Involved in a Truck Accident in Sherman Oaks? We’re Here to Help
A collision with a semi-truck, delivery truck or other commercial vehicle can leave you facing serious injuries, lost income and questions about who is responsible. Weiss Attorneys represents injured people in Sherman Oaks and throughout California, investigating the driver, carrier, vehicle condition and available insurance.
We can discuss preserving evidence, documenting your losses and the next steps in your claim. Request a free consultation or call (213) 583-0977. You can start with the records you have now.
Who May Be Responsible for a Truck Accident?
The name on the truck does not always identify every party involved. We examine ownership, employment and operating relationships alongside the evidence of what caused the crash.
- Driver: Attention, speed, following distance and fatigue may require investigation.
- Carrier or employer: Work assignments, supervision, training and safety practices may be relevant.
- Owner or maintenance provider: Inspection and repair records may explain brake, tire or equipment problems.
- Cargo loader: Loading and securement may matter when shifting cargo contributed to the collision.
Responsibility depends on the evidence and applicable law. A company’s involvement alone does not establish liability.
Truck Accident Evidence to Preserve Promptly
Useful evidence may include photographs, witness accounts, dashcam footage, dispatch communications, GPS records, available vehicle event data, driver duty logs, inspection records and cargo documents.
Electronic logging devices record driving time and may help investigate hours-of-service questions. Applicability and exemptions depend on the operation; see the FMCSA electronic logging device guide. These records do not by themselves prove fatigue or fault.
Video can be overwritten and vehicles repaired. Tell your attorney promptly about evidence that may disappear so appropriate preservation requests can be considered. Keep your photos, insurance correspondence, receipts and medical records.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
- Driver Fatigue: Despite regulations, some truck drivers may exceed allowable driving hours, leading to fatigue and impaired driving ability.
- Distracted Driving: Like all drivers, truck drivers can become distracted by phones, GPS devices, or other factors, leading to accidents.
- Improper Loading: Cargo that is not properly secured or balanced can shift during transit, causing the truck to tip over or lose control.
- Mechanical Failures: Poor maintenance or defective parts can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical issues that contribute to accidents.
- Speeding: Due to their size, trucks require longer stopping distances. Speeding can make it difficult for truck drivers to stop in time to avoid a collision.
Common Injuries in Truck Accidents
Due to the sheer size and force of commercial trucks, injuries sustained in truck accidents can be catastrophic. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The impact of a truck collision can cause severe head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord in a truck accident can lead to paralysis, chronic pain, and other long-term disabilities.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of a truck accident can result in multiple fractures, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries: The impact of a truck collision can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Burns and Lacerations: In cases where the truck’s fuel tank is compromised, fires and explosions can occur, leading to severe burns and lacerations.
How Weiss Attorneys Can Help You
Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident requires experienced legal representation. At Weiss Attorneys, we offer comprehensive legal services to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can assist:
Thorough Investigation: We conduct a detailed investigation to gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage. We also work with accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of the accident and identify all liable parties.
Compliance with Trucking Regulations: Our team has in-depth knowledge of federal and state trucking regulations. We analyze whether any violations contributed to the accident and use this information to build a strong case on your behalf.
Handling Insurance Claims: Trucking companies and their insurers often have significant resources to defend against claims. We handle all communications and negotiations with insurers, advocating on your behalf to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries, property damage, lost wages, and other losses.
Aggressive Representation in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Our attorneys have a proven track record of successfully litigating complex truck accident cases.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in Sherman Oaks
To protect your rights and strengthen your case after a truck accident, it’s important to take the following steps:
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, it’s essential to get evaluated by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, such as internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent but can have serious consequences if left untreated.
Document the Accident Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This visual evidence can be crucial in establishing fault and the extent of your injuries.
Collect Contact Information: Gather the contact details of the truck driver, any other involved drivers, and any witnesses. This information will be valuable in building a strong case.
Avoid Making Statements: Refrain from making any statements to insurance adjusters or other parties without consulting with an attorney. Anything you say could be used against you in the claims process.
Contact Weiss Attorneys: Schedule a free consultation with our team as soon as possible to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Injury lawsuit documents and resources
Explore these California personal injury guides:
Why Choose Weiss Attorneys for Your Truck Accident Case?
Established in 1974, Weiss Attorneys brings more than 60 years of combined attorney experience. Meet Sammy Weiss and Scarlett Farrokh to learn about the legal team.
We explain the process, evaluate evidence and keep clients informed. The initial consultation is free. Attorney fees are contingent on recovery under the written agreement, which also explains how case costs are handled.
Truck Accident Claim Questions
What compensation can a claim include?
Depending on the evidence, a claim may include medical expenses, lost earnings, reduced earning capacity, property damage and the effect of the injury on daily life. Future treatment and limitations require documentation. Fault, losses and coverage affect the evaluation; no settlement amount is guaranteed.
What if the driver says I caused the crash?
Preserve your records and describe what happened to your attorney. Photos, witnesses, vehicle damage and available video or electronic data can help evaluate conflicting accounts. An insurer’s initial assessment does not resolve every issue.
Should I accept the insurer’s first offer?
Before signing a release, consider whether the offer accounts for treatment, missed work and ongoing limitations. A release may resolve claims permanently. Keep offers and correspondence and seek legal advice before deciding.
How long do I have to bring a claim?
Deadlines depend on the parties and claim. Government-related matters and other circumstances can require action sooner than the ordinary personal injury filing period. Insurance negotiations do not automatically extend a deadline. Seek advice promptly; see the California Courts personal injury guide.
What should I bring to a consultation?
Bring the collision report or report number, photos, driver and carrier details, witness contacts, insurance correspondence, medical bills and evidence of missed work. Note the truck’s identifying numbers if you recorded them safely. Missing a document should not delay your initial call.
Will my case settle or go to court?
Some claims resolve through negotiation; others require litigation because fault, coverage or damages remain disputed. The next steps depend on the evidence. No outcome or timeline is guaranteed.
Read our injury checklist and California lawsuit documents and deadlines guides, or request a free truck accident consultation.
Our Working Process
1. Free Case Evaluation/Consultation
Begin with a free consultation where we evaluate your case. Our experienced attorneys will listen to your situation, answer your questions, and provide an initial assessment to determine the best course of action.
2. Sign You Up as A Client
Once we’ve evaluated your case, and you’re ready to proceed, we’ll formalize our partnership. This step includes signing the necessary agreements and setting the groundwork for our collaboration.
3. Strategic Case Planning
We meticulously plan each case by leveraging our experience and our network. Our team collaborates to explore every intuitive opportunity, ensuring your case has a solid and strategic foundation.
4. Work Tirelessly for Your Fair Compensation
We work tirelessly, following up with all relevant parties and handling every detail of your case. Our goal is to secure the fair compensation you deserve, keeping you informed and supported throughout the process.
