Commercial Vehicles Accidents in California: Understanding the Risks and How to Get Help
Commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks, delivery vans, and buses, play an essential role in California’s economy and transportation system. However, they also pose significant risks to other motorists and pedestrians due to their size, weight, and potential for carrying hazardous materials. In this article, we’ll explore what commercial vehicles are, the statistics of accidents involving commercial vehicles in California, and how injured people can get help.
What is a Commercial Vehicle?
A commercial vehicle is any motor vehicle used for business purposes, such as transportation of goods or passengers. Examples of commercial vehicles include semi-trucks, buses, taxis, delivery vans, and construction vehicles. Commercial vehicles are subject to stricter regulations and requirements than non-commercial vehicles because of their potential risks and the public safety concerns they raise.
Statistics of Commercial Vehicle Accidents in California
Unfortunately, commercial vehicle accidents in California are all too common. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), there were 8,692 accidents involving commercial vehicles in 2020, resulting in 3,358 injuries and 132 fatalities. These numbers are a cause for concern, as they represent a 28% increase in commercial vehicle accidents since 2010.
Commercial vehicle accidents can have devastating consequences due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Semi-trucks, for example, can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. When a commercial vehicle collides with a passenger car or pedestrian, the results can be catastrophic. In many cases, victims of commercial vehicle accidents suffer from severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones.
Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents
There are many reasons why commercial vehicle accidents occur, including:
- Driver error: Drivers of commercial vehicles can make mistakes, such as speeding, failing to yield, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Vehicle defects: Commercial vehicles may have mechanical defects, such as faulty brakes or worn tires, that can lead to accidents.
- Overloading: Overloading a commercial vehicle can make it difficult to control and increase the risk of an accident.
- Fatigue: Commercial drivers often work long hours and may become fatigued, increasing the risk of an accident.
- Improper maintenance: Failure to properly maintain a commercial vehicle can lead to mechanical problems and increase the risk of an accident.
Getting Help After a Commercial Vehicle Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages. However, pursuing a personal injury claim after a commercial vehicle accident can be complex and challenging.
Fortunately, there are resources available to help you. One such resource is The Law Collective, a personal injury law firm based in California. The Law Collective has a team of experienced attorneys who can help you navigate the legal system and fight for the compensation you deserve.
At www.lawcollective.com they understand the devastating impact that a commercial vehicle accident can have on your life. That’s why they offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options and provide personalized guidance throughout the claims process. Their attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means they don’t get paid unless you win your case.
Most Common Commercial Vehicle Accident Injuries in California
Commercial vehicle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to serious, life-altering injuries. Some of the most common commercial vehicle accident injuries in California include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Broken Bones
- Internal Injuries
- Burns and Lacerations
- Amputations
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
These injuries can be caused by a variety of factors, including the size and weight of commercial vehicles, high speeds, and the impact of a collision.
Wrongful Death Due to a Commercial Vehicle Accident
In some cases, commercial vehicle accidents can result in the tragic loss of life. When this happens, it is considered wrongful death. Wrongful death due to a commercial vehicle accident can occur when a driver, passenger, or pedestrian is killed as a result of the negligence or misconduct of a commercial vehicle driver or company. In California, wrongful death lawsuits can be filed by the surviving family members of the deceased, and compensation may be awarded for things like medical expenses, funeral costs, and lost income.
Who Is Held Liable for Company Vehicle Accidents?
When a commercial vehicle accident occurs, determining liability can be a complex process. In some cases, the driver of the commercial vehicle may be held liable for the accident, while in other cases, the company that owns or operates the vehicle may be held liable. In some cases, both the driver and the company may share liability for the accident. Other factors that may be considered in determining liability include vehicle maintenance and training, as well as the actions of other drivers on the road.
Compensation After a Commercial Vehicle Accident
If you have been injured in a commercial vehicle accident in California, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In order to receive compensation, you will need to file a claim with the insurance company that represents the commercial vehicle driver or company. If the insurance company refuses to provide fair compensation, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover damages.
Commercial vehicle accidents can result in serious injuries or even death, and determining liability in these cases can be a complex process. If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial vehicle accident in California, it is important to seek the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney. At The Law Collective, we are committed to helping our clients recover the compensation they deserve after a commercial vehicle accident. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
Link to our website: www.lawcollective.com
