Hire the Best Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyers
California boasts some of the nation’s most scenic roadways, yet it also experiences the highest volume of truck traffic compared to other states. This high volume of trucks significantly contributes to the prevalence of deadly traffic accidents, as truck and commercial vehicle accidents are often among the most severe.
Commercial drivers, being professional drivers, are subject to stringent safety standards. Despite this, accidents involving large trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles are alarmingly common and account for a substantial portion of traffic-related fatalities.
Our national economy thrives on consumer demands, increasingly met by commercial transportation. The surge in online shopping necessitates an ever-growing number of delivery trucks to meet the demands for rapid deliveries. This cornerstone of online commerce has led to an influx of commercial vehicles on the roads.
As the industry faces growing competition and escalating demands, there is immense pressure to maintain fleets of commercial vehicles operated by skilled and safe drivers. When safety measures are compromised in the pursuit of efficiency, it poses a serious risk to all road users.
If you or someone close to you has suffered an injury in a commercial vehicle accident, it’s crucial to seek expert legal counsel. Avian Law Group is here to offer support and guidance. Our team of seasoned California vehicle accident attorneys is available around the clock, seven days a week, to provide the legal assistance you need, whenever you need it.
Deadly Nature of California Commercial Vehicle Accidents
The Congressional Research Service’s “Commercial Truck: Overview” report from 2017 reveals that nearly 4,000 individuals hold commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) in the United States, with over 11 million large trucks navigating the nation’s roads. In 2015, there were upwards of 400,000 traffic incidents involving these large trucks, with close to 100,000 resulting in injuries and approximately 3,600 leading to fatalities. The trend of injury-causing commercial vehicle accidents has been rising since 2009. This increase is thought to be linked to a surge in less experienced commercial drivers or to heightened workloads and stress levels among seasoned drivers.
Further insights come from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which provides additional statistics:
- Between 2015 and 2016, fatal accidents involving large trucks or buses saw a 6 percent increase.
- In 2016, occupants of large trucks or buses comprised 16 percent of fatalities in such accidents, marking a 4 percent rise from the previous year.
- 12 percent of all traffic fatalities are linked to large trucks and buses.
- California ranks among the top ten states for the highest average fatalities in large truck and bus accidents from 2014 to 2016.
These statistics underscore the pressing dangers associated with commercial vehicle accidents in California. If you or a loved one has been impacted by such an accident, Avian Law Group is equipped with experienced attorneys ready to offer legal support and guidance in these complex cases.
California Commercial Vehicle Law Explained by Avian Law Group
In California, a commercial vehicle is defined as any vehicle used or maintained for transporting people for hire, compensation, or profit, or designed, used, or maintained primarily for transporting property. The category includes a diverse range of vehicles:
- Shipping and commercial trucks
- Tractor-trailers
- Utility trucks
- Delivery vans and trucks
- Company vehicles
- Buses, ambulances, taxis, and limos
- Food trucks and tow trucks
- Water well drilling rigs and cement mixers
- Vehicles carrying 10 to 15 people for profit
Understanding Commercial Vehicle Accidents and Liability Determining fault in commercial vehicle accidents is complex. While the driver often plays a significant role, other factors, such as the employer’s responsibility, are crucial. Employers must hire safe, experienced drivers with clean records and provide appropriate vehicle-specific training. They’re also responsible for maintaining their fleet, including regular inspections and maintenance.
With the increasing demand for commercial vehicles, some companies might compromise safety standards to boost profits, bearing responsibility for accidents resulting from these shortcuts. In accidents involving commercial drivers, the employer might be wholly or partially liable. These businesses often have substantial resources, implying they might afford larger settlements but also invest heavily in avoiding payouts.
California’s Diverse Businesses and Commercial Freight The state’s abundance of agricultural and factory businesses leads to significant commercial freight movement on highways, impacting road safety.
Common Issues with Commercial Drivers Despite professional standards, commercial drivers face similar risks as noncommercial drivers, including fatigue, distraction, and impairment.
- Fatigued Driving: Strict regulations limit commercial drivers’ consecutive hours to enhance road safety. Fatigued driving, especially in large commercial vehicles, poses a heightened risk.
- Distracted Driving: The prevalence of smartphones has escalated distracted driving. Commercial drivers, despite stricter regulations on phone use, are not immune to these distractions.
- Impaired Driving: The dangers of driving under the influence are well-known, and commercial drivers have more stringent blood alcohol content limits due to their responsibility for transporting people or heavy cargo.
- Inexperienced Drivers: The high demand for commercial drivers sometimes leads businesses to employ drivers without sufficient experience, compromising road safety.
- Inadequate Response to Road Conditions: A crucial aspect of safe commercial driving is adapting to road conditions. Failure to do so, whether due to inexperience or an attempt to increase earnings, endangers all road users.
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle, Avian Law Group is equipped with experienced attorneys to navigate these complex cases. We understand the intricacies of commercial vehicle law and prioritize your safety and right to fair compensation.
Commercial Drivers Facing Unreasonable Schedules
Commercial drivers, who rely on their driving roles for their livelihoods and to support their families, often encounter unreasonably tight schedules set by profit-driven business owners. This places them in a difficult position, balancing the need to keep their jobs with adhering to strict safety regulations. Companies that pressure their commercial drivers to exceed safe driving limits can be held accountable for any accidents that occur as a result.
Company Responsibility and Fault There are various ways a company can be held responsible for accidents involving commercial vehicles. A company employing commercial drivers bears the ultimate responsibility for its business operations, including its fleet of commercial vehicles. This responsibility encompasses:
- Ensuring a safe fleet, maintained by skilled mechanics using quality parts and tools.
- Properly and safely securing cargo in each commercial vehicle.
In most cases, a company’s liability is linked to accidents involving its commercial vehicles, unless the driver acts in a completely unforeseeable manner.
In California, when dealing with commercial vehicle accidents, it’s crucial to consider both the driver and the company. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, reach out to Avian Law Group. Our adept commercial vehicle attorneys are committed to zealously advocating for the compensation you deserve, aiding in your recovery journey.
Types of Accidents Commonly Involving Commercial Vehicles: Commercial vehicles, particularly large trucks and buses, are susceptible to certain types of accidents more than others:
- Jackknife Accidents
- Underride Accidents
- Truck Rollovers
- Tire Blowouts
These specific accident types pose unique dangers due to the size and nature of commercial vehicles. If involved in such an accident, seeking legal guidance from Avian Law Group can be crucial in navigating the complexities of your case.
Five Essential Defensive Driving Tips Around Commercial Vehicles
Navigating California roads alongside commercial vehicles requires a defensive driving approach, as emphasized in every Driver’s Education course. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) offers several strategies for safe driving around large vehicles:
- Be Aware of Blind Spots on Large Trucks: Large trucks have significant blind spots. Staying out of these zones ensures the driver can see you.
- Exercise Caution When Passing: Ensure you have enough space and visibility when overtaking a large vehicle.
- Avoid Tailgating: Keeping a safe distance from commercial vehicles is crucial, especially since they have longer stopping distances.
- Give Space for Wide Turns: Commercial vehicles need extra room for turns, so it’s wise to give them ample space.
- Maintain Courteous Driving Habits: Respectful driving behavior ensures safer roads for everyone.
If You’re Involved in a Commercial Vehicle Accident
Accidents with commercial vehicles can be particularly hazardous. Should you find yourself injured due to a commercial driver’s negligence, it’s vital to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable California commercial vehicle accident attorney. Avian Law Group’s team of seasoned legal professionals is ready to assist. Our empathetic and adept commercial vehicle accident attorneys are dedicated to defending your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
Navigating the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident can be overwhelming, but ensuring your complete recovery is paramount. Don’t leave your situation to the whims of insurance companies. Avian Law Group cares about your case and is here to support you. For assistance, please call us at (888) 465-0540. We are committed to your recovery and legal journey.