San Francisco Truck Accident Lawyer
Due to their large weight and size, commercial trucks have the capability of causing significant injuries and property damage when an accident occurs. If you suffered injuries in a crash involving a semi-truck, a San Francisco truck accident lawyer can provide you with legal assistance in filing a civil claim.
Commercial truck cases can be complicated, as these cases can typically be subject to various complex federal and state laws. Identifying all potentially liable parties also may be challenging, depending on the relationships between the driver, the truck owner, the trucking company. As a result, consulting a personal injury attorney after suffering injuries in a truck accident may be necessary to litigate your case properly.
If you recently suffered serious injuries in a collision involving a truck, you may be unsure about what your next steps should be or what your legal options are. Fortunately, a San Francisco truck accident lawyer can guide you through the claims process and explain your legal right to compensation. Contact an attorney today to get started on your case.
Potentially Liable Parties
One of the unique aspects of truck accident claims is that more than one party may be liable. Truck drivers may be held responsible if they violate federal trucking laws. For example, federal law mandates rest periods between long periods of driving. If a trucker fails to take adequate breaks and becomes overly fatigued, the trucker may fall asleep behind the wheel and collide with other motorists.
Additionally, a court may consider a trucking company to be negligent if it fails to keep its trucks in proper working order. Faulty brakes, worn tires, and dim lights all can contribute to severe accidents. Companies are required to schedule regular maintenance and safety inspections; but their failure to do so can result in devastating accidents. A truck accident attorney in San Francisco can assess an injured claimant’s case and determine which parties may be liable to pay damages.
Negligence in Truck Accidents
State law generally defines negligence as the failure of an individual or entity to act with due care to avoid endangering others. All motorists have the legal obligation to drive responsibly and to follow all traffic laws. Failing to do so can cause a driver to be held accountable for any injuries that result from their actions.
For example, a court may consider a trucker negligent for causing an accident because the trucker sped or failed to stop at a red light. Likewise, truck manufacturers have a legal duty to produce parts that are not defective, and therefore, could be liable for any collisions that occur because of ineffective machinery. A San Francisco commercial truck accident lawyer could identify if the negligence of any party caused a claimant’s injuries.
Statute of Limitations
Civil claims are subject to a statute of limitations by which an individual must file their lawsuit following an accident. Generally, claimants in California must file their personal injury cases within two years from the date of their accident.
In cases where the claim is being brought against a government entity, injured parties must first file a government claim within six months of the accident before being able to file a civil suit.
Failure to abide by the applicable statute of limitations could result in the dismissal of an individual’s claim.
Contact a San Francisco Truck Accident Attorney
If you recently suffered serious injuries in a collision involving a truck, you may be unsure about what your next steps should be or what your legal options are. Fortunately, a San Francisco truck accident lawyer can guide you through the claims process and explain your legal right to compensation. Contact an attorney today to get started on your case.
