Protecting Your Rights After a Big Rig Accident in California
Big rigs, also known as large commercial vehicles or tractor trailers are a central part of our economy but they are also a threat to any person they share the road with. These large vehicles have numerous blind spots and have the potential to cause serious injury to unsuspecting drivers.
If you have been injured after being struck by a big rig or have lost a family member who was involved in a car accident involving a big rig, it is essential to seek skilled legal support. A majority of trucking companies are equipped with substantial insurance policies and financial compensation may be possible. When filing a case against a trucking company or truck driver’s insurance company, reaching a settlement can be very difficult. These parties usually have extensive legal representation, which can make it very difficult to obtain a fair resolution. Consider seeking the legal advice of a well-versed attorney for support.
Different Types of Trucking Accidents in California
Semi-truck accidents are different than regular passenger vehicle accidents for numerous reasons. For one, there is a great difference in size. Secondly, big rigs operate differently than regular passenger vehicles. The following are common examples behind truck-related accidents.
- Jackknifing Accident – These types of accidents can occur when the truck’s trailer has begun to move independently of the engine part of the vehicle. This can sometimes occur when there is an improper braking technique, the driver is operating the vehicle too fast for weather conditions, there are slippery roads, there is an equipment failure, or the driver has made a turn too fast.
- Turning Accident – Large commercial vehicles require entering into a second lane when making a turn. Because of this, they usually become a hazard to drivers around them at the time of making the turn.
- Runaway Trailer – Under certain conditions, a tractor trailer can become detached from the engine, posing a risk to everyone on the highway. These types of incidents can occur when there are slippery road conditions, there is a failure in the hitch, the trailer was not properly attached, or the driver was operating the truck in a reckless manner.
- Under-ride Accidents – These accidents can occur when a regular passenger vehicle collides with the trailer section of the big rig, ultimately going under the big rig. When this occurs, these types of accidents can be very dangerous and usually have grave results to the passengers of the vehicle. Under current federal law, big rigs are required to have under-ride guards that can help to prevent these types of accidents. Unfortunately, certain tests indicate that the guardrails do little to minimize the severity of an impact.
After a Big Rig Accident, Hire the Legal Support You Need to File a Claim
When it comes to auto accidents involving big rigs, legal representation is not mandatory but it is an essential aid that can help you win the financial compensation you deserve. Truck industry insurance companies will vigorously challenge the claims of those who have been injured. If you or someone you know was injured in a trucking accident, legal representation can fight for the right to a just compensation.
The attorneys at the Knez Law Group, LLP have many years of committed experience serving those who have been injured in a big rig accident. Contact the firm today for a free case evaluation.
Matthew J. Knez graduated from the University of Redlands in California where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Creative Writing. He went on to pursue his Law Degree at the University of LaVerne, College of Law in Ontario, California. While pursuing his law degree he earned various awards, including CALI Award in Torts and he was on the Dean’s List. Mr. Knez was also a member of the Justice and Immigration Clinic where he worked with people seeking asylum into the United States from countries where they had experienced persecution or threat of persecution. Additionally, Mr. Knez was a member of Law Review where he was an Associate Editor and published a Law Review article on California family custody move-away cases.