The open road carries its own set of challenges and dangers, especially when large trucks are involved. Our Lancaster truck accident lawyers have seen the devastating impact of auto accidents in Lancaster on individuals and families alike.
The statistics are alarming: in 2021, California reported 437 deaths resulting from truck accidents, placing it second in the nation for such fatalities. Across the country, large trucks were involved in 5,700 fatal crashes in the same year, marking an 18% increase from 2020 and a staggering 49% rise over the last decade.
In the face of these daunting figures, Kuzyk Law stands ready to advocate for victims of truck accidents. With a legacy of legal representation in Lancaster, we understand the unique challenges posed by truck accidents, from complex liability issues to the severe injuries they often cause.
Our team of seasoned truck accident attorneys at Kuzyk Law brings experience, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of justice to every case we handle.
Fighting for Justice in the Wake of a Truck Accident
When the unthinkable happens and you find yourself caught in the aftermath of an 18-wheeler or semi-truck accident, the road ahead may seem daunting. The injuries are often more severe, the legal matters more complex, and the stakes higher than in other vehicular accidents.
But with Kuzyk Law at your side, you have a team of experienced truck accident attorneys ready to unravel the complexities, investigate every avenue, and fight for your rights.
Whether you are dealing with the repercussions of an injury or grappling with the loss of a loved one, we understand the profound impact a truck accident can have on your life. Our lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring that every responsible party is held accountable, from the trucker and the manufacturing company to the trucking company itself.
Our injured truck attorneys are relentless in our pursuit of justice and compensation, ensuring that you are not left to navigate this journey alone. With Kuzyk Law, you gain more than just legal representation; you gain a team that is as invested in your case as you are.
Let us be your beacon of support, guidance, and advocacy in these trying times.
Securing the Compensation You Deserve
Your energy should be devoted to healing and rebuilding, not entangled in the complexities of legal claims and financial uncertainties. That’s why choosing the Lancaster, CA truck accident lawyers at Kuzyk Law is a meaningful step toward securing the financial recovery essential for your journey back to normalcy.
Victims of truck accidents are often eligible for a wide array of compensatory damages aimed at covering every aspect of their recovery and loss. From immediate medical expenses and ongoing healthcare needs to emotional distress and loss of enjoyment in life, our team is adept at identifying and fighting for every dollar you deserve.
Furthermore, in the unfortunate event that a truck accident has resulted in the wrongful death of a loved one, our compassionate attorneys are here to help you navigate the wrongful death claim process. We help you secure support to cover funeral expenses and other financial burdens arising from the tragedy.
Why You Need a Lancaster Truck Accident Lawyer
Many victims search for a “truck accident attorney near me.” Here are some of the reasons why:
Expertise in Truck Accident Claims
Truck accidents are vastly different from regular vehicular accidents, involving unique laws and regulations. Our lawyers possess extensive knowledge in this specialized field, ensuring that every aspect of your case is handled with precision and expertise.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are in the business of minimizing payouts, and they employ various tactics to achieve this. A truck accident lawyer from Kuzyk Law knows how to navigate these tactics so you are not shortchanged and receive the full compensation you are entitled to.
Investigating and Gathering Evidence
The trucking company will waste no time in investigating the accident, often with the aim of minimizing their liability. Having Kuzyk Law 18-wheeler accident attorneys on your side ensures that an independent and thorough investigation is conducted, gathering all necessary evidence to build a strong case in your favor.
Proving Liability
Determining liability in a truck accident can be complex, with multiple parties potentially at fault. A truck accident lawyer will untangle the web of liability, identifying all responsible parties so they are held accountable for their actions.
Maximizing Your Compensation
A truck accident lawyer will assess all the damages — including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering — to ensure you receive maximum compensation. They will fight relentlessly so that every damage, big or small, is accounted for and compensated.
Providing Support and Guidance
Beyond the legal aspects, a truck accident can be an emotional ordeal. Kuzyk Law provides not just legal representation but also emotional support and guidance throughout the process, answering your questions and helping to alleviate the burdens you face.
Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents
Various state and vehicle codes give local and state authorities the power to regulate truck usage on roads, set weight and size limits, and enforce safety measures. In addition, truck drivers require special licenses. Despite this, accidents happen.
Understanding the causes of truck accidents is crucial for building a strong legal case. Our team at Kuzyk Law is well-versed in investigating and identifying the factors that lead to these devastating incidents, and we make sure all responsible parties are held accountable. Below are some of the common causes of truck accidents:
Driver Fatigue
Tiredness plays a role in many car and motorcycle accidents. Truckers may be even more susceptible, with long hours on the road without sufficient rest leading to driver fatigue. Despite regulations mandating rest periods for truck drivers, these rules are sometimes ignored, leading to decreased alertness and reaction time and an increased risk of accidents.
Distracted Driving
Like all road users, truck drivers can fall prey to distractions such as cell phones, GPS devices, or other in-cab technologies. Distracted driving can lead to a lapse in attention. When operating a massive vehicle like a truck, even a momentary distraction can have catastrophic consequences.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Truck drivers are often under immense pressure to meet tight delivery schedules, which can lead to speeding or reckless driving. These unsafe driving practices significantly increase the risk of accidents, particularly given the longer stopping distances required for trucks.
Lack of Proper Training
Operating a commercial truck requires specific skills and knowledge. Lack of proper training can result in drivers being ill-equipped to handle the demands of driving a large vehicle, increasing the likelihood of accidents. In particular, inadequate training on how to properly navigate truck blind spots can lead to collisions.
Equipment Failure
Trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they are in safe working condition. Failure to properly maintain a truck or manufacturing defects in truck parts can lead to equipment failure, such as brake failure or tire blowouts.
Poor Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or fog can create hazardous driving conditions for all vehicles, but they pose an even greater risk for trucks due to their size and weight. Truck drivers need to exercise extra caution in these conditions, and failure to do so can lead to accidents.
Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo
Trucks carrying cargo that exceeds weight limits or are not properly secured are at risk of accidents. Overloaded or improperly loaded trucks can be difficult to control, and in some cases, the cargo may shift or spill, creating dangerous situations for both the truck driver and other road users.
Intoxication
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is an offense and a leading cause of accidents on the roads. This is especially dangerous when it comes to truck drivers.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, the immediate steps you take can significantly impact your ability to secure rightful compensation for your damages. At Kuzyk Law, we understand the overwhelming nature of these situations, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
First, prioritize your safety and seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a thorough medical examination is crucial. Report the accident to the police, ensuring there is an official record of the event. This documentation will be vital in building your case.
Next, if you are able, gather as much information at the scene as possible. Take photos of the accident, collect contact information from any witnesses, and exchange details with the involved parties. Remember, remain calm and composed, and never admit fault at the scene.
Once you have taken these initial steps, reach out to Kuzyk Law for a lawyer for an 18-wheeler accident. Our team of experienced truck accident lawyers is ready to take immediate action on your behalf.
Navigating Complex Liability in Truck Accidents
In cases involving passenger vehicles, identifying the at-fault party is typically a straightforward process. However, when it comes to truck accidents, the waters of liability become muddied, with potential responsibility resting on the shoulders of multiple parties. The complexity of these accidents requires a meticulous approach to determine who is truly at fault and against whom a claim should be filed.
Potentially liable parties in a truck accident can span a wide range, each playing a different role in the events leading up to the collision.
Truck Driver
Truck drivers can—and do—make negligent choices. From distractions within the cabin to driving under the influence in an attempt to stay awake, their lapses in judgment can lead to catastrophic results.
Trucking Company
There’s an unfortunate trend of some trucking companies placing profits above safety, cutting corners at the expense of others on the road.
Maintenance and Inspection Firms
Trucking companies are expected to keep their vehicles in top condition, often outsourcing these tasks to specialized firms. When these entities fail to do their job and it results in equipment malfunctions, they become a liable party in the event of an accident.
Loading Companies
The cargo within a truck must be securely fastened, a task not always handled by the driver. If a third party has improperly loaded the truck, they can be held accountable.
Manufacturers
Companies producing trucks and their components have a duty to ensure their products are safe. When a vehicle or its parts are found to be defective, the manufacturer can be held liable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim?
California law stipulates a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, typically giving victims two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, truck accident cases can be complex, and quickly initiating your claim ensures evidence is preserved and your legal rights protected. Consulting with Kuzyk Law immediately after your accident is crucial for timely and effective legal action.
What if I was partially at fault for the truck accident?
California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our experienced attorneys at Kuzyk Law will work tirelessly to minimize your fault percentage and maximize your recovery.
Can I claim compensation if a loved one died in a truck accident?
Yes, if you have lost a loved one due to a truck accident, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. The skilled lawyers at Kuzyk Law can guide you through this challenging process, helping you seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, loss of companionship, and other damages.
When should I contact a truck accident lawyer?
It is crucial to contact a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. Early legal intervention ensures vital evidence is preserved, witnesses’ memories are fresh, and your rights are protected from the start. The team at Kuzyk Law is available to provide immediate assistance and guidance. Get in touch now.
How long will my truck accident case take to resolve?
The timeline for a truck accident case can vary widely depending on the case’s complexity, clarity of liability, severity of injuries, and other factors. Some cases settle quickly, while others may require litigation and take several months or even years to resolve. The legal team at Kuzyk Law is committed to efficient and effective advocacy, working diligently to expedite your case while ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Get In Touch Today
Searching for a “truck accident lawyer near me”?
Time is of the essence after a truck accident, and the sooner you reach out to Kuzyk Law, the quicker we can get to work on your case. Our experienced 18-wheeler injury attorneys are ready to provide you with a confidential consultation, thoroughly reviewing the details of your situation and outlining the best course of action.
Your recovery is our priority, and we are here to alleviate the burden of this process. Contact Kuzyk Law today.
