Truck collisions are among the most dangerous events on California roads. A single moment can leave victims facing serious injuries, costly medical treatment, and lasting emotional trauma. When a truck crash suddenly disrupts life, you need someone you can trust to protect your future. An experienced Los Angeles truck accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process, hold negligent parties accountable, and help you pursue fair compensation.
At the Law Offices of Steers & Associates, we combine over 40 years of legal experience with genuine compassion for our clients. We have represented more than 3,000 people throughout California and recovered millions in verdicts and settlements. Our attorneys take pride in being caring and responsive advocates who treat every client with respect and personal attention.
Why Do You Need a Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorney
Truck accident claims are rarely straightforward. They often involve multiple defendants, including drivers, carriers, and manufacturers, each represented by aggressive insurance companies. Having a knowledgeable Los Angeles truck accident attorney on your side ensures you are not outmatched.
A skilled attorney can:
- Investigate the cause of the crash;
- Preserve key evidence such as driver logs, black-box data, and maintenance reports;
- Identify all responsible parties;
- Communicate with insurance companies and defense attorneys; and
- Negotiate for full compensation or take the case to court.
We know the tactics trucking companies use to limit payouts. Our team counters those strategies with thorough investigation, expert testimony, and strategic litigation designed to maximize recovery.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in California
Trucking accidents often occur for multiple reasons, frequently involving a combination of human error and corporate negligence, such as.
- Driver fatigue. Long shifts and inadequate rest periods impair focus and reaction time.
- Speeding. Commercial trucks require longer distances to stop, making high speeds especially dangerous.
- Distracted driving. Texting, using dispatch systems, or adjusting GPS devices diverts attention from the road.
- Impaired driving. Alcohol, drugs, or even prescription medications can reduce awareness and control.
- Mechanical failure. Neglected maintenance, faulty brakes, or worn tires often contribute to collisions.
- Improper loading. Overweight or unsecured cargo can shift, causing rollovers or jackknifes.
The California Highway Patrol reports that over 12,000 large-truck crashes occurred statewide in 2023, resulting in thousands of injuries and hundreds of fatalities. Many of these accidents were preventable. Our firm holds negligent drivers and trucking companies responsible for putting others at risk.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
The size and weight of commercial trucks make their impact devastating. Victims often experience catastrophic injuries that require extensive treatment and rehabilitation. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries,
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis,
- Multiple fractures or crushed limbs,
- Severe burns and scarring,
- Internal organ damage and bleeding, and
- Post-traumatic stress disorder.
Each injury carries physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Our attorneys collaborate with medical specialists to fully document the extent of harm and estimate future care costs, allowing us to pursue fair and comprehensive compensation.
Understanding California Trucking Regulations
Both state and federal laws govern commercial trucking operations. These regulations are designed to protect public safety by ensuring proper driver training, vehicle maintenance, and cargo handling.
Important rules include:
- Hours-of-service limits. Drivers may operate a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
- Weight and load restrictions. Trucks must comply with California’s vehicle code and highway load limits.
- Mandatory inspections. Regular brake, tire, and light inspections are required to maintain road safety.
- Substance testing. Carriers must test drivers for drugs and alcohol before hiring and randomly thereafter.
When companies ignore these standards, they violate both the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) and California law. Evidence of noncompliance strengthens your Los Angeles truck accident lawsuit by proving negligence.
Compensation Available After a Truck Accident
Victims may recover compensation for both financial and emotional losses. Damages may include:
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs,
- Future treatment and in-home care,
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity,
- Property damage and vehicle replacement,
- Pain and suffering,
- Emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life, and
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members.
Each case is unique. Our Los Angeles semi-truck accident attorney evaluates every detail, from the severity of your injuries to the insurance coverage available, to pursue the maximum possible recovery.
How Long Do You Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in California?
Under California’s statute of limitations, victims generally have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim. If the accident involved a government vehicle, the deadline to submit a claim may be as short as six months.
Filing quickly is critical to preserving evidence and witness statements. Consulting a Los Angeles semi-truck accident attorney early in the process gives you the best chance to build a strong case and meet all filing requirements.
Determining Liability After a Truck Accident
Proving who caused a trucking collision can be complex. Responsibility may fall on several parties, including the:
- Truck driver for reckless or distracted driving,
- Trucking company for negligent hiring or supervision,
- Maintenance contractor for failing to service equipment,
- Manufacturer for producing defective parts, or
- Cargo-loading company for unsafe freight distribution.
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. Our attorneys thoroughly investigate each case to determine fault and protect your right to a full recovery.
The Role of Expert Witnesses in Truck Accident Cases
Expert testimony plays a crucial role in establishing liability and determining damages. Accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and economists help explain technical evidence in clear, understandable terms.
These experts can show how an accident happened, the extent of your injuries, and the long-term financial effects of your losses. At Steers & Associates, we partner with trusted experts to present persuasive, data-supported arguments on your behalf.
Why Choose Steers & Associates as Your Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles?
Experience, responsiveness, and personal care set us apart from other firms. When you choose us as your commercial truck accident lawyer in Los Angeles, you receive:
- Over 40 years of combined legal practice handling serious injury claims,
- Direct communication with your attorney,
- Millions recovered through settlements and verdicts,
- Aggressive representation against large corporations and insurance companies, and
- Clear updates and answers at every stage of your case.
Our clients appreciate our commitment to integrity, professionalism, and genuine care. We are proud to deliver big-firm results with small-firm attention.
What Sets Truck Accident Claims Apart from Car Accident Cases?
Truck accident cases involve higher stakes and more complex evidence than ordinary auto claims. Commercial carriers must comply with strict record-keeping requirements, safety audits, and insurance minimums that are far above those for personal vehicles.
Our attorneys understand how to obtain driver logs, GPS records, and electronic control module (black box) data to establish fault. This meticulous approach has helped countless clients recover meaningful compensation after devastating crashes.
Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer: In-Depth Client Support Services
At the Law Offices of Steer & Associates, we provided dedicated, one-on-one attention to each case. Specifically, you expect the following:
- Thorough review of your case. During your initial free consultation, we conduct a factual analysis of the truck crash and its impact on you.
- Partner with law enforcement. We request police and investigative reports of the accident when appropriate.
- Full collection of evidence. Our investigator can obtain witness statements, inspect the accident scene, and locate evidence that may impact your case.
- Prompt client follow-up. Fast response to questions and status updates of your case.
- Representation to insurance and trucking companies. Consistent follow-through with respect to repair and rental issues.
- Monitor medical treatment. We help ensure you are satisfied with your medical care following the accident.
- Prompt preparation of demand. Once you complete your medical treatment, we work to secure compensation from insurers that cover your expenses.
- Assistance in resolving bills and liens. Our goal is to resolve any outstanding medical expenses and or lien issues.
- Taking your case to court if necessary. Aggressive and thorough representation in the event a lawsuit has to be filed against the negligent parties.
Our team at the Law Offices of Steers & Associates law firm is comprised of experienced attorneys who focus on truck accidents and personal injury cases that are the result of someone’s negligence.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it is important to retain seasoned representation from a personal injury attorney who will provide you with the best outcome possible in the court of law.
How Long Do Truck Accident Cases Take?
A Los Angeles truck accident case can take longer to resolve than a smaller car accident claim. If the severe injuries in a commercial truck accident or semi-truck accident are serious, oftentimes, a lawsuit will have to be filed to try to obtain full and fair compensation. This is because an insurance or truck company may not want to justify a decision to pay a large settlement until forced to do so.
Insurance adjusters must demonstrate to their supervisors that their evaluation and handling of the claim were reasonable in deciding to authorize a settlement amount. In cases where a truck accident lawsuit must be filed, the resolution of the case can take 18 to 24 months, especially if it involves significant injuries.
In cases involving catastrophic injuries, the scope and extent of the injuries, as well as their impact on the victim’s life, must be adequately documented and supported by qualified experts to help obtain fair compensation in the case.
Speak with a Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer Who Cares
If you or a loved one was hurt in a trucking collision, you deserve an advocate who treats your case with care and urgency. The Law Offices of Steers & Associates combines extensive experience with a personal touch that larger firms cannot match.
We are a caring and responsive team dedicated to helping Californians rebuild after serious accidents. With offices in Los Angeles, Tarzana, Lancaster, and Long Beach, we are ready to help wherever you are.
Contact us today for a free consultation with a trusted Los Angeles truck accident lawyer and take the first step toward justice and recovery.
