or less at fault for the accident, they are eligible to file a claim against the other party. A Torrance personal injury attorney will be familiar with the many complexities of California’s legislature and the local courts’ preferences.

For Torrance residents, personal injury claims may be filed in the Los Angeles Superior Court’s South Bay District, at the Torrance Courthouse (825 Maple Ave). Your personal injury attorney can assist you with this process, as well as manage your deadlines and the filing of all relevant documentation necessary.

Negotiation Strategies for Truck Accident Claims

Dealing with insurance companies and freight businesses can quickly become overwhelming and time-consuming. Insurance adjusters may employ tactics aimed at lowering your compensation, something a personal injury attorney should be familiar with.

Your attorney may also collect evidence relevant to your damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and proof of how the crash diminished your quality of life. This will aid you in achieving the outcome you deserve and financially recovering from your accident.

FAQs

What Is the Average Truck Accident Settlement in California?

The settlement awarded for a truck accident claim in California is dependent on many factors of the case. The severity of injuries suffered can often correlate with how much compensation is ultimately issued. Commercial trucking lines also generally carry high insurance coverage for their drivers, which means it is sometimes easier to obtain a larger settlement than it might be for a typical car accident. A judge may even award punitive damages for grossly negligent or intentional accidents.

Who Is Liable for a Truck Accident?

In the case of truck accidents, several different parties may be liable. The driver, company, or manufacturer of the truck may ultimately be held accountable for causing the accident. Even improperly loaded cargo or missed maintenance servicing can make a third party at fault in these accidents. An attorney may be able to help you seek damages for medical expenses, emotional distress, and lost wages caused by your accident.

What Language Should I Avoid in an Insurance Claim for a Truck Accident?

When filing an insurance claim, certain language should be avoided in order to preserve the strength of your claim. Certain phrases can weaken a claim’s credibility by unintentionally minimizing your injuries or suffering. It is advisable to stick to the facts of your case and seek legal counsel if you are unsure of how to proceed.

Can You Sue for Pain and Suffering From a Truck Accident?

In California, it is possible to sue for pain and suffering that resulted from an accident with a truck. Pain and suffering may encompass adverse effects such as PTSD, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and other long-lasting challenges. California has no set cap on compensation awarded for truck accidents, meaning an attorney can help you pursue full reimbursement for your pain and suffering.

Contact Shaffer Law After a Truck Accident in Torrance

An attorney can provide you with the peace of mind necessary to focus on your path to recovery. Don’t hesitate to get the justice and compensation you’re entitled to. Contact the office of Shaffer Law in Torrance today to evaluate your options with experienced legal counsel.