Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorneys

Common Types of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can happen in many ways, each carrying serious risks due to the massive size and weight of commercial vehicles. Some of the most common types include:

• Rear-End Collisions – When a truck slams into the back of a smaller vehicle, often causing catastrophic injuries.
• Jackknife Accidents – Occurs when the trailer swings outward, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab.
• Rollover Accidents – Large trucks are prone to rolling over, especially when improperly loaded or driven recklessly.
• Underride Accidents – Smaller vehicles can become trapped under the trailer during a collision.
• Wide Turn Accidents – Trucks making wide right turns can crush or sideswipe nearby cars.
• Blind Spot Accidents – Trucks have large “no-zones” where smaller vehicles can disappear from view.
• Head-On Collisions – Among the deadliest crashes, often caused by fatigue, distraction, or intoxication.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents

Truck accidents often involve multiple factors, many of which stem from negligence. Common causes include:

• Driver fatigue
• Distracted driving 
• Speeding and aggressive driving
• Improper loading
• Poor maintenance
• Driving under the influence
• Inexperienced drivers
• Violating “hours of service” regulations
• Defective truck parts

Common Big Rig Accident Injuries

Victims of big rig and semi-truck crashes are most often left with debilitating, life-altering injuries that will require significant financial resources throughout their lifetime.

Beyond medical expenses and hospital bills, plaintiffs will likely need funding to account for time off work, future medical costs, and other financial losses caused by the crash.

In a truck accident lawsuit, you may be able to sue for the following damages:

• Medical expenses and bills (hospitalization, diagnostic and laboratory tests, surgeries, medical devices and prescriptions, etc.)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Counseling and mental health assistance
• In-home care or 24/7 medical assistance for disabilities
• Home remodeling costs (installing guard rails, wheelchair ramps, etc.)
• Lost wages from time off work
• Job retraining and educational costs
• Pain and suffering (physical and emotional)
• Wrongful death (on behalf of a deceased loved one)

Determining Liability

Unlike standard car accidents, truck accidents often involve multiple liable parties. Identifying who is legally responsible requires thorough investigation. Potentially liable parties include:

• Truck Driver – For reckless, negligent, or impaired driving.
• Trucking Company – If they failed to properly train, monitor, or supervise drivers.
• Cargo Loaders – For improper loading or securing of freight.
• Truck or Parts Manufacturer – If a defect contributed to the crash.
• Maintenance Contractors – For negligent repairs or inspections.

At Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP, we collect and analyze evidence such as driver logs, black box data, accident reports, and witness testimony to build the strongest case possible.

Truck Accident FAQs

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for most truck accident claims is two years from the date of the accident. However, exceptions may apply, so it’s important to speak with a lawyer quickly.

Do I need a lawyer for a truck accident claim?

Yes. Trucking companies and insurers often have aggressive legal teams protecting their interests. An experienced Los Angeles truck accident lawyer levels the playing field and fights for the maximum compensation you deserve.

How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?

At Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP, we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.

Who investigates truck accidents?

Truck accident investigations may involve local law enforcement, the California Highway Patrol, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and private accident reconstruction experts. Your lawyer will coordinate and gather evidence to strengthen your claim.

What if I'm partially at fault?

In California, your claim will be evaluated based on the principle of “comparative negligence,” meaning your damages may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% responsible for the accident, you will only be eligible for up to 70% of the total compensation.