Why Do You Need a Big Rig Accident Lawyer in California?

Imagine a column of five cars passing under the giant 405 freeway bridge in Los Angeles. In the adjacent lane, a massive Peterbilt truck is transporting fresh produce to San Fernando Valley supermarkets. One moment of inattention, a sudden burst of tires, or a microsecond of driver fatigue – that is all it takes to turn a daily drive on the California highway into a life-altering nightmare.

On the Golden State’s roads, where bustling harbor traffic from San Pedro and Oakland intersects with an endless stream of trucks transporting agricultural products from the Central Valley there is a daily dance between giants on wheels and ordinary drivers. The reality is harsh  when a 36-tonne 18-wheeler hits the average 1.5-tonne car, the physics are relentless, and the consequences are often disastrous.

 If you or someone you know suffered injuries in a truck accident in California, you should contact a big rig truck accident lawyer at Bojat Law Group to protect your rights and recover all possible damages for your injuries both physical and emotional.

The Complexity of Big Rig Accidents

Big rig accidents differ significantly from typical car accidents. The sheer size and weight of these vehicles often lead to catastrophic consequences. Big rigs can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, and collisions with these massive vehicles can result in severe injuries such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or even fatalities.

Moreover, the legal and regulatory complexities surrounding big rig accidents make it challenging for victims to navigate the claims process alone. Federal and state regulations govern the trucking industry, and multiple parties may be liable for the accident, including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The truck’s manufacturer
• Maintenance providers
• Cargo loaders

Identifying the responsible party (or parties) requires a thorough investigation, a task best handled by an experienced big rig accident attorney.

How a Big Rig Accident Lawyer Can Help

Navigating the aftermath of a big rig accident involves more than filing an insurance claim. Here’s how a specialized attorney can assist:

1. Determining Liability

Unlike standard car accidents, big rig collisions often involve multiple entities. A lawyer with expertise in trucking accidents can investigate the incident thoroughly, identifying all liable parties. This is crucial in ensuring you receive full compensation for your damages.

2. Understanding Federal and State Trucking Regulations

The trucking industry is governed by stringent regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and California state laws. Violations such as exceeding driving hours, improper maintenance, or overloaded cargo can contribute to accidents. Your attorney will examine whether these regulations were breached and use this information to strengthen your case.

3. Gathering Evidence

Collecting evidence in a big rig accident is a complex process. An attorney will gather key pieces of evidence, such as:

• Electronic logging device (ELD) records to determine driver hours
• Maintenance records for the truck
• Dashcam or surveillance footage
• Eyewitness statements
• Accident reconstruction analysis

This evidence is critical to building a strong case.

4. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Trucking companies and their insurers often have vast resources to minimize payouts. Without legal representation, victims may receive far less compensation than they deserve. An experienced lawyer, like those at Bojat Law Group, will negotiate aggressively to ensure you are compensated for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Long-term care needs

5. Litigating When Necessary

While many cases settle out of court, some require litigation to achieve fair compensation. Your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial if negotiations fail, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.

Why Choose Bojat Law Group?

At Bojat Law Group, we understand the devastating impact a big rig accident can have on your life. Our legal team specializes in personal injury cases, including truck accidents, and is dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for our clients.

Here’s why victims across California trust us:

1. Extensive Experience: We have successfully handled complex truck accident cases, recovering substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients.
2. Personalized Attention: Every case is unique, and we treat it as such. We take the time to understand your specific needs and craft a tailored legal strategy.
3. Aggressive Advocacy: We’re not afraid to stand up to large trucking companies and their insurers to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
4. No Fees Unless We Win: Our contingency fee structure means you don’t pay unless we secure a favorable outcome.

Steps to Take After a Big Rig Accident

If you’ve been involved in a big rig accident, taking the right steps immediately can protect your legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not manifest immediately.
2. Document the Scene: If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries.
3. Gather Information: Obtain contact and insurance information from the truck driver, as well as any witnesses.
4. Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid making statements that could be construed as admitting fault.
5. Contact a Big Rig Accident Lawyer: The sooner you involve a lawyer, the better. Evidence can disappear, and insurance companies may pressure you into accepting a low settlement.

Conclusion

Big rig accidents are among the most complex and devastating types of collisions on California’s roads. Without a dedicated lawyer, victims risk losing out on the compensation they deserve. At Bojat Law Group, we’re here to help you navigate this challenging process, ensuring your rights are upheld and your recovery is prioritized.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a big rig accident, don’t wait. Contact Bojat Law Group today for a free consultation. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.