Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyer

What can truck accident lawyers do for your case? Under California Civil Code § 1714, individuals and companies may be held liable when their negligence causes injuries to others. Los Angeles motor vehicle accident lawyers can investigate the crash, identify responsible parties, handle insurance negotiations, and pursue compensation for your losses. Because truck accidents often involve commercial carriers and multiple parties, experienced legal guidance can help protect your rights throughout the claims process.

After a serious truck accident in Los Angeles, you need an expert personal injury lawyer with deep knowledge of California traffic laws, local roads, hospitals, and Southern California courts. Truck collisions on major freight routes such as I-110, I-405, and US-101 often involve catastrophic injuries, significant property damage, and complex insurance issues that require careful investigation.

The Los Angeles truck accident lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers help injured victims by investigating claims, securing important evidence, and seeking fair compensation under California law. Our firm handles every step of the process, from the initial investigation to insurance negotiations and, if needed, trial litigation.

• $2+ billion recovered in case results for clients we’ve helped; their reviews reflect our efforts to win each case.
• Over 50 years of experience representing victims of catastrophic injuries, quadriplegia, and other serious injuries resulting from truck accident cases
• Available 24/7 for calls and online requests for a free consultation
• Our expertise are recognized through the awards and affiliations we have earned from respected legal organizations

Past results depend on the facts and circumstances of each case. They do not guarantee, warrant, or predict the outcome of your legal matter.

Reach out to our Los Angeles office to discuss your case with one of our truck accident attorneys.

What Our Clients Have To Say

What should you do immediately after a truck accident in Los Angeles?

The top priorities following a truck accident in Los Angeles along Los Angeles trucking routes are your safety, calling emergency services, seeking medical care, and documenting the scene when it is safe to do so. Because accidents often result in injuries and complex investigations, responding officers from the Los Angeles Police Department or the California Highway Patrol can help ensure the incident is officially documented and that important information is recorded.

• Assure Safety: If feasible, relocate to a secure area and look for any injuries. 
• Call for Emergency: Dial 911 to request emergency medical and police.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get a professional evaluation right away.
• Collect Evidence: Capture photos and videos of the accident scene. Also, request the truck driver’s name, contact information, and the commercial company they work for.
• Gather Witness Information: Collect contact details of witnesses. This info may be needed for the investigation.

What happens in the moments following a truck accident can have a lasting impact on your claim. Taking the right steps at the accident scene can help support your recovery and preserve important information that may be needed later in the claims process.

Common Injuries in Truck Accident Cases

Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, people involved in these collisions may suffer serious injuries ranging from broken bones and burns to traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage. Even collisions that appear minor because of their low impact can result in severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment.

According to the University of California Institute of Transportation Studies, large trucks were involved in 9.1% of fatal crashes in California in 2020. Although they accounted for only 2.5% of registered vehicles and 5.6% of vehicle miles traveled, these crashes resulted in 372 deaths and 8,350 injuries, highlighting the serious risks associated with commercial truck collisions.

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 truck accident injuries that seem minor at first can worsen over time. Seeking immediate medical help from nearby medical facilities, such as Los Angeles General Medical Center, helps create medical documentation that is vital to both your physical recovery and your legal claim.

Who may be liable for a truck accident in Los Angeles?

Liability for a truck accident in Los Angeles may fall on the truck driver, the trucking company, a cargo loading company, a maintenance provider, a vehicle manufacturer, or even a government entity. While the driver is often the first person blamed, commercial truck accidents along freight corridors serving areas such as Wilmington, San Pedro, Commerce, Vernon, and the Port of Los Angeles frequently involve multiple parties whose combined actions or failures contributed to the crash.

Determining who is liable often requires a thorough legal investigation and proving of liability under California Civil Code § 1714. 

Possible responsible parties include:

• The Truck Driver – If speeding, sudden lane changes, distracted driving, or driving tired or impaired led to the accident. Also, if the accident happened outside their authorized corporate working hours.
• The Trucking Company or Owner – If the company failed to properly train drivers, hired unqualified employees, ignored safety requirements, or imposed unrealistic delivery schedules that forced fatigue-related violations.
• Cargo Loading Companies – If freight was improperly loaded, overloaded, or poorly secured, causing cargo to shift or the truck to lose control.
• Vehicle Maintenance Providers  – If poor maintenance, such as worn brakes or other mechanical failures, contributed to the crash.
• Part Manufacturers  – If defective components, including brakes, steering systems, or tires, caused or contributed to the accident.
• Government Entities  – The City of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, or another public agency may share responsibility if unsafe road design, deep and unmaintained potholes, or inadequate hazard signage contributed to the crash.

California follows a comparative fault system, which allows injured victims to pursue claims against all parties whose negligence contributed to the accident. Identifying every potentially responsible party can be important when seeking compensation for the full extent of your losses.

What are the recoverable damages after a truck accident?

Under California Civil Code §§ 3281–3294, victims of truck accidents in Los Angeles may be able to recover economic damages, non-economic damages, and, in cases of extreme negligence or malicious conduct, punitive damages. These damages are intended to compensate for the financial, physical, and emotional losses caused by a commercial truck collision and may include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other documented losses.

You may be eligible to pursue full financial compensation for each of these documented damages resulting from the collision:

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

• Repair costs
• Past, present, and future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Reduced capacity to work
• 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

Punitive damages may also be recovered if the at-fault party was proven to be extremely reckless and negligent with their actions, causing the accident. 

Every truck accident 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.

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:

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.

What is the deadline for filing a truck accident claim in Los Angeles?

Under California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1, Los Angeles truck accident victims have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. Failing to file within that time may result in losing the right to seek compensation. 

A much shorter deadline may apply if you’re filing against government entities, in which case you may have only six months to file the required claim.

What happens when you are not able to file a truck accident claim early?

While a truck accident claim may still be valid if it is filed within the deadline set by California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, waiting too long can hurt your case. Truck accident claims often take time because they require investigation, evidence gathering, and coordination with trucking companies and insurance providers.

The longer the delay, the greater the chance that witnesses may forget important details about how the crash happened, visible skid marks and debris may disappear, and digital records such as dashcam footage or electronic logging device (ELD) data may be deleted or overwritten. Missing evidence and blurry witness statements can make it harder to prove what happened and show the full extent of your damages.

Why do you need a truck accident attorney in Los Angeles?

You may need a truck accident attorney in Los Angeles because truck accident claims often involve complex investigations, multiple potentially liable parties, and commercial insurance companies, especially in crashes along major trucking corridors such as I-710 between the Port of Los Angeles and Commerce. An attorney can help preserve evidence, identify responsible parties, handle negotiations, and pursue compensation while you focus on your recovery.

Opponent Playbook

Insurance companies and trucking companies often begin investigating a truck accident immediately after it happens. Their goal is to understand the claim, assess their exposure, and limit the amount they may have to pay. They often do this by:

• Questioning the accuracy or strength of the evidence
• Disputing liability or arguing that another party caused the accident
• Using delays, such as repeatedly requesting documents or additional information
• Arguing that the victim shares fault under California’s comparative negligence rules

Experienced truck accident attorneys have developed a structured approach to handling these tactics. They help protect your rights by:

• Collecting and preserving important evidence before it is lost, altered, or destroyed
• Handling communications and negotiations with insurance companies
• Building a case supported by records, witness statements, expert analysis, and other available evidence

Seeking legal guidance can help you protect your rights and pursue an evidence-based claim.

What does a truck accident claim process look like?

A truck accident claim usually begins with a case evaluation, followed by evidence gathering and insurance negotiations, and ends with either a settlement or litigation. While the process may seem similar to standard motor vehicle claims, truck accident cases are often more complex because they may involve trucking companies, federal safety regulations, and multiple potentially liable parties.

1. Case Evaluation: This is usually the first step. A truck accident attorney reviews the facts of the accident, available evidence, injuries, and damages to determine whether there is a valid claim.
2. Evidence Gathering and Case Building: If a valid claim exists, the investigation begins. Evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, medical records, blackbox and ELD data, dashcam footage, and maintenance records may be collected and preserved to support the claim.
3. Insurance Negotiations: The claim is presented to the insurance companies, and negotiations begin regarding liability, damages, and settlement value.
4. Settlement and Litigation: If the parties reach an agreement, the case is resolved through settlement. If the parties reach an agreement, the case is resolved through settlement. If an agreement cannot be reached, the claim may proceed to litigation in the Los Angeles Superior Court.

Each step of a truck accident claim takes time and careful preparation. Building a strong claim often requires thorough investigation, detailed documentation, and experience handling complex commercial vehicle cases.  

What to look for in law firms when choosing a truck accident lawyer in Los Angeles?

When choosing a truck accident lawyer in Los Angeles, look for a firm with experience handling commercial vehicle cases, knowledge of trucking regulations, a strong reputation, and the resources to investigate and litigate complex claims. Because trucking companies and their insurers often act quickly after a crash, getting help from the right attorney early can make a meaningful difference in how your case is investigated and prepared.

What is the extent of their experience with truck accident cases?

Truck accident cases are not the same as standard car accident claims and often involve unique legal and factual issues. 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
• Blackbox 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.

What is their reputation and credibility in the field of personal injury law?

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.

Do they understand local laws 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

Are they prepared for trial?

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.

Client Testimonials

At Jacoby & Meyers, we foster strong client relationships built on trust, reliability, and support 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.

Read more client stories in our reviews.

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

Case Outcomes that Reflect Our Experience

While compensation cannot undo the serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and permanent changes to a person’s life caused by a truck collision, it can help provide access to medical care, financial support, and other resources needed during recovery.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we take the fight for your recovery seriously, doing our best to help secure compensation that reflects the value of your claim.

Here are some of the cases we’ve won 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 more of how we protect our clients’ rights.

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

Areas We Serve

Jacoby & Meyers represents truck accident victims throughout Los Angeles and across California. With a statewide network of 14 offices, our team proudly serves communities throughout the Los Angeles area, including:

• Santa Monica
• Glendale
• Pasadena
• West Hollywood
• Torrance

In addition to our Los Angeles office, we also serve clients from offices in:

• Orange County
• San Jose
• San Francisco
• San Diego
• San Bernardino
• Sacramento
• Ontario
• Oakland
• Los Angeles
• Fresno 
• Escondido
• Brea
• Long beach
• Bakersfield

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

Los Angeles Local Resources

Emergency Rooms

• Los Angeles General Medical Center 1200 N State St, Los Angeles, CA 90033
• Harbor-UCLA Medical Center – 1000 W. Carson St., Torrance, CA 90509
• Olive View-UCLA Medical Center -14445 Olive View Dr. Sylmar, CA 91342
• Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center – 1401 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015
• Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center – 1300 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Urgent Care Centers

• Care Fast Urgent Care- Burbank – 353 N Pass Ave Ste D Burbank, CA 91505
• First Aid Urgent Care – 7204 Foothill Blvd, Tujunga, CA 91042
• Edward R. Roybal Comprehensive Health Center – 245 S. Fetterly Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90022
• H. Claude Hudson Comprehensive Health Center – 2829 South Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90007
• Ladera Urgent Care – 5311 W Centinela Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90045

Local Courthouses

• Airport Courthouse – 11701 S. La Cienega, Los Angeles, CA 90045
• Central Arraignment Courthouse – 429 Bauchet St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center – 210 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Disclaimer: We do not endorse these companies or profit from listing them on our website.

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.

Do I still need to file an SR-1 even if there is already a police report?

A police report does not replace the requirement to submit an SR-1 form to the California Department of Motor Vehicles. In accidents involving injury, death, or qualifying property damage, drivers are generally required to file an SR-1 within 10 days of the crash.

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, no-obligation consultations.

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.

Jacoby & Meyers Accident & Injury Lawyers – Los Angeles
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067

24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792

Other Cases We Take On

• Car Accidents
• Personal Injury
• Motorcycle Accidents 
• Truck Accidents
• Slip and Fall Accidents
• Dog Bites
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Scooter Accidents
• Premises Liability
• Hit and Run Accidents
• Construction Accidents
• Boat Accident
• Bicycle Accidents
• Paraplegia Injury
• Brain Injuries
• Catastrophic Injuries
• Burn Injuries
• Wrongful Death
• Laceration Injury
• Orthopedic Injury
• Whiplash Injury
• Amputations
• Broken Bone Injuries
• Neck Injuries
• Quadriplegia Injury
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Back Injury
• Rideshare Accidents