Santa Monica Truck Accident Lawyer

Our Santa Monica, CA truck accident lawyer is here to help you recover the compensation you need to move forward after a crash. Truck accident claims often involve multiple parties, federal trucking regulations, and high-stakes damages. Having knowledgeable representation can make the difference between an inadequate settlement and one that truly supports your recovery. Contact our skilled team at the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm today to set up your free consultation and begin your pursuit of justice.

Truck Accident Lawyer Santa Monica, CA

Our truck accident attorneys represent Santa Monica residents who’ve been hurt in collisions involving large commercial vehicles, 18-wheelers, and delivery trucks. Due to their massive size and weight, semi-trucks can cause devastating injuries.

Victims often suffer spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, severe fractures, and/or internal organ damage. It’s also common for victims to pass away from the injuries they sustain in these crashes.

On top of physical harm, or the pain of losing a loved one, claimants are left juggling expensive medical bills, lost wages, long-term disabilities, and emotional trauma. Whether your crash stemmed from truck driver fatigue, distracted driving, poor vehicle maintenance, messy cargo loading practices, or unsafe road conditions, we’re here to fight for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.

Our Santa Monica truck accident lawyer team has seen how compassionate and thorough representation can make a huge difference in these high-stakes cases. While we’ve achieved many substantial settlements outside of court, we still prepare every case as though it’s destined for trial. That way, our side of the bench is always ready to take on big trucking companies and insurers to secure the justice you deserve, no matter what legal arena we find ourselves in.

Why Experience Matters In Truck Wreck Cases

These cases are a completely different beast than car accident claims, so we highly recommend working with a reputable law firm. Trucking companies and their insurers often try to minimize payouts, but with experienced legal representation, you can level the playing field and achieve a fair settlement. Here’s what sets our firm apart from others:

• Decades Of Experience. Our attorneys have over 45 years of combined experience handling serious injury cases, including countless automobile accidents.
• History Of Success. We have secured significant settlements and verdicts for clients facing life-changing injuries, demonstrating our ability to advocate effectively for compensation.
• Strong Legal Education. Our founding attorney James V. Choulos earned his J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law, and partner Victor Tsoi earned his J.D. from Thomas Jefferson School of Law, complementing their strong academic foundations with practical courtroom experience.
• Active Legal Leadership. Both of our lead attorneys participate in the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association (SFTLA), with James also active in the Consumer Attorneys of California and the American Association for Justice (AAJ), reflecting their engagement in the broader legal community.
• Client-First Representation. Our firm is committed to hands-on, compassionate representation, listening closely to your concerns and developing strategies tailored to your family’s specific needs and circumstances.

Our California injury firm is passionate about helping victims and their families find a measure of peace and financial security after traffic accidents. We have the experience to handle even the most complicated cases with confidence and compassion.

Your Advocate After A Big Rig Accident

Let us take it from here. Our dedicated Santa Monica truck accident lawyers are ready to go up against powerful trucking companies and insurance defense teams to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you need to rebuild. Call us at the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm today to set up your free consultation and take the first step toward a better tomorrow.

Types Of Truck Accident Cases We Handle

Truck accidents cases can stem from many different scenarios. At the start of any case, our Santa Monica truck accident lawyer takes time to review what happened, gather records, and help you understand your legal options. Below are some examples of the different types of trucking wreck cases we take on:

Accidents Involving Semi Trucks

Collisions with semi trucks are some of the most devastating on the road. Their large size and heavy weight mean that even a low-speed impact can cause major damage. We often see cases where a semi truck jackknifes, rear-ends a smaller vehicle, or collides while changing lanes. These accidents can leave victims facing long recoveries and financial strain.

Delivery Truck Collisions

With the rise of delivery services, crashes involving smaller commercial trucks are more common. Delivery drivers are often under pressure to meet tight schedules, which can lead to speeding, unsafe lane changes, or running red lights. When a delivery truck causes harm, victims may face complicated insurance issues because of the involvement of corporate policies.

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents happen when the trailer swings out and forms an acute angle with the truck’s cab. These crashes often block multiple lanes and can cause chain-reaction collisions. Victims of jackknife accidents frequently face severe injuries due to the force and unpredictability of the crash. Our California trucking accident lawyers have handled many cases where careful investigation was needed to hold the driver and trucking company accountable.

Rollover Accidents

Truck rollover accidents are extremely dangerous due to the size and weight of the vehicle. These crashes can happen when a driver loses control during a sharp turn, avoids an obstacle, or when the truck is improperly loaded. Rollover accidents often involve multiple vehicles and can result in severe injuries or fatalities. Our Santa Monica auto accident attorneys have handled cases where careful reconstruction and investigation were critical to holding the responsible parties accountable.

Highway Accidents

Highway truck accidents are particularly dangerous because of the higher speeds and heavier traffic. Multi-vehicle collisions, rollover accidents, and rear-end crashes are common on highways. Highway crashes often require thorough evidence gathering, including black box data and traffic camera footage, to build a strong case for compensation.

Oversized Load Accidents

Trucks carrying oversized or overweight loads present unique hazards. These loads can cause tipping, limited visibility, or sudden swerving, creating dangerous conditions for surrounding vehicles. When an oversized load accident occurs, liability may extend to the trucking company, the driver, and even the party responsible for permitting or loading the cargo.

Get Legal Help Today

No matter what type of truck accident you are dealing with, you deserve guidance from a legal team that understands these cases. At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we are here to listen, answer your questions, and help you pursue the compensation you need. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, our team is ready to discuss your case and explain your options. Reach out today to get the support you need from our team.

Common Causes Of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, and determining liability often requires careful investigation. If you’ve been injured in a collision, our Santa Monica truck accident lawyer can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Truck crashes can occur for many reasons, and understanding the common causes helps drivers know what to watch out for on the road as well as understand who may be liable for their accident:

Driver Fatigue

Long hours on the road can leave truck drivers exhausted, reducing reaction times and increasing the risk of accidents. Fatigue is a leading cause of truck collisions, especially on highways where speeds are high and traffic patterns can change quickly. Our truck wreck attorney has represented clients in cases where driver fatigue was a critical factor, helping recover damages for severe injuries.

Speeding Or Reckless Driving

Excessive speed and aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating or unsafe lane changes, often contribute to truck accidents. Large trucks require more time to stop and maneuver, so even minor misjudgments can have serious consequences.

Distracted Driving

Like passenger vehicles, truck drivers can be distracted by phones, GPS devices, or other in-cab activities. Distraction behind the wheel can lead to collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or stationary objects.

Mechanical Failures

Brake failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical defects in trucks can cause loss of control and severe accidents. Trucking companies are responsible for properly maintaining their vehicles, and failures can form the basis for legal claims.

Improper Loading

When cargo is improperly secured or exceeds weight limits, it can shift during transit and destabilize the truck. This can cause rollovers, jackknife accidents, or collisions with surrounding vehicles.

Oversized Loads

Trucks carrying oversized or overweight loads require additional caution. Misjudging clearances or failing to secure the load can lead to accidents that endanger everyone on the road.

Driving Under The Influence

Truck drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a serious risk on the road. Even small amounts of impairment can affect judgment, reaction time, and vehicle control, making accidents more likely.

Poor Weather Conditions

Rain and fog can make the roads unpredictable and reduce visibility for both truck drivers and other motorists. Even a fully alert driver can struggle to control a large vehicle under these conditions. Poor weather often contributes to trucks sliding off the roadway. Having our Santa Monica personal injury firm on your side can help hold negligent parties accountable when weather-related risks could have been avoided.

Tailgating and Following Too Closely
Trucks need significantly more stopping distance than smaller vehicles, and drivers who follow too closely increase the risk of rear-end collisions. Tailgating can turn a minor slowdown into a serious crash, especially when trucks carry heavy or uneven cargo. Our California attorneys have helped clients recover compensation in cases where insufficient following distance contributed to severe injuries and property damage.

Driver Inexperience

Inexperienced truck drivers may misjudge how long it takes to stop, the space required to make turns, or how cargo affects vehicle stability. Mistakes can quickly escalate into serious accidents, including rollovers or collisions with other vehicles. We understand how to present evidence of driver inexperience and company negligence in court or settlement negotiations.

Reach Out For Determined Representation

Truck accidents are often catastrophic, leaving victims with serious injuries, property damage, and long-term medical needs. Our Santa Monica 18-wheeler accident lawyer is experienced in investigating these collisions and holding responsible parties accountable. We work closely with clients to understand their situation and pursue compensation that covers medical bills, lost income, and other damages.

At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we are committed to helping clients recover and move forward after a truck accident. Contact us today to speak with our team and start building your case.

Santa Monica Truck Accident Infographic

Truck Accident FAQs

If you or someone close to you was involved in a truck crash, it’s natural to have questions, especially when you’re trying to figure out what to do next. Many people turn to our Santa Monica truck accident lawyer while dealing with doctor visits, car repairs, or time away from work. We’re here to help you better understand your rights and what to expect. The following covers some of the most common questions people ask after being involved in a truck accident.

What Common Injuries Result From Truck Crashes?

Because trucks are so much larger than passenger vehicles, accidents involving them often cause serious injuries. Common injuries include broken bones, back and neck injuries, head trauma, and internal damage. Many people also experience soft tissue injuries like whiplash or sprains.

Some injuries may take time to fully appear, which is why it’s important to get medical attention right away. Even if you feel okay, a thorough medical exam can help identify problems early and support your legal claim later.

How Is Pain And Suffering Calculated In Truck Accident Settlements?

Pain and suffering is a type of compensation that covers the non-economic impact of your injuries, things like physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. It’s usually calculated based on the severity of the injury, how long recovery takes, and how much it disrupts your daily life.

Insurance companies may use a multiplier method or rely on past case outcomes to estimate value. Our Santa Monica truck accident lawyer can help review your case and determine a fair amount based on what you’ve been through.

What Should I Avoid Saying To Insurance Adjusters After A Truck Accident?

When you speak to an insurance adjuster, it’s important to keep your answers short and factual. Avoid admitting fault or guessing what caused the crash. Don’t downplay your injuries or speculate about your recovery. Even simple phrases like “I’m feeling better” can be used later to reduce your claim.

Overall, It’s best not to provide a recorded statement without first speaking to your lawyer. The insurance company’s goal is to settle quickly for as little as possible, so protecting your words protects your case.

How Can I Get A Copy Of The Police Report For My Truck Accident?

You can usually get a copy of the police report from the Santa Monica Police Department or the California Highway Patrol, depending on which agency responded. Reports are often available online through the department’s website or by visiting the station in person.

You’ll need basic details like the date, location, and report number if available. Our California truck accident lawyer can also request the report on your behalf as part of your case preparation.

How Can A Personal Injury Attorney Help Me After A Trucking Accident?

After a truck accident, a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and take on the insurance company while you focus on healing. Your lawyer will gather evidence, request the police report, communicate with adjusters, and keep track of deadlines. We can also help estimate what your case is worth and advise whether a settlement offer is fair.

At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we have a history of securing meaningful settlements for auto accident victims. We take the time to understand your situation and fight for the full compensation you’re entitled to.

Legal Guidance You Can Trust

If you were injured in a truck accident in California, getting legal guidance can make a real difference. Our Santa Monica truck accident lawyer can help you get the support you need to move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s talk about how we can help you with your claim.