San Francisco Truck Accident Lawyers

Why Truck Accidents Are Different from Car Accidents

Truck accidents fundamentally differ from car accidents because of the size, weight, and unique challenges large trucks present. A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—over 20 times the weight of a typical passenger vehicle.

This massive size difference often leads to:

• Greater force of impact. The weight and force of a truck collision can result in catastrophic injuries and widespread damage that are far more severe than a typical car accident.
• Extensive property damage. Passenger vehicles involved in truck accidents are often totaled, leading to significant repair or replacement costs.
• Higher likelihood of fatalities. Large truck crashes are much more likely to cause fatalities than standard car collisions.

Trucking companies must comply with strict rules regarding driver hours, maintenance schedules, and cargo safety. Failure to meet these regulations can contribute to accidents and liability.

Another layer of complexity lies in liability. While a car accident usually involves one at-fault driver, truck accidents often include multiple parties—the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or manufacturers. Our San Francisco truck injury lawyers are skilled at untangling these complexities, gathering evidence, and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in San Francisco

Truck accidents can happen for various reasons, including negligence by the truck driver, trucking company, or other parties.

The city’s steep hills, dense traffic, and narrow roads make large trucks particularly dangerous in San Francisco. There are some common causes of truck accidents we see more than others.

Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often work long hours to meet tight deadlines. Despite federal regulations limiting driving hours, fatigue remains a leading cause of truck accidents. Drowsy driving impairs reaction times, decision-making, and focus, increasing the risk of collisions.

Distracted Driving

Truck drivers may become distracted by cell phones, GPS devices, eating, or daydreaming. Distracted driving can have devastating consequences in a congested city like San Francisco, where split-second decisions matter.

Speeding and Unsafe Driving

Large trucks require significantly longer stopping distances. Traveling too fast, especially on San Francisco’s steep grades, can cause a driver to lose control or fail to stop in time to avoid an accident.

Improper Cargo Loading

Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transit, causing trucks to tip, jackknife, or swerve into other lanes. Overloading also increases the risk of brake failure and tire blowouts.

Equipment Failure

Defective brakes, tire blowouts, and other equipment malfunctions are common causes of truck accidents. Trucking companies and maintenance providers must ensure trucks receive regular inspections and repairs.

Driving Under the Influence

While less common, truck drivers who operate under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications pose a serious risk to others on the road.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

The trauma from a truck accident extends beyond physical injuries.

Victims may experience:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
• Anxiety and depression,
• Sleep disturbances, and
• Emotional distress.

Our semi truck accident attorneys understand the profound physical and emotional impact of a truck accident. We will fight to ensure you receive compensation that addresses the full scope of your injuries and suffering.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a truck accident can be complex because multiple parties may share responsibility for the crash. A commercial truck accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate your case to identify all potentially liable parties, including:

The Truck Driver

If the driver engaged in reckless behavior—such as speeding, distracted driving, or operating under the influence—they can be held liable for the accident.

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers receive proper training and their vehicles are properly maintained.

They can be held liable for:

• Hiring unqualified drivers,
• Failing to perform maintenance checks,
• Encouraging drivers to exceed federal driving limits, and
• Overloading trucks.

Your attorney will help you identify possible causes of action against the trucking company to ensure your claim is successful.

Maintenance Providers

Third-party companies responsible for maintaining trucks must ensure all parts are in safe working order. Faulty repairs or overlooked issues can result in accidents.

Cargo Loaders

Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo increases the risk of truck accidents, especially on San Francisco’s busy roads and nearby highways.

Truck Manufacturers

The manufacturer may be responsible if a defective part, such as brakes, tires, or steering systems, contributed to the accident.

How Silva Injury Law Can Help You After a Truck Accident

At Silva Injury Law, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a truck accident can be. The financial and emotional burdens can quickly pile up, from medical bills to lost wages. That is why our team is here to help you every step of the way.

Here’s how a San Francisco truck accident attorney in our office can assist you:

• Free consultations. We provide a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and determine your legal options.
• Comprehensive investigations. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, consult experts, and analyze data, such as driver logs and black box recordings.
• No fees unless you win. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.
• Negotiations with insurance companies. Our attorneys handle all communications with insurers to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Trial-ready representation. If necessary, we are fully prepared to take your case to court to fight for the justice you deserve.

You are not alone in this fight. Speak with a truck accident lawyer in San Francisco to learn more.

Truck Accidents FAQs

Truck accidents often raise many questions for victims as they navigate the aftermath of the crash. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about truck accident cases.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?

Your priority is your health and safety, and you should seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Next, report the accident to law enforcement and gather evidence like photos and witness contact information. Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters until you consult a lawyer for a semi truck accident.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit?

California’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including truck accidents, is generally two years from the accident date. Therefore, acting quickly is critical to preserving evidence and protecting your legal rights.

What Damages Can I Recover in a Truck Accident Case?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and future costs related to your injuries. If the accident resulted in a fatality, certain family members may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim.

Why Do I Need a Truck Accident Lawyer?

Truck accident cases are complex and involve federal regulations, multiple parties, and aggressive insurance companies.

A skilled truck accident attorney in San Francisco can protect your rights, gather crucial evidence, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. If you have additional questions, the team at Silva Injury Law is here to provide answers and guide you through every step of the legal process.

Contact a San Francisco Truck Accident Lawyer at Silva Injury Law Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, do not face this difficult situation alone. Silva Injury Law is here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Our San Francisco truck injury lawyers have the experience, dedication, and compassion to hold negligent parties accountable and help you rebuild your life.

Contact us online or call (209) 600-4389 today for a free consultation.

With decades of combined experience in California truck accident claims, Silva Injury Law is here for you every step of the way.