Inglewood Truck Accident Lawyer
Every day we share the road with tractor-trailers and other large commercial trucks. While they are critical for transporting goods, trucks are some of the most dangerous vehicles on the road. Any act of negligence committed by a tractor-trailer operator can cause a devastating accident.
If you or a loved one was harmed in a collision with a semi-truck, you may have a valid legal claim against the driver, their employer, or even the vehicle manufacturer. Large trucking companies have teams of experienced lawyers ready to defend them in auto accident cases. A seasoned personal injury attorney could help you stand up to the other party in settlement negotiations or court. Speak with an Inglewood truck accident lawyer today to get started on your claim.
Potential Liable Parties in a Truck Accident Case
Many people assume that the truck operator is the sole liable party in an accident case. However, they may be several responsible parties from which to seek compensation. For example, if the driver was working at the time of the collision, you may have a case against their employer. Trucking companies are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees. The employer may even be directly liable if they failed to run proper background checks on the driver or provide adequate training.
Other potential defendants include:
- Owner of the tractor-trailer
- Truck or auto parts manufacturer
- Mechanic responsible for maintaining the vehicle
- Loading dock supervisor
Determining who is at fault requires a careful investigation. An experienced attorney in Inglewood can help you assess the facts of your tractor-trailer collision case to identify the at-fault parties.
Laws Governing the Operation of Large Commercial Vehicles
While everyone on the road must follow traffic laws, there are specific statutes that regulate the trucking industry. For example, there are limits on the number of hours a commercial driver can work per day and week.
Additionally, California Vehicle Code § 35551 VC sets the weight limits for commercial trucks and other vehicles. When drivers or employers violate these laws, they put other people at risk. A local truck wreck attorney could investigate an accident to determine whether any of these laws were broken.
Dealing with Insurance Companies in Inglewood
Truck accident cases often involve multiple insurance companies. In addition to your and the truck operator’s liability insurance, the trucking company itself will have a commercial insurance policy. The company’s insurer will likely do everything in its power to deny fault and avoid paying you the compensation you need.
Insurance adjusters may call you soon after the accident, urging you to accept a low settlement offer. A skilled lawyer would know how to negotiate with insurance agencies to help you obtain the maximum payout after your truck accident.
Call an Inglewood Truck Accident Attorney Today
If a trucker or trucking company’s negligence caused you or someone you love to suffer severe injuries, seek legal help right away to discuss your legal options. Recovering compensation for damages can be difficult, and you will likely need the assistance of a seasoned attorney.
An Inglewood truck accident lawyer from our firm could fight for the justice and compensation you need. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more.