Were you recently injured in a truck accident in San Diego, CA? You may be entitled to file a personal injury claim and pursue compensation from the parties responsible for the crash. Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help you make the most of your opportunity to take legal action and make things right.
Our San Diego truck accident attorneys have 80 years of combined experience and have recovered more than $100 million for injured clients. We’re confident that we can help you maximize the value of your claim if you hire us, so call today at (858) 551-2090 to get started with a free initial consultation.
How Pines Salomon Can Help With a Truck Accident Claim in California
Truck accident cases in San Diego, California, involve unique challenges. Multiple parties may share responsibility, large commercial insurers often get involved, and federal trucking regulations can affect liability. Having a San Diego truck accident lawyer on your side who understands this area of the law thoroughly can help your case substantially.
When you hire Pines Salomon for your truck accident claim, we can:
- Investigate the crash and identify all of the at-fault parties
- Gather critical evidence, including black box data and driver logs
- Calculate the full extent of your damages
- Work with accident reconstructionists and medical experts
- Protect you from allegations of shared fault
- Communicate with insurance companies and negotiate on your behalf
- Prepare your case for court if a settlement cannot be reached
With decades of combined experience, our law firm knows how to successfully take on trucking companies and their insurance companies. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a San Diego personal injury lawyer.
Steps Involved in Filing a Truck Accident Claim in California
Filing a truck accident claim in California involves several important steps. Each stage of the process requires careful attention so that you can protect your rights and build the strongest case possible. Here is an overview of what the process generally looks like:
1. Report the Accident and Get Medical Treatment
The first step is to report the collision to law enforcement and obtain immediate medical care. A police report and medical records will serve as two of the most important pieces of evidence in your claim.
2. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are able, take photos and videos of the vehicles, the roadway, injuries, and anything else relevant. Collecting contact information from witnesses is also helpful.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
You have a limited amount of time to notify your insurance company after an accident. However, you should avoid giving recorded statements or accepting early settlement offers before speaking with a lawyer.
4. Hire an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
Truck accident cases can be worth a lot of money, but they can also be difficult to win. Hiring a truck accident lawyer as soon as you can is almost always a good idea.
5. Investigation and Evidence Collection
Your lawyer will obtain records from the trucking company, including maintenance logs, black box data, and surveillance footage, as well as other relevant documents. Interviews with witnesses and expert evaluations may also be necessary.
6. Calculate Your Damages
This includes both economic damages (such as medical bills and lost wages) and non-economic damages (including pain and suffering). A proper evaluation ensures you pursue all of the available compensation you may be owed.
7. File an Insurance Claim or Demand Letter
Your lawyer will present the evidence and damages to the insurer and begin negotiations. Many cases are resolved at this stage.
8. File a Lawsuit if Needed
If the insurer refuses a fair settlement, your attorney may file a lawsuit to protect your rights. The litigation process typically involves discovery, further negotiations, and, if necessary, a trial.
9. Settlement or Trial
Most truck accident cases settle before trial. If a trial becomes necessary, your lawyer will present your case before a judge or jury.
How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in California?
California’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a truck accident lawsuit in most cases. If you’re only seeking to recover damages for property damage, the deadline is three years.
If the claim involves a government entity, however, you must generally file an administrative claim within just six months. There are other exceptions for certain cases as well. As a result, it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet all of the applicable deadlines.
Contact Our San Diego Truck Accident Lawyers Today for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in a truck accident in California, Pines Salomon is ready to help you fight for the compensation you need. Our San Diego truck accident lawyers have decades of experience and a long track record of successful results in complex trucking cases that you can depend on.
Call today to schedule your free consultation. We’re here to protect your rights and guide you through every step of the claims process.