San Diego Truck Accident Lawyers

How Can Our Truck Accident Lawyers in San Diego Help?

Our San Diego truck accident attorneys have the experience and resources to handle even the most challenging cases. We conduct thorough investigations to uncover the facts, identify all liable parties, and build the strongest possible case for our clients.

To support your claim, we collect and analyze crucial evidence, including:

• Eyewitness statements
• Official San Diego police reports
• Your personal account of the accident
• Expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists and industry professionals
• Medical records and treatment history
• Surveillance or dashcam footage
• Photos and videos of the crash scene
• Truck maintenance records and driver logs

Every truck accident case is different, and San Diego’s trucking laws and regulations can be complicated. Our legal team understands how to navigate these challenges and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Why Choose Thompson Law for Your Truck Accident Case in San Diego?

Choosing the right legal team is needed in order to win your truck accident case. We are committed to providing exceptional service, personalized attention, and results-driven representation. Here’s why you can trust us:

No Fees Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.

Proven Results

With over 350 years of combined experience and more than $1.8 billion secured for our clients,  we have a track record of success in handling truck accident cases.

Simple and Quick Process

Getting started is easy. You can contact us anytime to speak with an attorney immediately. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and begin working on your claim right away. We’ll get someone on your case within 15 minutes!

24/7 Availability

Truck accidents can happen at any time, and we’re available around the clock to provide the legal support you need when you need it most.

Personalized Attention

We treat every client with care and respect. You will receive updates on your case every step of the way, and we will always be available to answer your questions.

Bilingual Support

Our team includes Spanish-speaking staff to ensure clear communication for all of our clients.

San Diego law imposes strict deadlines for filing a truck accident claim, so don’t wait. Contact Thompson Law today for a FREE CASE REVIEW, and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

How to Prove Negligence in a Truck Accident Case

Proving negligence is a crucial step in a truck accident case. While it may seem obvious who is at fault, truck accident claims often involve multiple responsible parties and strict trucking regulations. That’s why our skilled San Diego truck accident lawyer will look through all evidence to build a strong case for you.

The key elements of proving negligence in a truck accident case include:

• Duty of care:  Truck drivers and their respective companies are legally called for operating safely, follow traffic laws, and stick to federal regulations to ensure the safety of others on the road.
• Breach of duty:  We show that the at-fault party, such as the driver or trucking company, breached their duty. This could include actions such as driving recklessly, speeding, ignoring safety standards, or failing to maintain the vehicle properly.
• Causation:  Our legal team demonstrates that the negligent behavior directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries and losses.
• Damages:  We collect detailed evidence such as medical records, bills, proof of lost wages, and documentation of how the accident has affected your life physically, emotionally, and financially.

Successfully proving negligence requires a detailed investigation and strong legal arguments. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help gather the necessary evidence and build a compelling case on your behalf.

Why Choose Thompson Law?

As one of the best personal injury law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated truck accident lawyers who are ready to fight for your legal rights.

At Thompson Law, we understand the emotional distress that comes with serious injuries, and we are committed to providing you with the best legal representation possible. Our trial lawyers are not afraid to take your case to court if necessary and have successfully secured billions of dollars in compensatory and punitive damages for our clients.

We have extensive experience working with insurance companies, large corporations, and medical professionals, and we know how to get you the results you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not have to pay anything until we win your case.

Don’t let a personal injury case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law’s San Diego truck accident lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated injury attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Who is At Fault in a Truck Accident?

Determining fault in a truck accident isn’t always straightforward. Several parties could be responsible:

• The Truck Driver:  If they were speeding, distracted, fatigued, or under the influence, they may be liable.
• The Trucking Company:  If the company failed to maintain the truck, forced drivers to exceed legal driving hours, or hired unqualified drivers, they could be at fault.
• Cargo Loaders:  Improperly loaded cargo can shift and cause accidents, making the loading company responsible.
• Truck Manufacturers:  If a faulty brake system, tire defect, or other mechanical issue caused the crash, the manufacturer may be liable.
• Other Drivers or Government Agencies:  Unsafe road conditions, poor signage, or negligent driving by another motorist can also contribute to an accident.

A thorough investigation is needed to determine liability and hold the right parties accountable.

What Compensation Can Truck Accident Victims Recover?

If you’re injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to different types of compensation:

Economic Damages

• Medical bills:  hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, medication, and future medical care
• Lost income:  wages lost due to time off work and reduced future earning capacity
• Property damage:  vehicle repair or replacement
• Other expenses:  transportation costs, in-home care, and assistive devices like wheelchairs

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering:  compensation for physical pain and emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life:  if injuries prevent you from doing activities you once enjoyed
• Mental health impacts:  anxiety, depression, PTSD, and emotional trauma

Punitive Damages

When it comes to cases that involve severe negligence, like drunk driving or extreme safety violations, punitive damages may be awarded to hold the party accountable and demoralize similar behavior.

At Thompson Law, we are committed to helping truck accident victims receive the compensation they need to move forward. Let us fight for the justice you rightfully deserve.

What Should I Do After a Truck Accident in San Diego?

Taking appropriate actions after a truck accident can protect your health and legal rights, here are six steps on what you need to do:

1. Seek Medical Attention:  Even if injuries aren’t immediately apparent, see a doctor promptly.
2. Report the Accident:  Call 911 to inform the authorities and request emergency assistance if needed.
3. Document the Scene:  Take photos or videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
4. Gather Information:  Exchange contact and insurance details with the truck driver and collect information from witnesses.
5. Avoid Admitting Fault:  Don’t discuss fault or provide statements to insurance companies before consulting an attorney.
6. Consult a San Diego Truck Accident Lawyer:  Our experienced attorneys can evaluate your case and protect your rights.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced San Diego truck accident lawyers to evaluate your case and protect your rights. At Thompson Law, we’re devoted to guiding you through every step. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us take care of the legal matters so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.

The Process of Filing a Truck Accident Claim in San Diego

If you have been in a truck accident in San Diego, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Filing a claim involves several steps, and following the right process can increase your chances of a fair settlement. Here’s how you can file for a truck accident claim:

Notify the At-Fault Party’s Insurance Company

Once you have identified who is responsible for the accident, you need to inform their insurance company. This is an official notice that you intend to file a claim. It is important to be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters, as they may try to downplay your injuries or offer a low settlement.

Compile Documentation for Your Claim

To support your claim, you will need to provide detailed evidence, including:

• Medical records, doctor’s notes, and hospital bills
• Repair estimates for your vehicle
• Pay stubs or tax documents to show lost wages
• Photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries
• Witness statements and police reports
• Records of pain and suffering, such as journal entries about your recovery

Determine Liability

Truck accident cases are often more complicated than standard car accidents because multiple parties may be responsible. The truck driver may be at fault if they were speeding, fatigued, or distracted. The trucking company could be liable if they failed to maintain the vehicle or pressured the driver into violating safety regulations. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the case to identify all responsible parties and maximize your potential compensation

Demand Compensation

Once all evidence has been collected, your attorney will send a demand letter to the insurance company outlining how the accident happened, the damages you’ve suffered, and the amount of compensation you are seeking. This letter is a key part of the claims process and sets the foundation for settlement negotiations.

Engage in Settlement Negotiations

Most truck accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible, but an experienced attorney can push for a fair settlement that covers both economic and non-economic damages. If negotiations are successful, you’ll receive compensation without needing to go to court.

File a Lawsuit if Necessary

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, you may need to file a lawsuit. In San Diego, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the accident date. Filing a lawsuit involves additional legal steps, such as gathering expert testimony and preparing for trial.

Resolve Your Case

Your case may be resolved at any stage through a settlement, or it may proceed to court if necessary. A knowledgeable truck accident attorney will guide you through each step, ensuring your case is handled efficiently and effectively.

Filing a truck accident claim can be complicated, but having an experienced legal team on your side can make all the difference. Contact Thompson Law today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

San Diego Truck Accident Statistics

San Diego’s roads are bustling with commercial truck activity, essential for the local economy. Trucks are one of the most common motor vehicle type collisions, according to San Diego County’s official website.

This means a higher risk of accidents. In 2020, there were 352 accidents involving large trucks in San Diego County, with 72 occurring within the city limits. These incidents led to 4 deaths and 89 injuries, including at least 4 severe injuries. Speeding was a significant factor, contributing to nearly a third of these accidents

Historically, certain routes in San Diego have been identified as high-risk areas for truck accidents. State Route 67, for instance, has been known for a high number of fatal accidents, earning the nickname “Slaughterhouse Alley.” Efforts to improve safety on this route have been ongoing since the late 1970s.

Males are also at a higher risk of being impacted from a collision compared to females. Additionally, motor vehicle collisions to pedestrians are more likely to happen further from intersections. Pedestrian deaths are more likely to happen in urban ideas.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in San Diego

Understanding the frequent causes of truck accidents can help in prevention and legal preparation. Common factors include:

• Driver Fatigue:  Long hours on the road can lead to tiredness, slowing reaction times and impairing judgment.
• Distracted Driving:  Activities like texting, eating, or adjusting in-cab devices divert attention from the road.
• Speeding:  Driving too fast reduces the ability to stop quickly, especially for large trucks.
• Improperly Loaded Cargo:  Unbalanced or unsecured loads can cause trucks to tip or lose control.
• Mechanical Failures:  Issues like brake malfunctions or tire blowouts can lead to loss of control.
• Inexperienced Drivers:  Lack of proper training can result in mishandling of complex driving situations.
• Driving Under the Influence:  Substance use impairs necessary skills for safe driving.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident due to any of these reasons, our San Diego truck accident lawyers are prepared to investigate and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

Common Types of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can occur in various ways, each presenting unique challenges:

• Rear-End Collisions:  Often due to trucks needing more time to stop.
• Jackknife Accidents:  When a truck’s trailer folds, blocking lanes and causing potential pile-ups.
• Underride Crashes:  Smaller vehicles slide under a truck’s trailer, leading to severe outcomes.
• Rollover Accidents:  Caused by sharp turns, speeding, or unbalanced cargo.
• Blind Spot Accidents:  Trucks have large areas they can’t see, making lane changes risky.
• Tire Blowouts:  Sudden tire failures can cause drivers to lose control.
• Wide-Turn Accidents:  Trucks need extra space to turn, and misjudgments can lead to collisions.

No matter the accident type, our skilled San Diego truck accident lawyers are ready to investigate, determine the cause, and fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.

FAQs About Truck Accidents in San Diego

How much are most truck accident settlements in San Diego?

Truck accident settlements in San Diego vary based on the severity of injuries, property damage, and the details of the crash. On average, settlements range from $75,000 to $300,000. If the accident results in severe injuries such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or wrongful death, settlements can exceed $1 million. The final amount depends on medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the strength of the evidence supporting your claim.

How much do accident attorneys charge in San Diego?

Most truck accident attorneys in San Diego work on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t have to pay anything upfront, and the attorney only collects a fee if they win your case. The fee is typically a percentage of your settlement or court award, usually ranging from 30% to 40%, depending on the complexity of the case. This arrangement allows accident victims to pursue legal action without worrying about out-of-pocket costs.

How long do most truck accident settlements take in San Diego?

The time it takes to settle a truck accident case depends on how complex it is. If liability is clear and injuries are minor, a settlement may be reached in just a few months. However, cases involving serious injuries, disputed fault, or multiple liable parties can take 12 to 24 months or longer. If the case goes to trial, it may take even more time. The length of the process depends on negotiations with insurance companies, medical treatments, and whether a lawsuit is necessary.

What is the statute of limitations on a truck accident in San Diego?

San Diego follows California’s statute of limitations for truck accident claims. You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If you are only seeking compensation for property damage, the deadline is three years. If the claim is against a government entity, such as a city-owned truck, you must file within six months. If you miss these deadlines, you may lose the right to seek compensation.

What makes truck accident cases different from car accident cases?

Truck accidents are often more complicated than regular car accidents for several reasons:

• Size and impact:  Trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger cars, which leads to more severe injuries and higher medical costs.
• Federal regulations:  Trucking companies and drivers must follow strict state and federal regulations, such as hours-of-service rules and maintenance requirements. These laws can affect liability in an accident.
• Multiple liable parties:  In a truck accident, the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or cargo loading team could all be responsible. Determining fault requires a detailed investigation.
• Higher settlements:  Because injuries are often more severe in truck accidents, compensation amounts tend to be larger than in regular car accident cases.