Truck accidents aren’t just another fender bender. When a massive commercial vehicle collides with a car, the damage is often devastating—physically, emotionally, and financially. Even in a place like Beverly Hills, where we’re more used to bumper-to-bumper traffic on Sunset Boulevard or the 405, accidents involving 18-wheelers and delivery trucks happen more than people think. And when they do, they often lead to long-term consequences for the victims. If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck crash, you might be wondering if calling a truck accident attorney near Beverly Hills is really necessary. The answer is almost always yes, and working with an experienced Accident Attorney Near Beverly Hills can make a world of difference. Here’s why it matters.

How Truck Accidents Differ from Regular Car Accidents?

Not all accidents are created equal. A collision between two passenger vehicles is one thing, but a crash involving a multi-ton commercial truck is an entirely different legal and logistical challenge. Large trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds (or 40 tons) when fully loaded, compared to the average passenger car, which weighs around 3,000 to 4,000 pounds. That massive weight difference often results in much more severe injuries, greater property damage, and a higher likelihood of fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021, over 5,700 people were killed in crashes involving large trucks, with the vast majority of fatalities being occupants of other vehicles.

But it’s not just the physical impact that makes truck accidents more complex—it’s also the legal framework. Unlike regular car crashes, truck accidents often involve multiple layers of responsibility. Liability could fall on the truck driver, the trucking company, a third-party maintenance or logistics provider, the cargo loader, or even the manufacturer of faulty truck parts.

These accidents are also governed by strict federal regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules cover everything from hours-of-service (HOS) limits, which are designed to prevent driver fatigue, to vehicle maintenance standards, licensing requirements, drug and alcohol testing, and more. For example, FMCSA rules limit most commercial drivers to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour workday, after 10 consecutive hours off duty.

Violations of these regulations can directly contribute to a crash, and identifying those violations often requires legal expertise and in-depth investigation. That’s why truck accident cases demand the attention of attorneys who not only understand personal injury law but also the intricate web of federal trucking regulations.

We know how to navigate both state and federal legal systems, investigate complex liability scenarios, and ensure that no responsible party escapes accountability. When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident, having someone who knows the full legal landscape can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents are rarely “accidents” in the truest sense—they usually happen because someone was careless or irresponsible. One of the most common causes we see is driver fatigue. Truck drivers often work long hours with very little rest, and even though federal regulations limit their drive time, some still push the limits. Distracted driving is another huge issue. Whether it’s texting, using GPS, or just zoning out after hours on the road, distraction behind the wheel of a big rig is incredibly dangerous. Improper loading of cargo can also lead to serious accidents. If a trailer is overloaded or unbalanced, it can cause the truck to tip over or jackknife. Poor maintenance, such as worn-out brakes or bald tires, is often a sign of negligence on the part of the company. And let’s not forget reckless behavior—speeding, driving under the influence, or aggressive driving all make a dangerous vehicle even more hazardous. Sometimes, the root cause goes even deeper, like a trucking company that failed to properly train or screen its drivers.

What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?

The moments after a truck crash can be chaotic, but your actions can seriously impact the outcome of your case. First, always call 911 and seek medical attention—even if you don’t feel hurt right away. Injuries like concussions, internal bleeding, and whiplash don’t always show up immediately. If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the scene, the vehicles, your injuries, and anything else that seems relevant. Get the contact information of any witnesses and make sure a police report is filed. One major tip we always give our clients: do not speak to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster before consulting an attorney. They’re trained to minimize payouts, and anything you say can be used to reduce your compensation. Start keeping a file of everything—medical bills, prescriptions, missed work, and even notes about your pain and emotional state. All of this becomes valuable evidence down the line.

When Should You Call a Truck Accident Attorney?

You should call a truck accident attorney as soon as possible after the crash, especially if you’ve suffered injuries, damage to your vehicle, or emotional trauma. If there’s any uncertainty about who was at fault or if multiple parties are involved, it’s crucial to get legal help. Trucking companies and their insurers move quickly after an accident to protect themselves, often sending their own investigators to the scene within hours. If they’re pressuring you to settle or trying to downplay your injuries, that’s a red flag. Having an attorney means you’re not alone in dealing with aggressive insurance tactics. It also ensures that important deadlines—like California’s two-year statute of limitations—don’t get missed. The sooner you get legal counsel, the stronger your case will be.

How a Truck Accident Attorney Can Help?

A skilled truck accident attorney does much more than just file paperwork. We start by investigating the crash thoroughly—examining police reports, reviewing driver logs, checking maintenance records, and even securing data from the truck’s “black box” if necessary. We identify every potentially liable party and ensure no one slips through the cracks. From there, we take over communication with insurance companies so you don’t have to deal with stressful calls or confusing jargon. We calculate the full value of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and long-term care needs. If the trucking company refuses to settle fairly, we’re ready to take the case to court and fight for the compensation you deserve. The bottom line is that we handle the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on healing.

Choosing the Right Attorney Near Beverly Hills

When it comes to choosing an attorney, not all law firms are the same. Truck accident cases require specific experience, not just general personal injury knowledge. You need a legal team that understands both the medical impact of high-impact crashes and the unique legal challenges of dealing with commercial carriers. Look for an attorney with a proven track record in truck accident cases—one who’s secured successful verdicts and settlements for clients just like you. It’s also important to choose someone who’s familiar with the local legal system in Beverly Hills and the surrounding areas. That local insight can give your case an edge when it comes to strategy, timing, and negotiation.

Why Contact Etehad Law?

We’ve spent decades helping injured clients throughout Beverly Hills and Southern California get the justice they deserve. We bring real experience in complex truck accident cases—cases involving serious injuries, multiple liable parties, and major corporate insurers. We’re known for our strategic, no-nonsense legal approach, but also for the compassion we show every client who walks through our doors. You’re not just a case number to us—you’re a person who deserves to be heard, supported, and fiercely represented. Our office is right here in Beverly Hills, and we’re proud to serve this community with the kind of hands-on care that big, corporate law firms just can’t offer. We offer free consultations and don’t charge a fee unless we win. That means zero risk to you.

Conclusión:

A truck crash can derail your life in ways you never saw coming—but getting legal help doesn’t have to be another burden. When you work with the right personal injury lawyer in Beverly Hills, you take control of your future. You ensure that your medical bills, lost income, pain, and trauma aren’t brushed aside or undervalued. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident near Beverly Hills, now is the time to act. Don’t wait, don’t settle, and don’t go it alone. Contact Etehad Law today for a consultation, and let’s talk about how we can help you move forward with strength, clarity, and confidence.