Long Beach Truck Accident Lawyers

Why Thompson Law as Your Truck Accident Lawyer in Long Beach?

After a truck accident, picking the right law firm can truly change the game. At Thompson Law, we’re committed to supporting truck accident victims in Long Beach to secure the compensation they deserve. Here’s what makes us stand out:

• No Upfront Fees:  We work on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.
• Results-driven:  We’ve recovered over $1.9 billion for our clients.
• Easy and Fast Process:  Get started today. Call us anytime and we’ll get to work on your case. Sign up from your phone or computer.
• Available 24/7:  Accidents don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we. Our team is available day or night.
• Personalized Service:  Every client gets the attention they need. We keep you informed, answer your questions and handle all the legal stuff.
• Bilingual Representation:  We offer representation in English and Spanish so you can communicate clearly and access justice.

At Thompson Law, we handle everything from investigating the accident and negotiating with insurance companies to taking your case to trial if necessary. You heal while we fight for you.

Long Beach law has deadlines for filing a truck accident claim. Don’t wait. Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

What Qualifies Thompson Law As Your Truck Accident Lawyer?

Finding the right attorney after a truck accident isn’t just important – it can be the difference between winning and losing your case. The right lawyer will protect your rights and get you the most money. Here’s what to look for when hiring a truck accident lawyer:

Proven Record in Truck Accident Cases

Not all personal injury lawyers have experience in truck accidents. Look for an attorney with a history in this area, truck accidents involve unique legal and technical nuances. An experienced lawyer knows how to navigate these complexities and get you the most money.

Thorough Knowledge of Trucking Laws and Regulations

Truck accidents involve federal and state regulations, liability rules and corporate defense strategies that are different from standard car accident cases. A skilled lawyer knows these laws inside and out and will use them to build a strong case against the trucking company, driver or manufacturer.

Strong Investigative Tools

Truck accidents require expert analysis to prove fault. A top lawyer has access to accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals and forensic experts to bolster your claim with evidence. Without these tools insurance companies will try to undervalue or deny your claim.

Transparent and Responsive Communication

Legal battles can be overwhelming but a great lawyer keeps you informed at every step. Choose someone who listens to you, explains things clearly and gets back to you promptly. Good communication builds trust and keeps you engaged in your case.

Client Reviews and Case Results

Reputation matters. Read testimonials and case results to see how a lawyer performs. Positive client experiences usually mean an attorney is reliable and can get results.

Get the Right Lawyer Today

Choosing the best truck accident lawyer in Long Beach can be the difference between winning and losing your case. By looking for experience, expertise, resources, communication and reputation you can find a lawyer who will fight for your rights and get you the money you deserve. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

What Should I Do After a Truck Accident in Long Beach?

After a truck accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and your claim. Here’s what to do:

1. Get medical attention right away:  Even if you don’t feel hurt, some conditions (like concussions or internal damage) may not show up right away. Get checked out by a doctor so your health is prioritized and documented.
2. Call 911 and report the accident:  Contact the Long Beach Police Department and request help if needed. A police report will be helpful for your claim and future legal needs.
3. Document the scene:  Use your phone to take pictures or videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks and any visible injuries. This evidence is key to your case.
4. Get information:  Make sure to get the truck driver’s insurance and contact info, their employer’s info and names and contact info of any witnesses that may be able to help later.
5. Don’t admit fault or talk to insurance companies:  Insurance adjusters will try to downplay or deny your claim. Don’t admit fault or provide statements until you’ve talked to a lawyer.
6. Call a Long Beach truck accident lawyer:  An experienced attorney will protect your rights, handle the negotiations and fight for you.

By following these steps you’ll be setting yourself up for the best possible outcome. Call us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Common Reasons for Truck Accidents in Long Beach

Truck accidents in Long Beach are often caused by driver error. Here are some of the most common:

• Driver Fatigue:  Driving more hours than allowed can make you tired, slower to react and make poor decisions.
• Distracted Driving:  Using your phone, adjusting your GPS or eating while driving takes your attention off the road and increases the risk of accidents.
• Speeding:  Driving too fast, especially on busy roads, means you lose control and can cause big accidents.
• Improperly Loaded cargo:  Uneven or unsecured loads can make trucks tip or lose control and cause serious accidents.
• Mechanical Failure:  Brake problems, tire blowouts or poor maintenance can cause devastating accidents.
• Inexperienced Drivers:  Drivers not familiar with Long Beach streets and tight turns can’t drive their trucks safely.
• Driving Under the Influence:  Alcohol or drugs impairs your judgment, focus and reaction time and makes accidents much more likely.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident because of any of these, our Long Beach truck accident attorneys will investigate your case and fight for your compensation.

Common Types of Truck Accidents in Long Beach

Truck accidents come in many forms, but they all pose a threat to drivers, passengers and pedestrians. Here are some of the most common types of truck accidents in Long Beach:

• Rear-End Collisions:  Trucks take longer to stop and speeding or distractions often cause rear-end collisions with the vehicle in front.
• Jackknife Accidents:  When a trailer swings out at an angle, it can block multiple lanes causing multi-vehicle pileups.
• Underride Accidents:  Smaller vehicles may slide under the trailer during a collision and can result in severe injuries or death.
• Rollover Accidents:  Sharp turns, speeding or uneven cargo can cause a truck to tip over and put surrounding vehicles at risk.
• Blind Spot Crashes:  Large trucks have blind spots that make lane changes and turn hazardous to other vehicles or pedestrians.
• Tire Blowouts:  A sudden tire failure can cause a truck driver to lose control and result in accidents on the road.
• Wide Turn Accidents:  Trucks need more space to turn. Miscalculating the distance or turning too tight can cause accidents.

If you have been involved in any type of truck accident, our Long Beach truck accident attorneys will investigate the cause, identify the responsible parties and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a FREE CASE EVALUATION.

What Compensation Can Truck Accident Victims Recover in Long Beach?

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Long Beach, you might be entitled to compensation that can help cover various types of damages. They can be grouped into three main categories:

Economic Damages

• Medical Costs:  This includes expenses for hospital stays, surgeries, therapy, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages:  You can seek compensation for the income you’ve lost due to your injury, as well as any potential future earnings that may be affected.
• Property Damage:  This covers the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
• Additional Expenses:  Any extra costs related to your recovery, like transportation, home care, or assistive devices, can also be included.

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical Pain and Emotional Distress:  This compensates for the suffering and pain caused by your injury.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life:  If your injury has stopped you from enjoying activities or living life the way you used to, you may be eligible for compensation.
• Emotional Trauma:  This includes damages for psychological issues like PTSD, anxiety, or depression that stem from the accident.

Punitive Damages

In cases where there’s been extreme negligence, like drunk driving or serious safety violations, punitive damages might be awarded. These are meant to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.

At Thompson Law, we’re committed to supporting truck accident victims in Long Beach in their pursuit of the compensation they rightfully deserve. We’re here to advocate for the justice you need to help you move forward.

Who Is at Fault in a Truck Accident in Long Beach?

Determining who’s at fault in a truck accident in Long Beach can be a puzzle, especially since there are often several parties involved. A thorough investigation is essential to determine liability. Here’s a look at some of the options:

• Truck Driver:  Factors like fatigue, distractions, speeding, or even driving under the influence can all play a major role in accidents.
• Trucking Company:  If the company is negligent by failing to maintain vehicles properly, hiring unqualified drivers, or ignoring safety regulations, it can lead to serious crashes.
• Cargo Loaders:  When cargo isn’t secured properly or unbalanced, it can cause a truck to tip over or lose control, leading to dangerous situations.
• Vehicle Manufacturers:  If there are defective parts, like faulty brakes or tires, they can be a significant factor in an accident if mechanical failure happens.
• Third Parties:  Other drivers, road construction crews, or even government agencies might share the blame if their actions or poor road conditions contributed to the incident.

Every truck accident case in Long Beach has its own story. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

How to File a Truck Accident Claim in Long Beach

Filing a truck accident claim in Long Beach involves several steps. After you’ve taken care of yourself, follow these steps to get started:

1. Notify the At-Fault Party’s Insurance Company:  Once you’ve identified the responsible party, notify their insurance company you will be filing a claim. This starts the process and gets your case documented.
2. Gather Documentation for Your Claim:  Evidence is key to a winning claim. Collect documents such as medical records, repair estimates, proof of lost wages, and documentation of pain and suffering.
3. Determine Liability:  Truck accidents involve multiple parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders or vehicle manufacturers. Our team will investigate to determine who’s at fault.
4. Demand Compensation:  We will send a formal demand letter to the at-fault party’s insurer outlining the damage you’ve suffered and the amount you’re asking for. This starts the settlement process.
5. Negotiate a Settlement:  Most truck accident claims are settled. We will get you a fair settlement for both economic and non-economic damages.
6. File a Lawsuit if Necessary:  If the insurer doesn’t offer a fair settlement, we will help you file a lawsuit. California’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years, so we will prepare your case for trial if necessary.
7. Resolve Your Case:  Your case can be settled at any time or go to trial. We will guide you through the process to get the best result.

Filing a truck accident claim is complicated but with the right team, you can do it. Contact us today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

How to Prove Negligence in a Truck Accident Case in Long Beach

Proving negligence in a truck accident case is more complicated than it seems, even when liability is clear. Without the right legal guidance, important details get overlooked. Our Long Beach truck accident lawyers thoroughly investigate all the facts to build a strong case for you.

The four elements of proving negligence are:

• Duty of Care:  Truck drivers and their employers must drive safely,and  follow all traffic laws and federal regulations to keep others on the road safe.
• Breach of Duty:  We show the responsible party (driver or trucking company) didn’t meet their duty. This can be reckless driving, speeding, ignoring safety standards or neglecting vehicle maintenance.
• Causation:  We prove the negligent actions caused the crash and your injuries and financial damages.
• Damages:  We gather all the evidence: medical records, bills, lost wages and how the accident affected your physical, emotional and financial well-being.

By proving these elements, we build a strong case for you to get the compensation you deserve. Call today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

How Can Our Truck Accident Lawyers in Long Beach Help?

At Thompson Law, our Long Beach truck accident attorneys have seen it all. We’ll thoroughly investigate your accident, gather all the facts and identify everyone who’s at fault. We’ll be with you every step of the way and make sure you understand your rights under Long Beach and California law.

To build a strong case we collect and review key evidence including:

• Eyewitness statements to get a clearer picture of the accident
• Official police reports from Long Beach to support your claim
• Your account of the accident to add context and depth
• Expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists and industry professionals
• Medical records and treatment histories to back up your injury claims
• Surveillance or dashcam footage to capture the accident
• Photos and videos from the accident scene to highlight the evidence
• Truck maintenance records and driver logs to uncover safety violations

With our knowledge of Long Beach trucking laws and regulations we can handle the toughest cases. Let us fight for you. Call today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

FAQs About Truck Accidents in Long Beach

How much do truck accident lawyers cost in Long Beach?

Most truck accident attorneys in Long Beach operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay a dime upfront. Legal fees are only collected if your case is settled, typically a percentage of your settlement or court award.

How are truck accidents different from car accidents?

Truck accident claims have more legal complexities than regular car accidents:

• More damage:  Trucks are bigger and heavier so they cause more severe injuries and property damage.
• Federal and state regulations:  Trucking companies and drivers must follow strict safety rules that can affect liability.
• Multiple liable parties:  Truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, cargo loading team may be responsible.
• Bigger settlements:  Because of the high medical bills and lasting impact of truck related injuries, settlements are often higher.

How long does it take to settle a truck accident in Long Beach?

The time frame to settle a truck accident varies on the case. Some cases settle in a few months, more serious or contested cases can take a year or more. If the case goes to trial it can take 24 months or more.

What is the statute of limitations for truck accident lawsuits in Long Beach?

California law has deadlines for truck accident claims:

• Personal injury claims must be filed within 2 years from the accident date.
• Property damage claims have a 3 year statute of limitations.

Missing these deadlines can bar you from getting compensation so it’s crucial to act fast.

What’s the average truck accident settlement in Long Beach?

Settlements vary based on injury severity, medical bills, lost income, other accident related factors. Most settlements are between $75,000 to $300,000 but cases with life altering injuries like spinal cord damage, brain trauma or wrongful death can go up to $1 million.

Can I file a truck accident claim if I am an undocumented immigrant?

Yes. Your immigration status doesn’t affect your right to file a truck accident claim in Long Beach. California law protects undocumented immigrants in personal injury claims, you can recover for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. Our legal team will make sure your rights are protected throughout the process.