(562) 698-6446
(562) 698-6446
Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys in Santa Ana, California
At Hanning & Sacchetto, our Santa Ana truck accident attorneys know that California’s commercial vehicle traffic is among the highest in the nation. Whether semi-trucks, delivery vehicles, flatbed trucks, or other large vehicles transporting goods, these commercial trucks are significantly larger and heavier than most other vehicles on the road. The sheer mass of these trucks makes collisions with smaller vehicles more dangerous, as the impact force is more significant, which can lead to catastrophic injuries and tragic fatalities.
Our Orange County truck accident attorneys know that holding the liable party accountable for these crashes can require in-depth investigations into the truck driver’s driving logs, employment history, training records, and any history of traffic violations and an examination of the truck’s inspection and maintenance records can reveal whether the vehicle complied with safety regulations and adequately maintained. And that’s just the beginning.
Trucking companies and other third parties — like manufacturers, cargo loaders, and others — may have played a role in the accident’s occurrence, requiring a thorough investigation into each potentially responsible party to build a compelling case demonstrating liability and supporting our client’s compensation claims.
Our dedicated Santa Ana truck accident attorneys take these investigations very seriously because we know they mean the difference between our clients getting the settlements they deserve and paying for potentially catastrophic injuries out of their pockets.
If you have been injured in a California truck accident or have lost a loved one in a commercial vehicle accident caused by a negligent truck driver, trucking company, or another third party, contact our trusted personal injury attorneys today to discuss your case during a free consultation.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents in California?
Commercial truck accidents can result from various factors, and understanding the common causes is essential for improving road safety.
Some of the most frequent causes of commercial truck accidents in California include:
- Driver Fatigue
Long hours on the road and tight schedules can lead to driver fatigue. Fatigued truck drivers may have slower reaction times and impaired decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Distracted Driving
Like any other driver, truck drivers can be distracted by texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-cab electronic devices. Distractions can divert attention from the road and lead to accidents.
- Intoxication
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a dangerous behavior that can impair a truck driver’s judgment and coordination, leading to accidents.
- Aggressive Driving
Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving between lanes, and road rage can contribute to commercial truck accidents.
- Speeding
Excessive speed is a common factor in truck accidents. Large trucks have longer stopping distances, and high speeds reduce the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
- Failure to Obey Traffic Rules
Violations of traffic rules, including running red lights, failure to yield, or improper lane changes, can lead to collisions involving commercial trucks.
- Improper Loading and Cargo Securement
Poorly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, affecting the truck’s stability and potentially causing accidents. Improperly loaded cargo can also lead to rollovers.
- Inadequate Training
Truck drivers require specialized training to operate large commercial vehicles safely. Inexperienced or inadequately trained drivers may struggle with handling these vehicles in challenging conditions.
- Mechanical Failures
Truck accidents can occur due to mechanical failures such as brake system malfunctions, tire blowouts, or other issues related to inadequate maintenance.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Commercial Truck Accidents in California?
Determining liability for commercial truck accidents in California involves carefully examining the accident’s circumstances. Several parties may potentially be held liable, and liability can be shared among multiple entities.
Common parties that may be considered liable in commercial truck accidents include:
- Truck Driver
The truck driver is often a primary party considered for liability. If the driver was negligent, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, they may be held responsible.
- Trucking Company
The trucking company that employs the driver may be held liable, mainly if the accident occurred due to issues related to hiring practices, inadequate training, or failure to maintain the truck properly.
- Truck Owner
In cases where the truck is owned separately from the trucking company, the owner may bear some responsibility, particularly if the accident resulted from poor maintenance or mechanical failures.
- Maintenance Providers
Companies responsible for maintaining the truck may be liable if the accident is caused by mechanical failures resulting from poor maintenance practices.
- Cargo Loading Companies
If the accident results from improperly loaded or unsecured cargo, the company responsible for loading and securing the cargo may be held liable.
- Manufacturers of Defective Parts
If the accident was caused by a defect in the truck or its components, the manufacturers or distributors of those defective parts may be liable under product liability laws.
Determining liability often involves a thorough investigation, including gathering evidence from the accident scene, analyzing the driver’s logbooks, assessing maintenance records, and reviewing company policies. It is not uncommon for multiple parties to share liability in commercial truck accidents.
We can help you determine which party, or combination of parties, is liable for your crash and pursue each for your complete financial recovery needs.
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Contact Our Accomplished Santa Ana Truck Accident and Injury Attorneys Today
If you or someone you love has been injured or lost their life in a California truck accident caused by negligence, contact our experienced Santa Ana personal injury attorneys at Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP today to schedule a free consultation by calling (562)-698-6446.
