Accidents happen all the time in southern California. Most long-time veterans of freeway driving can recount an upside-down car after a collision or a truck laid low on the side of the road. Most motor vehicle crashes are minor events that are easily solved with insurance agents, but occasional accidents can cost thousands of dollars or even lives.
If an accident causes a serious injury or death, the first question is often “who is responsible?” This can be a legal matter, as the parties who caused an accident may be liable for financial damages to come as close to making things right as the law allows. Occasionally, the responsible party is not the first apparent one.
A recent accident in Mendocino County has set the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) against the driver of a truck that left the road on a hazardous curve. A lane closure on Route 175 near Hopland left the driver too little space to make the turn, and the trailer fell off the side of the road bringing the cab with it. The driver was fortunately uninjured.
Caltrans cited the driver for failing to pay attention to signs before the curve, but the driver claims he did not see one that would cause him to avoid the curve with his load. Locals have observed more trailers fall or nearly fall 100 feet into the ravine below.
Crashes caused by truckers or involving trucks may result in actionable damage or injury, and the victims of these crashes may be eligible for financial settlements or bringing a lawsuit in civil court. A lawyer can help determine if this is the right step for the victim of a truck accident.
