Truck accidents involving big rigs and semis can be devastating to accident victims and their families.
Major truck accidents in California often come down to truck company liability. In many cases, the trucking company can be held liable not only for its actions, but also those of its truck drivers. It is every trucking company’s responsibility to make reasonable efforts to prevent accidents. The company can accomplish this through regular vehicle inspections, proper hiring and training procedures, and by obeying all federal trucking safety regulations. If the company is negligent in fulfilling this duty of care and causes a preventable accident, the company could be liable for damages.
What is vicarious liability?
Through the rule of vicarious liability, the trucking company will also be liable for the negligence of its employees – including, in many cases, independently contracted truck drivers. If a truck driver, cargo loader, ground controller or another employee of the trucking company caused your recent accident, the company itself will be liable as long as the at-fault party was on the clock at the time of negligence. The trucking company will have better insurance coverage than the individual driver, so it will be preferable to hold the company liable for your injuries.
What Is the Truck Accident Statute of Limitations in California?
As a truck accident victim, you must act quickly to bring your truck accident claim to ensure you meet California’s filing deadline, or statute of limitations. Under California law, an accident victim typically has two years from the date of the large truck accident or injury discovery to file an injury claim with the civil courts. Failing to file a lawsuit for an injury or wrongful death within that time limit generally results in the courts throwing out the claim – and the accident victim unable to recover compensation for their injuries.
Do not wait to take action following a truck accident. Contact a top truck accident lawyer in Los Angeles as soon as possible to preserve your legal rights.
Speak With a Truck Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles Today
After a trucking accident in Orange County, Riverside, or Los Angeles County, a truck company has one main goal: to avoid liability. Despite having ample insurance policies, most trucking companies do not want to claim fault for collisions. They will use significant legal resources to fight liability and save money – and their reputation. A seasoned personal injury attorney has matching resources he or she can put to good use on your behalf. Your lawyer can build a strong case against the trucking company and help you prove liability using aggressive legal strategies.
To discuss your trucking accident claim with an experienced Orange County truck accident attorney, contact at (888) 820-2889 the Dennis Law Group today.
With offices in Irvine, Sir Jose and Loss Angeles, we proudly serve all over California.