Accidents involving trucks and other large commercial vehicles are especially daunting — not only because of the severe damage they can cause, but also because determining liability is often more complicated. The driver, the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, or even multiple parties can share responsibility for the accident. So, given that situation, what does a truck accident lawyer do?
California truck accident attorneys investigate the case, identify all liable parties, collect evidence, assess the full extent of damages, negotiate with insurance companies, and take the case to court if necessary.
In this article, we’ll go over each of these steps in detail so you can better understand what a truck accident lawyer does and why having one by your side is in your best interest. If you or a loved one has already been injured in a truck accident and are seeking compensation, call us for a free consultation at (866) 359-0807. We’ll review your case in just a few minutes and determine whether you qualify for compensation. After that, a skilled truck accident attorney will be assigned to fight for the maximum recovery you deserve.
What Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Do? Essential California Guide in 2025
A truck accident lawyer in California helps victims of commercial truck crashes by handling every stage of the legal process.
They start by investigating the accident and determining who is responsible — which can include the truck driver, the trucking company, a maintenance contractor, a cargo loader, or even the truck or parts manufacturer. They gather key evidence such as driver logs, black box data, maintenance reports, witness statements, and police records. Experienced attorneys also work with experts like accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals to strengthen the case.
Their goal is to build a solid legal strategy that maximizes compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and — in fatal cases — wrongful death damages. If insurance companies refuse a fair settlement, the lawyer takes the case to court.
Because California follows comparative negligence rules and enforces a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, a truck accident attorney ensures all legal deadlines are met and that their client’s rights are fully protected.
Why Do I Need One?
As explained above, liability in truck accidents often involves multiple parties and strict legal deadlines. Having a truck accident lawyer ensures your claim complies with California’s 2025 personal injury laws, while protecting your right to maximum compensation. Without legal representation, you risk missing evidence, deadlines, or fair settlement opportunities.
Some specific reasons you need a truck accident lawyer include:
- Complex liability: Trucking companies, drivers, contractors, and manufacturers can all share responsibility under California negligence laws.
- Comparative fault protection: California’s pure comparative negligence rule (Civ. Code §1714) can reduce your compensation if you’re partly at fault — a lawyer minimizes that impact.
- Statute of limitations: California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1 allows only two years to file a personal injury claim.
- Federal and state compliance: Attorneys understand FMCSA regulations and California Vehicle Code rules governing commercial trucks.
- Insurance defense: Insurers use adjusters and defense counsel to reduce payouts; an attorney negotiates or litigates to secure fair compensation.
What to Expect From a Truck Accident Lawyer in California
When you hire a truck accident lawyer in California, you’re getting a professional who handles every part of your case — from the investigation to final settlement or trial. Here’s what you can expect them to do for you:
1. Investigating the Accident
Your attorney begins by conducting a comprehensive investigation to determine who caused the crash. They’ll gather essential evidence, including:
- Police and CHP accident reports
- Black box (EDR) and GPS data from the truck
- Driver logs, maintenance and inspection records
- Photos, videos, and witness statements
They may also work with private investigators and accident reconstruction experts to recreate the crash and identify every liable party — such as the truck driver, trucking company, parts manufacturer, cargo loader, or maintenance provider. This early investigation is critical under California’s two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases.
2. Identifying Liable Parties
Truck accident cases often involve shared liability. A skilled lawyer pinpoints all entities that contributed to the collision, which may include:
- Negligent or fatigued truck drivers
- Trucking companies that violated safety or hours-of-service rules
- Cargo handlers who overloaded or improperly secured freight
- Manufacturers of defective parts (brakes, tires, coupling systems)
- Maintenance contractors who failed to perform required inspections
By naming every responsible party, your attorney can pursue full compensation rather than relying on one insurer or defendant.
3. Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance negotiations are where most truck accident cases are resolved — and where victims often lose the most without legal help. Insurers are trained to minimize payouts or shift blame under California’s comparative negligence rule (Civil Code §1714).
Your lawyer will:
- Handle all communication with insurers
- Review and respond to settlement offers
- Document all financial and non-economic losses
- Push for the maximum compensation allowed under state and federal law
If insurers refuse to make a fair offer, your attorney will move the case toward litigation.
4. Building a Strong Legal Strategy
Once liability and damages are clear, your attorney develops a legal strategy tailored to your situation. This may involve:
- Using expert testimony from doctors, economists, or engineers
- Filing motions, depositions, and discovery requests
- Applying relevant California Vehicle Code and FMCSA safety regulations
- Demonstrating negligence, reckless conduct, or regulatory violations
The goal: to create a persuasive, evidence-based case that holds every party accountable.
5. Representing You in Court
If settlement negotiations fail, your attorney will litigate the case in California civil court. They’ll present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and advocate for full compensation covering:
- Medical treatment and future care
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages (when applicable)
Having an attorney represent you ensures deadlines are met, your rights are protected, and your case complies with all procedural rules under California law.
Bonus Info: What Sets Attorneys Apart
While “lawyer” and “attorney” are often used interchangeably, an attorney is a lawyer licensed to represent clients in court. In California, that means being admitted to the State Bar and authorized to practice law statewide. Truck accident attorneys combine litigation experience, negotiation skills, and knowledge of federal trucking laws — making them uniquely qualified to handle complex commercial vehicle cases.
Hire Experienced, Local California Truck Accident Attorneys
Now that you know what California truck accident attorneys can do for you, it’s time to take the next step. Call Megeredchian Law at (866) 359-0807 to schedule a free consultation. Don’t settle for less than you deserve — hire a winning local attorney who knows every insurance company’s tricks. Let us help you pursue maximum compensation for every loss you’ve suffered.