Improperly Loaded Cargo
Because the primary goal of a trucking company is to transport the greatest amount of cargo in the shortest amount of time possible, truck drivers will sometimes overload or fail to properly secure their cargo in order to meet company deadlines. This creates a dangerous situation for all drivers who are on the road, especially if the truck is traveling at typical highway speeds.
Improperly loaded cargo can be:
- Partially loaded: Trucks that are partially loaded with liquids can slosh back and forth. This upsets the vehicle’s center of gravity and makes the truck more susceptible to rollover accidents.
- Unsecured: Loose cargo can easily fly into oncoming traffic. Additionally, unsecured cargo can sometimes shift dangerously and result in the truck overturning.
- Oversized or overloaded: Truck drivers and maintenance crews sometimes overload their vehicle with cargo. This is often the result of poor training. However, drivers who overload their cargo can be found negligent if their actions result in an accident.
Understanding how cargo should be properly loaded and the responsibilities of trucking companies can help in identifying negligence in these cases. Our firm investigates whether these regulations have been breached to build a robust case.
Poor or Improper Vehicle Maintenance
Vehicle maintenance is an important aspect of road safety and accident prevention.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires truck companies to:
- Conduct a pre-trip inspection to ensure the truck is safe to drive
- Review and sign the last vehicle inspection report and verify that needed repairs were completed
- Systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all trucks within their control
- Complete an end-of-the-day inspection and prepare a written report that documents any discovered defect or deficiency
Truck companies that fail to faithfully complete these duties can be found negligent if their truck is in an accident.
Regular maintenance mitigates the risk of brake failures, tire blowouts, and engine troubles, which are common precursors to accidents. In our investigations, we delve deeply into maintenance logs and repair histories to establish breaches of duty.
What Type of Injuries Are Caused by Truck Accidents?
The people in smaller passenger cars involved in a truck accident are far more susceptible to serious injury than the truck driver.
Many people involved in truck accidents sustain:
Upon experiencing such injuries, victims often face long recovery periods, persistent pain, and mounting medical bills. Understanding the extent of these injuries allows our legal team to demand appropriate compensation that reflects each client’s suffering and needs for future care.
How Can A Truck Accident Lawyer in Bakersfield Help You?
If you have been injured in a truck accident, a truck accident lawyer in Bakersfield can help you. Truck accident lawyers are experienced in handling these types of cases and can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Here are 10 ways a truck accident lawyer can help you:
- A truck accident lawyer can investigate the accident to determine who is at fault.
- A truck accident lawyer can gather evidence to support your claim.
- A truck accident lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
- A truck accident lawyer can help you get the medical treatment you need.
- A truck accident lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf if necessary.
- A truck accident lawyer can help you get a fair settlement.
- A truck accident lawyer can represent you in court if necessary.
- A truck accident lawyer can help you appeal a decision if necessary.
- A truck accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.
- A truck accident lawyer can provide you with support and guidance throughout the process.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, call our truck accident lawyers in Bakersfield today to schedule a free consultation. Truck accident cases are complex, and an experienced lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
The comprehensive support from our legal team ensures that you focus on healing while we handle all legal aspects. We meticulously evaluate every piece of evidence, whether it be from police reports, witness statements, or electronic logs from the trucks involved. Our Bakersfield attorneys are committed to delivering the best possible outcome, reflecting our dedication to client welfare and justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do After a Truck Accident in Bakersfield?
In the aftermath of a truck accident, your immediate safety and health should be your primary concern. Move to a safe location if possible and call 911 to report the accident. While waiting for emergency responders, gather evidence such as photos and contact information of witnesses. Documenting these details can be crucial in building a strong legal case. Once your immediate needs are addressed, contacting a truck accident attorney is beneficial. Klein DeNatale Goldner offers a free consultation to discuss your case and guide you on the next steps.
How is Liability Determined in a Truck Accident?
Liability in truck accidents can be complex, often involving multiple parties such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and even the vehicle manufacturer. In Bakersfield, determining liability requires a thorough investigation into factors like violations of FMCSA regulations, driver fatigue, vehicle maintenance, and road conditions. At Klein DeNatale Goldner, our attorneys conduct comprehensive investigations to identify responsible parties and gather necessary evidence, allowing us to build a compelling case for our clients.
What Compensation Can I Expect from a Truck Accident Claim?
Compensation from a truck accident claim in Bakersfield can cover various damages like medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. The value of a claim depends on the specifics of the accident and the extent of your injuries. Our legal team at Klein DeNatale Goldner evaluates all aspects of the case to maximize the compensation you are entitled to receive. We are committed to fighting for a settlement or court award that appropriately reflects the impact of the accident on your life.
Wrongful Death in Truck Accidents
Klein DeNatale Goldner can be of assistance to clients who are the surviving family members of someone who died in a trucking accident. Our firm can help your family file a wrongful death claim to find justice in the wake of such a tragic accident.
The compensation you may recover in a wrongful death case could cover:
- Funeral expenses
- End-of-life medical care
- And your loss of companionship
We understand that no monetary award can fully replace your loved one, but we strive to lessen the financial burden and provide a sense of closure. Our attorneys handle these sensitive cases with great compassion and strategic precision, always keeping your family's best interests at heart.
Suggested Reading:
Contact our truck accident attorneys to schedule a free consultation with our truck accident attorneys today. Call (661) 485-2100.
Our Trucking Accident Attorneys to Contact:
