Truck Accident Lawyer in Redlands

Experienced Legal Guidance for Truck Accident Victims in Redlands

The most dangerous vehicles on today's roads are large commercial trucks and tractor trailers. These behemoths can weigh over 25 times what a normal passenger vehicle weighs.  

This makes them hard to maneuver, control and stop. Since California is one of the nation's largest shipping hubs, you are very likely to share the road with one of these machines.

If one loses control and harms your family, our Redlands truck accident lawyer is ready to help. At Dolen, Tucker, Tierney & Abraham, our clients' needs are our top priority. We have extensive experience that helps us fight for the results our clients need. 

When it comes to facing trucking companies and their insurers, you can never take your claim for granted. We know the tricks these companies use to devalue your case, and we can help you overcome them.

Injured in a truck accident? You may be entitled to compensation. Contact us today at (909) 473-4948 to discuss your case.

What You Need to Know About Truck Accidents

In 2017, there were 327 fatal truck crashes in California and 6,897 truck crashes that resulted in injuries. Out of these crashes, 9,710 people suffered injuries and 367 people lost their lives. This makes California one of the most dangerous states for truck accidents in the entire country.

Other statistics you should know:

• Nationwide, 4,136 people lost their lives in truck accidents in 2018.
• Around 67 percent of these fatalities were occupants of a passenger vehicle.
• The number of truck accident related fatalities has increased 31 percent since 2009.

What Causes Truck Accidents?

Many factors can lead to a large truck collision. 

Here are a few of the most common causes our Redlands truck accident lawyer has found:

Poor Training 

Due to driver shortages, negligent trucking companies will rush new drivers into service. This can leave these truckers unprepared for the challenges of their job. Some companies may even neglect this critical training just to save money.

• Improper Maintenance of Trucks and Trailers 
  For some trucking companies, the cost of maintaining their fleet is huge. This is why some companies avoid properly maintaining their vehicles. However, this can lead to much greater costs in property damage and human lives. Trucks with unchecked brakes may not stop in an emergency situation. 
  Tires that are not properly checked could experience a blowout, which can be far more catastrophic than a blowout on a passenger vehicle. Truck tires carry such explosive power that a passerby could suffer fatal injuries from being near a truck tire blowout.
• Poor Load Distribution 
  When carrying tons of cargo, the distribution of that weight is critical. Failing to tether cargo or placing too many boxes on one side of a trailer could cause tipping. If a truck falls on top of another vehicle, the resulting crash could be fatal.
• Distracted Driving 
  To combat the tedium of long hauls, truckers have come up with many ways to entertain themselves. Unfortunately, these methods can go too far. Taking your eyes off the road for even a moment can cause drivers to miss critical events. Worse yet, the number of distractions are increasing as technology improves. 
  Mobile games, streaming video, social media and other distractions contributed to the 3,166 lives lost to distracted driving in 2017.
• Driving Under the Influence 
  Alcohol, illegal drugs and pharmaceuticals can all hamper an individual's ability to drive. In California, the use of alcohol while driving lead to 1,167 fatalities and 18,569 injuries over the course of 2017.

Truck Accident Support in Redlands

Truck accidents in Redlands are a significant concern, especially with the traffic highways such as the I-10 and I-215. These incidents can lead to severe injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens, including medical expenses and lost income.

The Redlands community faces unique challenges when it comes to truck accidents. With busy streets and a mix of urban and outdoor lifestyles, navigating the aftermath of a collision can feel overwhelming. Local resources, such as the Redlands Police Department and the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, play an important role in addressing these incidents and promoting public safety.

Our legal team focuses on supporting individuals impacted by truck accidents in Redlands. With a strong understanding of California personal injury laws and regulations, we work to help victims pursue the compensation they need to recover and rebuild. If you or someone you know has been involved in a truck accident, taking action is critical in pursuing justice and accountability. Reach out to learn how we can assist you during this difficult time.

Types of Truck Accidents We Handle

Truck accidents come in many forms, each with its own risks and causes. Here are some of the most common types:

• Jackknife Accidents – Occur when a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle, resembling a folding knife. This can block multiple lanes and cause severe crashes.
• Rollover Crashes – Trucks can tip over due to high speeds, sudden turns, or improper cargo loading, leading to catastrophic damage.
• Underride and Override Accidents – In an underride accident, a smaller vehicle gets trapped under a truck’s trailer. In an override accident, a truck runs over a smaller vehicle, often leading to fatal injuries.
• Rear-End Collisions Involving Trucks – Due to their size, trucks need more stopping distance. If a truck fails to brake in time, it can cause severe damage to the vehicle in front.
• Tire Blowout Accidents – A sudden tire blowout can cause a truck driver to lose control, leading to swerving or rollovers. Debris from a blown tire can also create hazards for other drivers.
• Wide-Turn Accidents – Trucks need extra space to turn, but if they swing too wide or don’t check for nearby vehicles, they can crash into other cars.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

Truck accidents often result in life-altering injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Some of the most serious injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Head trauma from an accident can cause long-term cognitive and motor function impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis – Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care.
• Broken Bones and Fractures – The impact of a truck crash can cause multiple fractures, leading to prolonged recovery and possible surgeries.
• Internal Organ Damage – Blunt-force trauma can cause life-threatening injuries to internal organs, sometimes requiring emergency surgery.
• Burn Injuries from Truck Fires or Explosions – Fuel spills and high-impact crashes can lead to fires, causing severe burns and permanent scarring.
• Emotional Trauma and PTSD – Surviving a truck accident can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), affecting daily life.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident?

Truck accidents often involve multiple responsible parties, making liability complex. Those who may be held accountable include:

• Truck Drivers – If the driver was speeding, fatigued, distracted, or under the influence, they could be held responsible for the crash.
• Trucking Companies – Companies that hire unqualified drivers, violate safety regulations, or fail to maintain their fleet can be liable.
• Truck Manufacturers – If a truck or its parts (such as brakes, tires, or steering systems) were defective, the manufacturer may be at fault.
• Maintenance Providers – If a third-party mechanic or maintenance company failed to properly inspect or repair the truck, they could be responsible.
• Cargo Loaders – Improperly loaded cargo can cause a truck to tip over or spill onto the road, leading to dangerous accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you likely have many questions. Here are some common concerns people have:

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in California?

• In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If the claim is against a government entity (such as a city-owned vehicle), the deadline may be much shorter—as little as six months.

Should I speak to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

• No, it’s best to avoid giving a statement to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster without legal representation. They may try to minimize your claim or get you to admit partial fault. Always consult with a lawyer first.

What if the truck driver was from another state?

• Truck drivers often cross state lines, but that doesn’t prevent you from filing a claim. Trucking companies are regulated by both federal and state laws, and a lawyer can help determine where to file your case.

Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault?

• Yes. California follows comparative negligence laws, meaning you can recover damages even if you were partly responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How do I prove the truck driver was at fault?

• Evidence such as police reports, dashcam footage, black box data, driver logs, witness statements, and truck maintenance records can all help prove liability in a truck accident case.

What damages can I recover after a truck accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills (current and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs

What if my accident was caused by bad weather?

• Truck drivers are expected to adjust their driving to road conditions. If they were speeding, following too closely, or driving recklessly in bad weather, they could still be held liable for the crash.

Don’t let trucking companies deny you the compensation you deserve. Contact us now at (909) 473-4948 for a free consultation.