Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer

A truck accident can flip your world upside down in a heartbeat. One second, you’re in traffic— maybe driving on the 10, or stuck on the 405. The next? Sirens, airbags, chaos, and unforeseen injuries.

What comes next? A mess of insurance calls, medical bills, police reports, and questions. You might be in pain, out of work, and worried about your future—meanwhile, trucking companies and insurers are already at work, looking for ways to pay you as little as possible. This is when you need someone fighting for you, this is when you need personal injury attorneys who know what they’re doing.

That’s where West Coast Trial Lawyers comes in. When you hire our Los Angeles truck accident lawyers, you get fighters. You get real help from people who understand what you’re going through and how hard it is to bounce back from a crash with a big rig.

Call us anytime at (213) 927-3700 for a free consultation or fill out our online contact form.

What Makes West Coast Trial Lawyers Stand-out?

When you work with WCTL, you’re getting the experience and leadership of Neama Rahmani, our co-founder and President. Neama is not just any attorney—he graduated from Harvard Law School at age 22 and started his career as a federal prosecutor, tackling major cases and high-stakes defendants. Later, he served as Director of Enforcement at the Los Angeles City Ethics Commission, where he took on corruption in LA’s City Hall. Now, he brings that same relentless drive to helping truck accident victims across Los Angeles. With Neama, our team knows exactly how to stand up to powerful trucking companies and fight for the justice our clients deserve. 

You might’ve also seen him live on CNN, Fox, BBC, or other major news outlets where he shares his insights and experience on high profile cases with viewers around the world.

Also, Lots of law firms have websites. But not all have:

• Real trial experience—We’re actual trial lawyers with years of experience winning cases in front of a judge and jury, we go to court and win when needed
• Resources to take on big companies—including accident reconstruction, trucking, and medical experts
• Personalized service—you’re never just a number, and you always get real updates
• No upfront fees—we only get paid if we win
• A reputation that matters—insurance companies know we mean business

Our results speak for themselves—but our clients’ stories matter even more.

Why Truck Accidents Are Different  

Trucking accidents are nothing like a fender-bender with a compact car. When a fully-loaded truck hits you, physics is not on your side. These vehicles can weigh 20-40 times more than a typical car. The damage? Almost always life-changing or traumatic at the very least.

But it’s not just the size that makes these cases tough. It’s the trucking system. Truck drivers aren’t just driving—they’re working for big companies, often running tight schedules, carrying precious or hazardous cargo for other companies. In a single crash, there might be five or six different companies involved:

• The driver, who might be an employee or an “independent contractor”
• The trucking company (often called the “motor carrier”)
• The company that owns or loaded the cargo
• The company that leased the truck or trailer
• The maintenance crew or a third-party repair shop
• The manufacturer of any part that failed (think brakes, tires, lights)
• And sometimes, even a government agency—if the road itself was unsafe

Every one of these parties will have their own insurance. Most have teams of lawyers ready to shut you down, delay your claim, or blame someone else.

You need someone who won’t blink or back down. That’s what you get with our Los Angeles truck accident attorney team.

Most Common Causes of Truck Crashes in LA (And How We Prove It)

Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers are supposed to follow hours-of-service rules, it’s literally in their company handbooks, no more than 11 hours behind the wheel at once, and mandatory breaks. Many drivers push the limits or even fake logs to meet deadlines.

Distracted Driving

Texting, using GPS, eating, adjusting music, these super avoidable actions, even if just a second’s distraction, can mean disaster.

Impaired Driving

Another super avoidable one is drivers using Alcohol illegal drugs, prescription meds, or even over-the-counter sleep aids while on the road 

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Big trucks need more time to stop, that’s why freeways have whats called runaway truck ramps so even a small speed increase can mean the difference between a close call and a catastrophe.

Improper Loading or Overweight Trucks

Unsecured cargo can shift, causing rollovers or lost loads that create dangerous hazards on the freeway.

Poor Maintenance and Defective Parts

Bald tires, worn brakes, faulty lights—skipping regular checks is illegal and deadly.

Aggressive or Untrained Drivers

Some companies cut corners in training or hire drivers with poor records. A bad hire puts everyone at risk.

Bad Road Conditions

Sometimes it’s not the trucker’s fault. Potholes, missing signs, or bad weather can contribute, but the city or state may be responsible.

What Kind of Truck Accident Was It? (And Why It Matters)

Each crash has its own “signature.” The type of wreck tells us where to look for the truth—and who’s at fault:

• Jackknife: Trailer swings out at an angle, often during sudden braking. Tends to block multiple lanes, causing pileups.
• Rollover: Truck tips onto its side, sometimes spilling hazardous cargo.
• Blind Spot/Lane Change: Trucks have huge areas they can’t see, especially along the sides and rear.
• Rear-End: Truck slams into the back of a car—dangerous due to size and force.
• Override/Underride: A car ends up under the truck’s trailer (often fatal).
• Lost Load/Spill: Cargo falls onto the road, hitting other vehicles or causing chaos.
• T-Bone or Intersection Crashes: Often caused by running red lights or failing to yield.

Knowing the “how” helps us figure out the “who” and “why”—key for winning your case.

Truck Accident Injuries: Life-Changing, Often Permanent

Truck crash injuries are typically severe. You may be dealing with:

• Brain injuries: From concussions to traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can affect memory, speech, emotions, and your ability to work.
• Spinal cord injuries: Can cause chronic pain, loss of mobility, or paralysis.
• Broken bones and amputations: Multiple fractures are common.
• Burns and lacerations: Especially if the crash caused a fire or hazardous material spill.
• Internal injuries: Bleeding, organ damage, or ruptures.
• Psychological injuries: PTSD, anxiety, depression.
• Wrongful death: The unthinkable loss of a loved one.

We work with top medical experts to value these injuries—and to fight for what you really need for your future.

The First Steps: What To Do (and NOT Do) After a Truck Accident in LA

It’s chaos right after a wreck. Here’s a real-world checklist to protect your health, your finances, and your case:

1. Call 911 and Stay Safe

Even if the crash seems “minor,” get police and medical help. Trucking companies are required to report serious crashes, and police reports matter. Medical records matter even more.

2. Get Medical Attention

Don’t “tough it out” or brush off pain. Adrenaline can mask injuries—internal bleeding, concussions, spinal injuries, and whiplash often don’t show up right away.

Go to the ER, urgent care, or your doctor and tell them everything. Follow their advice, fill your prescriptions, and keep all your paperwork.

3. Gather Evidence (If You Can)

If you’re physically able, get photos and surveillance videos. Think about:

• Vehicle damage (yours and theirs)
• The road (skid marks, debris, potholes, traffic lights/signs)
• Your injuries
• Company logos or names on the truck and trailer
• The license plates and DOT numbers
• Cargo spills or leaks
• The driver’s license and insurance info

If there are witnesses, get their names and phone numbers.

4. Don’t Argue or Admit Fault

Emotions run high after a crash. Stay calm and polite, but don’t say “sorry,” “I didn’t see you,” or speculate about what happened. Stick to the facts when you speak to police.

5. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters Alone

Within hours or days, someone from the trucking company’s insurance might call you. They’ll sound friendly. They are NOT your friend. Never agree to a recorded statement. Don’t sign anything. Say, “I am getting legal advice and will have my attorney contact you.”

6. Contact a Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorney

Don’t wait. The sooner you call, the sooner your rights are protected—and the stronger your case will be.

Why You Need a Lawyer for a Truck Accident  

Trucking companies don’t play fair. They may send investigators to the scene within hours. They might “lose” records, erase digital logs, or coach drivers on what to say. You need an advocate who understands:

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules
• California traffic and negligence laws
• How to secure and analyze black box data (event data recorders)
• The strategies insurance companies use to minimize claims
• How to prove “liability” when many parties are involved

Some lawyers handle fender-benders. Some advertise for every kind of accident. A true Los Angeles truck accident lawyer knows how to find every shred of evidence, hire the right experts, and build a case the big companies can’t ignore.

How WCTL Investigate a Truck Accident

Our process is thorough because it has to be. Here’s what we do that makes a difference:

We Secure Physical Evidence Fast

• Get the vehicles inspected before they’re repaired or destroyed
• Demand trucking companies preserve black box data, GPS info, dashcam footage, and logs
• Photograph every inch of damage, the scene, and cargo

We Request and Review All Company Records

• Driving logs, GPS history, maintenance and inspection reports
• Employment and training records for the driver
• Bills of lading and cargo manifests (sometimes the cargo company is at fault)

We Find the Real Story

• Interview witnesses and first responders
• Analyze the accident report, toxicology screens, and driver histories
• Reconstruct the crash with engineers or accident reconstruction specialists

We Build a Timeline

• Prove how long the driver was on the road (was he violating the hours-of-service rules?)
• Document what happened in the minutes, hours, and days before the crash
• Expose company shortcuts—like skipped maintenance, unrealistic schedules, or ignored safety warnings

We Calculate the Full Cost of Your Loss

• Medical experts assess every injury, including future surgeries or therapies
• Economists or vocational experts evaluate lost earning capacity
• Mental health experts can testify about trauma, PTSD, and quality of life changes

Don’t Wait: Deadlines for Filing a Truck Accident Claim in California

Time moves fast after an accident. But the law is strict about how long you have to act:

• Personal Injury: 2 years from the accident date
• Property Damage: 3 years
• Claims Against a Government Agency: 6 months (and a shorter timeline for the lawsuit itself)

These deadlines can sneak up on you. And waiting makes evidence disappear. Contacting an a truck accident lawyer quickly isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

What Damages Can You Recover In a Los Angeles Truck Accident? 

You’re probably wondering, “What is my claim actually worth?” There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Here’s what California law allows—and what we’ll fight for:

Economic Damages

• All medical bills: ambulance, ER, surgery, rehab, medications, equipment, home modifications
• Anticipated future medical care (for serious injuries)
• Lost wages and income (even if you’re self-employed or gig work)
• Reduced earning ability if you can’t return to your old job
• Car repair or replacement costs
• Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation to doctors, help at home, etc.)

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering (physical pain and ongoing discomfort)
• Emotional distress (anxiety, depression, nightmares)
• Loss of enjoyment of life (can’t do hobbies, sports, or family activities you loved)
• Scarring or disfigurement
• Loss of consortium (impact on your relationship with a spouse/partner)

Wrongful Death Damages

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of income and financial support
• Loss of love, companionship, guidance, and support for surviving family members

Punitive Damages

If the trucking company or driver was grossly negligent or broke the law, you may also recover extra damages designed to punish them (think: drunk driving, knowingly skipping maintenance, faking records).

Why You Should NEVER Accept a Fast Settlement

Insurance companies want you to settle early—and for less. They know medical costs add up. They know injuries may get worse. And once you sign a settlement agreement, you can never ask for more—even if you need surgery later or can’t go back to work.

A quick check today could cost you tens or hundreds of thousands tomorrow. Always talk to a lawyer first!

What to Expect When You Call Us

• A real conversation. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and explain your options—no pressure, no legalese.
• No upfront costs. You don’t pay us unless we win your case.
• Aggressive advocacy. We’ll investigate, negotiate, and go to trial if that’s what it takes.
• Updates along the way. You’ll always know what’s happening with your case.

Your Recovery With our Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyers

Getting your life back after a truck accident? It’s tough. Most folks feel lost at first. But take our advice—nobody should go through this on their own. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, you’re not just a case. You’re someone we go to bat for, like we would for our own family. If you’re thinking, “How do I even start?”—just reach out.

You can call us anytime at (213) 927-3700 for a free consultation or fill out our online contact form.

We keep it private, we keep it simple, and you don’t pay us a dime unless we win for you. Take the first step—let’s figure out what comes next, together.

Los Angeles Truck Accident FAQs

How Soon After a Truck Accident Should I Contact an Attorney?

Right away. The trucking company is already working to defend themselves—evidence can be lost quickly.

Can I Afford a Lawyer?

Yes. You pay nothing upfront and nothing at all unless we win.

What if I Was Partly at Fault?

California is a “comparative fault” state. Even if you were partly responsible, you can still recover damages—your compensation is just reduced by your share of fault.

What if the Truck Was Carrying Hazardous or Flammable Materials?

Extra rules apply, and injuries can be worse. We have experience with hazmat claims and will seek maximum compensation.

Will I Have to Go to Court?

Most cases settle. But if the trucking company won’t do the right thing, we’re ready to take your case to trial.

Can I Still Recover if the Crash Happened Months Ago?

Maybe. As long as you’re within the statute of limitations, we can help. But call now—time matters.

What if I Already Started a Claim but the Insurance Company Is Stalling or Lowballing Me?

We can take over, negotiate aggressively, and go to court if needed. Don’t let delays cost you money.