Commercial Truck Accidents in the San Francisco Bay Area
Every year on American roads, a staggering number of collisions involve commercial trucks. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, nearly half a million such accidents occur annually. Even more alarming is the fatality rate: estimates suggest that big rigs are responsible for 8% to 12% of all fatal traffic accidents.
The sheer size and weight disparity between an 18-wheeler and a passenger car creates a grim reality. Trucks can weigh upwards of 80,000 pounds and stretch 75 feet in length. The force exerted in a collision involving these behemoths translates to far greater potential for serious injuries and fatalities for those in smaller vehicles.
When Tragedy Strikes: Seeking Compensation After a Truck Accident
If you or a loved one has suffered damages due to a truck accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress can quickly pile up. The Walnut Creek personal injury attorneys at O’Connor, Runckel & O’Malley LLP understand the immense challenges you face.
Over 90 Years of Experience on Your Side
With over 90 years of combined experience, our firm has championed the rights of accident victims throughout Northern California. Our proven track record of success in truck accident cases demonstrates our unwavering commitment to securing the compensation you deserve.
We offer a free consultation to discuss your specific situation and explore all legal options available. Our dedicated legal team will be by your side every step of the way, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Understanding the factors that contribute to truck accidents is crucial in holding negligent parties accountable. Here are some of the most frequent causes:
- Truck Driver Negligence: Factors like speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, and driving under the influence can significantly increase the risk of an accident.
- Improper Truck Maintenance: Failing to properly maintain brakes, tires, and lights creates a safety hazard for everyone on the road.
- Negligence of Other Drivers: Reckless driving maneuvers by other motorists can put truck drivers in difficult situations, leading to collisions.
- Unrealistic Deadlines and Driver Fatigue: Strict schedules and long working hours often lead to driver fatigue, significantly impacting reaction time and judgment.
Sharing the Road Safely: Tips to Minimize Your Risk
While some accidents are unavoidable, defensive driving practices can greatly reduce your risk of being involved in a truck accident:
- Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Always leave ample space between your car and a large truck to allow for adequate reaction time in case of sudden braking.
- Avoid Blind Spots: Trucks have large blind spots. Never linger alongside or directly behind a truck.
- Don’t Cut Off Trucks: Remember that due to their size, trucks require more distance to come to a complete stop.
- Use Caution When Passing: Only attempt to pass a truck when it’s safe and there’s ample visibility.
- Be Patient: Avoid tailgating or attempting to squeeze into tight spaces around large trucks.
Protecting Your Rights After a Truck Accident
The aftermath of a truck accident can be a confusing and stressful time. The Walnut Creek truck accident attorneys at O’Connor, Runckel & O’Malley LLP are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. We are committed to obtaining the compensation you deserve to recover and move forward.
We serve clients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area including San Francisco, Contra Costa, Oakland, Alameda, Walnut Creek, Concord, Pittsburg, Antioch, Brentwood, Danville, Richmond, Martinez, Orinda, Lafayette, Oakley, Pinole, San Pablo, Clayton, Benicia, San Ramon, Vallejo, Santa Rosa, Fremont, Hayward, Pleasanton, San Mateo, Daly City, Oakland, Richmond, Pacifica, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Redwood City, San Anselmo, San Bruno, San Carlos Napa, Sonoma, Vacaville, Fairfield, Pleasant Hill, Moraga, Clayton, Albany, American Canyon, El Cerrito, Dublin, Livermore, San Leandro, San Rafael, Santa Clara, Sausalito, South San Francisco, East Palo Alto, El Sobrante, Emeryville, Fairfax Union City, San Jose, Sunnyvale, Menlo Park, Bayside, Berkeley, Palo Alto, Foster City, Corte Madera, Greenbrae, Half Moon Bay, Healdsburg, Kensington, Larkspur, Martinez, Mill Valley, Milpitas, Mountain View, Newark, Novato, Brisbane, Burlingame, Campbell, East Bay, Silicon Valley, and Napa Valley, Oakley, and Discovery Bay, as well as Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, Alameda, Marin, Napa, and Sonoma counties.
