Best Truck Accident Lawyers in Visalia

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Visalia, California?

  For non-emergencies, dial (559) 734-8116 to reach the Visalia Police Department.

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in Visalia, California?

  You can pick up a copy of your collision report in person at the Visalia Police Department's Records Unit located at 303 S Johnson Street. You'll need your accident report number and identification. Reports cost $10 and are accessible from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays. Take note that it could take four to eight weeks to generate an accident report.

• What should you do if you are involved in a truck accident in Visalia?

  If you have been injured in a truck accident in Visalia, it is in your best interest to act quickly to preserve your rights and, if necessary, to seek compensation. After the collision, the following must be done as soon as possible:

  • Check your passengers and anyone else involved for serious injuries.
  • Assist the injured and provide "reasonable aid" to anyone in need.
  • Notify the authorities.
  • Photograph and film the scene.
  • Get medical care.
  • Provide consistent documentation via text, audio, or video.

• Why is black box data important for your Visalia truck accident claim?

  The black box is a crucial component of your argument in your truck accident case because it is supported by facts and can be admitted as evidence in court. It cannot be tampered with if you and your legal team act quickly. In Visalia, your truck accident lawyer can use it to determine the cause of the accident, the seriousness of the collision, if a testimony contradicts the documentation, whether you sustained any harm during the accident, and if the accident caused a wrongful death.

• Which roadways, highways, and avenues in Visalia are considered to be the most dangerous?

  Some of the most dangerous roadways in Visalia include:

  • Highways 99, 198, 43, 46, 180, and 201
  • Avenues 328, 336, 344, 352, 368, and 400
  • Road 208 and Lort Drive Some factors that have led to accidents in these areas include obscured signs and the lack of safe design.

• What are the most common reasons that lead to truck accidents in Visalia?

  According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, a significant portion of trucking accidents are caused by driving when fatigued, tailgating, making improper lane changes, and speeding. Accidents on the streets of Visalia caused by the drivers of trucks who engage in these behaviors may lead to injuries and fatalities.

• After being involved in a collision with a truck in Visalia, how much time do you have to file a legal claim?

  Commercial truck claims in Visalia are normally subject to a two-year statute of limitations. If you submit a claim after the deadline, the judge will almost certainly dismiss the case if the defendant files a petition with the court. This means you will no longer be able to seek compensation. While receiving treatment and rehabilitation, it is also important to file a claim with the negligent party's insurer. With the help of a truck accident lawyer, the insurance adjuster may provide a fair settlement after assessing your damages.

• What does a truck accident attorney do?

  A truck accident lawyer is a personal injury attorney specializing in truck accidents. These lawyers help their clients navigate the legally complex terrain of truck accident law by gathering evidence, sending demand letters, negotiating with insurance companies, and preparing the case for trial.In most cases, they are personal injury lawyers who specialize in this particular type of claim.

• Who can be sued in a truck accident case?

  Truck accident liability is a notoriously complex area. In car accidents, liability is typically shared by one or more drivers, but that’s not always the case with truck collisions. These are just a few of the parties that may be responsible for truck accidents and subsequent injuries:

  • Equipment owners, including leasing companies
  • Truck drivers who are reckless, intoxicated, or make mistakes
  • Trucking companies accountable for hiring and keeping records
  • Maintenance providers who are negligent or fail to perform routine tasks
  • Loading personnel in accidents caused by shifting loads
  • Third-party drivers, especially in multi-vehicle collisions
  • Equipment manufacturers that sell defective parts

• What do I need to know about truck accident cases in court?

  In truck accident cases, as in all personal injury cases, the burden of proof rests on the plaintiff or party filing the lawsuit. To prevail in court, the plaintiff must prove four things:

  • The plaintiff must show that the defendant owed him or her a duty of care, such as having a legal responsibility to hire qualified drivers and maintain safe equipment.
  • In negligence claims, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant breached this duty.
  • The plaintiff must show that they suffered damages or experienced harm.
  • Finally, the plaintiff must prove that these losses were a direct result of the defendant’s breach.

  
  

• What are the common causes of truck accidents?

  Driver error is the single most common cause of motor vehicle accidents, but a variety of factors come into play on busy highways and secondary roads. Other potential causes of truck accidents include the following:

  • Inadequate or improper driver training
  • Severe weather, including rain, sleet, ice, and fog
  • Dangerous roadways, potholes, and construction zones
  • Improper loading, excess weight, and shifting cargo
  • Reckless driving involving intoxication or distractions
  • Faulty equipment, such as failing brakes

  
  

• Can I sue if I was hit by a truck owned by a big company?

  Yes, all trucking companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers and maintaining safe equipment. However, a lengthy investigation may be required to document the scene, establish contributing factors, and hold the company responsible. Personal injury attorneys generally focus on the following points during the investigation:

  • Checking the truck driver’s record
  • Securing phone records to prove distracted driving
  • Photographing skid marks and road conditions
  • Verifying the truck’s weight and maintenance history
  • Establishing the driver’s physical and mental health
  • Reviewing logbooks to identify times of service violations
  • Checking for previous violations to establish a pattern of misconduct

  
  

• How many semi truck accidents are there per year?

  In the U.S., it's estimated that there are 500,000 large truck accidents per year with an average of nearly 1,400 per day, according to data collected from police reports. Of those 500,000 accidents, approximately 4,000 result in a death. The majority of semi truck accidents are caused by mechanical defects and driver fatigue.

• Can I sue for being hit by a semi truck?

  If you have been injured in an accident with a semi truck that is not your fault, you are entitled to compensation for the damages to your vehicle as well as for your medical bills, time missed from work, and other damages suffered. You can sue if the person or company refuses to offer fair compensation.

• What should I do after a truck accident?

  The most important thing to do after a serious accident is to seek medical attention. You should also collect witness information, photographs of the accident scene, a copy of the police report, and contact information from the driver of the truck. Gather all of your paperwork related to the accident, including copies of your medical bills. Avoid posting about the accident on social media or speaking to the driver's insurance company before seeking legal advice, because anything you say can be used against you and affect your compensation.

• How long does an 18-wheeler lawsuit take?

  Most lawsuits are settled without going to court, so reaching a settlement can happen at any point that both parties agree on fair compensation. However, in most states, once an agreement has been reached, it cannot be changed, so it's a good idea to wait long enough to ensure that there are no additional injuries before settling.

• Do semi truck accidents go to trial?

  Litigation for semi truck accidents is similar to auto accidents, but it's usually more complicated because any number of parties may ultimately be responsible for the accident, including the company that handles the truck's maintenance or repairs. If attempts at negotiating a settlement with the responsible party are unsuccessful, the lawsuit may proceed to trial. In some cases, more than one party is responsible and one of the parties may fight the lawsuit and claim no responsibility. For these reasons, it's important to seek legal help from an attorney with experience in litigating semi truck accidents.