Oakland Truck Accident Lawyers

Why Oakland Truck Crashes Are More Complex Than Other Accidents

Truck accidents aren’t your typical fender benders. The aftermath is often devastating—and legally complicated.

Here’s what makes these cases different:

• Multiple liable parties:  The driver might not be the only one at fault. Liability could extend to the trucking company, cargo loaders, or even maintenance contractors.
• Federal and state regulations:  Trucking companies must comply with strict FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) rules. If they don’t, they can be held accountable.
• Severe injuries and higher damages:  Because of a truck’s size and weight, victims often suffer life-altering injuries. That means more complex claims and higher compensation stakes.
• Insurance coverage battles:  Commercial carriers have large insurance policies—and insurance companies that fight hard to limit payouts.

If you’re dealing with a truck crash in Oakland, you need a legal team that knows how to go through these claims. Contact Thompson Law for a FREE CASE REVIEW. We’ll help you make sense of it all.

Compensation You Can Get After a Truck Accident in Oakland

Here are some of the damages you may be entitled to recover:

• Medical costs:  Emergency treatment, surgeries, follow-up care, physical therapy, prescriptions, and more.
• Lost wages:  Income you’ve already lost—and future earnings if your ability to work has been affected.
• Pain and suffering:  Physical pain, emotional distress, and the long-term impact on your quality of life.
• Property damage:  Repair or replacement of your vehicle and personal items damaged in the crash.
• Wrongful death damages:  In fatal crashes, families may recover funeral costs, loss of companionship, and future financial support.

In cases involving reckless or grossly negligent behavior, punitive damages may also apply. These are meant to punish and deter dangerous behavior—like DUI truck driving or falsified logs.

Every case is different. That’s why we dig deep to calculate the full scope of your losses. Call our Oakland truck accident attorneys at Thompson Law for a FREE CONSULTATION and find out what your case may be worth.

How Our Oakland Truck Accident Lawyers at Thompson Law Can Help

At Thompson Law, we don’t just take cases. We take on powerful opponents and fight to win.

We start by investigating the accident thoroughly, requesting black box data, driver logs, truck maintenance records, and camera footage.

Then we bring in experts to reconstruct what happened and identify who’s truly responsible.

Next, we handle every conversation with the insurance companies so you don’t have to. No more worrying about what to say, or what could hurt your claim. We handle the paperwork, negotiate aggressively, and push for the full value of your damages.

If they don’t play fair? We’re trial-ready. Period.

Throughout the process, you’ll have direct access to your attorney and a team that keeps you informed every step of the way.

Let us do the heavy lifting while you focus on recovery. Contact our Oakland truck accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Why Choose Thompson Law for Your Truck Accident Case

Not all law firms are equipped to handle truck accident cases, and definitely not at the level we do. At Thompson Law, we bring a combination of local knowledge, legal firepower, and relentless advocacy that makes a real difference.

What sets us apart?

• We know Oakland:  From High Street to International Boulevard, we’ve handled cases across the city. We understand the traffic patterns, road hazards, and city policies that shape every accident.
• We go beyond the basics:  Trucking companies often hide behind layers of contractors, insurance providers, and legal teams. We know how to cut through the red tape to uncover the real story.
• We bring the right experts to the table:  Accident reconstructionists. Medical professionals. Trucking regulation specialists. We build your case with undeniable evidence.
• You don’t pay unless we win:  No upfront fees. No surprises. Just a focused, experienced team that’s invested in your recovery.

If you’re facing a trucking company and their insurers after a crash, don’t go it alone. Let Thompson Law handle it. Reach out today for your FREE CASE REVIEW,  and let’s talk strategy.

Federal Trucking Regulations in Oakland Cases

When a truck accident happens in Oakland, federal regulations often come into play. That’s because most commercial trucks cross state lines and are governed by national safety standards under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Some of the most important regulations include:

• Hours-of-Service Limits:  Truck drivers are only allowed to drive a certain number of hours each day and week. If a driver was fatigued, we investigate logbooks and GPS data for violations.
• Vehicle Maintenance Requirements:  Commercial trucks must undergo regular inspections and repairs. Skipping maintenance can lead to brake failure, tire blowouts, or steering problems – all of which can cause catastrophic crashes.
• Weight Limits and Cargo Securement:  Trucks carrying too much weight or improperly secured loads are a major hazard. We review cargo records, bills of lading, and inspection reports for signs of negligence.
• Driver Qualifications:  Trucking companies must ensure their drivers have valid commercial licenses, proper training, and no disqualifying history.

At Thompson Law, we understand these federal rules and know how to use violations to support your claim. If you suspect a trucking company cut corners, call us today for a FREE CASE REVIEW. We’ll find out what really happened.

Time Limits in Filing a Truck Accident Case in Oakland

Don’t wait too long after a truck accident to take legal action. California law sets firm deadlines.

In most Oakland truck accident cases, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. If someone passed away due to the accident, the same two-year window generally applies to wrongful death claims.

But there are exceptions:

• If the truck was operated by a government contractor or public agency (e.g., city utility truck), you may have just six months to file a claim.
• If you’re filing on behalf of a minor, the timeline may be extended—but it still requires legal guidance to go through the deadlines properly.

The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to preserve evidence, contact witnesses, and build a strong case. Get ahead of the timeline. Contact our Oakland truck accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION and protect your right to recover.

Proving Negligence in an Oakland Truck Accident

To win a truck accident case, you need to prove someone was negligent. That means showing they acted carelessly (or failed to act when they should have) and that their actions directly caused your injuries.

Here’s how we help prove negligence:

First, we collect evidence from the scene: crash reports, skid marks, traffic camera footage, and photos of vehicle damage.

Then, we dig into the trucking company’s records—driver logs, maintenance reports, GPS data, black box info—to find safety violations or performance issues.

We may also bring in:

• Accident reconstruction specialists to explain how the crash happened
• Medical experts to link your injuries to the collision
• Eyewitnesses who saw the crash unfold

And under California’s comparative fault system, even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover damages. Your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

Let us build the case for you. Contact Thompson Law now for a FREE CASE REVIEW and let’s hold the right people accountable.

How Black Box Data Can Strengthen Your Oakland Truck Accident Case

Commercial trucks are equipped with Event Data Recorders (EDRs), often referred to as the “black box.” These devices store vital crash-related information that can make or break your case.

Black box data may include:

• Speed at the time of the crash
• Sudden braking or swerving
• Seat belt usage
• Engine throttle position
• Driver hours and rest periods
• GPS location data and timestamps

This information is especially useful if the truck driver denies fault or if the insurance company is trying to downplay the severity of the crash. It gives us a digital timeline that helps reconstruct what happened—and who’s responsible.

However, trucking companies aren’t required to keep this data forever. Some systems automatically overwrite themselves within days or weeks. That’s why it’s critical to act fast.

Don’t wait for key evidence to disappear. Contact our Oakland truck accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW. We’ll work to preserve and secure black box data immediately.

Things to Remember Before Talking to an Insurance Company

After a truck accident, you might get a call from the truck driver’s insurance company. They may sound helpful, but make no mistake—their job is to limit what they pay, not look out for your best interests.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• You’re not required to give a recorded statement:  Politely decline until you speak with an attorney.
• Avoid speculating about the crash:  Even casual remarks like “I didn’t see them coming” can be twisted to suggest fault.
• Don’t accept a quick settlement:  If they’re offering money fast, it’s probably far less than what your case is worth.
• Stay consistent:  Anything you say can be used against you later, so it’s best to have legal guidance before discussing your injuries, treatments, or lost wages.

Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators. You should have someone trained to protect you.

Let us handle the insurance companies while you focus on recovery. Call Thompson Law for a FREE, NO-PRESSURE CONSULTATION.

What to Do If the Truck Driver Was Uninsured or Underinsured

It’s rare but not impossible for a commercial truck driver to be uninsured or to carry the bare minimum coverage that doesn’t even begin to cover your damages.

If that’s the case, here’s what we explore:

• Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM):  If you carry this on your policy, it can help pay for medical costs, lost income, and other damages when the at-fault driver has no coverage or not enough.
• Liability of other parties:  We’ll investigate the trucking company, contractors, cargo loaders, and even vehicle manufacturers for other sources of liability.
• Negligent hiring claims:  If a trucking company failed to verify the driver’s insurance status or driving history, they may be directly responsible.

It may seem like a dead end, but it rarely is.

You still have options, and we know how to find them. Contact our Oakland truck accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW and find out what’s possible.

Steps After a Truck Accident in Oakland

What you do after a truck accident can make a huge difference in your recovery—physically, legally, and financially.

First and foremost, get medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Adrenaline can mask serious issues, and having medical records early creates a strong foundation for your claim.

If you’re able, document the scene. Take photos, get contact info from witnesses, and request a copy of the police report once it’s available.

You’ll also want to avoid giving recorded statements to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster. Their goal is to reduce payouts—not protect you.

Most importantly, call a truck accident attorney as soon as possible. Evidence like dashcam footage, black box data, and driver logs can disappear quickly. Acting early gives your case the best shot.

Let Thompson Law secure the evidence and protect your rights from day one. Contact us now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Usual Causes of Oakland Truck Accidents

Truck crashes aren’t just “bad luck.” Many stem from serious safety violations or preventable errors.

Among the most common causes:

• Speeding or aggressive driving, especially on Oakland’s congested freeways and intersections.
• Driver fatigue, often due to long shifts and pressure to meet delivery deadlines.
• Improper loading, which can make trucks unstable and harder to control.
• Poor maintenance, including worn tires, brake failures, or steering problems.
• Distracted or impaired driving, which unfortunately still plays a role in far too many accidents.

Oakland’s busiest roads—like I-880, I-580, and International Boulevard—see a high volume of commercial trucks daily. When safety takes a back seat, innocent people pay the price.

If you suspect negligence played a role in your truck accident, speak with our team for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Typical Injuries from Truck Accidents

The weight and force of a commercial truck can cause catastrophic harm. We’ve seen firsthand how these accidents upend lives.

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Back injuries
• Spinal cord damage, herniated discs, or paralysis
• Multiple fractures and compound breaks
• Internal organ injuries and internal bleeding
• Burn injuries, especially in cases involving tankers or fuel leaks
• Soft tissue damage that leads to chronic pain and reduced mobility

These injuries often require surgery, rehab, and long-term medical care. The emotional trauma that follows is just as real—and just as valid.

You shouldn’t have to shoulder the cost of someone else’s negligence. Reach out to Thompson Law for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

Are Trucking Companies Held Liable?

Yes—trucking companies can absolutely be held responsible, especially when they cut corners on safety. If the driver was on duty, the company may be liable for their actions under a principle known as vicarious liability.

But that’s not where the investigation ends. We look deeper into:

• Hiring practices: Did they ignore red flags in the driver’s record?
• Hours-of-service violations:  Was the driver overworked or improperly logged?
• Truck maintenance logs:  Were they keeping the vehicle roadworthy?

In many cases, the company is just as liable, if not more, than the individual behind the wheel.

Holding them accountable starts with a strong case. Contact our Oakland truck accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

FAQs About Truck Accidents in Oakland

How much are most truck accident settlements?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Settlements can range from tens of thousands to millions, depending on the severity of the injuries, the extent of liability, and the long-term impact on your life. Cases involving catastrophic injuries, permanent disability, or wrongful death generally result in higher compensation.

How long do most truck accident settlements take?

It depends on the complexity of your case. Some settle within a few months, especially if liability is clear and injuries are well documented. Others may take a year or more—particularly if the trucking company disputes fault, or if your medical treatment is ongoing and damages need time to be accurately calculated.

While it’s tempting to settle fast, rushing can leave you under-compensated. We aim for a timely resolution without sacrificing what you’re rightfully owed.

What should I do if the trucking company contests my claim?

Don’t panic—this is common. Trucking companies and their insurers often fight hard to avoid paying large settlements.

Here’s what you should do:

• Stay off the phone with their insurance adjusters.
• Don’t agree to a recorded statement or sign anything.
• Gather any evidence you have (photos, reports, witness info).
• Speak with an attorney immediately.

We’ll step in, protect your rights, and handle communication with the insurer. Our legal team knows how to respond to denial tactics and push back with facts.

How much are most truck accident settlements in Oakland?

In Oakland, the settlement amount will depend heavily on local factors: hospital costs, traffic patterns, road conditions, and legal precedent all come into play. The city’s busy freight corridors and history of infrastructure issues mean we often see high-value cases—especially where long-term injuries or fatalities are involved.

We’ve handled cases involving everything from moderate injuries to life-altering trauma. If your accident happened on I-880, I-580, or a high-risk intersection like 73rd and Bancroft, your case may involve additional evidence tied to road safety and city infrastructure.

How do you file a truck accident claim in Oakland?

Filing a truck accident claim involves several steps, but it starts with one: contacting a lawyer.

Here’s what happens next:

1. We investigate the accident, gathering reports, black box data, and witness statements.
2. We identify the liable parties, which may include the driver, the trucking company, or even the manufacturer.
3. We file the claim with the appropriate insurance carriers and negotiate on your behalf.
4. If negotiations fail, we prepare to take your case to court.

The sooner you reach out, the stronger your case can be.