What should I do immediately after a truck accident in Los Angeles?
Call 911 first, then seek medical attention even if you feel fine. Truck accidents often cause delayed-onset injuries that aren't immediately apparent.
Document everything at the scene if you're able. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses and the truck driver's insurance details. Avoid admitting fault or discussing the accident details with anyone except police and your attorney.
Contact a truck accident lawyer within 24-48 hours. California's statute of limitations gives you two years to file a personal injury claim, but evidence disappears quickly and trucking companies often send investigators to the scene immediately.
When do I need a truck accident lawyer?
Hire a lawyer if you suffered serious injuries, face mounting medical bills, or the trucking company's insurance offers a quick settlement. These early settlement offers are typically far below what your case is worth.
You also need legal representation if multiple parties were involved, the truck driver denies fault, or if you're dealing with a large trucking company. These cases involve complex federal regulations that most people don't understand.
Don't handle truck accident cases alone. The average truck accident settlement is significantly higher than car accident settlements due to the severity of injuries and commercial insurance policies.
How do I choose the best truck accident lawyer in Los Angeles?
Look for attorneys who specialize specifically in truck accidents, not general personal injury. Truck accident cases involve federal trucking regulations, logbook requirements, and commercial vehicle standards that require specialized knowledge.
Key factors to evaluate:
- Track record: Ask about recent truck accident settlements and verdicts
- Resources: Can they hire accident reconstruction experts and investigate thoroughly?
- Trial experience: Many cases settle, but you want a lawyer prepared to go to court
- Communication: Do they respond promptly and explain legal concepts clearly?
Schedule consultations with 2-3 attorneys. Most truck accident lawyers offer free consultations and work on contingency fees, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case.
What damages can I recover in a Los Angeles truck accident case?
California allows you to recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and future medical costs.
Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, you may also recover punitive damages.
Truck accident settlements often exceed $100,000 due to severe injuries and substantial insurance coverage. Commercial trucks must carry minimum insurance of $750,000 to $5 million depending on the cargo type.
How long do truck accident cases take in Los Angeles?
Most truck accident cases settle within 6-18 months, though complex cases can take 2-3 years. The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries, the clarity of fault, and the trucking company's cooperation.
Factors that affect timeline:
- Medical treatment completion: Don't settle until you reach maximum medical improvement
- Investigation complexity: Gathering evidence from trucking companies takes time
- Insurance negotiations: Multiple insurance companies often complicate settlements
Your lawyer should keep you updated throughout the process and explain any delays. Be wary of attorneys who promise unrealistic timelines or pressure you to settle quickly.
What evidence is crucial in truck accident cases?
The truck driver's logbooks, maintenance records, and black box data are critical pieces of evidence. Federal law requires truckers to maintain detailed driving logs, and electronic logging devices track hours of service violations.
Essential evidence includes:
- Police reports and accident scene photos
- Medical records documenting all injuries and treatment
- Witness statements from other drivers or pedestrians
- Trucking company safety records and driver qualification files
Time is critical because trucking companies may destroy or alter evidence. Your lawyer should immediately send a spoliation letter requiring the company to preserve all relevant documents and data.
How much does a truck accident lawyer cost?
Most truck accident lawyers work on contingency fees, typically 33-40% of your settlement or verdict. You pay no attorney fees unless they successfully recover compensation for you.
Additional costs may include:
- Case expenses: Expert witnesses, medical record copying, court filing fees
- Investigation costs: Accident reconstruction, private investigators
- Medical expert fees: Doctors who testify about your injuries and future care needs
Discuss fee structures upfront and get everything in writing. Reputable attorneys will advance case costs and only recover these expenses if they win your case.
