Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
Get expert guidance from consultation to resolution, ensuring your rights and interests are always protected.
Your safety should be your top priority
Call 911 immediately and contact the local police or the California Highway Patrol (CHP)
Ensure to collect at least the driver’s name, address, and date of birth alongside their license number and state
If you are not too injured, take good pictures of the scene and some videos if you can
Your lawyer can help you preserve the value of your case
Our experienced truck accident lawyers can evaluate your case and help you seek full compensation from the companies that caused your injuries.
San Francisco combines the energy of a thriving urban center with the charm of its historic neighborhoods and scenic waterfronts. As a major hub for commerce, tourism, and transportation, the city experiences heavy traffic, including a significant number of large trucks. Unfortunately, this congestion contributes to a growing number of truck accidents.
Truck collisions can result in serious physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Even minor crashes may lead to costly medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and lost wages. Consulting an experienced truck accident lawyer in San Francisco can be a crucial step in securing fair compensation and protecting your rights.
This guide explores the different types of truck accidents, common injuries, and essential steps for filing a claim. Understanding your legal rights and options
Truck accidents in San Francisco have fluctuated over the past three years, with a noticeable decline in total crashes but varying impacts on victims.
While the overall number of truck accidents has declined, the data highlights ongoing risks for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. State highways continue to be a major area of concern, and rear-end and sideswipe collisions remain the most frequent types of crashes.
Truck crashes in San Francisco can happen in various ways. Being aware of the most common types can help drivers stay cautious and prepared.
These accidents occur when a truck crashes into the back of another vehicle, often due to following too closely or sudden stops. Rear-end collisions can lead to whiplash, spinal injuries, and severe vehicle damage.
Head-on crashes involve two vehicles colliding front-to-front. These accidents are often caused by impaired driving, driver fatigue, or wrong-way driving on one-way streets. Due to their high impact, they frequently result in life-threatening injuries.
A truck rollover happens when the vehicle tips onto its side or flips completely over. This can occur due to speeding, sharp turns, or improperly loaded cargo. Rollovers pose significant dangers to both truck drivers and nearby motorists.
T-bone crashes happen when a truck hits the side of another vehicle, usually at intersections. Running red lights, failing to yield, or distracted driving are common causes. These accidents are particularly dangerous for occupants on the impacted side.
A truck may leave the roadway due to driver drowsiness, mechanical failure, or sudden evasive maneuvers. This can lead to crashes involving trees, barriers, or buildings, causing extensive damage and severe injuries.
These incidents involve a truck striking stationary objects like guardrails or light poles. Causes often include poor weather, mechanical failure, or driver fatigue.
These crashes involve a truck colliding with stationary objects like light poles, guardrails, or highway dividers. They often occur due to bad weather, road hazards, or driver inattention.
Trucks have large blind spots, making it difficult for drivers to see smaller vehicles when changing lanes. If a truck driver fails to check blind spots properly, it can lead to dangerous sideswipe accidents.
Even at slower speeds, such as in parking lots or residential streets, truck crashes can still result in injuries like fractures or neck strain. Given San Francisco’s dense streets and steep inclines, low-speed accidents are not uncommon.
Merging crashes happen when a truck fails to merge safely onto a highway or city street, often misjudging the speed of surrounding vehicles. This can lead to side-impact collisions, especially on San Francisco’s busy freeways.
Identifying the primary causes of truck accidents can help improve road safety for everyone.
Driving too fast reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes. Given San Francisco’s tight streets and frequent stop-and-go traffic, speeding can be particularly hazardous.
Truck drivers operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, significantly increasing the risk of an accident.
Following too closely behind another vehicle is dangerous, especially for large trucks that require longer stopping distances. Sudden braking can easily lead to rear-end collisions.
Disregarding right-of-way rules at intersections can result in serious side-impact or head-on crashes, particularly in high-traffic areas like Market Street and Geary Boulevard.
Activities like texting, eating, or adjusting navigation systems divert a truck driver’s attention from the road, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Speeding, weaving through traffic, or making unsafe lane changes can create dangerous conditions for both truck drivers and other motorists.
Certain roads in San Francisco are more prone to truck accidents due to congestion, road conditions, and high truck traffic.
Yes, San Francisco enforces specific truck laws to improve safety and traffic flow.
Truck drivers must be aware of these regulations to avoid fines and ensure safer roadways.
Truck accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to severe, life-altering conditions. Due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, collisions often result in more serious harm compared to regular car accidents. Seeking immediate medical attention is critical, as some injuries may not show symptoms right away but could worsen over time.
The impact of a truck collision can exert tremendous force on the body, often resulting in broken bones. These fractures can range from simple breaks that heal with a cast to complex fractures requiring surgery, metal plates, or pins for stabilization. Victims commonly suffer fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis, which can lead to long recovery periods and mobility limitations. Some severe breaks may result in permanent damage, chronic pain, or even disability.
Head trauma is one of the most serious injuries in truck accidents. A violent impact can cause concussions, brain swelling, or hemorrhaging, leading to memory loss, cognitive impairment, and long-term neurological issues. Symptoms of TBI may not appear immediately but can include confusion, dizziness, mood changes, difficulty concentrating, and chronic headaches. In severe cases, TBIs can result in permanent disability, requiring extensive rehabilitation and lifelong care.
Whiplash occurs when the head is forcefully jerked back and forth, straining the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck. This is a common injury in rear-end truck collisions. Symptoms may include stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and chronic pain that can persist for months. Severe cases may require physical therapy, pain management, or even surgery to restore mobility and function.
Truck accidents can cause significant damage to the spine, resulting in herniated discs, nerve damage, or, in extreme cases, partial or complete paralysis. Spinal injuries can severely impact mobility and quality of life, often requiring surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term medical care. In some cases, victims may lose the ability to walk or perform daily tasks without assistance. Even less severe spinal injuries can lead to chronic pain and reduced range of motion.
The force of impact from a truck crash can cause internal injuries, including damage to vital organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs. Internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but can become life-threatening if left untreated. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or difficulty breathing. Immediate medical attention is essential to diagnose and treat internal injuries before complications arise.
If a truck accident involves fire, fuel leakage, or hazardous materials, victims may suffer severe burns. Burns can lead to excruciating pain, permanent scarring, infections, and the need for multiple surgeries, including skin grafts. Additionally, shattered glass, twisted metal, or flying debris can cause deep cuts and lacerations, which may require stitches or lead to long-term scarring and nerve damage.
Beyond physical injuries, truck accidents can leave lasting psychological scars. Victims may experience PTSD, anxiety, depression, or a fear of driving. Flashbacks, nightmares, emotional distress, and panic attacks are common symptoms. Mental health support, including therapy and counseling, is often necessary to help victims recover and regain confidence on the road.
If you are involved in a truck accident, taking the right steps can help protect your health, legal rights, and financial future. These actions will also strengthen any claim for compensation you may need to pursue.
Assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if you feel fine, some injuries—such as concussions or internal bleeding—may not show symptoms right away. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible is crucial.
If your vehicle is in a dangerous spot, such as the middle of the road or an intersection, move to a safe area if it’s possible and safe to do so. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If your vehicle is not movable, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
Call the police to report the accident. When officers arrive, they will document the scene, take witness statements, and file an official accident report. This report is an essential piece of evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Be sure to request a copy for your records.
Collect the following details from all involved drivers, including the truck driver:
● Full name and contact information
● Driver’s license number
● Trucking company name and contact details
● Insurance provider and policy number
● Vehicle license plate number
If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information, as their statements may help support your case.
Take clear photos and videos of:
● Vehicle damage
● Skid marks or road conditions
● Traffic signals or signs in the area
● Any visible injuries
● The position of vehicles involved
This visual evidence can be critical in proving liability and the extent of damages.
Even if you do not feel injured immediately after the crash, visit a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms for hours or even days. Keep copies of medical reports, prescriptions, and treatment plans for your records.
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide only the facts of the incident and avoid admitting fault. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, so consult a lawyer before providing any detailed statements.
Truck accident cases can be complicated due to multiple liable parties, including the driver, trucking company, or even truck manufacturers. A skilled attorney can:
● Investigate the accident
● Gather and preserve evidence
● Negotiate with insurance companies
● Represent you in legal proceedings if necessary
An experienced lawyer can help maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Collecting the right evidence after a truck accident is crucial for building a strong claim. Start by taking clear photographs and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. These images can provide essential proof of what happened. Additionally, request a copy of the police report, as it contains key details about the crash, including officer observations and witness statements. If possible, obtain contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident unfold, as their testimony may help support your case.
It’s also important to gather information about the truck driver, such as their name, license number, employer details, and insurance information. If mechanical failure played a role in the accident, truck maintenance records can help determine liability. Keep all medical records related to your injuries, including doctor visits, treatment plans, and prescriptions, as these documents can demonstrate the extent of your physical and financial losses. If available, surveillance or dashcam footage capturing the collision can be invaluable in proving fault. Preserving this evidence will strengthen your case and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
By adopting responsible driving practices and remaining vigilant, you can greatly reduce the risk of truck collisions on San Francisco’s crowded streets.
Adhere to all traffic laws, including speed limits, stop signs, and lane guidelines. This promotes predictable driving behavior and decreases the risk of accidents.
Focus on the road and refrain from distractions like texting, eating, or adjusting the GPS while driving.
Ensure there’s adequate space between your vehicle and others, allowing you to stop or maneuver quickly in case of an emergency. Trucks take longer to brake, so ensure you maintain more distance.
Ensure your truck is in excellent shape by regularly checking brakes, tires, lights, and other critical parts. Proper maintenance helps prevent mechanical breakdowns.
Stay alert for sudden actions from other drivers, anticipate hazards, and exercise caution when driving in heavy traffic or challenging weather conditions.
Never drive if you are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications that affect your ability to operate the vehicle safely.
Fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents. Plan rest periods during long trips to stay sharp and maintain reflexes.
San Francisco’s fog, rain, and high winds can reduce visibility and road traction. Slow down and leave extra space in poor weather.
By adhering to these safety practices, truck drivers and others on the road can help ensure safer driving conditions throughout San Francisco.
To secure compensation after a truck accident, proving negligence is critical. Gathering the correct evidence can strengthen your case. Here’s what you should collect to identify fault:
Take clear photos of the scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, and road conditions. These visuals are key pieces of evidence.
Search for nearby cameras that might have recorded the incident. Video evidence can offer valuable insight into the events leading to the crash.
If you or any other party involved have a dashcam, its footage may be pivotal in showing how the crash unfolded.
Gather contact information and statements from people who witnessed the accident. Their accounts can help corroborate your version of events and offer valuable details.
Collect statements from all involved drivers. These can help clarify the events and determine who is responsible for the incident.
The officer’s report provides important details, including their assessment of the situation and initial determination of fault. This is an essential piece of evidence.
When filing a truck accident claim in San Francisco, it’s essential to identify all liable parties to ensure fair compensation. Here are the parties that might be responsible:
The driver at fault, whether due to speeding, distractions, or impaired judgment, is typically the primary person responsible for the accident.
If the driver doesn’t own the truck, the owner could be held accountable, particularly if they allowed an unqualified or reckless driver to operate the vehicle.
If the driver was working at the time of the collision, their employer could be held liable under vicarious liability laws.
If factors like poor road conditions, inadequate signage, or a lack of maintenance played a role in the crash, government entities could be held responsible. Claims against government agencies have specific time constraints.
If a defect, such as faulty brakes or tires, contributed to the collision, the manufacturer may be held responsible.
Additional individuals or organizations, such as other drivers or those responsible for improper loading, may share liability.
Identifying all responsible parties increases your chances of obtaining full compensation for your injuries and damages.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in San Francisco, you may be eligible for compensation to cover the effects on your life:
You can recover the expenses for hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and any other healthcare resulting from the accident.
If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you can seek compensation for current and future lost income.
The responsible party should pay for the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal property that was damaged in the crash.
You may also be able to receive compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the collision.
If the accident was caused by gross negligence or deliberate misconduct, such as reckless driving, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter future dangerous behavior.
Taking the appropriate actions will help you recover the compensation you deserve after a truck accident in San Francisco.
The value of your truck accident claim in San Francisco will depend on factors such as the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. More serious injuries or long-term disabilities typically lead to higher compensation. Other elements, such as the distribution of fault, insurance coverage, and the strength of your evidence, will also impact your final settlement. Working with an experienced truck accident lawyer can help you determine an appropriate settlement amount based on your unique situation.
Several factors influence the outcome of your truck accident claim in San Francisco:
The more severe your injuries, the higher your settlement is likely to be due to higher medical bills and prolonged recovery times.
If your injuries result in permanent disabilities or significant disruptions to your lifestyle, your settlement may reflect these long-term effects.
California follows a comparative negligence system, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are partially responsible for the accident.
The amount of available insurance coverage, whether from the responsible party or your own insurance policy, will impact your final compensation.
The strength of your evidence, including medical records, police reports, and witness statements, will significantly influence your settlement amount.
The length of a truck accident case in San Francisco will depend on its complexity and whether it goes to trial:
An experienced attorney can help speed up the process by advocating for your interests.
California law imposes strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, for filing truck accident claims:
Why Act Quickly?
Filing quickly helps preserve evidence, gather witness statements, and obtain medical records. Delaying your claim could harm your case, so it’s essential to consult with a truck accident lawyer in San Francisco as soon as possible to protect your rights.
In San Francisco, you typically have two years to file a personal injury claim from the date of the accident. For property damage claims, you generally have three years. However, if a government entity is involved, the timeframe could be significantly shorter. Consulting a truck accident lawyer early on ensures your claim is filed in time.
Truck accident cases are often more complex than typical car accidents due to the size, weight, and regulations surrounding commercial trucks. These cases may involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, and maintenance service providers. Regulations like driving hours and cargo loading rules may also play a significant role. Key evidence such as driver logs, black box data, and expert testimonies may be essential to determining fault and securing proper compensation.
Truck accidents in San Francisco are particularly dangerous because of the size and weight difference between trucks and smaller vehicles. These crashes often result in serious injuries such as spinal damage, brain injuries, or fatalities. Trucks may also carry hazardous materials, which increases the risk of fires, explosions, or environmental harm. The force of the impact, coupled with factors like driver fatigue and blind spots, makes truck accidents particularly deadly.
Truck accidents in San Francisco often involve various types of vehicles. Passenger cars are frequently involved, especially in rear-end or side collisions. Motorcycles are also vulnerable to accidents caused by truck blind spots, while smaller trucks or vans may be sideswiped or forced off the road. Other commercial vehicles, such as delivery trucks and semi-trucks, are also often involved in multi-vehicle accidents, particularly in heavy traffic or bad weather.
Follow these key steps to file your truck accident claim:
Get medical treatment right away, even if injuries seem minor. Proper documentation is vital for your claim.
Take photos, gather witness information, and exchange insurance details at the scene.
Keep track of medical bills, lost wages, and treatments related to your injuries.
An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal process and assist in gathering key evidence.
Report the accident to your insurance provider and start the claims process with the responsible party’s insurance.
Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. A skilled attorney can ensure you receive a fair settlement.
At RMD Law, we believe that reputation is everything. When clients trust us with their cases, we do everything in our power to help guide them. That means personal service and sharp advocacy. We care about the details of your case because that is how we can get you the best settlement.
Francisco offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning views, and exciting activities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Here are some fantastic ways to make the most of your time in this iconic city:
San Francisco is renowned for its diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re in town for business or recovering from an accident, here are some must-try spots:
Bakeries and Coffee: Indulge in artisanal coffee and baked goods at Tartine Bakery, a beloved spot for freshly made pastries and expertly brewed coffee.
It’s vital to understand the time limits for filing a truck accident claim in San Francisco:
Truck accidents in San Francisco are subject to both state and federal regulations that help ensure accountability:
Understanding these rules is essential to successfully navigating your truck accident claim and ensuring fair compensation.
Make sure everyone is safe and call 911. Seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel injured. Gather evidence such as photos, witness information, and insurance details. Avoid making statements that could jeopardize your case.
Negligence is proven by gathering evidence like police reports, photos of the scene, medical records, and witness testimonies. This evidence helps establish fault and strengthens your claim.
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the accident date. Property damage claims have a three-year window. If a government entity is involved, the time limit could be much shorter.
While not required, hiring an attorney can be highly beneficial. An experienced lawyer can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for fair compensation.
While hiring an attorney isn’t mandatory, it can be very beneficial. An experienced lawyer can assist in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and fighting for fair compensation.
Discover why RMD Law is the top choice for truck accident victims in California.
Orange County officials are rolling out new e-bike laws to protect riders, pedestrians, and others. In this article, we’ll break down the new Orange County e-bike laws, why they’re being introduced, and how they could impact personal injury claims and the timeframe for filing a bicycle crash claim.
Distractions like texting and adjusting navigation can harm or injure drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. In response, California has implemented stricter distracted driving laws in 2025 to reinforce the need for awareness, accountability, and compliance in road safety.
So, what do these new rules mean for you? Understanding the latest laws is vital, whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend rider. Failure to comply could mean a fine on top of taking unnecessary risks. This guide breaks down the updated helmet requirements and who they apply to.
Over $100,000,000 total recent personal injury wins for our clients. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers are eager to fight for you.
RMD Law found an insurance code violation by the defense insurance company in a dog bite injury case. With smart lawyering, we used the violation to argue that the $100,000 policy limits no longer applied.
The insurance company wrongfully refused to pay our client the $100k policy limit in a rollover auto accident. RMD Law refused to take no for an answer, and filed a lawsuit alleging bad faith, ultimately winning millions for our deserving client.
Confidential bad faith settlement – a negligent driver t-boned our client at a red light resulting in severe spinal injuries. The defendant’s insurance company unreasonably refused to pay the $100K policy limit. RMD Law filed a lawsuit seeking the true value of the case. Policy was opened, and the client settled for an amount vastly higher than the original limits.
We care about your recovery. We stake our reputation on it.
Aria is a member of the prestigious Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®. He speaks English, Farsi, and Spanish.
Nicole has settled hundreds of personal injuries claims, known for her professional, honest, and caring approach.
John is a former defense lawyer turned award-winning personal injury lawyer. He speaks English and Farsi.
Associate Attorney Yen Quach started work at RMD Law in 2017 as a paralegal. Injured clients seeking justice from insurance companies can do no better than Yen.
Ryan is a caring and experienced litigator. He defended scores of depositions and understands what it takes to move a case in California.
Ariana Martin is one of RMD Law’s skilled personal injury lawyers. She brings a lot of legal experience to the table, having worked previously in the field of insurance defense.
RMD Law is a California Personal Injury law firm. We help victims who have been injured in accidents due to someone else’s negligence. RMD Law offers free no-obligation case evaluations for our clients.
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