Commercial vehicles are those that are licensed under a specific business and are typically driven by that company's drivers. A truck, van, sedan, or huge semi-truck qualifies as a commercial vehicle. If a commercial vehicle driver is involved in an accident and is judged to have been negligent in their driving, the firm for which they work is liable to the injured party.
Accidents involving commercial utility or delivery vehicles can happen everywhere, from expressways to parking lots. Accident victims and their families may be able to claim for damages if commercial vehicle drivers and companies act irresponsibly and liability can be established.
To schedule a free case review, call the legal team of Barrios & Machado at (714) 515-9696.
Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Orange County
An experienced attorney can assess and establish liability issues, but vehicle manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, public agencies, and drivers may all be held accountable for commercial vehicle accidents. Commercial vehicle accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including but not limited to:
Driver Error
Commercial vehicle drivers must operate their vehicles to the best of their abilities at any and all times. Commercial vehicle accidents are frequently caused by factors like the following:
- Driving hurriedly or carelessly (to meet work-related deadlines)
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Drowsiness due fatigue or lack of sleep
- Distracted driving (calling, texting, or emailing while driving)
- Driving without sufficient experience
- Driving without a proper license
- Improper loading or unloading of vehicle
- Unsafe road conditions
Mechanical Defects
This can include:
- Malfunctioning electrical systems
- Defective tires and wheels
- Faulty brake systems
- Improper vehicle repair or maintenance
Unsafe Road Conditions
A business vehicle accident can also be influenced by road maintenance, upkeep, and design. If this is the case, the government may be held accountable as well.
Injuries in a Commercial Vehicle Accident
Commercial vehicle collision injuries can range from minor scrapes and bruises to life-threatening spinal and brain damage. If you were critically hurt in a truck accident, you may have a stronger case for compensation because your injuries will have a greater financial and livelihood impact
Below are some examples of commercial vehicle accident injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Damaged nerves
- Broken bones
- Other types of injuries
What Kind of Damages Can You Claim in a Commercial Vehicle Accident Case?
The types of losses and damages you can recover in a commercial vehicle accident case are determined by the severity of the collision and its consequences on your life, particularly your health and financial well-being.
While some costs, such as medical bills, are apparent, some expenses, losses, and damages may be more subtle and difficult to appraise. The following are some of the most typical types of damages in commercial vehicle accidents:
- Medical expenses, including rehabilitation costs
- The cost of living
- Damage to property
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Income loss/loss of earning capacity
- Punitive damages
- Loss of companionship, inheritance, and other such losses associated with wrongful deaths
Some of these losses are quite difficult to assess. For example, it's difficult for accident victims to estimate the cost of future medical treatment or attach a price to pain and suffering.
This is where a lawyer can make a significant difference in your case. They will be acquainted with accident outcomes and will be able to collaborate with medical practitioners to analyze the long-term effects of your injury on your capabilities and welfare.
Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Orange County Commercial Vehicle Accident Case?
Unlike car collisions, when two drivers and two different insurance policies are typically involved, commercial vehicle accidents may involve not only the driver and their insurance provider, but also their company, who may have its own insurance policy.
Accident victims in major commercial vehicle accidents nearly always seek the assistance of a personal injury attorney. If you decide to pursue an accident case, you will be more likely to recover damages and earn a greater settlement or award if you hire a lawyer.
A commercial vehicle accident lawyer can assist you in the following ways:
Calculating the cost of damages.
Damages can be calculated and the monetary value of intangible losses can be assessed by a lawyer
Making sure you're aware of your rights and options.
A lawyer can assist you in determining if you have a legitimate case and what rights you may have under the law. They can also clarify what the next steps might be.
Getting medical help and figuring out how to pay for it.
Lawyers can assist you in locating medical professionals who will collaborate with you in documenting your injuries, as well as negotiating payment plans and other solutions to help you afford medical care while your case is pending.
Gathering evidence and conducting an investigation into your accident.
A commercial vehicle accident lawyer has the knowledge to conduct a comprehensive investigation of your mishap and request statements and documentation that can improve your case when there is a large sum of money at stake.
Contact us
If you or someone you care about has been injured or killed in a commercial vehicle accident, contact us right away to speak with one of our highly qualified and respected Orange County personal injury lawyers who can assess your case and make sure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
To request a free case review, call Barrios & Machado at (714) 515-9696 or send us an email.
