When truck drivers and trucking companies in San Jose are not careful, serious collisions can occur. In a truck accident scenario, individuals on the receiving end typically suffer the most severe injuries.
If you sustained injuries in a recent trucking accident, the knowledgeable legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers can file a claim on your behalf, negotiate with insurance company representatives, or litigate your case to a resolution in court.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced San Jose trucking accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Should We Represent You?
When it comes to maximizing your compensation in a San Jose truck accident claim or lawsuit, you want an experienced and compassionate legal team on your side. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, our attorneys have a favorable track record of success in recovering compensation on behalf of injured accident victims. In fact, over the years, we have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients.
You can view our most recent client testimonials by clicking here. Let us secure the financial compensation you need after your San Jose trucking accident.
How Much Is a San Jose Truck Accident Case Worth?
If you are involved in a truck accident in San Jose, the amount of money you can get from your case depends on several factors. These factors include the severity of your injuries, the extent of damage to your vehicle, and the level of fault of the truck driver or trucking company.
In general, you can recover three main types of damages: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover your financial losses. These damages can include medical expenses, like hospital bills, surgery costs, and physical therapy. You can also claim lost income if you miss work due to your injuries, and if your ability to work in the future is affected, you can be compensated for lost earning capacity. In addition, you can recover the costs to repair or replace your vehicle and any other property that was damaged in the accident.
Non-economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate you for the non-financial repercussions of the accident. These damages can be harder to calculate because they involve subjective experiences. They include pain and suffering, which refers to the physical pain and emotional distress you experience due to the collision. You can also recover damages for loss of enjoyment of life if your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities you once loved. In some cases, you may receive compensation for disfigurement or loss of companionship if the accident affected your relationships.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are less common and are meant to punish the at-fault party if they acted in an especially reckless or malicious way. These damages are not tied to your actual losses but are designed to deter similar behavior in the future.
The total compensation you can recover in a San Jose truck accident case will vary based on these factors. To maximize your recovery, it’s important to work with one of our knowledgeable truck accident attorneys who can guide you through the legal process and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Where Do Trucking Accidents Frequently Happen in San Jose?
Trucking accidents in San Jose, California, often occur in specific areas where high traffic volumes, complex road systems, and frequent driver errors converge. Some of the most common locations include:
- Highways and Freeways – One of the most common locations for truck crashes in San Jose is on highways and freeways, particularly Interstate 880, Interstate 280, and U.S. Route 101. These major thoroughfares experience heavy traffic, including a significant number of commercial trucks. Accidents often occur when truck drivers speed, fail to maintain their lanes or follow other vehicles too closely. In some cases, the trucking company may be at fault if they have pushed drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules, leading to fatigue and poor decision-making.
- Urban Streets and Intersections – Trucking accidents are also prevalent on San Jose’s urban streets, especially at busy intersections like those along Santa Clara Street and Monterey Road. The city’s dense traffic and numerous stoplights create challenging conditions for truck drivers, who may struggle to maneuver large vehicles through tight spaces. Accidents at intersections frequently result from negligent behaviors such as running red lights, making improper turns, or failing to yield the right-of-way. If a trucking company has failed to adequately train its drivers or maintain its vehicles, the likelihood of accidents in these areas increases.
- Industrial Areas – San Jose has several industrial zones, including North San Jose and the Edenvale area, where large trucks are a common sight. Collisions in these areas often stem from improper loading of cargo, which can shift and cause the truck to tip over, or from poorly maintained vehicles that malfunction. Trucking companies that neglect proper vehicle maintenance or fail to enforce safety protocols contribute to the risk of accidents in these regions.
- Construction Zones – Construction zones, such as those along highways or urban redevelopment projects, are another hotspot for trucking accidents. Narrowed lanes, changing traffic patterns, and unclear signage can confuse or surprise truck drivers, leading to collisions. Negligence, in this context, can include the failure of trucking companies to ensure their drivers are aware of and prepared for construction zones.
Categories of Trucking Accidents in San Jose
In San Jose, California, commercial trucking accidents are often the result of negligence on the part of either the truck driver or the trucking company. These accidents can be categorized into several common types, each with its own causes and contributing factors.
- Rear-end Collisions – Rear-end collisions are a frequent type of commercial trucking accident in San Jose. These collisions occur when a truck crashes into the vehicle in front of it, often due to following too closely or driving at an excessive speed. Negligence in these cases can stem from the truck driver’s failure to maintain a safe distance or from fatigue, which can slow reaction times. Furthermore, trucking companies may be at fault if they set unrealistic delivery schedules that pressure drivers to speed or ignore rest breaks.
- Underride Accidents – Underride collisions occur when a smaller vehicle slides under the rear or side of a truck. These accidents are especially deadly and often result from a truck driver’s sudden stop or lane change without adequate warning. Negligence may involve the driver’s failure to use signals properly or the trucking company’s neglect to ensure that underride guards are installed and maintained.
- Jackknife Accidents – Jackknife collisions happen when the trailer of a truck swings out to the side, forming a ninety-degree angle with the cab. This type of accident is particularly dangerous and can lead to multi-vehicle collisions. Jackknifing is often due to sudden braking, especially on wet or slippery roads. Negligence may involve improper braking techniques by the driver or a trucking company’s failure to ensure that brakes are properly maintained.
- Rollover Accidents – Rollover accidents are another common category, particularly in areas with sharp curves or steep inclines. These crashes often occur when a truck is overloaded or when cargo is improperly secured, causing the vehicle to become unstable. A truck driver’s negligence in speeding around curves or a trucking company’s failure to enforce weight limits and cargo securement protocols can lead to rollovers.
Common Injuries in a San Jose Truck Collision
Victims of trucking accidents in San Jose, California, often suffer from a range of serious physical and mental injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. These injuries can have long-lasting effects on a person’s life, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Physical Injuries
One of the most common physical injuries in trucking accidents is traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBIs can occur when the head strikes a hard surface during the collision, leading to concussions, brain swelling, or even permanent brain damage. Victims may require immediate emergency care, followed by long-term neurological treatment and rehabilitation.
Spinal cord injuries are also frequent in trucking accidents and can result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries require immediate surgery to stabilize the spine, followed by physical therapy and possibly lifelong care. Victims may lose their ability to walk or perform daily tasks, drastically altering their quality of life.
Broken bones and fractures are common as well, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs. These injuries can range from simple fractures to compound breaks that require surgery to realign and stabilize the bones. Recovery can involve wearing casts, undergoing physical therapy, and sometimes enduring long-term pain management.
Mental Injuries
Beyond physical harm, truck crash victims often experience significant mental injuries. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common condition that can develop after a traumatic event like a severe accident. Symptoms include flashbacks, anxiety, depression, and difficulty sleeping. Treatment typically involves therapy, counseling, and medication to help manage symptoms.
Victims may also suffer from depression and anxiety, especially if their injuries lead to a loss of independence or the inability to return to work. Mental health treatment is crucial and may include counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication.
Fighting the Insurance Company After a Trucking Accident in San Jose
If you have been involved in a trucking accident in San Jose, California, dealing with the insurance company can be overwhelming. However, at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can fight on your behalf to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
- First, we gather all the necessary evidence to build a strong case. This evidence includes police reports, witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and any available video footage. We also collect your medical records to show the extent of your injuries and the effect they have had on your life.
- Next, we handle all communication with the insurance company. Insurance adjusters often try to get you to settle for less than you deserve. They may downplay your injuries or argue that you were partly at fault. We will not let that happen. We understand their tactics and will negotiate aggressively to get you a fair settlement.
- If the insurance company still refuses to offer a reasonable amount, we are prepared to take your case to court. We will file a lawsuit and present your case before a judge or jury. Our team has the experience and resources to go the distance, fighting for every dollar to which you are entitled.
Throughout the process, we keep you informed and involved. We explain your options, offer guidance, and make sure you understand what is happening at every step. You will not have to face this battle alone – we are with you all the way.
Essential Steps To Take After a Trucking Accident in San Jose
Following a truck accident in San Jose, California, taking the right steps is crucial for protecting your health and your legal rights. One of the most important steps is to finish your medical treatment regimen. Even if you feel better, it is vital to follow through with all recommended treatments. This action not only ensures that your health improves but also creates a complete medical record that shows the extent of your injuries.
Another key step is to gather important documentation. This evidence includes medical records, bills, and any documents related to the accident, such as police reports and witness statements. Taking photos of your injuries and the crash site can also be very helpful. This documentation is essential for building a strong case and proving the damages you have suffered.
Finally, you should speak with one of our skilled San Jose truck accident attorneys as soon as possible. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can guide you through the legal process, handle communication with the insurance company, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. We can also ensure that all deadlines are met and that your case is properly presented.
Call an Experienced San Jose Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, our team is prepared to fight for your rights and pursue the maximum amount of financial compensation that is available to you in your case. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a San Jose truck accident lawyer, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.