Long Beach Truck Accident Lawyer

Seeking Justice for Victims of Truck Accidents 

Truck accidents occur daily on Long Beach's vast freeway system, including on the I-710, I-405, and I-605, all of which are used by trucking companies to transport goods. In particular, Interstate 710, also known as the Long Beach Freeway, is heavily used by trucking companies, as it connects the Port of Long Beach to the Port of Los Angeles, and the rail yards in East Los Angeles and Vernon.

Were you or a loved one recently injured in a collision with a commercial truck? Call McGee Lerer Ogrin today at (310) 231-9717 or contact us online to protect your rights and start building your case!

Understanding Truck Accidents

An accident involving a truck (including a tractor-trailer, semi, 18-wheeler, big rig, dump truck, tow truck, or flatbed) can result in serious injury or death. Because the value of a claim against a trucking company is often significant, and trucking companies are often partially self-insured, they must pay for part of any settlement or verdict out of their own pocket, trucking companies invest heavily in fighting these cases. Even if the accident was undisputedly the trucker's fault, trucking companies will spend tremendous sums to fight and minimize the value of your claim.

Trucking companies commonly send their representatives to the scene immediately to start collecting evidence to use in their defense. Trucking companies often require their drivers to carry "accident kits," which include a camera and witness statement forms. While the injured victim is fighting for his or her life, the truck driver is calling the accident into his company, taking photographs, and getting statements.

What Should I Do After a Truck Accident?

In the aftermath of a truck accident in Long Beach, CA, it’s vital to act promptly and carefully. Here are the essential steps to take:

1. Ensure Safety: If possible, move to a safe location to prevent further accidents and ensure the safety of all involved.
2. Contact Authorities: Call local authorities to report the accident. An official police report will be crucial for legal and insurance purposes.
3. Gather Evidence: While waiting for authorities, document the scene. Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and involved parties.
4. Seek Medical Attention: Get medical help immediately, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not manifest immediately, and medical records are essential for your case.
5. Consult a Lawyer: Reach out to an experienced truck accident attorney promptly. They can guide you through the complexities of insurance claims and legal actions, ensuring your rights are protected and helping you seek fair compensation.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

There are several reasons why truck accidents occur, including:

• Negligent maintenance 
• Untrained drivers
• Tired driver
• Faulty equipment
• Negligence
• Driver intoxication
• Driver recklessness
• Faulty brakes
• Overloaded trailer

Common Injuries Resulting From Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents often result in severe injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Understanding the types of injuries that can occur is crucial for pursuing appropriate legal action and compensation. 

Here are some common injuries resulting from trucking accidents:

• Whiplash: This neck injury is caused by sudden, forceful movements during a collision, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Broken Bones: The impact can cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and other bones, often requiring extensive medical treatment.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognitive and physical functions.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life.
• Internal Injuries: The force of a truck accident can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs, which may not be immediately apparent.

Each injury can have long-lasting effects, both physically and financially. Consulting with an experienced Long Beach truck accident attorney from McGee Lerer Ogrin can help you navigate the complexities of your case and seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Critical Areas of Investigation in a Truck Accident Case

If you have been injured in a big rig accident, you need an experienced truck accident attorney who is familiar with the critical aspects of investigating a truck accident:

• Obtaining the trucking company's safety records
• Investigating the truck driver's driving record
• Determining whether the truck driver had the proper training
• Obtaining the truck's maintenance history
• Analyzing the trucking company's accident history
• Obtaining the truck driver's cell phone records

Why Hire McGee Lerer Ogrin?

You need an experienced truck accident attorney to protect your interests. Having the right attorney is essential because the firm you hire can tremendously impact the value of your case. At the Long Beach firm of , we represent victims injured in truck and tractor-trailer collisions. We understand the devastating physical, emotional and financial consequences that can result from a truck accident.

What sets us apart?

• Long Beach attorneys Daniel McGee and Catherine Lerer are a husband and wife team with decades of combined experience.
• 100% of our practice is devoted to representing serious injury and wrongful death victims.
• We have extensive experience litigating truck accident cases.
• We have relationships with the best experts in the trucking industry.
• We have the financial resources to go up against a trucking company's war chest.
• We aggressively pursue owner-operator downtime claims.
• If you don't have health insurance or the money to pay for medical treatment, we can arrange immediate medical treatment on a pay-later basis.
• If your injuries are serious and liability is not disputed, we may be able to get you a cash advance.

Contact Our Long Beach Truck Accident Attorney Today

After an accident, speak to a Long Beach truck accident lawyer before you speak to the trucking company representative or insurance adjuster. They will try to lull you into believing you don't need an attorney because they'll care for you. Their sole goal, however, is to pay you as little as possible.

Without the protection of an attorney, you could unwittingly arm the trucking company or adjuster with ammunition that will be used against you. Having an experienced truck accident attorney known and respected by the other side can significantly impact the value of your case.

Don’t wait—contact an experienced Long Beach truck accident lawyer now for a free consultation and take the first step toward the compensation you deserve!