Truck accidents are among the most devastating incidents on our roads, and when they result in fatalities, the impact is immeasurable. The city of Long Beach has an intricate network of highways and busy ports, which unfortunately witnesses its share of fatal truck accidents. If you’ve lost a loved one in such a tragic event, the pain and grief can be overwhelming.

During these trying times, it’s essential to have compassionate legal advocates by your side who can help you seek justice and hold the responsible parties accountable. In Long Beach, the experienced attorneys at Pacific Attorney Group are dedicated to supporting families affected by fatal truck accidents.

Why Are Truck Accidents So Dangerous?

Fatal truck accidents are often characterized by their catastrophic nature. These accidents involve large commercial trucks, such as tractor-trailers, big rigs, and delivery trucks, colliding with smaller vehicles or pedestrians. The sheer size and weight of these trucks can lead to catastrophic injuries and, tragically, fatalities.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Fatal truck accidents can result from a combination of factors, often stemming from negligence, human error, or mechanical failures. These accidents are typically more complex than regular car accidents due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Here are some common causes of fatal truck accidents:

• Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, impairing a truck driver’s judgment and reaction times. Fatigue is a significant factor in many truck accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Just like in car accidents, distracted driving is a leading cause of truck accidents. Doing things like eating, texting, or using a smartphone while driving can draw away a truck driver’s attention from the road.
• Speeding: Trucks require longer distances to stop compared to smaller vehicles. Speeding increases the likelihood of accidents and makes it harder for truck drivers to react in time.
• Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Trucks: When trucks are loaded beyond their capacity or not balanced correctly, it can lead to rollovers and accidents. Cargo must be secured properly to prevent shifting during transit.
• Mechanical Failures: Trucks are subject to wear and tear, and mechanical failures like brake issues, tire blowouts, or steering problems can result in catastrophic accidents.
• Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to mechanical failures. Trucking companies and drivers are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are in good working condition.
• Defective Truck Parts: Sometimes, accidents occur due to defective truck parts or equipment, such as faulty brakes, tires, or steering systems. In such cases, the manufacturer or distributor may be liable.
• Inadequate Safety Inspections: Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections or ignore safety checks can result in accidents that could have been prevented.

These causes often interact and compound one another, making truck accidents particularly hazardous. Identifying the root causes and holding responsible parties accountable are critical steps in preventing future fatal truck accidents. If you’ve lost a loved one in such an accident, it’s essential to consult with experienced attorneys to explore your legal options for seeking justice and compensation.

Steps to Take After a Fatal Truck Accident

If you or someone you know has been in a dangerous truck accident, then you should take the following actions: 

• Prioritize Your Well-Being: After the loss of a loved one, your emotional well-being is of utmost importance. Lean on your support network of family and friends, and consider seeking professional grief counseling or therapy.
• Contact Law Enforcement: Ensure that law enforcement officials are involved immediately after the accident. A thorough accident report can be crucial in establishing liability.
• Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as photographs, witness statements, and any documents or communication with the trucking company or its insurer.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Consult with experienced truck accident attorneys who specialize in fatal accident cases. They can provide guidance on your legal options and help you navigate the complexities of these cases.
• Investigate the Accident: Your legal team will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the accident, including examining the truck driver’s logs, reviewing maintenance records, and gathering any available surveillance footage.
• Identify Liable Parties: Determining liability is crucial in fatal truck accident cases. Potentially responsible parties may include the truck driver, the trucking company, manufacturers of faulty truck parts, or even third-party maintenance providers.
• Pursue a Wrongful Death Claim: If negligence or wrongdoing is established, your attorneys will help you file a wrongful death claim against the liable parties. This claim seeks compensation for your losses, including funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, and emotional suffering.
• Negotiation or Litigation: Your attorneys will engage in negotiations with the insurance companies involved to secure a fair settlement. If a satisfactory agreement cannot be reached, they will prepare for litigation and take your case to court.

How Can the Pacific Attorney Group Help

At Pacific Attorney Group, our experienced truck accident attorneys in Long Beach understand the profound emotional and financial toll of fatal truck accidents. We are committed to providing compassionate support and dedicated legal representation to families seeking justice for their loved ones. Our approach is centered on holding those responsible accountable and securing the compensation families need to cope with their losses.

Our legal team has a track record of success in handling complex truck accident cases, and we are prepared to fight for your rights. Importantly, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case.

Losing a loved one in a fatal truck accident is a devastating experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. Contact Pacific Attorney Group today for a free consultation, and let us help you seek justice and find closure during this challenging time.