Semi-trucks pose a greater threat to motorists than typical vehicles. Their sheer size and weight mean that in a collision between a car and a semi, the occupants of the smaller vehicle are far more likely to suffer serious or traumatic injuries.
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you have the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the crash. Navigating the complexities of such a claim requires the expertise of a seasoned California truck accident attorney who can help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Let Ernst Law Group guide you through this challenging process and fight for your rights every step of the way. Contact us online or call (805) 779-3630 to schedule your free consultation.
Why choose Ernst Law Group for your truck accident case
When you’re facing the aftermath of a truck accident, you need a law firm with a proven track record of success and deep knowledge of California’s unique trucking regulations. At Ernst Law Group, we’ve spent decades fighting for victims of truck accidents across the state, recovering substantial settlements and verdicts that help our clients rebuild their lives.
From navigating California’s specific rules on commercial vehicle operation to addressing the complexities of insurance claims involving trucking companies, our team combines legal expertise with relentless advocacy to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
California’s highways are among the busiest in the nation, making truck accidents a frequent and devastating occurrence—with 13,145 accidents involving large trucks occurring in 2023. Ernst Law Group has successfully represented clients in cities across the state, from Los Angeles to San Francisco, leveraging our local knowledge to build compelling cases.
We understand how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable, whether it’s for driver fatigue, improper maintenance, or violations of state safety regulations. Choosing Ernst Law Group means partnering with a firm that understands California’s legal landscape and is committed to protecting your rights every step of the way.
Our proven expertise in California truck accident claims
At Ernst Law Group, our results speak for themselves. One standout case demonstrates our ability to secure life-changing outcomes for our clients: Don Ernst and our attorneys obtained a $10.5 million settlement for a client who suffered severe brain damage in a truck accident. The crash occurred when a commercial truck unlawfully pulled across a freeway, leading to a collision that forever changed our client’s life.
This significant recovery helped provide for their long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and financial stability, showcasing our dedication to fighting for justice and substantial compensation.
Our experience in truck accident cases isn’t just about winning—it’s about making a difference for those we represent.
Who can be held liable for your truck accident
At Ernst Law Group, we have the resources and expertise to fully investigate your truck accident. We will meticulously identify and pursue all potentially liable parties to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Several parties can be held liable for your accident. These include:
- Trucking company
- Truck driver
- Manufacturer
- Mechanic
- Entity responsible for road maintenance
$10.5million
Don Ernst and the Ernst Law Group attorneys represented a client who hit a truck that pulled across the freeway. The resulting accident caused severe brain damage, an injury that altered the entire course of the client’s life.
We evaluate the full extent of damage, not just physical injury
Truck crash injuries can result in more than just physical damage; they often lead to significant emotional and psychological distress. Conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety are common among truck accident victims.
Your settlement should encompass all aspects of your recovery, including medically necessary treatments for mental health concerns. At Ernst Law Group, we ensure that your compensation reflects the full extent of your damages, covering both physical and emotional impacts.
We fight hard to recover maximum compensation for your losses
Insurance settlements may not be enough to compensate you fairly for your damages. With the support of a skilled truck accident attorney at Ernst Law Group, you can demand reimbursement for your remaining damages, such as the following.
Economic damages
Economic damages are the costs you have incurred due to your accident. These includes:
- Your medical bills to date and those that will be incurred in the future
- Lost income (if you can no longer work)
- Property damage (repair or replacement of any items that were damaged as a result of the accident)
Non-economic damages
Non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify, but they are just as important. This category can include:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
Punitive damages
Punitive damages are given when the other party’s reckless or careless actions are especially bad and deserve extra punishment. This happens only when the defendant’s behavior is so wrong that they must be punished beyond just covering your expenses.
Preparing every case with the rigor of trial in mind
At Ernst Law Group, we treat every case as if it’s headed to trial. This approach ensures that our clients’ cases are built on a foundation of thorough investigation and meticulous preparation. From analyzing accident reports and consulting with experts to reconstructing the scene of the crash, we leave no detail overlooked. By preparing for every possibility, we ensure your case is as strong as it can be from the outset.
Our trial-ready mindset also means crafting legal strategies that anticipate challenges. Whether it’s gathering medical evidence to illustrate the full extent of your injuries or exposing negligence through trucking logs and maintenance records, we approach each step with precision.
This comprehensive preparation not only strengthens your case for litigation but also gives us the leverage needed to negotiate maximum compensation in settlement discussions.
When you work with Ernst Law Group, you can be confident that your case is in the hands of attorneys who are ready to fight aggressively for your best outcome, no matter what it takes.
Common causes of truck accidents
California’s vast network of highways—especially heavily trafficked routes like I-5, I-10, and Highway 99—makes it a hotspot for commercial truck activity. Unfortunately, the sheer volume of semi-trucks on the road also increases the risk of serious accidents. Understanding the most common causes of truck accidents in California can help victims recognize liability and build a stronger legal claim.
1. Driver fatigue
Long-haul truck drivers often face pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines. Despite federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, some drivers exceed their legal driving hours or fail to take required breaks, leading to fatigue. Drowsy driving slows reaction time and impairs judgment, significantly increasing the likelihood of collisions.
2. Distracted driving
Distractions such as cell phone use, GPS devices, eating, or even logging mileage while driving can divert a trucker’s attention from the road. Given the size and weight of a semi-truck, even a momentary lapse can result in a catastrophic accident.
3. Improper maintenance
Commercial trucks require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they are safe for the road. Worn brake pads, tire blowouts, and malfunctioning steering systems are all preventable mechanical issues that can lead to serious accidents if ignored.
4. Speeding and reckless driving
Trucks take much longer to stop and maneuver than smaller vehicles. When truck drivers speed or change lanes aggressively, they reduce their ability to avoid sudden hazards and increase the severity of any resulting collision.
5. Impaired driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol, prescription medications, or illegal substances is a dangerous choice for any motorist—but especially for truck drivers operating multi-ton vehicles. Impaired truck drivers pose a grave danger to everyone on the road.
6. Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo
Federal regulations govern how cargo should be loaded and secured. Overloading a trailer or failing to balance weight properly can cause rollovers, jackknifing, and loss of control—especially on California’s mountainous or winding roads.
7. Weather and road conditions
While weather alone may not cause accidents, rain, fog, or high winds common in parts of California can reduce visibility and traction. Truck drivers who fail to adjust their driving for poor road conditions may be held liable if an accident occurs.
What to expect navigating your truck accident claim in California
Understanding the legal process can help ease the stress of pursuing a truck accident claim. At Ernst Law Group, we guide you through every step, ensuring you’re informed and supported at each stage.
Initial consultation and case evaluation
During your free consultation, we’ll review the details of your case, discuss your injuries, and identify potential liable parties. This is your opportunity to ask questions and learn how we can help. Once we take on your case, our team begins gathering evidence and building your claim immediately.
Investigation and evidence collection
We conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, including analyzing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and collaborating with experts. This step ensures we have the evidence needed to prove liability and calculate the full extent of your damages.
Filing the claim
Next, we file a claim with the insurance companies involved, presenting a comprehensive case to demonstrate the negligence of the responsible parties. We handle all communication with insurers to protect your interests.
Negotiation for settlement
Most cases are resolved through negotiation. Our truck accident attorneys aggressively advocate for a fair settlement that covers all your damages, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Litigation and court representation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. With decades of trial experience, we’ll present a strong case to a judge and jury, ensuring you have the best chance at maximum compensation.
We’re prepared to take your case to trial
While many truck accident cases are resolved through mediation, Ernst Law Group prepares every case for trial. Our trial attorneys are skilled litigators who will fiercely advocate for your interests in court. We are committed to pursuing justice and securing your best possible outcome, whether through settlement or trial.
Our truck accident attorneys are ready to help you on the road to recovery
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. Let us fight for what you deserve and take some of the stress out of your recovery.
Allow Ernst Law to provide you and your family with peace of mind. Reach out to our truck accident lawyers in California today for a no-obligation free initial consultation or by calling (805) 779-3630.
Truck Accident Questions and Answers
The most important thing you can do after a truck accident is to seek medical attention immediately. After this, you should document the situation as much as possible and try to preserve evidence that could be used in your case.
You should not speak to the insurance company until you have hired a lawyer. Hiring an attorney early on is crucial because only after your California semi truck accident lawyer has reviewed the case will they determine if it is worth pursuing further.
Truck accidents are often caused by negligence on the part of the carrier. When the negligent party is likely to be insured, an attorney can ensure that you receive full compensation for your damages.
You can speak to the police officer at the scene of an accident. However, you are not required to say anything without first consulting with your attorney.
We recommend that you cooperate but be sure not to admit fault for anything.
Several parties can be held responsible for your accident. These include:
- Trucking company
- Truck driver
- Manufacturer
- Mechanic
- Entity responsible for road maintenance
In California, you have two years to file a lawsuit from the time of the accident. However, filing as soon as possible is crucial because evidence can be altered or destroyed over time.
If the statute of limitations passes, you will not be able to seek compensation.
