HHJ Trial Attorneys

San Diego Car Accidents & Injury Lawyers

HHJ Trial Attorneys

San Diego Truck Accident Lawyers

  • Over 400 combined Google 5-Star Reviews
  • Tens of millions won every year for our clients
  • We won’t settle for less than the maximum value for your case
  • 30 combined years of legal experience 
San Diego truck accident lawyers

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Truck Accident Lawyers Serving San Diego’s Injured Victims

If you have suffered injuries in a truck accident on one of San Diego’s busy roads frequented by commercial vehicles, the committed professionals at HHJ Trial Attorneys are prepared to fight for your rights at no initial cost to you. Regrettably, it’s often the smaller, private vehicles that suffer the harshest impacts, leading to severe personal injuries such as traumatic brain injuries. While no legal action can truly undo the damage incurred from a truck collision, an adept San Diego truck accident attorney can facilitate victims in securing the financial aid and personal support crucial for their recovery journey.
 
The fallout from a collision involving a large commercial truck and a standard passenger vehicle is frequently catastrophic. With thousands of commercial truck accidents happening nationwide each year, injured drivers and their loved ones are commonly faced with serious, life-changing injuries attributable to the actions of truck operators. Given the substantial size and mass of commercial trucks, these unfortunate incidents often lead to severe injuries and, in some cases, loss of life. The enduring financial burden and physical trauma inflicted upon a truck accident victim can feel insurmountable when faced alone. This is where the truck accident lawyers at HHJ step in – they are committed to guiding you through the intricate process surrounding truck accidents, and fervently advocating for your rightful compensation.

What Makes HHJ Trial Attorneys San Diego’s Best Truck Accident Law Firm

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in San Diego, you understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll it can take on your life. At HHJ Trial Attorneys, we specialize in providing exceptional legal representation to victims of truck accidents. Our team of experienced and dedicated truck accident lawyers is here to fight for your rights and help you navigate through the complex legal process.

With our expert guidance, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your case. We work tirelessly to build a strong claim on your behalf, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Our goal is to alleviate the burden on you and your family and secure the justice and financial recovery you need to move forward.

Don’t face the aftermath of a truck accident alone. Contact our San Diego truck accident lawyers today for a free consultation and let us protect your rights and fight for your best interests.

Advantages of Hiring HHJ Trial Attorneys Following a Truck Accident

A truck accident can have devastating and far-reaching effects on your life that will ultimately jeopardize your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Any type of collision involving a truck is often very serious in nature and usually involves multiple passenger vehicles. With all that being said, you will benefit immensely from hiring our team to handle your truck accident injury case, and here’s why:

 

  • Determining a Viable Legal Strategy
    We have a team of experienced attorneys who are going to collect evidence and determine who is at fault for causing your injuries before we begin devising a legal strategy. We explore all of your options and then decide on an approach that will yield the best results. Ultimately, our goal is to obtain a settlement on your behalf that compensates you adequately for the damages you suffered in the accident.

 

  • Communicating With Insurance Companies
    You also want an attorney to represent you in any ongoing settlement negotiations with the insurance companies. Remember, insurance adjusters have quite a few tricks up their sleeves, and they will try to induce you to accept a settlement offer that doesn’t adequately compensate you. Our experienced attorneys can counteract any attempt they make to pay you less than you deserve.

 

  • Providing You With Legal Competency
    Filing a personal injury claim against a corporate insurance provider — and without any legal assistance — will prove to be extremely daunting. However, the experts here at HHJ Trial Attorneys in San Diego know exactly what to do in every phase of your claim. We are going to protect your rights and ensure that you can recover the full compensation that you deserve.

Statistics Regarding Truck Accidents

Although specific data on truck accidents in San Diego is limited, as truck accident attorneys, we have observed that they occur at rates similar to state and national levels. Some startling statistics associated with truck accidents include: 

  • A person is seriously injured or killed in an accident involving a tractor-trailer, semi-truck, or 18-wheeler every 16 minutes.
  • About 25% of large truck drivers involved in fatal crashes had at least one prior speeding conviction, compared to 20% of passenger vehicle drivers involved in fatal crashes.
  • The majority of fatal crashes involving tractor-trailers (64%) involve trucks pulling a single trailer, while 32% involved single-unit trucks without trailers, and less than 4% involved multi-trailer vehicles.
  • 98% of fatalities in crashes involving large trucks and other vehicles are passengers in smaller vehicles.
  • In 2019, there were approximately 510,000 police-reported large truck crashes, resulting in 4,479 fatalities (1%) and 114,000 injuries (29%).
  • There were 13.65 fatal large truck crashes per million people in the United States in 2019, a 29% increase compared to 2010’s 10.6.
  • California experienced 429 large truck and bus fatalities in 2019.

What are the Common Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents in San Diego County can occur in many different ways with a variety of vehicles, all of which usually result in serious bodily injury. Some of the different types of truck accidents include:

  • 18-wheeler accidents
  • Tractor-trailer accidents
  • Big rig crashes
  • Commercial truck accidents
  • Dump truck accidents
  • Bus accidents
  • Garbage truck accidents
  • Delivery truck accidents
  • Utility truck accidents
  • Bucket truck or cherry picker accidents
  • Fire truck crashes
  • Tanker truck rear-end accidents
  • Commercial vehicle accidents
  • 15-passenger van accidents
  • Rear-end impact
  • Side impact or “t-bone”
  • Veering off-road or out of lane
  • Side-swap truck accidents
  • Semi-truck jackknife
  • Override or underride accidents
  • Head-on collision
  • Lost truck loads (especially with dump trucks)
  • Air brake malfunction

What are the Unique Truck Accident Risks?

San Diego presents a unique blend of factors that can amplify risks. Let’s delve into the specifics:
 

Coping with Weather Unpredictability

San Diego is largely characterized by a dry climate, but when rain does descend, it transforms the usually friendly roads into slippery surfaces that demand careful navigation. The threat of flooding is not unheard of, and it poses an added layer of complexity for drivers, especially those at the wheel of large trucks. Given the extended time and increased skill required to maneuver these hefty vehicles, adverse weather conditions can heighten the accident risk. Hence, weather’s influence on road conditions is a significant contributing factor to truck-related incidents in the city​.
 
 

Navigating the Rush Hour Maze

San Diego’s daily rhythm sees a surge in traffic during weekdays, with the peak congestion typically manifesting on Thursdays between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m​2​. Amidst the rush hour, drivers can expect to maintain an average speed of around 59 km/h, and a journey spanning 10 km demands approximately 11 minutes and 10 seconds, which is about three minutes above the optimal travel time​2​. Truck drivers, under the pressure of tight schedules and the hunt for suitable parking spots, can find this traffic surge particularly taxing. Due to their stress, they might engage in risky behaviors like tailgating, speeding, or aggressive lane shifting.
 

Traversing Hazardous Intersections

Certain intersections in San Diego are notorious hotspots for accidents, thereby posing an elevated risk for truck drivers. Issues like poor visibility, convoluted traffic signals, or areas with high-speed limits can amplify the danger. In the year 2020 alone, San Diego County witnessed 352 truck-related accidents, with one-fifth of these incidents taking place within the city’s limits. Notably, the intersections of I-805, I-5, University Av, SR-15 N/b & I-8 U/c, and SR-52 were identified as especially precarious zones for trucking accidents. The areas around interstate on-ramps and off-ramps emerged as frequent accident locales, given the mixed traffic of trucks and other vehicles entering and exiting the highway​.
 

Encountering Aggressive Drivers

California, unfortunately, bears the reputation of housing the nation’s most aggressive drivers, which poses an amplified risk to truck drivers. A study by YourMechanic found that an aggressive driving event (such as speeding, brake checking, or tailgating) is reported every 6.6 minutes in the state​4​. Moreover, California ranks as the fourth most perilous state for drivers, thanks in part to its highly congested roadways​4​. Consequently, truck drivers must exercise caution and skill while navigating through tight spots, blind zones, and lane changes. Quick reactions forced by aggressive drivers can potentially lead to accidents. In response to the risk of ‘road rage’, the Department of Motor Vehicles recommends drivers to maintain ample space between vehicles, listen to calming music, and avoid engaging in confrontational behavior with other drivers​.
 

Which Parties to Blame for Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents in San Diego can be caused by various parties, including the following:

Truck Drivers 

Truck drivers can be held responsible for accidents caused by reckless driving, violating traffic laws, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, fatigue, or distraction. They must have appropriate training and a commercial driver’s license, and may need specific endorsements to transport certain cargo.

In addition, truck drivers have specific duties, such as inspecting their vehicles and cargo periodically and undergoing alcohol and drug tests as required by the FMCSA. Failure to comply with these duties can lead to accidents.

Truck Owners

Truck owners and the companies they work for are responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing their vehicles regularly to ensure they are in good working condition. If a truck is inadequately maintained or repaired, it can cause accidents, such as tire blowouts, brake failure, or steering problems. Truck owners must also hire appropriately licensed and trained drivers and schedule them in compliance with federal regulations on rest and sleep.

Other Drivers

Truck accidents can also be caused by other drivers on the road, who may be held responsible for injuries caused in the accident.

Subcontractors 

Truck owners may subcontract certain work to other companies, such as repair and maintenance or cargo loading and packing. Improper loading or securing of cargo can increase the risk of accidents.

Multiple Parties at Fault 

Several parties may be at fault for the same truck accident, such as a truck driver and a manufacturer of defective parts. Even if you were partially responsible for the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation from the parties more at fault.

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of defective truck components or the entire truck can be held responsible for accidents caused by the defects.

Fighting With Insurance Companies After Your Truck Accident

It’s no secret that insurance companies involved in truck accidents often prioritize their profit margins over compensating injured parties. Instead of promptly paying medical bills and compensating for lost wages, many insurers utilize tactics such as delaying the payout of claims, denying claims altogether, and defending their insured in court. This is known as the “delay-deny-defend” strategy, designed to maximize profit for the insurance company.

Insurance companies may delay claims by taking their time to respond to inquiries, conducting internal investigations at a sluggish pace, or processing claims with no clear deadline. They are aware that truck accident victims often face expensive medical bills and lost wages, putting them in a tough financial situation. In desperation, victims may accept settlement offers that are much lower than they deserve.

Alternatively, some victims may become disillusioned or forgetful about their claim. Insurance carriers can deny claims by shifting blame to other parties, minimizing the severity of injuries, contesting the treatments received, or underestimating the impact of pain and suffering. They can also hire investigators to evaluate the cause of the accident, using information that absolves their insured or shifts blame to others.

An experienced truck accident lawyer understands these strategies and can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. If a fair settlement is not reached, a personal injury suit can be filed. Insurance companies want to avoid litigation and may be more likely to settle fairly if a lawsuit is possible. A judge and jury may be more sympathetic to your injuries than an insurance company.

The Aftermath of a Truck Accident

In the event of a San Diego truck accident, it’s important to take the following steps:

  1. Seek emergency assistance: Truck accidents can cause serious injuries and create safety hazards. If there is an emergency, call 911 right away. Examples of emergencies include severe injuries, traffic blockages, and signs of drug or alcohol use by the driver.

  2. Contact law enforcement: Even if the accident isn’t an emergency, you should still report it to law enforcement. They will typically send officers to the scene or instruct you on the next steps to take. A police report can be valuable evidence in a truck injury case.

  3. Take photos: Memories can be unreliable, so take as many photos of the accident scene as safely possible. These photographs can serve as objective evidence of what really happened in your San Diego truck accident case.

  4. Gather witness and officer information: Document the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident, as well as the names and badge numbers of any officers who respond to the scene.

After the accident, take the following steps:

  1. Seek medical attention: If you didn’t receive emergency medical care at the scene, seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Serious injuries may not be immediately apparent, so continue to work with your medical providers to obtain the necessary treatment.

  2. Hire a San Diego truck accident attorney: An experienced truck accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process and advocate on your behalf. They’ll work to ensure that you receive the highest possible settlement or jury verdict for your injuries.

  3. Report the accident to your insurance company: It’s important to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Consider hiring a truck accident attorney before speaking with your insurance company to avoid common tactics that could undermine your ability to obtain fair compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding a San Diego Truck Accident Attorney

What type of attorney do I need for my truck accident case?

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in San Diego, you may need to hire a personal injury attorney who has experience handling cases involving commercial trucks. Specifically, you may want to look for an attorney who specializes in trucking accidents or has a proven track record of success in this area.

Trucking accidents can be complex, involving multiple parties such as the truck driver, trucking company, and insurance companies. The attorney you choose should be familiar with the unique regulations and laws governing the trucking industry, as well as have experience dealing with the various parties involved.

A personal injury attorney who has experience handling trucking accidents can help you investigate the accident, collect evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies and other parties involved. They can also help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

When choosing an attorney, it’s important to do your research and select someone who has a strong reputation in the community and a proven track record of success in trucking accident cases. You may also want to consider scheduling a consultation to discuss your case and get a better sense of the attorney’s experience and approach.

Is my truck accident case worth anything?

After an accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various losses and damages you have suffered. The exact types of compensation you can receive will depend on the specific circumstances of your accident and the laws of your jurisdiction. Here are some of the most common types of compensation you can seek after an accident:

Medical expenses: You can be compensated for the cost of medical treatment you have received for your injuries, including hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, and medication.

Lost wages: If you missed work due to your injuries, you can seek compensation for the wages you lost during that time.

Property damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you can be compensated for the cost of repairing or replacing it.

Pain and suffering: You can seek compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you have suffered as a result of the accident.

Disability or disfigurement: If the accident has left you with a permanent disability or disfigurement, you can seek compensation for the impact this has had on your life.

Loss of consortium: If the accident has impacted your relationship with your spouse or partner, they may be able to seek compensation for the loss of your companionship or support.

Punitive damages: In some cases, the court may award punitive damages, which are intended to punish the responsible party for particularly egregious conduct.

It’s important to note that the specific types of compensation you can receive will depend on the laws of your state or country, as well as the specifics of your case. To better understand your rights and options for compensation, it is advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.

How much will a truck accident lawyer cost?

The cost of hiring a truck accident lawyer can vary depending on a number of factors such as the complexity of the case, the experience of the lawyer, the location, and the fee structure.

Some lawyers charge a contingency fee, which means that they only get paid if they win your case, usually taking a percentage of the settlement or verdict as their fee. The percentage can vary from case to case, but it’s usually around 33% to 40% of the amount recovered.

Other lawyers may charge an hourly rate, which can range from $200 to $500 or more per hour. In addition to the hourly rate, there may be other expenses such as filing fees, court costs, expert witness fees, and other related expenses that can add up quickly.

It’s important to discuss fees and expenses upfront with your lawyer so you have a clear understanding of what to expect. Many lawyers offer a free initial consultation where they can assess your case and discuss their fees and fee structure. It’s important to choose a lawyer who is experienced in truck accident cases and has a proven track record of success in winning such cases.

How can a truck accident attorney help after an accident?

A San Diego truck accident attorney can be a valuable asset to have on your side after a truck accident. Here are some ways they can help:

Investigating the accident: A truck accident attorney can conduct a thorough investigation of the accident to determine the cause and who is at fault. This can include reviewing police reports, witness statements, and other evidence.

Evaluating damages: Your attorney can help you determine the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They can work with medical professionals and financial experts to accurately assess your losses.

Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies are notorious for offering low settlements or denying claims altogether. Your attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

Filing a lawsuit: If necessary, your attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf to seek full compensation for your damages. They can handle all aspects of the litigation process, from filing paperwork to representing you in court.

Providing legal advice and support: Your attorney can provide legal advice throughout the entire process, including answering your questions, explaining your legal rights, and providing guidance on the best course of action for your specific case.

Overall, a San Diego truck accident attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process after a truck accident, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents in San Diego

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?

After seeking medical attention, it’s crucial to gather information, such as the contact details of involved parties, and consult with a lawyer.

How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit?

The statute of limitations for truck accident lawsuits varies by jurisdiction. It’s best to consult with an attorney promptly to avoid any delays.

How is liability determined in a truck accident case?

Liability is established by examining various factors, such as driver negligence, vehicle maintenance records, and compliance with safety regulations.

Can I pursue compensation if I was partially at fault?

Depending on the jurisdiction, you may still be eligible for compensation even if you were partially at fault. Consult with an San Diego truck accident attorney for guidance.

What damages can I claim in a truck accident case?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other related damages.

How long does it take to resolve a truck accident claim?

The duration of a truck accident claim depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case and the willingness to negotiate a settlement.

Will my case go to trial?

While most cases are resolved through negotiation, some may proceed to trial. Our San Diego personal injury attorneys are prepared to represent your interests effectively.

The HHJ Trial Attorneys' Difference

When it comes to truck accident cases in San Diego, HHJ Trial Attorneys stands out for several reasons. Our firm is dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation, ensuring that our clients receive the support they need during challenging times. Here’s what sets us apart:

Experience and Expertise

Our team of San Diego truck accident lawyers brings extensive experience and expertise to every case we handle. We have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding truck accidents and have successfully represented numerous clients in similar cases. With our in-depth knowledge and strategic approach, we are equipped to navigate the complexities of your case and pursue the best possible outcome.

Personalized Attention

At HHJ Trial Attorneys, we prioritize personalized attention for our clients. We recognize that each truck accident case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your needs, and tailor our approach accordingly. You can trust that we will keep you informed about the progress of your case, answer your questions promptly, and provide you with the guidance and support you require throughout the legal process.

Aggressive Advocacy

We are committed to fighting tirelessly on behalf of our clients. Our truck accident attorneys are known for their aggressive advocacy both inside and outside the courtroom. We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice, diligently investigating your case, gathering compelling evidence, and building a strong legal strategy. Whether through skilled negotiation or courtroom litigation, we strive to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

Client-Centered Approach

At the core of our practice is a client-centered approach. We genuinely care about the well-being of our clients and understand the physical, emotional, and financial hardships they face after a truck accident. We work diligently to alleviate your burdens and help you navigate the legal process with confidence. You can rely on us to be there for you, providing compassionate support, and guiding you every step of the way.

Results-Driven Success

Our track record of success speaks for itself. We have achieved favorable outcomes for countless clients in truck accident cases, securing substantial settlements and verdicts. We are proud of our accomplishments and the difference we have made in the lives of those we represent. When you choose HHJ Trial Attorneys, you can be confident that you are partnering with a team that is dedicated to achieving the best possible results for you.

Get in Touch with Our San Diego Truck Accident Attorneys Today

Large commercial truck driving companies have their own team of representatives and attorneys fighting for them when they get into an accident. Often times immediately following an accident, a representative from a trucking company will report to the scene and begin interviewing victims of the accident when they are most vulnerable. The trucking company representative will try to take control of the accident scene so that they can mitigate or shield their company from liability. When facing an experienced trucking company like this, you need an attorney to fight aggressively on your behalf.

HHJ Trial Attorneys will review every truck accident case in incredible detail and thoroughly investigate the case to determine what caused the accident. We will visit the scene, interview all witnesses, collect and analyze police reports, consult with accident reconstruction experts, and take all necessary steps to determine who is liable and how best to achieve recovery in your case. Contact us and let us fight on your behalf.

Take the First Step Toward Justice with Top-Rate San Diego Truck Accident Lawyers

If you or your loved one has been involved in a truck accident in San Diego, don’t wait to seek legal help. The consequences of such accidents can be devastating, and it’s crucial to have skilled and experienced representation by your side. Contact HHJ Trial Attorneys today to schedule a free consultation with our trusted truck accident lawyers.

During the consultation, we will listen to your story, assess the details of your case, and provide you with an honest evaluation of your legal options. We will explain the process, answer any questions you may have, and chart a path forward. 

Don’t let the negligent parties get away with their actions. Let us fight for your rights, hold them accountable, and help you secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Call us today and take the first step toward justice.

Testimonial from Dylan, Satisfied Client

When my family was affected by an auto accident, I reached out to HHJ Trial Attorneys. I learned they were highly recommended and respected amongst their peers. HHJ treated my family as their own from the very beginning. From start to finish they maintained constant communication with us and ensured we were in good care. I don’t wish anyone ever has to experience a hardship of which attorneys are needed, but if you do I strongly encourage you to call HHJ. Special thanks to Mike Hernandez and Shelby Cardoza for being there for my family when we needed it most. True professionals.

HHJ Trial Attorneys

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