Being involved in an accident with a large commercial vehicle like a semi-truck, delivery van, or bus can disrupt your life in a major way. These accidents can cause significant injuries and leave you facing a complex situation. Medical bills can pile up, missing work can strain your finances, and the emotional toll of the accident can be significant.
At Krasney Law Accident Attorneys, our Rancho Cucamonga commercial vehicle accident lawyers understand your challenges.
We have extensive experience helping people recover compensation for injuries sustained in these accidents. This compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Definition of a Commercial Vehicle in California
In California, a commercial vehicle is generally defined as any motor vehicle used for business purposes that meets one of the following criteria:
- Weight: The vehicle weighs over 10,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). GVWR refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can legally weigh when fully loaded.
- License Requirement: The vehicle requires a particular driver’s license to operate, such as a Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Here are some examples of standard commercial vehicles:
- Semitrailers (18-wheelers)
- Delivery vans
- Buses
- Construction trucks
- Flatbed trucks
- Tow trucks
- Garbage trucks
When is a Truck Considered a “Commercial Vehicle”?
Not all trucks are commercial vehicles. For example, your pickup truck would only typically be considered a commercial vehicle if you use it for business purposes and it meets the weight or licensing criteria above.
Suppose you need to find out whether the vehicle involved in your accident was a commercial vehicle. In that case, your Rancho Cucamonga commercial vehicle accident lawyer at Krasney Law Accident Attorneys can help you determine the classification. This distinction can be crucial in pursuing your case.
Top Causes of Company Vehicle Accidents in Rancho Cucamonga
Fatigue
Long hours behind the wheel can significantly impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to stay focused. Federal regulations limit truck drivers’ hours within a specific timeframe, but violations occur.
Distracted Driving
Using cell phones, eating, or engaging in other distracting activities can divert a driver’s attention away from the road, increasing the risk of an accident.
Speeding
Commercial vehicles take longer to stop due to their weight, and exceeding the speed limit significantly increases the chances of a severe collision.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Operating a commercial vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a severe offense and can have devastating consequences.
Improper Maintenance
Commercial vehicles require regular maintenance to ensure they operate safely. Neglected brakes, tire problems, and malfunctioning equipment can all contribute to accidents.
Overloaded Trucks
Trucks exceeding weight limits are more difficult to control and unstable, especially when making turns or navigating curves.
Blind Spots
Large commercial vehicles have extensive blind spots, making it difficult for drivers to see smaller vehicles around them. This can lead to lane changes or merging accidents.
Poor Road Conditions
Unmaintained roads with potholes, uneven surfaces, or inadequate lighting can increase the risk of accidents, especially for large vehicles.
Commercial and Company Vehicle Examples
Many different vehicles fall under the “commercial vehicles” category in California. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common ones you might encounter on the road:
Large Trucks
Semi Trailers (18-wheelers):
These massive tractor-trailer combinations haul various cargo across long distances.
Delivery Trucks:
These box trucks come in various sizes and are used by businesses to deliver goods and packages.
Dump Trucks:
Standard on construction sites, dump trucks haul loose materials like sand, gravel, or asphalt.
Flatbed Trucks:
These versatile trucks have a flat platform for transporting oversized or irregularly shaped cargo.
Tanker Trucks:
Designed to transport liquids or gases, tanker trucks can be seen carrying fuel, chemicals, or other materials.
Passenger Vehicles
Buses:
Public transportation buses, school buses, and private charter buses all fall under commercial vehicles.
Taxis and Ridesharing Vehicles:
These vehicles transport passengers for hire and are considered commercial vehicles for business purposes.
Other Commercial Vehicles
Construction Vehicles:
This category includes bulldozers, cranes, and forklifts, which are essential for construction projects but pose a risk when sharing the road with passenger cars.
Utility Vehicles:
Vans and trucks used by utility companies for maintenance and repairs are considered commercial vehicles.
Tow Trucks:
These specialized vehicles are used to recover disabled vehicles and can be involved in accidents if not operated carefully.
| Category | Description | Examples |
| Large Trucks | These powerful vehicles haul various cargo and require special licensing to operate. | * Semi Trailers (18-wheelers) * Delivery Trucks * Dump Trucks * Flatbed Trucks * Tanker Trucks |
| Passenger Vehicles | These commercially operated vehicles transport passengers. | * Buses (Public, School, Charter) * Taxis & Ridesharing (when used for business) |
| Other Commercial Vehicles | These specialized vehicles are used for various commercial purposes. | * Construction Vehicles (bulldozers, cranes, forklifts) * Utility Vehicles (maintenance & repair) * Tow Trucks |
Not all work trucks are commercial vehicles. For instance, a landscaping company truck used solely for local jobs typically would only be classified as a commercial vehicle if it exceeds the weight limit or requires a special CDL.
Who is Liable in a Commercial Vehicle Accident?
Commercial vehicle accidents can be complex, and determining who is responsible for the accident can involve multiple parties. Krasney Law Accident Attorneys’ experience with California CMV laws can be a significant asset in navigating your case.
Here’s a breakdown of some potential parties who may be liable:
- The Truck Driver: Driver negligence is a common cause of commercial vehicle accidents. Examples include speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, or driving under the influence.
- The Trucking Company: The trucking company may be held liable if they failed to maintain the vehicle properly, hired a driver with a poor driving record, or pressured drivers to violate safety regulations.
- A Third Party: In some cases, a third party, such as a parts manufacturer or a company that loaded the truck, could be liable for a malfunction or improper loading that contributed to the accident.
California CMV Laws
California has specific laws governing commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) that go beyond those for passenger vehicles. Krasney Law Accident Attorneys has extensive knowledge of these laws, including:
- Hours-of-Service (HOS) Regulations: These regulations limit the number of hours a truck driver can drive in a specific timeframe to prevent fatigue.
- Weight Limits: Trucks cannot exceed weight limits for safety reasons. Overloaded trucks can become challenging to control and more likely to be involved in an accident.
- Vehicle Maintenance Requirements: To operate safely, commercial vehicles must undergo regular inspections and maintenance. Failing to maintain a vehicle properly can be grounds for liability.
- Cargo Securement: Federal regulations dictate how cargo must be loaded, secured, and distributed on a commercial vehicle to prevent it from shifting and causing an accident.
Rancho Cucamonga Commercial Vehicle Law Firm
At Krasney Law Accident Attorneys, our Rancho Cucamonga commercial vehicle accident lawyers understand your unique challenges. We have extensive experience representing clients injured in accidents involving large trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles.
Here’s what sets Krasney Law Accident Attorneys apart and how we can help you:
- Experience with California CMV Laws: Our lawyers deeply understand California’s complex commercial motor vehicle laws. This knowledge is essential for effectively investigating your accident, identifying liable parties, and building a solid case.
- Proven Track Record of Success: We have a history of securing maximum compensation for our clients injured in commercial vehicle accidents. This compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
- Relentless Advocacy: We are committed to tirelessly advocating for you. We will thoroughly investigate your accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court.
- Compassionate Support: We understand your physical, emotional, and financial hardship. Our team will provide compassionate support and guidance throughout the entire legal process.
Commercial Vehicle Accident Statistics in the United States
Commercial vehicles’ sheer size and weight pose a significant danger on the road. While accidents involving these vehicles are less frequent than passenger cars, the consequences are often far more severe. Here’s a glimpse into the reality of commercial vehicle crashes:
- Nationally: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 490,000 crashes involving large trucks in the United States in 2019. Of these crashes, over 4,100 resulted in fatalities.
- California Statistics: In 2021, California saw 332,448 traffic collisions, resulting in 3,921 fatalities and 273,151 injuries.
Client Testimonials
Take, for instance, the case of Woodford Reserve. After a rear-end collision with a commercial truck, here’s what he had to say about his experience with Krasney Law:
They explained so much about the process and what to expect that I was never out of the loop. Even in a rear-end accident, the insurance still tried to fight me by minimizing my injuries. Not only was I grateful for the help with my case, but I was also happy with my settlement.
I gave my case manager all the info they requested, and they took it from there. This was such a stress-free process. I just had to focus on my treatment and getting better while they took care of the rest. Not having to deal with the insurance company myself was such a relief. – Ara Morales
Contact the Rancho Cucamonga CMV Accident Attorneys at Krasney Law Accident Attorneys Today!
Krasney Law Accident Attorneys are your Rancho Cucamonga commercial vehicle accident legal team. We understand the complexities of these cases and can help you navigate the legal process to recover the compensation you deserve.
Call us today for a free consultation!
California CMV Frequently Asked Questions
What steps should I take immediately following a commercial vehicle accident?
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Get immediate medical attention, even if you don’t feel any pain initially.
- Report the Accident: Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. A police report will be generated, which can be crucial evidence.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Note down weather conditions, road conditions, and names of witnesses.
- Do Not Discuss Fault: Don’t admit fault or discuss the accident details with anyone except the police.
- Contact a Lawyer: An experienced commercial vehicle accident lawyer can advise you of your rights and protect your interests.
How is fault determined in a commercial vehicle accident?
Determining fault in a commercial vehicle accident can be complex. Several factors may be considered, including:
- Driver actions (speeding, distracted driving, etc.)
- Vehicle maintenance issues
- Traffic violations
- Cargo loading and securement
What types of damages can I recover in a commercial vehicle accident lawsuit?
You may be eligible to recover compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
Is there a time limit for filing a commercial vehicle accident claim in Rancho Cucamonga?
California’s statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is generally two years from the accident date. Filing your claim within this timeframe is crucial to preserve your right to compensation.
What should I do if the commercial vehicle company’s insurance denies my claim?
An experienced commercial vehicle accident lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process and fight for your deserved compensation. Even if your claim is initially denied, keep going.