Orange County Truck Accidents Lawyer

Sidewalks should be safe for everyone. When negligence causes harm, we’re here to help.

When an 80,000-pound commercial truck collides with a passenger vehicle on Orange County’s busy highways, lives change in an instant. Families across communities from Anaheim to Newport Beach face devastating injuries, lost income, and uncertain futures.

If you or a loved one has been crushed on the packed I-405, jackknifed at a Santa Ana intersection, or sideswiped by a big rig in Irvine, trucking companies and their insurers are already working to minimize what they owe you.

At The Injury Firm, we understand that truck accidents devastate families in ways that go far beyond financial concerns. We’ve dedicated our practice to helping truck accident victims and their families rebuild their lives after these life-changing events.

We prepare every case for trial because trucking companies need to be held accountable for the harm they cause.

Why Choose Our Orange County Truck Accident Attorneys

The attorney you choose determines whether you get the justice and support your family deserves during this incredibly difficult time.

We’ve helped OC families recover and rebuild by taking a different approach than other firms when facing powerful trucking corporations.

Our Trial-Ready Strategy

While most attorneys rush to settle, we prepare every truck accident case as if it's going to trial. This preparation ensures trucking companies are held fully accountable rather than allowing them to minimize their responsibility.

No-Risk Promise

You pay nothing unless we win. No upfront costs, no hidden fees, no surprise bills.

Trucking Industry Expertise

We understand federal trucking regulations, commercial insurance policies, and how trucking companies operate. This specialized knowledge helps us fight for the justice your family deserves.

Truck Accident Cases We Handle in Orange County

Semi-Truck and Big Rig Accidents

18-wheelers and tractor-trailers cause devastating accidents on freeways like the 405 through Irvine and the I-5 through Santa Ana. These massive vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, turning any collision into a potential tragedy.

Jackknife Truck Accidents

When truck trailers swing out perpendicular to the cab, they can sweep across multiple lanes, crushing smaller vehicles. These accidents frequently occur during sudden braking or on wet roads throughout the county.

Truck Rollover Accidents

Commercial trucks have a high center of gravity, making them prone to rolling over during sharp turns or in high winds. Rollover accidents often involve multiple vehicles and cause extensive damage on highways like the 91 through Anaheim.

Underride Accidents

When passenger vehicles slide under the back or side of trucks, the results are often fatal. Despite federal safety requirements, many trucks still lack adequate underride guards, leading to horrific accidents.

Truck Tire Blowout Accidents

When massive truck tires explode, they can cause drivers to lose control or send dangerous debris flying into traffic. These accidents happen frequently on the county’s hot summer highways.

Delivery Truck Accidents

UPS, FedEx, Amazon, and other delivery trucks navigate residential areas and business districts, often causing accidents due to tight schedules and frequent stops. These vehicles may have different insurance coverage than long-haul trucks.

Garbage Truck and Municipal Vehicle Accidents

Waste management trucks and other municipal vehicles operate on regular routes throughout the county’s cities, creating unique hazards due to frequent stops and the presence of heavy machinery.

Leading Causes of Truck Accidents

The National Safety Council’s (NSC) latest data shows that California has the second-highest number of fatalities from large truck crashes among all U.S. states, ranking behind Texas but ahead of Florida.

Specifically, Orange County’s position as a major logistics hub, with thousands of commercial vehicles traveling the I-5 and 405 daily, creates unique risks that drivers and trucking companies must address. When they fail to meet their responsibilities, innocent people pay the price.

Understanding what causes these catastrophic crashes can help victims and their families recognize when they have grounds for legal action and compensation.

Driver Fatigue

Federal regulations limit driving hours, but many truckers violate these rules or drive while exhausted. Electronic logging devices (ELD) now track hours, but enforcement remains inconsistent.

In 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is tightening its ELD framework under 49 CFR Part 395 by enhancing device registration processes, revoking non‑compliant models, and refining technical specifications. These actions aim to curb log fraud and strengthen compliance enforcement.

However, research reveals that strict enforcement has led some drivers to engage in riskier behaviors on Orange County’s congested corridors, such as the I-5 through San Diego, as they try to compress their routes into allotted time periods.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding and reckless driving are among the most dangerous behaviors exhibited by commercial truck drivers, significantly increasing the risk of catastrophic accidents.

Due to their massive size and weight, trucks require much longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles and become extremely difficult to control at high speeds.

These dangerous driving behaviors often stem from industry pressures such as tight delivery deadlines or inadequate safety training. The consequences of speed-related and reckless driving truck accidents are typically severe, potentially resulting in jackknife crashes, rollovers, and multi-vehicle pile-ups.

When such accidents occur, both the driver and the trucking company may face legal liability, and victims may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages through the civil court system.

How Much Is Your Truck Accident Case Worth?

Moderate Injuries ($100,000 - $500,000)

Broken bones, herniated discs, and injuries requiring surgery but allowing the eventual return to work.

Severe Injuries ($500,000 - $2,000,000)

Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, or injuries causing permanent disability.

Catastrophic Injuries ($2,000,000+)

Paralysis, severe brain damage, or injuries requiring lifetime care. Some truck accident cases result in settlements exceeding $10 million.

Factors That Maximize Truck Accident Settlements

Every truck accident case is unique. The size of available insurance policies and the severity of injuries significantly impact potential compensation. Call (949) 575-8875 now or fill out our secure online form for a free case evaluation to learn what your specific truck accident might be worth.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

When you’re involved in a serious truck accident on Orange County roads, the actions you take in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact your recovery and your family’s financial security.

Understanding the proper steps to protect your health and legal rights during this traumatic time is essential.

Critical Steps at the Truck Accident Scene

Always Call 911 for Police and Medical Response

Even if injuries seem minor, truck accidents require a thorough police investigation. California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers and local police create detailed accident reports that become crucial evidence. The sheer size difference between trucks and passenger vehicles means hidden injuries are common.

Remain at the Scene Until Authorities Arrive

Never leave a truck accident scene. California law requires all drivers to remain until police complete their investigation. Moving vehicles should only occur if they create immediate safety hazards on busy Orange County highways.

Document Everything While Evidence Still Exists

Photograph all vehicles from multiple angles, focusing on:

Truck company name and DOT numbers
License plates and vehicle identification
Damage to all vehicles involved
Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
Traffic signals and relevant signage
Any visible injuries

Obtain Complete Information From All Parties

Collect information from the truck driver, including:

Commercial driver's license (CDL) number
Trucking company name and contact information
Insurance company details and policy numbers
Truck DOT number and vehicle identification

Gather Witness Information

Truck accidents often have multiple witnesses due to their dramatic nature. Get contact information from anyone who saw the accident occur.

Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Truck Accident Case

Never Admit Fault or Apologize

Trucking companies have teams of investigators and attorneys. Any admission of fault, even polite apologies, can be used against you later.

Don't Accept Quick Settlement Offers

Trucking companies may offer immediate settlements to avoid larger claims. These offers are typically far below the true value of truck accident cases.

Refuse Recorded Statements to Trucking Company Insurers

Commercial insurers have experienced adjusters trained to minimize truck accident claims. Decline all recorded statements and refer them to your attorney.

Preserve All Evidence

Don't repair your vehicle until your attorney has thoroughly documented all damage. Trucking companies may claim your injuries weren't caused by the accident.

Seek Legal Representation Immediately

Trucking companies dispatch investigators to accident scenes within hours. You need experienced legal representation to protect your interests from the beginning.

Federal Requirements for Truck Accidents

Under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, trucking companies must preserve evidence including:

ELD data
Driver qualification files
Vehicle maintenance records
Hours of service records
Drug and alcohol testing results

Why Truck Accidents Are Different from Car Accidents

Truck accidents involve unique legal and practical challenges that require specialized expertise:

Federal Regulations

Trucking companies must follow strict federal regulations covering the following:

Driver qualification and licensing
Hours of service limits (maximum 11 hours driving, 14 hours on duty)
Vehicle maintenance and inspection requirements
Drug and alcohol testing programs
Electronic logging device (ELD) requirements

Multiple Insurance Policies

Commercial trucks typically carry $1 million+ in insurance coverage, but determining which policies apply can be complex:

Trucking company liability insurance
Cargo insurance for damaged goods
Driver’s personal insurance
Trailer owner insurance (if leased)
Umbrella policies for catastrophic damages

Multiple Liable Parties

Truck accidents often involve several potentially responsible parties:

The truck driver
The trucking company
The truck owner (if different from the operator)
Cargo loading companies
Truck maintenance companies
Truck or parts manufacturers

Evidence Preservation

Critical evidence in truck accidents can disappear quickly:

ELD data
GPS tracking information
Dispatch communications
Driver logbooks and records
Vehicle maintenance records
Cargo loading documentation

Our Process for Maximizing Truck Accident Settlements

Immediate Evidence Preservation

We issue preservation notices to trucking companies within 24 hours to prevent the destruction of critical evidence, including:

ELD data
GPS tracking information
Dispatch communications
Driver personnel files
Vehicle maintenance records

Step 1

Federal Regulation Investigation

Our team analyzes whether the trucking company violated federal regulations:

Hours of service violations
Driver qualification requirements
Vehicle maintenance standards
Drug and alcohol testing compliance
Cargo loading violations

Step 2

Expert Witness Development

We work with specialized experts, including:

Truck accident reconstruction specialists
Commercial vehicle safety experts
Medical professionals familiar with truck accident injuries
Economic experts for future care and lost earnings calculations

Step 3

Aggressive Negotiation Against Trucking Companies

Our reputation for taking truck accident cases to trial motivates trucking companies to offer maximum settlements rather than risk multi-million dollar jury verdicts.

Step 4

Orange County Truck Accident Attorney Fees

We work on a contingency fee basis for all truck accident cases:

1

$0 to get started – No consultation fees or retainer

2

$0 out of pocket – We advance all case costs and expert fees

3

$0 unless we win – You only pay if we recover compensation

4

Aligned interests – We succeed only when you do

Call A Trusted Orange County Truck Accident Lawyer Now

Don’t let trucking companies take advantage of your family during this devastating time. These corporations have teams of lawyers and investigators working to minimize their responsibility from the moment the accident occurs.

We serve all of Orange County, including:

Call (949) 575-8875 now or complete our secure online form for a FREE truck accident case evaluation.

Your recovery starts with one phone call. Let us handle the legal battle against trucking companies while you focus on your recovery.

What Our Clients Say

I had the pleasure of working with Calvin on my personal injury case, and I couldn’t be more impressed with his professionalism, dedication, and efficiency. From the very beginning, Calvin was responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely concerned about my well-being. He explained every step of the process clearly and made sure I was informed Kristina Jimenez

Kristina Jimenez

Injury Client

I am so grateful to The Injury Firm. When I approached The Injury Firm, I wanted to make sure my medical bills were covered and I was able to receive adequate treatment. Amir and Cavin kept me well informed and ensured I received the care I needed in Arizona. They went above and beyond in securing a generous settlement and negotiating my medical bills. Amir kept me assured throughout the process and really did make it feel like it was all about the client. Cavin, my case manager, expressed such kindness that it truly felt like having a friend to help guide you. He took the extra time to go over any concerns and kept me up to date. I cannot put into words their generosity, kindness, and patience.

Ishtpreet Khera

Injury Client

Thanks a for letting me walk out the office, very pleased. I will let people know your guys are good, and will fight for you!

Abel Lomeli

Injury Client

I’m extremely satisfied with the outstanding services provided by The Injury Firm, APC. The team was professional, friendly, and genuinely caring. It was a very positive experience, and I highly recommend this company to everyone. A very special thank you to Hiva and Kavin for their incredible support, responsiveness, and dedication — they truly went above and beyond.❤

Mehran Masti

Injury Client

I cannot express enough gratitude to the Injury Law Firm, especially to Amir and Cavin, for their outstanding dedication and unwavering support during a challenging time. I was the victim of a hit-and-run accident, and the aftermath felt overwhelming. From the moment I contacted the firm, Amir and Cavin stepped in and fought tirelessly for my rights. They truly took care of everything. My medical bills, which were a significant concern, were fully covered, allowing me to focus on my recovery without added financial stress. Furthermore, they successfully secured a much-needed settlement that has made a substantial difference in my life. Amir and Cavin are not only incredibly knowledgeable and professional but also compassionate and genuinely invested in their clients' well-being. They kept me informed every step of the way and made a complex process feel manageable. If you are looking for a legal team that will go above and beyond, provide excellent communication, and deliver results, I wholeheartedly recommend the Injury Law Firm and their exceptional services. Thank you, Amir and Cavin, for everything!

Danny Herrera

Injury Client

I got into a car accident which caused pain and multiple slipped discs in my neck. The pain was terrible and the other guy didn’t have insurance. I hired the Injury Firm to help me navigate through everything and they were able to get me the treatment and compensation for the accident. They were fantastic during the entire process!

Elizabeth Walters

Injury Client

I would like to thank everyone at the injury firm for helping me. My insurance company basically deserted me, I was the only one injured, I was the only one left without a vehicle, and I was the only onewho is still receiving treatment. They helped me in more ways than my insurance provider ever could I'm adding on to my review because I ended up using their services for a second time and again I was extremely pleased with the outcome I'm so thankful to have a great organization that goes to fight for us when we really need them I appreciate you Guys and everything that you do keep up the good work

Jon H

Injury Client

I highly recommend this firm for their exceptional service and dedication to clients. My case manager, Cavin, demonstrated remarkable proficiency in managing my somewhat complex case. He provided clear guidance through each step, effectively simplifying the entire process. Cavin's expertise was invaluable in achieving a successful resolution of my case. The experience with Injury Firm APC Accident Attorney was very efficient and highly satisfactory. I was extremely pleased with the outcome and have subsequently referred both family and friends to their services. Thank you so much Cavin! You are the best of the best!

Joseph Yang

Injury Client

I had the unfortunate experience of getting in a car accident on Christmas. Between car repairs, related injuries, and dealing with insurance, it is all a tiring hassle. The silver lining, however, was working with The Injury Firm. I had the pleasure of working with Cavin who was responsive, understanding, and got me the care I needed and settlement I deserved. Insurance and injury policies are confusing, but Cavin told me what I needed to know and made the process as seamless as possible. If you are the unfortunate victim of a car accident injury, you can trust The Injury Firm to handle your case.

Quinn Bosselman

Injury Client

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Orange County?

California gives you two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, federal evidence preservation requirements make immediate action crucial in truck accident cases.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Many trucking companies use independent contractors to avoid liability. We investigate the actual relationship between drivers and companies to determine true responsibility for your injuries.

Can I sue the trucking company if their driver caused my accident?

Yes, trucking companies are typically liable for their drivers’ actions. We also investigate whether the company violated federal regulations or failed to properly screen drivers.

What if the truck driver doesn't have enough insurance?

Commercial trucks typically carry $1 million or more in insurance coverage. We identify all available insurance policies and pursue maximum compensation from each source.

How long will my truck accident case take?

Truck accident cases are typically more complex than car accidents and may take 12-24 months to resolve. However, the larger insurance policies often result in significantly higher settlements.

What evidence is most important in truck accident cases?

Electronic logging device (ELD) data, driver logbooks, vehicle maintenance records, and dispatch communications are often crucial. This evidence can disappear quickly, making immediate legal action essential.