Truck Accident 101

1. Why Truck Accidents Are So Dangerous in California

Semi-trucks, delivery trucks like those used by Amazon and UPS, and buses fill our roads on a daily basis. Notable for their large size and weight, an accident with a commercial vehicle can lead to severe, life-threatening injuries for drivers of smaller vehicles and other road users. 

Proving liability and recovering compensation from the driver or trucking company can lead to frustration and stress. At DK Law, we hold the negligent party accountable to vindicate our clients and help them return to normal. 

In this guide, we’ll provide everything you need to know about the causes and types of truck crashes, liability, compensation, and why a lawyer is critical. Let’s get started.

2. What to Do Right After a Truck Accident (And What to Avoid)

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, what you do next can significantly impact your health, recovery, and ability to pursue compensation. Follow these key guidelines to protect your well-being and legal rights.

Dos:

Get to Safety
If you’re physically able, move yourself and your vehicle out of traffic to prevent additional accidents. Your safety comes first.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine, see a doctor right away. Many serious injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, aren’t immediately visible. Early medical attention not only protects your health but also provides crucial documentation for your claim.

Call 911
Report the accident to the police and request emergency medical assistance if needed. Be honest and accurate when describing what happened. The police report will be a vital piece of evidence in your case.

Document the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, take photos of:

• Vehicle damage
• Road conditions
• Skid marks or debris
• Visible injuries

Also, collect names and contact information from witnesses and ask if they’re willing to provide a statement.

Contact a Truck Accident Attorney
The sooner you speak with a qualified truck accident lawyer, the better. They can begin investigating your case, preserve critical evidence, and guide you through the legal process from day one.

Don’ts

Don’t Admit Fault
Even a casual “I’m sorry” can be used against you. Avoid discussing who’s to blame—stick to the facts when speaking with the police, witnesses, or the other driver.

Don’t Delay Medical Treatment
Waiting to see a doctor can not only worsen your injuries but also weaken your case. Insurance companies may argue your injuries weren’t serious or related to the accident.

Don’t Deal With Insurance Alone
Never accept a settlement or speak to an insurance adjuster without legal advice. Insurance companies often make quick, low offers to close claims fast. A truck accident lawyer can protect your interests and fight for fair compensation.

3. Types of Truck Accident Cases DK Law Takes On

At DK Law, our experienced California attorneys and litigators handle a wide range of complex and high-stakes cases involving commercial vehicles. We’re prepared to fight for the compensation you or your loved one deserves. 

Commercial Vehicle Accidents

We represent clients injured by:

• Semi-trucks, box trucks, and pickup trucks
• Step vans, cargo vans, and passenger vans 
• Buses, motor coaches, and minibuses 
• Speciality vehicles, such as tow trucks 
• Rental cars, taxis, and delivery vehicles 

Driver Negligence

Most vehicle accidents are caused by careless or reckless drivers. We handle cases involving:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving (e.g., texting)
• Driving under the influence
• Fatigue or drowsy driving
• Failure to yield
• Running red lights/stop signs
• Improper lane changes
• Tailgating 

Pedestrian & Cyclist Accidents

Truck collisions with pedestrians and cyclists are often devastating. Due to the truck’s size and limited visibility, these accidents can result in catastrophic injuries or death. We fight tirelessly to hold negligent drivers and trucking companies accountable for their actions. 

Wrongful Death Claims

If you’ve lost a loved one in a truck accident, we offer compassionate legal support while you focus on healing. A wrongful death claim can help cover:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical costs
• Loss of income
• Emotional pain and suffering

4. Common Truck Crashes in California (And Why They Happen)

Truck accidents are often catastrophic due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Below are some of the most frequently occurring types of truck accidents seen on California roads: 

Rear-End Accidents

Large vehicles require significantly more time to slow down and stop. If a truck driver is speeding or distracted, they may not be able to stop in time, which can result in a rear-end collision. 

Jackknife Accidents

These occur when the truck’s trailer swings out at an angle to the cab, forming a V shape. Jackknife crashes are typically caused by excessive speed, sudden braking, equipment failure, or adverse weather conditions, and often result in multi-vehicle collisions. 

Rollover Accidents

Commercial trucks are approximately one-third less stable than regular passenger vehicles, making them more susceptible to tipping over. Many times, rollover accidents are caused by the truck driver’s negligence, such as speeding or difficulties maneuvering the truck. 

Underride Accidents

Underride accidents are among the most dangerous types of truck accidents. These crashes occur when a car slides under the body of a large truck. They are often fatal and may result from poor visibility, sudden stops, or the absence of underride guards.

Improper Cargo Loading 

Cargo must be properly balanced, secured, and compliant with weight limits. When these standards are ignored, it can lead to disastrous consequences. Shippers, loaders, drivers, and trucking companies may all share liability for these types of accidents. 

Tire Blowouts

Overloading the vehicle, uneven tread wear, underinflation, and road hazards can lead to tire blowouts, posing a danger to the truck driver and others on the road. The vehicle owner or the manufacturer may be held responsible. 

5. Who Is at Fault for Truck Accidents?

Determining fault in a truck accident can be complex, as multiple parties may be liable depending on the circumstances. In California, liability is generally based on negligence, meaning the responsible party failed to act with reasonable care and caution.

Here are the most common parties who may be at fault:

• Truck Driver: Drivers may be liable for negligent behavior such as speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, or violating hours-of-service rules.
• Trucking Company: Employers can be held responsible if they fail to properly train drivers, enforce safe practices, or knowingly push drivers beyond legal limits.
• Truck Owner: When a truck is owned separately from the driver or company, the owner may be liable for poor maintenance or defective equipment.
• Manufacturers or Maintenance Providers: If a mechanical failure, such as a brake malfunction, caused the crash, a parts manufacturer or repair shop may share liability.

Comparative Negligence Laws

Most U.S. states, including California, follow a comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if you share some fault for an accident, you can still recover damages. You can still seek damages even if you were partially at fault. Your compensation will be reduced according to your percentage of liability.

For example, if you were 30% at fault in a truck accident and your total damages were $100,000, you would still be eligible to pursue $70,000. In some states, if you are over 51% at fault, you are barred from recovering damages. 

6. Trucking Laws & Regulations That Could Affect Your Case

Motorists are used to sharing the road with semi-trucks (also called tractor-trailers or 18-wheelers). Due to their size and weight, the companies that operate them are governed by strict safety regulations.

However, even professionals have safety mishaps. Truckers’ negligence, speeding, distracted driving, reckless driving, and other liability factors can make them a safety hazard while on the road. Also, trucking companies sometimes ignore safety regulations regarding speed and inspections. 

Federal Regulation of the Trucking Industry

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces trucking regulations, including: 

• Hours-of-Service Rules – Limits driving hours to prevent fatigue.
• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) – Tracks driver activity and rest breaks.
• Drug & Alcohol Testing – Ensures truckers are not under the influence.
• Cargo Securement Rules – Prevents loads from shifting or falling off.
• Vehicle Maintenance Requirements – Trucks must be regularly inspected and repaired.

What Is a Commercial Vehicle? 

According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), a commercial vehicle is defined as any motor vehicle required to be registered and used, designed, or maintained primarily for transporting people or property for hire, compensation, or profit. 

7. Serious Injuries & Damages We See in Truck Crash Cases

Crashes involving trucks, such as tractor-trailers, 18-wheelers, box trucks, and other large commercial vehicles, can cause extensive damage and destruction. As a result, truck accident injuries are usually life-changing and costly. 

Common Truck Accident Injuries

Our attorneys represent those who have suffered the following catastrophic injuries: 

• Broken Bones & Fractures
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Burns & Disfigurement
• Internal Organ Damage
• Amputations 
• Emotional Trauma 
• Burns 

Damages Available in a Truck Accident Case

• Medical Bills (Past & Future)
• Lost Wages & Future Earnings
• Pain & Suffering
• Vehicle Repairs or Replacement
• Wrongful Death Damages (for families of deceased victims)

8. Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents in California

How can an attorney help me? 

In the aftermath of a truck accident, you may be dealing with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial stress. Making mistakes or overlooking important details that could impact your case is easy. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and handle the legal complexities on your behalf.

An attorney can assist you with investigation and evidence gathering, negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary.

How much do attorneys charge? 

Truck accident attorneys typically charge a contingency fee for their services in personal injury cases, including truck accidents.

This means you can pursue your truck accident case without worrying about how to afford legal representation. With a contingency fee arrangement, your attorney only gets paid if they win your case. If your attorney doesn’t win your claim, you won’t pay any legal fees. 

When should I hire an attorney after a truck accident? 

It’s crucial to hire an attorney as soon as possible after a truck accident to protect your legal rights and maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation.

The statute of limitations is typically two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file a lawsuit within this timeframe can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. 

Evidence is crucial in proving liability and damages in a truck accident claim. By hiring an attorney promptly, you give them the opportunity to preserve and gather evidence before it’s lost.

What is my truck accident case worth?

Determining the value of your truck accident case depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the impact of the accident on your life. 

Settlement amounts vary, typically ranging from $10,000 to over $1 million. Factors include injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and available insurance coverage. An experienced truck accident attorney can help you identify and quantify your damages and pursue full and fair compensation.

What compensation can I receive for a truck accident?

• Economic Damages: Economic damages are tangible losses that can be objectively measured. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident.
• Non-Economic Damages: Non-economic damages are more subjective losses that do not have a precise monetary value. These damages can include emotional distress, loss of consortium, and pain and suffering.
• Punitive Damages: In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to the plaintiff to punish the at-fault party for their egregious conduct.

Will I have to go to court for a truck accident case? 

While many truck accident cases are settled out of court, some cases may require litigation if the at-fault party’s insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair settlement. 

DK Law will work to negotiate a settlement that fairly compensates you for your injuries and damages without the need for litigation. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, litigation may be necessary to pursue the compensation you deserve.

9. Why Choose DK Law for Your Truck Accident Case

Led by Daniel Kim, DK Law has recovered millions of dollars for clients across California. We have the resources, experience, and strategic insight to take on powerful adversaries—including trucking companies, insurers, and corporate legal teams—and win. 

Truck accident claims are uniquely complex. They often involve multiple liable parties, serious injuries, federal regulations, and extensive investigations. That’s why having a seasoned legal team on your side makes all the difference.

What You Can Expect With DK Law

Free, No-Obligation Consultation
Speak with an experienced truck accident attorney at no cost. We’ll review your case and explain your options—no pressure, no commitment.

No Fees Unless We Win
We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront, and nothing at all unless we win your case. Your success is our priority.

Available 24/7
Truck accidents can happen at any time. We’re here for you day or night, ready to answer your questions and provide guidance when you need it most.

We Handle the Insurance Companies
You focus on healing—we’ll handle the rest. We manage all communications with insurance adjusters and aggressively negotiate to secure the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.

10. Ready to Fight for Your Recovery – Get a Free Consultation

All it takes is one truck accident to change a life forever. If you or a loved one has been harmed by the negligence of a driver or trucking company, the attorneys at DK Law are here to fight for you.

Our California team has the experience, resources, and relentless commitment to hold negligent parties accountable and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. From day one, we stand by your side—investigating the crash, dealing with insurers, and guiding you through every step of the legal process.

Don’t face this fight alone. Contact DK Law for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice you deserve.