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Truck Accidents

Bakersfield Truck Accident Lawyer

Attorneys For Truck Accidents in California

While the trucking industry is essential for the transportation of goods, the accidents that these vehicles can cause can be truly catastrophic. Due to their size and weight, trucks can cause serious injuries when involved in any type of accident.

While most trucks are built with an under-ride guard to prevent small cars from being trapped underneath their weight in an accident, sometimes these guards fail or are not installed properly.

At Klein DeNatale Goldner, we have represented thousands of personal injury victims for 70 years in practice. Our trucking accident lawyers are ready to fight for you and your family in the wake of a serious truck accident.

Fighting for the Injured in Bakersfield, Fresno, San Diego & Santa Barbara


To get started on your case, please call our truck accident lawyers in the San Joaquin Valley at (661) 485-2100 or contact us online. We look forward to scheduling your free consultation.


What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents can be caused by a number of factors. Below, we have outlined a few of the most common causes of truck accidents.

Driver-Related Causes

  • Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours, leading to exhaustion and slower reaction times.
  • Distracted Driving: Using a phone, eating, or adjusting controls can divert attention from the road.
  • Speeding & Reckless Driving: Driving too fast for road conditions or making aggressive maneuvers increases accident risk.
  • Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol, drugs, or even prescription medications can impair judgment and reaction time.
  • Inexperience & Poor Training: Inadequate training in handling large trucks, braking distances, and emergency situations can lead to errors.

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 vehicles 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.

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.

What Types 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:

  • Broken bones
  • Cuts
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Burn injuries

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident?

Liability for a truck accident can fall on multiple parties, depending on the cause of the accident. The following entities may be held responsible:

  • Truck Driver: A truck driver may be liable if their negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or fatigue, caused the accident. Violating traffic laws or federal trucking regulations can further strengthen their responsibility.
  • Trucking Company: The trucking company can be held responsible if they fail to properly train drivers, enforce safety regulations, or pressure drivers to exceed legal work limits. Negligence in vehicle maintenance or hiring unqualified drivers can also lead to liability.
  • Truck Owner: If the truck is owned by someone other than the driver or company, the owner may be liable for accidents caused by poor maintenance or mechanical failures. They are responsible for ensuring the truck is in safe working condition.
  • Cargo Loaders: The company or individuals responsible for loading cargo can be held liable if improper weight distribution, overloading, or unsecured freight causes an accident. Shifting or falling cargo can lead to rollovers, jackknifes, or roadway hazards.
  • Truck or Parts Manufacturer: A manufacturer may be liable if a defective truck part, such as faulty brakes or tires, contributes to an accident. Product liability laws hold them accountable for design or production defects that lead to failures.
  • Maintenance & Repair Companies: If a third-party maintenance provider fails to properly inspect, repair, or service the truck, they can be responsible for any mechanical failures leading to an accident. Negligence in routine maintenance can cause preventable breakdowns on the road.

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:

  • Investigate the accident to determine who is at fault.
  • Gather evidence to support your claim.
  • Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
  • Help you get the medical treatment you need.
  • File a lawsuit on your behalf if necessary.
  • Help you get a fair settlement.
  • Represent you in court if necessary.
  • Appeal a decision if necessary.
  • Understand your rights and options.
  • 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.

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

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Contact our truck accident attorneys to schedule a free consultation with our truck accident attorneys today. Call (661) 485-2100.


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