Monterey Park Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer

Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney in Monterey Park, CA

Commercial vehicle accidents are notorious for their complexity, especially when legal claims are involved. It can be frustrating to deal with the injuries sustained, insurers, financial losses, and complicated federal and state trucking regulations. Nonetheless, the injured parties are encouraged to seek legal representation and due justice. A Monterey Park commercial vehicle accident lawyer can help navigate these challenges.

Gallegos Law Firm prioritizes clients and their needs. We are a small law firm focused on serving the local community in Monterey Park. With over 20 years of experience and a UCLA education, our team is confident in its ability to provide the knowledge and resources needed to tackle a complex commercial vehicle accident case. Hire a commercial vehicle accident lawyer who can work with you every step of the way.

Commercial Vehicle Accidents in California

When colliding with a commercial vehicle, the first step is to safely stop the vehicle and receive medical care. If able, individuals should try to help all other parties injured. This is particularly true in commercial vehicle accidents because of the vehicle’s size and the increased likelihood of causing serious injuries. California laws require individuals to do the following:

• All parties involved in an accident must remain at the scene unless they are experiencing life-threatening injuries. Individuals should call emergency services.
• Upon request, the driver of the vehicle involved in the accident must be able to give their name, driver’s license information, vehicle registration, current residence address, and employer’s information if applicable.
• Vehicle accidents resulting in injury or death must be reported to either the California Highway Patrol or the Monterey Park Police Department.

Following the proper procedure can help individuals reduce their liability in the accident. Moreover, the commercial driver’s failure to adhere to these laws may strengthen a legal claim against them. Successful commercial vehicle accident cases take time, and early documentation is crucial.

Why Are Commercial Vehicle Accident Cases Complex?

Commercial vehicle accident cases are complex due to their serious nature and the number of parties involved in legal proceedings. California attracts interstate commerce along its main highways. Interstate commerce leads to greater movement and a higher potential for serious motor vehicle crashes. For instance, the state reported 9,774 fatal and non-fatal large truck crashes in 2025.

There may also be more than two parties (e.g., drivers from each vehicle) involved in legal claims. Liability could be attached to the commercial vehicle driver, the commercial vehicle company, the maintenance company, the manufacturing company, or the inspection company. The plaintiff must be able to name the right defendant. Otherwise, the claim’s strength can weaken.

Establishing Liability in Commercial Vehicle Accidents in California

To establish liability in a commercial vehicle accident, an individual may verify that the commercial vehicle has met federal and state regulations. For instance, they may verify that the vehicle is registered under the California Department of Motor Vehicles and/or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). A commercial driver must have a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and complete the required training hours.

Failure to meet these regulations may expose a commercial vehicle company to liability for failing to adequately train, supervise, and certify its employees. Similarly, the integrity of the vehicle (e.g., motor conditions or weight limits) may also impose liability on parties other than the employer. Liability or fault in commercial vehicle accident cases extends beyond traffic violations.

Filing a Commercial Vehicle Accident Claim in Monterey Park

Filing a commercial vehicle accident claim is a tricky process. The location of the accident and origin of the commercial vehicle will determine where and how to file a claim in Monterey Park, California. For example, if the commercial vehicle is from a Monterey Park trucking company, and the collision occurs on I-710 cutting through Ramona Blvd, then a plaintiff may file with the Superior Court of Los Angeles County.

Some commercial vehicles and their employers may not be from California, which could mean the case falls under a different jurisdiction. An experienced commercial vehicle accident attorney can assist with the filing process and the insurance negotiations that are likely to ensue.

Commercial vehicles in California are required to hold a minimum liability insurance of $30,000 for injuries to one person, and $60,000 for death/injuries to more than one person.

FAQs

How Can Compensation Be Awarded in Commercial Vehicle Accident Cases?

Compensation for commercial vehicle accident cases can be awarded in the form of economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. Economic damages may include tangible financial losses such as medical bills, hospital stays, lost wages, or property damage. Non-economic damages account for the emotional and psychological pain endured. Punitive damages are awarded on a case-by-case basis, and they require proving egregious negligence.

How Can You Prove a Commercial Vehicle Accident Claim in California?

To prove a commercial vehicle accident claim, the plaintiff needs to establish negligence. More specifically, they need to prove that the negligent actions of the commercial driver, their employer, or the manufacturer directly caused the collision. The injuries sustained could have been avoided had it not been for this negligence. In other words, a duty of care was breached, which directly led to personal injuries and damages.

What if You Share Some of the Fault in a Commercial Vehicle Accident in California?

Individuals at fault for a commercial vehicle accident may still be eligible for compensation. California is a comparative negligence state, meaning that if you have 10% of fault for an accident, you are still eligible to receive 90% of damages. The degree of fault awarded depends on the evidence available and insurance negotiations. Commercial insurers may seek to reduce their client’s fault in the accident, so it is crucial to respond accordingly.

How Can You Strengthen a Commercial Vehicle Accident Case in California?

A commercial vehicle accident case can be strengthened by collecting as much evidence as possible. This evidence may include photographs of the scene, black box data from a commercial vehicle, police reports, medical reports, surveillance footage, witness testimony, driving records, etc. The more evidence available, the stronger a case may become. A commercial vehicle accident lawyer can assist with the collection process.

Hire a Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer Today

At Gallegos Law Firm, we understand the severity and complexity involved in commercial vehicle accident cases. Our team is committed to providing personalized, one-on-one services that allow clients to share their grievances and desired outcomes. We work tirelessly to bring justice and due compensation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.