Sacramento Truck Accident Lawyer

Fighting Back After a Big Rig Accident in Sacramento, CA

While large semi-trucks, commercial trucks, and tractor-trailers make up only about 3% of vehicles on U.S. roads, they are involved in more than 25% of passenger vehicle occupant deaths. In addition, according to the National Safety Council (NSC), 5,375 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes in 2023.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, the aftermath can be a legal labyrinth. Victims are often thrust into a situation where they must navigate complex legal systems, deal with insurance companies, and face the challenge of proving fault among multiple parties. Whether your accident happened on the I-5, I-80, or on a smaller road, we can help. Our dedicated 18-wheeler accident lawyer from Piering Law Firm can streamline this process, fighting diligently for your rights and helping hold all responsible parties accountable.

Injured in a truck accident? Get the compensation you deserve! Our experienced Sacramento truck accident lawyer can fight for you. Call (916) 476-2399 now or contact us online for a consultation!

Rules & Regulations for Sacramento Truck Drivers

Because trucks can cause such catastrophic damage in the event of an accident, truck drivers and the companies they work for are required to follow more regulations than other motor vehicles both on and off the road. In fact, these drivers must follow stricter rules than many other employees in general. One of these rules is called the hours-of-service regulation, which was created to prevent fatigued driving. Because of this, most of the laws are aimed at making sure that truck drivers get an adequate amount of sleep and are not overworked. 

According to this law:

• Truck drivers can work a maximum of 14 hours in one workday, still nearly double that of most other workers. Of these 14 hours, however, truckers can only drive for 11 hours, with the remaining time spent on rest or meal breaks.
• Truck drivers must rest for at least 10 consecutive hours before beginning a new workday.
• Truck drivers are required to take days off work at regular intervals.

Unfortunately, truck drivers do not always follow these rules. Whether due to truck driver negligence or pressure from the trucking companies, failing to follow the hours-of-service regulations can raise the chances of an accident. If you have been injured by a negligent truck driver, it often requires an investigation into your accident to discover if these rules were violated. The attorneys at our firm are experienced in such investigations and are ready to help you today.

Establishing Liability After a Truck Accident

Determining liability after an accident can be difficult due to the number of involved parties. This is because an accident with a truck can be caused by many factors.

Some of these include:

• Poor road conditions
• Driver negligence
• Improper loading
• Lack of truck maintenance

Determining liability often involves a thorough investigation, which includes reviewing driver logs, maintenance records, and the behavior of other drivers on the road at the time of the accident. Legal guidance is essential in piecing together the circumstances that led to the collision. Additionally, expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionists, may be required to provide objective analysis and testimony. At Piering Law Firm, our skilled truck accident attorneys in Sacramento coordinate these resources efficiently to build a strong case, support your claims, and work toward a fair resolution for you.

Compensation Available for Truck Accident Victims

Victims of truck accidents in Sacramento may be entitled to various forms of compensation. The severity of injuries and the financial impact of an accident determine the extent of damages recoverable. 

Types of compensation in a truck accident can include:

• Medical expenses: Victims may recover compensation for surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment, and more.
• Lost wages: Compensation for lost income includes past wages, as well as potential future earnings if the victim is unable to work in the same capacity.
• Pain and suffering damages: This type of compensation accounts for the physical and emotional distress caused by a truck accident. These damages do not have a fixed monetary value, making it crucial to have a skilled Sacramento truck accident attorney advocate for fair compensation.
• Property damage: Victims can recover costs associated with repairing or replacing their vehicle. Commercial trucks often cause extensive damage to passenger vehicles, leading to costly repairs.

Why You Need Piering Law Firm on Your Side

When you are recovering from a collision with a commercial vehicle, you need more than a list of services; you need a team that understands what you are going through. 

Choose us for our:

• Award-winning representation
• Millions of dollars recovered
• Consultations are free
• You don’t pay unless we win

At Piering Law Firm, we bring over 50 years of combined experience to guiding injured people through the claims process. Based in Sacramento, we understand how crashes on I-5, Highway 99, and local roads are investigated and how insurers often try to limit payouts.

We also prioritize clear, personal communication. Our team keeps you informed, answers your questions in plain language, and helps you make confident decisions throughout settlements or litigation.

Contact us online or call (916) 476-2399 today to schedule your free consultation. Our 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Sacramento, CA, can support you.

Types of Truck Accident Injuries in Sacramento

Truck accidents can cause significant damage and injuries when they collide with other vehicles.

Due to their size, accidents with semi-trucks and big rigs usually result in catastrophic injuries such as:

• Brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Neck and back injuries
• Burns and disfigurement
• Wrongful death

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Our 18-wheeler accident attorney in Sacramento knows that truck accidents can happen for many reasons, often involving a combination of driver error, vehicle issues, and external conditions.

• Distracted driving
• Reckless driving
• Mechanical failures
• Improper maintenance
• Fatigue
• Speeding
• Improper loading
• Intoxication

In addition to these, weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or ice can amplify the risks associated with trucking. Moreover, poorly maintained infrastructure, such as damaged bridges or roads, can be particularly hazardous for larger trucks. Regular training programs for truck drivers and robust maintenance schedules for the vehicles they operate are essential preventive measures to minimize these risks. 

We Thoroughly Investigate Your Truck Accident

An immediate investigation is especially important in truck accident cases. Trucking companies have been known to destroy critical evidence such as driving records, driver logs, and maintenance records in an effort to sidestep responsibility.

At Piering Law Firm, our truck accident attorney in Sacramento has an accident investigator on staff who will immediately start working to obtain the evidence needed to build a strong case for you. We also work with accident reconstructionists who will identify the cause of your accident.

The process of evidence gathering can be daunting due to the complexities involved, which is why our firm leaves no stone unturned in compiling evidence that is crucial for substantiating your claims. Our investigation covers all possible avenues, from surveillance footage and witness testimonies to data from truck black boxes. This comprehensive understanding of how the accident occurred allows us to construct a persuasive case, making sure that the full scope of any negligence is brought to light and that you receive the support and compensation you need.

Don’t wait to get help! Contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation by calling (916) 476-2399. Our truck accident lawyer in Sacramento, CA, can fight for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sacramento Truck Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?

After a truck accident, prioritize safety and medical care. Check for injuries, call 911, and seek medical attention even if symptoms seem minor. If you can, document the scene with photos, exchange information with the truck driver, and collect witness contact details. A police report can be important evidence. Once you are safe, consider speaking with a truck accident attorney in Sacramento to guard your rights.

How Is Liability Determined in a Sacramento Truck Accident?

Liability in truck accidents can be complex due to the number of potential parties involved. Determining fault may involve examining the truck driver's actions, the trucking company's policies, and adherence to federal transport regulations. Lawyers often work with accident reconstruction professionals to assess vehicle damage, road conditions, and other relevant aspects. Additionally, truck maintenance logs, driver logbooks, and data from on-board electronic devices are analyzed to establish liability. Legal assistance from a knowledgeable truck accident attorney helps ensure comprehensive gathering and assessment of vital information, providing a clearer determination of responsibility.

What Role Does Truck Maintenance Play in Accident Liability?

Poor maintenance can contribute to serious crashes and may place responsibility on the trucking company or maintenance provider. Investigations focus on inspection records and compliance with federal safety regulations to identify negligence.

Why Is a Truck Accident Attorney Essential?

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