Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

If you've been involved in a truck accident, there are certain steps you should take to enhance your claim and strengthen your legal position. These include:  

1. Prioritize your health and safety: Your well-being is the most important factor. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call law enforcement to the scene. 

2. Seek medical attention: You should also seek immediate medical attention immediately after the accident even if you don't have any injuries or if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not show signs right away and could lead to long-term complications down the line. 

3. Document the scene: If possible, take photographs, gather witness statements, and collect contact and insurance information from the truck driver. Documentation can be invaluable for your claim later. 

4. Report the accident: Inform your insurance company about the accident. However, refrain from making statements to the trucking company's insurance without consulting an attorney first. 

5. Contact an experienced attorney: Contact an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident. An attorney, like Steven Zwick, can offer the guidance and advice you need to start building your case and handle communication with the at-fault party's insurance. 

6. Preserve valuable evidence: Keep any evidence for your claim safe after the accident. This can include medical records, vehicle damage assessments, and any other relevant documents or evidence. 

By contacting an experienced auto accident attorney, you can begin building your case from the onset. Quick action allows you to preserve valuable evidence and conduct thorough investigations into the causes of the accident. Contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation. 

California Truck Accident Laws and Regulations

In California, truck accidents operate under an "at-fault" system. However, specific regulations apply to the trucking industry. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes rules that trucking companies and drivers must follow. These include hours-of-service regulations, weight and load requirements, and vehicle maintenance standards. If these rules are violated and contribute to an accident, the trucking company and driver can be held liable. 

Additionally, California has specific laws that apply to commercial trucks, such as requirements for special permits, licensing, and insurance. An experienced truck accident attorney will have a thorough understanding of these laws and regulations and how they may impact your case. 

Potential Compensation for Truck Accident Claims

Truck accidents often result in significant injuries that require extensive medical treatment and long-term care. As a victim of a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including: 

• Medical expenses: This includes all current and future medical expenses related to the accident, such as hospital bills, surgeries, medication costs, and rehabilitation. 

• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you can seek compensation for lost wages and future earning potential. 

• Pain and suffering: Truck accidents can cause physical pain as well as emotional distress. You may be able to recover damages for these non-economic losses. 

• Property damage: You may also be entitled to compensation for any damage to your vehicle or personal property in the accident. 

At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we understand the full extent of damages that victims of truck accidents may experience. Our team will work tirelessly to make sure that you receive fair and just compensation for your losses. 

How Can Our Firm Help?

Truck accident cases usually involve large trucking companies and insurers with significant resources. Without skilled legal representation, you could be at a disadvantage. Our firm knows the trucking industry and insurance defense strategies, allowing us to effectively challenge these companies. Some of the ways we can help with your case include: 

• Conducting thorough investigations, collecting crucial evidence, and consulting with specialists such as accident reconstructionists to ascertain liability. 

• Negotiating with insurance companies to pursue settlements that reflect the true extent of your injuries and losses. 

• Progressing to litigation if necessary, prepared to take your case to trial when fair settlements are unattainable out of court. 

At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, our ethos is rooted in personalized service and robust advocacy. We are committed to providing open communication, customized legal strategies, and compassionate support. We believe every client deserves a fighting chance at justice and a fresh start following a truck accident. 

Orange County Truck Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been affected by a truck accident in Mission Viejo or the greater Orange County area, don't face the struggle alone. At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we are committed to reviewing your case and helping you pursue compensation for the injuries you sustained. With us by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal side of your situation. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation.