Author: Chloe Rivera | Legal Writer | Truck Accident Lawyer
Youโre on the 5 freeway, headed to your job in Downtown LA. The traffic is normalโuntil itโs not. A semi-truck swerves, jackknifes, and smashes into the side of your sedan. Your airbags explode. Your spine aches. The world slows down. In seconds, your life changes forever.
Crashes involving 18-wheelers are among the deadliest on Californiaโs roads. In 2024 alone, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported over 7,000 large truck injury crashes and more than 100 fatalities in Los Angeles County. These cases demand swift action, deep legal expertise, and compassion.
Case Spotlight: $2.3 Million for FMCSA Violation Crash
In 2023, our client Michael D., a 41-year-old father of two from Glendale, was rear-ended on I-5 by a fatigued truck driver who had falsified his logbook. After months of physical therapy and spinal fusion surgery, Michael struggled to walk without pain. Our team uncovered multiple violations of FMCSA Hours of Service rules and secured a $2.3 million settlement to cover medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
FAQs About Semi-Truck Accident Claims
What makes semi-truck accidents more complicated than car accidents?
Big rig crashes involve federal law, high-value insurance policies, and corporate defendants. These cases demand aggressive investigation and expert witnesses to prove liability and damages.
Who can be held liable in a semi-truck accident?
Itโs not just the driver. The trucking company, a third-party logistics firm, a parts manufacturer, or maintenance provider may also be held accountable, especially if safety violations are uncovered.
What kind of compensation can I receive?
Compensation may include current and future medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages if the trucking company acted recklessly.
What federal laws apply to truck accident claims?
One of the most critical is 49 CFR ยง395.3, which limits how long truck drivers can be on the road. These limits are often violated and lead directly to preventable crashes.
How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in California?
Most victims have two years from the date of the crash to file a claim under California law. But there are exceptionsโdelays can cost you your right to recover.
