Irvine Truck Accident Lawyer

Irvine Truck Accident Attorney

Even with beautiful stretches of road between the 405 Freeway and the 5 Freeway, Irvine can be the scene of serious truck collisions that leave injured parties struggling with mounting medical bills and lost wages. If you were injured in a truck accident in or around Irvine, you can rely on the legal services of an Irvine truck accident lawyer to see that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and financial losses.

An Irvine Law Firm Serving Those in Need

Since its founding in 2012, Corrales Law Group, Inc. has served a wide client base, including the underserved and underrepresented. Our personal injury law firm believes that financial barriers should not prevent you from seeking justice and compensation, which is why we offer no-cost consultations and handle injury claims on a contingency basis. That means you do not have to pay for your injury claim services until you receive a fair settlement or favorable court verdict.

Everyone in our office is fluent in Spanish and can help you translate important legal documents. Beyond providing exceptional legal services, our firm is dedicated to making clients feel safe and secure. A personal injury can lead to serious financial hardships and uncertainty about the future, but our years of experience can help you feel confident about our ability to see your case through.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Irvine

It is an unfortunate reality that many truck accidents are avoidable. When truck drivers fail to maintain their vehicles or drive the speed limit, they can jeopardize the safety of those around them. The I-405 and I-5 interchange is a particularly dangerous area where large trucks navigate heavy traffic and frequent lane changes. Speeding can cause or contribute to an accident, as trucks require considerable distance to come to a complete stop.

Truck drivers are also susceptible to fatigue. Long-haul truckers often put in long hours even though they are required to take periodic breaks. Long stretches on the road can mean truck drivers are less alert, which can impair their reaction time and decision-making ability.

Distracted driving is a common cause of truck collisions in Irvine. Truck drivers engage in the same distracted driving habits that car drivers do. Texting, eating while driving, adjusting GPS while driving, and watching smartphones create momentary lapses that can lead to catastrophic consequences for anyone caught in a truck collision.

Mechanical failures can also lead to a truck accident. When trucking companies try to save money by not replacing worn tires, it can lead to blowouts that cause catastrophic collisions. Truck drivers are required to visually inspect their trucks for signs of equipment or mechanical failure. If they don’t, a structural failure on the road can cause an accident that leaves nearby drivers and passengers with serious, if not life-threatening, injuries.

How California’s Comparative Negligence Laws Affect Your Claim

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means accident victims can seek compensation even if they are partially responsible for the crash. In Irvine, truck accident claims often involve disputes over the amount of fault each driver bears following a collision.

If a victim is found 20% at fault for an accident, for example, their total compensation is reduced by that percentage. This would mean that a $20,000 settlement would become a $16,000 settlement. Insurance companies frequently use this rule to their advantage. They often attempt to assign more blame to victims to limit payouts.

They might argue that a driver was speeding, failed to yield, or contributed to the accident in some way. Proving fault requires solid evidence that can include witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction. The key to securing fair compensation is presenting a compelling case that accurately reflects liability.

Determining Liability in an Irvine Truck Accident

Before you can secure compensation from the negligent party, you need to determine liability. This means establishing a link between the driver’s actions and the collision. Determining liability can be straightforward when the truck driver violates a state traffic law, such as California Vehicle Code Section 22350, which prohibits driving at a speed greater than is reasonable or safe for current road conditions.

One form of official record that can clearly establish liability is the police report tied to the collision, which can be picked up at the Irvine Police Department. Even when it seems abundantly clear who caused the collision, it is still necessary to back up any claims with evidence.

Black box data, maintenance logs, and driver history records often reveal critical forms of evidence. Witness statements and dash cam footage can also clarify what happened to lead to a crash. If you run into difficulty proving that you did not cause a collision, you can work with an attorney who understands traffic, insurance, and personal injury laws.

How an Irvine Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help You

Dealing with a truck accident claim in Irvine without legal representation can be a costly mistake. Insurance adjusters often take steps to reduce payouts, and trucking companies frequently have legal teams prepared to dispute liability. Without an attorney, you risk receiving far less compensation than you deserve, and accepting a settlement would likely bar you from pursuing compensation elsewhere.

Once you secure legal representation, your attorney can handle the legal aspects of the case, from collecting evidence to negotiating with insurers. They can obtain key documents such as driver logs, black box data, and accident reports from the Irvine Police Department to prove that the truck driver caused the collision. If needed, your attorney can consult medical doctors and accident reconstructionists to build a compelling case.

Having legal representation puts the negligent driver and their insurance provider on notice that you take your rights seriously and you won’t put up with being bullied or pushed around. As your case moves forward, your lawyer can be an invaluable source of support and legal counsel.

Going up against a trucking company is no small feat. They often rely on well-intentioned claimants to not put up a fight and settle on unfavorable terms. You can focus on recovering by letting your legal representative secure your compensation through negotiations with an insurance carrier or, if needed, through the courts.

FAQs About Irvine, CA Truck Accident Laws

How Much Value Does a Truck Lose After an Accident?

A truck’s value typically drops immediately after an accident, even if repairs are made. This loss, known as diminished value, depends on the extent of the damage, the truck’s age, and its pre-accident condition. In some cases, compensation may be available for this loss, especially if another party was at fault. An attorney can help determine the full financial impact.

How Long Does an 18-Wheeler Accident Claim Take To Resolve?

The timeline for an 18-wheeler accident claim varies based on the complexity of the case, injury severity, and negotiations with insurers. Some claims settle within months, while others take longer if disputes arise over liability or damages. Investigations, medical treatments, and legal negotiations all affect the process. A truck accident lawyer can help keep the claim moving efficiently while ensuring a fair outcome.

What Is a Trucking Settlement?

A trucking settlement is compensation paid to an injured party after a truck accident. It typically covers medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. The amount depends on factors such as liability, the severity of injuries, and available insurance coverage. Settlements are often negotiated with insurance companies, but legal action may be necessary if a fair offer is not made.

Can You Hold a Truck Driver Responsible for an Accident?

Yes, you can hold a truck driver responsible for an accident if their negligence caused the accident. This includes reckless driving, fatigue, or violating trucking regulations. However, liability may also extend to the trucking company, cargo loaders, or manufacturers. An attorney can investigate the circumstances, determine fault, and pursue compensation from all responsible parties.

What Should I Do After a Truck Accident?

After a truck accident, seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Report the accident to the police and gather evidence, including photos, witness statements, and contact details. Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney, as they may attempt to minimize your claim. A lawyer can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Schedule Your Irvine Truck Accident Today

Commercial trucks pose a significant risk to drivers and passengers involved in collisions, often resulting in severe injuries. Beyond the physical toll, the trauma of a truck accident can leave lasting emotional effects. With legal representation from Corrales Law Group, Inc., you can pursue the full compensation you are entitled to for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Our legal team is dedicated to holding negligent truck drivers and trucking companies accountable for their negligence. We have built a strong reputation for advocating aggressively on behalf of our clients, ensuring responsible parties are held liable. Don’t let a trucking accident leave you burdened with financial stress. Contact our bilingual law firm today, and together, we can fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.