Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. With experienced legal guidance, you can better understand your options, manage your case to pursue financial recovery, and focus on healing while legal matters are handled. Call today to speak with a Los Angeles truck accident lawyer victims trust, and let’s explore how we can help you move forward.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we understand the challenges you may be facing. For over 50 years, our Los Angeles truck accident attorneys have represented accident victims in pursuing compensation. With decades of experience handling cases throughout California, we have built a reputation for personal injury representation.

We have recovered over $2 billion for our clients since 1972. Read our client testimonials to see our success stories. Client testimonials reflect individual experiences. Results vary depending on the facts of each case.
Our team has a deep understanding of California law and operates 14 locations across the state. See our proven case results and commitment to securing fair compensation. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only collect attorney fees if we secure compensation for you.

Serious Lawyers for Serious Cases

At Jacoby & Meyers, we focus on one thing: representing victims of serious personal injury across California. With 14 locations statewide and decades of experience handling complex truck accident cases, we have the resources and legal knowledge to manage every aspect of your claim. From initial investigation through settlement negotiations or trial, we’re prepared to advocate for your rights at every stage of the legal process.

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a truck accident, we can help. Contact us and fill out our form to speak with a member of our team.

Personal Injury Awards

Can I Afford a Truck Accident Lawyer?

A truck accident can leave you with devastating physical injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial strain. Medical bills pile up. You may be unable to work. The insurance company may pressure you to settle quickly for far less than your case is worth.

Many truck accident cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, which means:

You pay no upfront attorney costs to get started
Attorney’s fees depend on the outcome of your case
Fee arrangements are clearly explained during your free consultation

Legal representation shouldn’t be another financial burden. We’re here to help you pursue justice and financial recovery while you focus on healing.

What To Do After a Truck Accident

Assure Safety: If feasible, relocate to a secure area and look for any injuries.
Dial 911: Call 911 or the Los Angeles Police Department to report the collision and request medical assistance.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries appear minor, obtain a medical evaluation.
Collect Evidence: Record the accident and any damages using pictures and videos. You may also ask for the truck driver’s name and the company they work for.
Speak with a Lawyer for Truck Accident: Contact a truck accident lawyer to understand your rights and receive legal guidance when filing a claim.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Los Angeles

Truck accidents in Los Angeles often result from preventable factors. According to a 2020 study examining truck accidents from 2010 to 2018, truck crashes resulting in severe injuries are often linked to the following factors:

Speeding – Driving too fast for traffic or road conditions
Improper or unsafe driving behaviors – Reckless maneuvers or failure to follow traffic rules
Driving under the influence of alcohol
Nighttime driving on dark roads without streetlights
Slippery road conditions – Wet or hazardous surfaces
Crashes on freeway ramps – Higher risk areas for severe collisions
Operating older trucks – Vehicles with fewer modern safety features
Failure to use safety equipment properly – Seat belts and other protections reduce injury severity

Los Angeles presents unique hazards for large trucks: heavy traffic congestion, stop-and-go conditions, high pedestrian and rideshare density, and aging infrastructure. These factors can contribute to severe collisions when drivers or trucking companies fail to exercise appropriate care.

Common Injuries in Truck Accident Cases

Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, collisions often result in catastrophic injuries. According to the University of California Institute of Transportation Studies (UC ITS), large trucks were involved in 9.1% of fatal crashes in California in 2020. This resulted in 372 deaths and 8,350 injuries, even though these vehicles only make up 2.5% of the state’s vehicle population and account for just 5.6% of miles traveled.

Injuries from big rig collisions include:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions
Spinal cord injuries, including partial or complete paralysis
Broken bones and fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis
Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding
Severe burns from fires or hazardous cargo spills
Crush injuries when vehicles become trapped beneath or against a truck
Soft tissue injuries, including whiplash, sprains, and ligament tears
Psychological trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression

Even injuries that seem minor at first can worsen over time. Seeking prompt medical evaluation creates documentation that supports both your recovery and your legal claim.

Expert Legal Tip from Our Attorneys

Truck accident cases often involve multiple layers of evidence that non-lawyers may overlook. Electronic logging device (ELD) data, driver qualification files, maintenance records, and company safety policies are all subject to federal retention rules, but trucking companies may only preserve them for limited periods. Without early legal intervention, critical evidence can be lost, overwritten, or discarded, weakening an otherwise valid claim. Contacting an attorney promptly helps ensure that key documentation is secured before it disappears.

Who May Be Liable in a Truck Accident?

You might think that if a truck driver causes an accident, they are automatically responsible for the damages. However, other parties may also share liability for the collision, such as the trucking company, the vehicle manufacturer, or the company responsible for maintaining the truck. Determining who is liable often requires a detailed review of the facts to identify all potentially responsible parties.

Scenario 1: The Truck Driver Is Liable

Truck drivers are responsible for operating their vehicles safely. Actions like speeding, erratic lane changes, tailgating, drunk driving, distracted driving, or other negligent behaviors may establish the driver’s liability in a truck accident.

A driver may also be liable for a truck accident if the accident occurs outside their regular working hours. Trucking companies are not always liable for accidents when drivers operate the vehicle without authorization or outside of scheduled duties.

Scenario 2: Liability of the Truck Owner or Company

Truck owners or companies might be held accountable if their actions or inactions contributed to a truck crash. For example, if a company imposes an unrealistic schedule requiring a driver to make multiple trips within a short period, leading to a fatigue-related crash, the company could share responsibility.

Other situations may include setting unreasonable delivery deadlines, ignoring falsified logbooks, hiring drivers with a history of impaired driving, or allowing improperly loaded cargo.

Proving a trucking company’s liability often requires a more detailed investigation. A truck accident lawyer can examine the facts of your case and gather relevant information to identify responsible parties.

Scenario 3: Other Parties Are Responsible

Other parties can also be liable for a truck accident. For instance, if a truck driver crashes due to an unmaintained road, the local government responsible for roadway maintenance may be involved.

If multiple parties are potentially liable, claims may be pursued against each party as supported by the evidence. These situations can be complex, particularly during recovery from injuries, which is why legal representation can help coordinate the claims process.

Determining liability in a truck accident requires a thorough investigation. Unlike typical car accidents, truck collisions often involve multiple potentially responsible parties:

Truck drivers who operate vehicles negligently, in violation of traffic laws, or while fatigued or impaired
Trucking companies that fail to properly train drivers, ignore safety regulations, or impose unrealistic delivery schedules
Vehicle owners or leasing companies responsible for maintenance and inspection
Cargo loading companies that improperly load or secure freight, leading to shifting loads or rollovers
Manufacturers of defective truck parts, such as brakes, tires, or steering systems
Government entities responsible for unsafe road conditions, inadequate signage, or poor maintenance

California law allows claims to be pursued against all parties whose negligence contributed to the accident. Identifying all responsible parties is essential to pursuing compensation that reflects the seriousness of your injuries.

Why This Case Type Is Legally Complex

Truck accident cases involve unique challenges that go beyond typical car accident claims:

Multiple potentially liable parties, including drivers, trucking companies, cargo loaders, vehicle owners, and manufacturers
Federal and state regulations governing driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement
Disputed fault under California’s comparative negligence rules, which can reduce recovery if you’re found partially at fault
Evidence that may be lost or destroyed without prompt legal action, including electronic logging data, maintenance records, and black box information
Insurance coverage disputes, including policy limits, exclusions, and coordination of multiple policies

These cases require detailed investigation, coordination with experts, and a clear understanding of both state and federal law.

Our Personal Injury Case Results

Our personal injury attorneys have recovered over $2 billion in settlements on behalf of local accident victims in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area. Some of our personal injury case results include:

$19 Million

Ride Share Passenger
V.
Auto/Quadriplegic

$17.5 Million

Bike
V.
Truck/Paraplegic

$13 Million

Wrongful Death
V.
City

See More Case Results

Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

Truck accidents can cause significant damage to your vehicle and injuries that may require medical care. The cost of treatment and recovery can vary depending on the circumstances.

You may be eligible to pursue financial compensation for damages resulting from the collision. The following types of damages may be considered:

Economic damages are monetary losses supported by documentation. This can be:

Repair costs
Past, present, and future medical expenses
Lost wages
Loss of financial support

Non-economic damages relate to personal impacts of a crash. This may include:

Pain and suffering
Emotional distress from disability or disfigurement
Loss of companionship
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Every case is different. The types and amounts of damages depend on the specific facts of your accident, the severity of your injuries, and the long-term impact on your life. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help you understand what compensation may be available in your case.

California Statute of Limitations for Truck Accidents

In Los Angeles, truck accident victims have a limited time to file a personal injury claim. Under California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1, you generally must file a case within two years from the accident date. However, this period may vary depending on the circumstances. For example, claims against a local government entity must typically be filed within six months.

Given the strict deadlines for personal injury cases, understanding the filing requirements is important. Having a truck accident attorney can significantly help in this area, allowing you to focus on your recovery instead of the complicated legalities of an injury case.

Why You Need a Lawyer for Truck Accident Cases

Injury victims sometimes hesitate to file a case because of the complexity involved. In addition to recovering from injuries, there are legal steps required to pursue a claim.

Truck accident lawyers may manage aspects of the case, including gathering evidence, filing claims, and communicating with insurance companies. They may also represent clients in negotiations or litigation when necessary.

Here’s how truck accident attorneys may assist:

Legal Evaluation of Liability

Should you sue the truck driver, the trucking company, both, or someone else? Your personal injury lawyer will investigate to answer this critical question. They will also gather evidence to support the liable party’s negligence, holding them accountable for your damages.

Increased Accountability by Fighting for Your Compensation

Calculating the total damages is critical in determining your compensation value. Your recollections of the accident and your lawyer’s input and evidence gathered during the investigation will tell you how much compensation you may qualify for.

Professionals Cutting through the Red Tape

This step may be tedious, but how and when you submit legal forms can make or break your lawsuit. Fortunately, truck accident lawyers handle deadlines and requirements to help you avoid procedural issues.

Reliable Team to Manage Negotiations

We want to relieve unnecessary stress from you, as we know recovering from injuries can be physically and emotionally tolling. So, our lawyers will communicate and negotiate with the insurance provider on your behalf.

Legal Representation, Even in Courtrooms

Truck accident claims are usually resolved at the negotiating table, not in the courtroom. However, some circumstances may call for litigation. No matter where your case takes us or how long we must fight, our lawyer will stay with you throughout the process.

Trusted Advice

We will explain the legal process to you in as much detail as you like, and we can help you make important legal decisions.

At our law firm, we’ve seen truck companies use many tactics to downplay accidents and dispute liability. That’s why having an attorney in your corner can matter. We’re here to help ensure your rights are protected, your case is carefully managed, and if the insurance companies won’t make a reasonable offer, we can take the case to court.

How Jacoby & Meyers Builds Your Truck Accident Case

We approach every truck accident case with thoroughness and attention to detail:

Initial Case Evaluation: We review the facts of your accident, assess liability, and explain your legal options during a free consultation.
Evidence Collection and Investigation: We gather police reports, medical records, witness statements, and physical evidence. When necessary, we coordinate with accident reconstruction experts and review electronic logging device (ELD) data, driver qualification files, and company safety records.
Damage Documentation: We work with medical professionals and economic experts to document the full extent of your injuries, including future medical needs and lost earning capacity.
Insurance Negotiations: We communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, presenting a well-supported claim backed by evidence and expert analysis.
Litigation and Trial Preparation: If negotiations do not result in a reasonable settlement, we are prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial. Our litigation team has the experience and resources to advocate for your rights in court.

How to Choose the Right Truck Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

Truck accident claims often involve severe injuries, complex investigations, and aggressive insurance defense teams. Because commercial carriers and their insurers act quickly to limit liability, choosing the right attorney early can make a meaningful difference.

The right truck accident lawyers Los Angeles offers can build your case with a detailed investigation and strategic preparation from the start.

Experience With Serious Truck Crashes

Truck accident cases are not the same as standard car accident claims. Your attorney should understand how to handle issues involving:

Catastrophic injuries and long-term medical care
Federal trucking regulations (FMCSA rules)
Driver logbooks and hours-of-service violations
Black box data and electronic evidence
Multiple liable parties, including trucking companies and contractors

Jacoby & Meyers has represented injured Californians for decades and recovered over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements in serious injury cases. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Reputation and Credibility

In high-value commercial claims, reputation matters. Established firms with recognized attorneys are often taken more seriously in negotiations. Jacoby & Meyers attorneys have been recognized by different organizations.

Knowledge of California Law and Deadlines

A qualified Los Angeles truck accident attorney should understand:

Local court procedures and filing requirements
How to prove negligence in commercial vehicle cases
Insurance defense strategies used by trucking companies
Strict deadlines, especially when public entities are involved

Trial Preparation

Truck accident cases can involve substantial damages. A firm prepared to take the case to trial strengthens your position if fair settlement discussions are not offered.

Choosing the right truck accident lawyer can help protect your recovery, financial stability, and long-term future.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

Jacoby & Meyers
Is Here
To Support You

What Not to Say to Insurance Companies After a Truck Accident

After a truck crash, insurance adjusters, especially those representing trucking companies, may contact you quickly. They may sound cooperative, but their goal is often to limit the company’s financial exposure. Even simple statements can be used to weaken your claim.

Avoid Saying:

“I’m fine” or “It’s not that bad.” Truck accidents often cause serious injuries that worsen over time.
“It was just a small crash.” Collisions involving large trucks can cause significant internal or long-term damage, even if the vehicles don’t look severely damaged.
“I’m feeling better now.” Some injuries take days or weeks to fully appear.
“I don’t need more treatment.” This may be used to argue that your injuries are minor.
Anything that sounds like fault. Even casual remarks can reduce your compensation under comparative negligence rules.
Agreeing to a recorded statement. You are not required to provide one without legal guidance.
Accepting a quick settlement. Early offers often fail to account for future medical care or lost income.

What To Do Instead:

Keep communication brief and factual
Follow all medical recommendations
Save medical records and document your symptoms
Request written communication when possible
Speak with a truck accident attorney before signing or discussing details

Truck accident claims are often complex and heavily defended. Protecting your words early can help protect your recovery and your future.

Client Testimonials

We foster strong client relationships built on trust and reliability, supporting them when it matters most.

“Jacoby and Meyers handled my case very well. They are, on the one hand, attending to all my needs from the first day of my injury, to the details of my car accident, and setting me up for my doctor’s appointment and therapy; they did a great job. Not to mention Jocelyn Cruz, who helped me a lot to get treatment for my recurring hip injury. I am so thankful to her, to all the staff who handled my case, to Cole, who first took my report, and to everyone else involved.” – Janet Atienza from Google Review.

Disclaimer: Testimonials reflect the unique experience of specific clients. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

What Our Clients Have To Say

“Best firm there is. This Firm has been very helpful throughout the entire process. Adanhelly was been one of the best!!. Very helpful, and she sincerely makes me feel valued and taken care of. I highly recommend this law firm to EVERYBODY!”

– Ali M.

“Jacob & Meyers is the best, they handled our case immediately. Thank you for caring about us and getting us through this horrible thing that happened to us. Emily and the team are top-notch. If you’re looking for the best lawyers to fight for you, look no further; they will take care of your case.“

– Leslie J.

Read More Client Testimonials

Case Outcomes

We have a proven track record of securing significant results for our clients.

$17.5 Million – Bike V. Truck / Paraplegic
$11.9 Million – Wrongful Death V. Truck
$11 Million – Motorcycle V. Truck / Paraplegic
$10.75 Million – Wrongful Death V. Truck

Explore our case studies to see how we protect our clients’ rights.

Disclaimer: Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.

truck Accident Attorney Near Me

Jacoby & Meyers represents truck accident victims throughout Los Angeles and across California. Our 14 statewide locations ensure that experienced legal representation is available when and where you need it.

We serve clients in:

No matter where your accident occurred, we’re here to help.

See the areas we serve here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the truck driver’s insurance company contacts me?

Do not give a recorded statement or sign any documents without speaking to an attorney first. Insurance companies may use your words against you to minimize or deny your claim. Politely decline to provide a statement and contact a truck accident lawyer immediately.

How long does a truck accident case take?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some cases resolve in months, while others may take a year or more. Your attorney can provide a more specific estimate based on the facts of your case.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, your recovery would be reduced by 20%.

What if a government agency were involved in the accident?

Claims against government entities (such as cities, counties, or state agencies) are subject to strict procedural requirements under the California Tort Claims Act. You typically have only six months to file a formal claim, and the process is more complex than a standard personal injury lawsuit. Acting quickly is essential.

What if my symptoms appeared days or weeks after the accident?

Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage, may not present symptoms immediately. Seek medical attention as soon as symptoms appear, and inform your doctor that they may be related to the accident. Under California’s “discovery rule,” the statute of limitations may begin when you discover (or reasonably should have discovered) the injury.

What if the accident involved a rideshare vehicle or public transit?

Accidents involving rideshare drivers (Uber, Lyft) or public transit (Metro buses or trains) involve additional layers of liability and insurance coverage. These cases require careful investigation to determine who is responsible and what insurance policies apply.

How much does it cost to hire Jacoby & Meyers?

We handle most truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no upfront attorney costs. Our fees depend on the outcome of your case and are deducted from the settlement amount. Fee arrangements are clearly explained during your free consultation.

Can I handle my truck accident claim without a lawyer?

While you have the right to represent yourself, truck accident cases involve complex legal and factual issues that can be difficult to manage without experience. Insurance companies have legal teams working to minimize payouts; having an attorney on your side helps protect your rights and improves your chances of securing fair compensation.

For more information, visit our FAQ page.

Get the Legal Representation You Deserve

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you deserve experienced legal representation that will fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you need to move forward. At Jacoby & Meyers, we’ve been helping injury victims across California for over 50 years. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions, and we offer free consultations with no obligation.

Call us today or fill out our online form to get started.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.

Attorney Review & Office Information

Attorney Review Disclosure
This content has been reviewed by California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.

Los Angeles Office
Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067

24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792

Other Cases We Take On

Michael Akiva is Managing Partner of Pre-Litigation of Jacoby & Meyers. Having started his career as an attorney at Latham & Watkins LLP, a prestigious, global corporate law firm, Michael quickly realized that representing big corporations was not for him. After leaving the firm, Michael dedicated himself to fighting for the rights of the injured. Education J.D. UCLA School of Law, Editor, UCLA Law Review B.S., Finance, University of Southern California, Magna cum laude