Bad Weather Truck Accidents in Los Angeles

Driving in bad weather is dangerous, particularly in a large urban area like Los Angeles where rain, fog, or Santa Ana winds can impact visibility and road traction. Truck accidents in poor weather can be especially devastating, and the large size of a truck can cause serious injuries. If you have experienced injuries related to bad weather truck accidents in Los Angeles, you may be entitled to compensation. Our truck accident lawyers may be able to help.

Bad Weather Conditions That Lead to Truck Accidents

Several types of weather conditions are more likely to lead to truck accidents in Los Angeles. Heavy rain and wet roads can be especially treacherous. According to California Vehicle Code § 22350, drivers must not drive faster than is safe for conditions, including rain. This may mean that there are times when truck drivers need to drive at speeds lower than the speed limit. A commercial truck could hydroplane on the highway during a downpour due to high speeds, causing a multi-vehicle pile-up, for instance.

Fog and reduced visibility are also serious issues. California Vehicle Code § 24400 requires working headlights during these periods. Additionally, high winds can make trucks and their high profiles more likely to roll over and damage other vehicles.

Legal Liability in Weather-Related Truck Accidents

Even in poor weather, truck drivers have a duty to drive safely. Bad weather does not excuse negligence under California law. Commercial drivers and their employers are held to higher standards of safety and training than other drivers because their vehicles can be so dangerous. Truck drivers and trucking companies may be deemed negligent or reckless based on failure to reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance, or inspect tires and wipers.

According to California Civil Code § 1714, comparative fault may apply to these cases. Even if the injured party is partially at fault, they may still recover damages. For instance, a sedan driver may be deemed at fault for driving too fast, but the truck driver may have been following too closely in the rain. The sedan driver can still recover damages.

Steps to Take After a Weather-Related Truck Crash

The first step to take after a weather-related truck crash in Los Angeles is to call 911 and report the incident. A police report may become a critical piece of evidence in bad weather claims. Next, seek medical attention right away. Injuries are often more severe due to the force of a truck impact. If possible, document the scene, taking photos to show weather conditions, skid marks, truck signage, road conditions, and injuries. At this time, it is also crucial to avoid speaking with insurance adjusters without legal representation.

If a case does go to court, our lawyers will work with their client to prove liability in these cases. They may use an expert witness, including a trucking safety professional or accident reconstruction expert, to strengthen their case. Our attorneys will also look for event data recorders, dash cam footage, logbooks, maintenance records, and road condition reports.

How Our Los Angeles Attorneys Could Help After a Bad Weather Truck Crash

Our lawyers investigate all contributing factors to an accident, including weather and truck company negligence. Your lawyer will handle negotiations with insurers and trucking companies, building the strongest possible case for maximum compensation.

Remember: bad weather does not excuse negligent trucking behavior. Victims do not have to face the consequences of a crash alone. Contact a lawyer today to discuss taking legal action after bad weather truck accidents in Los Angeles.