Injured in a Truck Accident? Talk to Us Before the Insurance Companies.
Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorney
Injured in a truck accident in Los Angeles? Take a deep breath—we’re here to help. Our experienced truck accident lawyers fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. One call can start your path to recovery.
- No Win, No Fee
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- Over $500M Recovered
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Los Angeles, CA 90015
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Meet Our Top Los Angeles Trucking Attorneys
Jonathan M. Ritter
Licensed in California | State Bar No. 241390
Jonathan M. Ritter, Esq., is a founding partner and trial attorney specializing in complex and catastrophic personal injury matters involving semi-trucks, big rigs, commercial vehicles, and wrongful death. A member of both the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) and the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys (ATAA) — credentials held by a small fraction of California attorneys. Jonathan has helped clients and families recover tens of millions of dollars against trucking companies, corporate defendants, and their insurers. View Jon's full bio.
Sherif Edmond El Dabe
Licensed in California | State Bar No. 215042
Sherif Edmond El Dabe, Esq., is a founding partner and distinguished trial attorney specializing in complex personal injury litigation involving commercial trucks, catastrophic orthopedic and brain injuries, and insurance bad faith. A Loyola Law School graduate who clerked for a U.S. Federal Magistrate Judge and trained on both sides of the courtroom (plaintiff and defense) Ed El Dabe brings rare strategic depth to every case he handles. When trucking companies and their insurers deploy every tactic to minimize what they owe, Ed El Dabe is the attorney who knows exactly what they will do next because he has seen it from the inside. View Sherif's full bio.
Get Immediate Help From a Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorney
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, our Los Angeles truck accident lawyers fight for justice, accountability, and the maximum financial compensation for victims and families.
Truck crashes can cause terrible injuries. Victims must have the support that they need to put the pieces back together.
If you or a family member was hurt in a semi-truck, tractor-trailer, or big rig accident, you need top-tier legal guidance and support. Contact us at our Los Angeles law office today for a free case review.
Steps our attorneys take to secure your case’s success:
- Review the details of your case & identify all responsible parties
- Gather evidence to build a strong case on your behalf
- Ensure you reach maximum medical improvement
- Outline the types of compensation owed to you
- Ensure the insurance company’s offers reflect the full extent of your damages
- Negotiate for a fair settlement amount and file a lawsuit if negotiations fail
Semi-Truck, Big Rig & 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles
Not all truck accidents are the same and neither are the legal challenges that come with them.
Whether you were hit by a semi-truck hauling freight on the 710 Freeway, sideswiped by a big rig on the I-5 through downtown Los Angeles, or rear-ended by an 18-wheeler on the 405, the size and complexity of the vehicle involved changes everything about your case.
Semi-trucks, big rigs, and 18-wheelers are subject to a separate set of federal regulations that do not apply to ordinary passenger vehicles.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) governs how long a commercial driver can be behind the wheel, how a truck must be maintained, how cargo must be loaded and secured, and what qualifications a driver must hold before operating a commercial vehicle.
When any of these rules are violated (and violations are far more common than trucking companies admit) that negligence can be the foundation of a strong injury claim.
These cases also involve a different set of defendants. Beyond the truck driver, liability can extend to the trucking company, the cargo loader, the vehicle manufacturer, and in some cases, a third-party maintenance contractor.
Each of these parties will have their own legal team and insurance carrier working to minimize what they owe you from the moment the crash occurs.
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, we have secured an $8.25 million verdict in a truck accident case and a $5.55 million wrongful death verdict involving a fully loaded commercial truck.
We understand how to investigate these cases: pulling black box data, electronic logging device records, driver qualification files, and maintenance histories.
We are prepared to take them to trial when insurance companies refuse to offer fair compensation.
If you were injured by a semi-truck, big rig, or 18-wheeler anywhere in the Los Angeles area, contact our office today for a free case review.
What Makes Truck Accident Cases Different in California
If you have ever been involved in a standard car accident, you may assume that a truck accident claim works the same way. It does not — and understanding the difference is critical to protecting the full value of your case.
The vehicles are governed by federal law. Commercial trucks operating in interstate commerce are regulated by the FMCSA, a federal agency whose rules sit on top of California’s own vehicle code. Hours-of-service limits (49 CFR Part 395), drug and alcohol testing requirements, electronic logging device mandates, and weight restrictions all create a layer of compliance obligations that simply do not exist for passenger vehicle drivers. A violation of any of these regulations is evidence of negligence — and our attorneys know exactly where to look for them.
The injuries are categorically more severe. A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds — roughly 20 to 30 times the weight of an average passenger car. When that mass collides with a smaller vehicle at freeway speeds, the results are frequently catastrophic: traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and fatalities. California’s own data shows that more than 1,400 people were injured in tractor-trailer accidents in Los Angeles County alone in a single year.
The opposing side mobilizes immediately. Large trucking companies maintain rapid-response investigation teams that are often dispatched to an accident scene within hours of a crash. Their goal is to control the narrative, preserve evidence that helps them, and create distance between the company and the driver’s actions. By the time a victim has left the hospital, the other side may already have weeks of case-building behind them.
Multiple insurance policies are in play. Unlike a typical car accident claim involving one insurer, truck accident cases can trigger coverage disputes between the driver’s personal policy, the trucking company’s commercial liability policy, and cargo insurance — each with its own adjuster and legal team pushing back on your claim.
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, we level that playing field. Our attorneys are trial-tested, our investigators move fast, and our track record against corporate defendants speaks for itself.
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, we take on insurance giants and powerful corporations—and win. Our top-rated Los Angeles truck accident lawyers have secured millions for injured victims, ensuring they get the justice and compensation they deserve.
Commercial Trucks are More Likely to Cause Catastrophic Accidents
A fully loaded truck can be up to 72 feet long and weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Unfortunately, when trucking accidents happen, the consequences are disproportionately likely to be catastrophic. While trucks make up less than 2 percent of all vehicle traffic nationwide, they are involved in nearly ten percent of fatal accidents.
For reference, the National Safety Council (NSC) reports that 436 people were killed in commercial truck accidents in California in 2022. The California Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) reports that more than 1,400 people were injured in tractor-trailer accidents in Los Angeles County alone in 2022.
Steps Right After an Accident with a Truck in Los Angeles
Southern California is full of large commercial trucks. When a crash occurs, the aftermath can be especially chaotic. Knowing what to do after a serious truck accident is key to protecting yourself and your rights. Here are four important steps to take after a truck accident in Los Angeles:
Pull Over and Report the Collision
Hit by a commercial truck in Los Angeles? Be sure to stop your vehicle as soon as safely possible. You should exchange information with the trucker. Report the crash to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
Get Medical Care from a Doctor Right Away
All truck accident injuries should be evaluated by a doctor. It is not uncommon for injuries to be more severe than they initially seem. Without medical records, it will be more difficult to bring a legal claim.
Save All Details About the Accident
In California, the law assigns truck accident liability based on fault. Be sure to take photographs of the crash, damage, and surroundings. In addition, gather contact information for any witnesses. The more evidence you have, the easier it’ll be to prove liability.
Speak With a Los Angeles Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer First
Truck companies are typically defended by aggressive legal teams. Before you speak to an insurance adjuster, be sure to consult with an experienced Los Angeles truck accident attorney.
Understanding Truck Accident Liability in California
Neither a trucker nor a trucking company is automatically liable for a crash in Los Angeles. Instead, California operates under a fault-based system.
The party at fault for the crash is responsible for damages. Sometimes fault lies completely with the truck driver or his company. Other times both parties involved share some responsibility.
California’s pure comparative negligence rule allows the fault to be shared among parties. As an example, imagine that you are 20 percent at fault in a collision with a truck. Furthermore, suppose you sustained $50,000 in total damages.
Under California law, you would be liable for $10,000 (20 percent) of your crash damages. However, you can pursue compensation for the remaining $40,000 (80 percent) from the truck driver and/or trucking company.
Negligence is the key to liability in any claim. The Judicial Council of California Civil Jury Instructions explains that negligence is the failure to take proper care. For example, it could be a truck driver speeding or a trucking company failing to conduct proper vehicle maintenance.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for LA Truck Accident Victims
In California, semi-truck accident victims have the right to seek compensation for the full extent of their damages, including non-economic losses.
With that being said, commercial trucking companies and their insurance carriers can make the claims process hard.
They often want you to settle for less than what’s fair. We are here to protect your best interests. Along with other types of damages, our Los Angeles truck accident attorney helps injured victims seek financial compensation for:
- Vehicle repairs
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospital bills
- Medications
- Medical equipment
- Loss of wages
- Loss of earning power
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disability
- Wrongful death
Medical Bills
If your incident results in injuries, your claim should cover the cost of emergency treatment, surgery, hospitalization, medication, medical equipment, medical treatment, and physical or rehabilitative therapy.
Loss of Wages
If your injuries cause you to miss work, you can claim lost wages. If they result in a permanent disability affecting your income, you can also claim future income loss or diminished earning capacity.
Punitive Damages
Traffic collisions can affect both, victims and families. Non-monetary claims cover emotional distress, mental anguish, and pain and suffering.
How a Truck Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles Can Help
Taking on the insurance company after a bad truck accident is hard. At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, we are here to be by your side every step of the way.
Our firm has a passion for justice. You can review our client testimonials, and our case results. You may also contact us directly with any specific questions about your case. We are ready to get started working on your behalf right away.
Our top-rated attorneys at El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers will:
Carefully listen to your account of the accident and answer your personal injury questions
We offer a free consultation to discuss your truck accident and evaluate your potential claims. Given the severity of truck crashes, we’ll assess your case strength by examining your injuries, liability factors, and the damages you’ve suffered. Our team will explain your legal options in clear, straightforward terms and outline the best steps to take next.
Investigate your truck accident—gathering all of the relevant evidence
Our team will gather all crucial evidence to build your truck accident case, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements. We’ll analyze accident scene photos, available video footage, and thoroughly document the damage to all vehicles involved. In complex truck crash cases, we may consult accident reconstruction specialists, trucking industry experts, or medical professionals to strengthen your claim and maximize your compensation.
Develop a comprehensive strategy to maximize your financial recovery
We take a strategic, results-driven approach to maximize your financial recovery after a truck accident. We’ll determine the full extent of your damages, factoring in medical expenses, lost wages, future treatment costs, and pain and suffering. We leave no stone unturned.
Handle the settlement negotiations with insurance companies
Truck accident cases often involve powerful insurance companies, but we won’t let them undervalue your claim. Your lawyer will negotiate aggressively, rejecting lowball offers and presenting strong counteroffers backed by evidence. Throughout the process, we’ll keep you informed and involved in every decision.
File a Lawsuit (If Necessary)
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’ll advise you on whether taking your truck accident case to court is the best path forward. Litigation involves a formal legal process, including discovery, where both sides exchange evidence and take depositions. Before heading to trial, we’ll explore alternatives like mediation or arbitration, which could lead to a faster resolution. No matter the route, we’ll be prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Types of Trucks Commonly Involved in Local Accidents
Truck accidents can be devastating due to the massive size and weight of these vehicles.
Therefore, understanding the different types of trucks involved in local accidents can help you be more aware on the road.
These are some of the most common trucks we frequently see involved in accidents around Los Angeles county:
Los Angeles Truck Accident FAQs
Does a Truck Driver Need a CDL?
Yes. In California, a truck driver generally needs a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate commercial vehicles, including a semi-truck.
The CDL ensures that drivers have undergone the necessary training and testing to operate such vehicles safely and competently. Different classes of CDL cover different types of vehicles/cargo. If a trucker lacks the proper license, that is negligence.
What Type of Insurance Policy Does a Commercial Truck Company Have?
Large commercial trucks typically have higher policy limits. Indeed, California law mandates that commercial truck companies in California are required to have liability policies with far higher limits compared to passenger vehicles. The exact coverage and limits depend on the nature of the goods transported and the size of the truck. Insurers can be aggressive in these cases.
What are the Most Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents?
Semi-truck accidents in Los Angeles happen for a wide range of different reasons. Every crash requires an investigation to determine exactly what happened. Still, tractor-trailer accidents can generally be prevented with the proper care. Some of the leading causes of accidents include:
- Speeding: Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for conditions increases the risk of losing control
- Distracted Driving: Using mobile devices, eating, or other distractions can divert the driver’s focus from the road
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road without adequate rest can lead to reduced reaction time and attention
- Improper Loading: Incorrectly loaded or secured cargo can cause trucks to tip over or shed their loads
- Equipment Failure: Malfunctioning brakes, tires, or other critical components can lead to catastrophic accidents
How Long Do I Have to File Truck Accident Injury Claim in California?
While you have two years from the truck accident date to file a personal injury claim, for a property damage-only claim, you have three years to take action. Do not wait to get started.
You do not want to fall behind on the claims process. Consult with a Los Angeles semi-truck accident lawyer right away.
Does Federal Law Impact a Truck Accident Case?
It can. While semi-truck accident injury claims in Los Angeles are brought under California law, there are federal safety regulations that apply to trucks operated in interstate commerce. If a trucker or trucking company violates these safety rules, that is evidence of negligence. A safety violation could be key to establishing fault in your truck accident claim.
Should I Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?
It depends. A full and fair settlement offer from the insurance company is a good outcome in a truck accident claim. With that being said, you should not agree to resolve your case for a lowball settlement.
You always have the right to take your truck accident injury claim to court if the compensation does not meet your expectations. An experienced Los Angeles truck accident lawyer can review your case, determine the value of your claim, and represent you in settlement negotiations.
Should I Agree to a Truck Accident Settlement?
Generally, it’s not advisable to accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer. These initial offers are often low, designed to save the company money. It’s best to consult with a personal injury lawyer who can assess your case’s true value and negotiate for a fair settlement.
When should you get a lawyer for a truck accident?
The short answer: as soon as possible. Ideally before you speak to any insurance company.
Truck accident cases move fast in the wrong direction if you wait.
The trucking company’s investigation team may already be on-site while you are still being treated at the hospital.
Driver logs, black box data, and onboard camera footage can be overwritten or destroyed within days. The longer you wait to retain an attorney, the harder it becomes to preserve the evidence that proves what actually happened.
If your injuries are serious, the insurance company will likely make an early settlement offer — one that does not completely account for all losses.
An attorney can assess the true value of your claim before you agree to anything.
You should contact a truck accident lawyer immediately if any of the following apply:
- You suffered any injury, even one that seems minor at first
- A family member was killed or critically injured
- The trucking company or their insurer has already contacted you
- You were offered a quick settlement at the scene or shortly after
- A government entity or road defect may have contributed to the crash
- The truck driver was operating across state lines under federal regulations
Los Angeles Commercial Truck Accident Cases – No Win, No Fee
How much does it cost to retain a truck accident attorney? With El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, there are no upfront costs or hourly bills.
Our Los Angeles commercial truck accident attorneys represent injured victims on a contingency fee basis. Until you receive your payment, we do not receive ours. Your initial consultation with our law firm is free, confidential, and carries no obligations.
Featured Los Angeles Truck Accident Cases
Our results speak for themselves. Here are just a few examples of the compensation we’ve recovered for our clients:
$8.25 million
Truck Accident
Confidential
$5.55 million
Wrongful Death Truck Accident
Riverside, CA
$2.2 million verdict
Garbage Truck Accident
$500K settlement
Tow Truck Accident
Riverside, CA
Time is limited to file your claim. Don’t wait—speak to a lawyer now! We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Our Los Angeles Truck Accident Attorney Today
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, our truck accident attorneys hold negligent trucking companies accountable. If you were involved in any type of truck crash, we are here to help. From our main office in Los Angeles, our attorneys handle accident claims throughout Los Angeles county and beyond.
Hit by a Commercial Truck? You Need a Law Firm That Hits Back.
Truck accident claims are complex and high-stakes. Our experienced attorneys skillfully take on trucking companies and their insurers. Start with a free consultation.
- No Win, No Fee
- Access to Your Attorney
- Over $500M Recovered
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