Kern County Truck Accident Lawyer
Did you know that in 2020, among 5,251,000 traffic crashes, 415,000 of those involved large trucks? In Kern County, like much of California, large trucks are involved in hundreds of accidents each year, causing life-altering injuries and heartbreak.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident on roads like the 99 Freeway or Highway 58, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. But you don’t have to face this struggle alone. Filing a personal injury claim can help you hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the financial support you need to rebuild your life.
At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we’ve seen the devastation truck accidents can cause. With over $2 billion recovered for our clients, our Kern County truck accident lawyers are here to fight relentlessly for your rights, offering years of experience and a track record of success.
Your recovery is our priority. Let us handle the legal details while you focus on healing. Call us at 866-537-2488 for a free consultation and take the first step toward the justice and compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Us for Your Kern County Truck Accident Case?
A truck accident can leave your life in pieces—painful injuries, mounting bills, lost income, and uncertainty about the future. Facing these challenges alone is overwhelming, so we are here to help. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we don’t just handle cases; we fight for people like you.
With over $2 billion recovered for clients and a proven legacy of success, our Kern County and Bakersfield truck accident lawyers bring relentless determination, deep expertise, and heartfelt compassion to every case. You deserve a partner who will fight tirelessly to help you rebuild your life—and that’s precisely what we offer.
How We’re Here for You
- Personalized Representation That Puts You First
Your story matters. We craft tailored legal strategies to amplify your voice and fight for your unique needs and goals. - No Win, No Fee—Guaranteed
You don’t pay us unless we win your case. It’s that simple. Focus on your recovery while we work to deliver results. - Decades of Proven Results
With 50+ years of experience, over 100,000 cases handled, and billions in compensation secured, we’re the trusted team you need on your side. - Accessible Support, Wherever You Are
Whether you’re in Bakersfield, Kern County, or elsewhere, we offer in-person or virtual consultations.
Call 866-537-2488 for a free consultation today. We’re ready to help you take back control of your future.
Why Do I Need a Truck Accident Lawyer
After a truck accident, it’s tempting to rely on insurance companies to handle everything. But while they may offer compensation for basic damages like medical bills or vehicle repairs, they often overlook the bigger picture—your full recovery and future well-being.
Partnering with an experienced injury truck attorney ensures every detail is addressed, from maximizing your compensation to protecting your rights.
Here’s Why It Matters:
- Your Advocate Through Complexity
The legal process can feel overwhelming and confusing, especially if you lack knowledge about it. An experienced attorney knows the way, protecting your rights and guiding you every step of the way. - Assures You Get maximized Compensation
Beyond medical bills and lost wages, a skilled lawyer ensures you’re compensated for pain, suffering, emotional distress, and any long-term injuries. - Fighting Back Against Insurance Tactics
Insurance companies are experts at lowballing claims. Your lawyer flips the script, using evidence and negotiation skills to secure the compensation you truly deserve. - Gives Peace of Mind During Recovery
You focus on healing while your attorney handles the paperwork, deadlines, and legal complexities. - Trial Representation You Can Trust
If your case goes to court, a seasoned lawyer will become your voice, sharing your story in a way that resonates with the judge and jury. - No Upfront Costs, No Financial Risk
Most lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win. This makes pursuing justice accessible to everyone.
With a trusted advocate by your side, you can focus on what matters most: rebuilding your life.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Kern County
A truck accident can leave you shaken, injured, and unsure of what to do next. In moments like these, staying focused and taking the proper steps is crucial to protecting your health, rights, and future.
Stay Calm
Amid the shock and confusion, take a moment to breathe and steady yourself. Staying calm will help you make clear and informed decisions.
Call 911 Immediately
Report the accident to Kern County emergency services right away. Request medical assistance for anyone injured and let law enforcement document the scene. Their report is a vital piece of evidence for your case.
Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention
Look for any visible injuries on yourself or others, no matter how minor they may seem. Injuries like whiplash or internal trauma often don’t show symptoms immediately but can have serious consequences. Even if you feel fine, visit a medical professional as soon as possible. Your health comes first; medical records will strengthen your case if you file a claim.
Document the Scene Thoroughly
Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver. Take photos of the accident, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries. Finally, contact details should be collected from witnesses; they may provide valuable statements later.
Be Cautious with Your Words
Avoid apologizing or admitting fault, even if you feel responsible. A simple “I’m sorry” could be misinterpreted and used against you later.
Work with Law Enforcement
Provide clear and accurate information to police officers. Their report will be a cornerstone of your case and can help establish liability.
Contact a Kern County Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accident cases are complex and often involve large insurance companies working to minimize their payouts. An experienced Kern County truck accident attorney can handle negotiations, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on recovering.
Causes of Truck Accidents in Kern County
Truck accidents can be catastrophic due to the massive size and weight of commercial vehicles. Here’s what often leads to these tragedies:
- Exhausted Drivers: Long hours behind the wheel can lead to dangerous fatigue and slow reaction times. According to the National Sleep Foundation, approximately 6,400 individuals die in accidents related to drowsy driving annually.
- Dangerous Distractions: Texting, GPS use, or other distractions can cause deadly mistakes.
- Improperly Loaded Cargo: Overloaded or poorly secured loads can destabilize trucks, causing rollovers.
- Excessive Speed: Trucks need more time to stop, making speeding incredibly risky. In 2020, speeding by large truck drivers contributed to 7.3% of fatal accidents.
- Neglected Maintenance: Worn brakes, failing tires, or mechanical issues can trigger fatal crashes.
- Driving Under the Influence: Impaired truck or passenger drivers are a recipe for disaster.
- Blind Spots: Large trucks have huge blind spots, making it easy for nearby vehicles to be overlooked.
Life-Altering Injuries in Truck Accidents
Truck crashes often result in devastating injuries, many of which require long-term care or lead to permanent disabilities:
- Brain Injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries can rob victims of memory, focus, and independence.
- Spinal Damage: Paralysis or spinal cord injuries can leave victims facing lifelong mobility challenges.
- Broken Bones: Fractures often require surgery and months of recovery.
- Internal Damage: Organ injuries and internal bleeding can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
- Amputations: Severe impacts can result in the loss of limbs, forever altering a victim’s life.
- Burns and Scars: Fires and shattered glass often lead to painful burns and permanent scarring.
- Emotional Scars: PTSD, anxiety, and depression can linger long after physical wounds heal.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a truck accident in Kern County, seek medical care immediately and connect with a dedicated truck accident attorney to fight for your recovery.
Who Is At Fault in a Truck Accident?
Filing a personal injury claim is your chance to reclaim your security and hold those responsible accountable. However, when doing so, you must show that another driver’s actions or negligence caused the accident, resulting in your damages.
Negligence occurs when someone fails to uphold their essential duty of care—the level of caution and responsibility a reasonable person would demonstrate in a similar situation. The negligent party can be held accountable when this failure leads to harm.
Key Elements of a Truck Accident Case
To build a strong case, you’ll need to prove:
- Negligence: Did someone act recklessly or fail to uphold their responsibility?
- Injuries: Does evidence back your injuries?
- Causation: Can you connect the negligent actions to your suffering?
- Damages: Have you endured significant physical, emotional, or financial harm?
Parties Who Can Be Liable
Truck accidents often involve multiple layers of liability. Here’s a breakdown:
- The Truck Driver
Drivers who speed, drive while fatigued, or ignore safety rules put lives at risk. If the driver’s actions directly caused the accident, they could be held accountable. - The Trucking Company
Reckless practices, such as imposing unrealistic schedules, poor vehicle maintenance, or inadequate training, can make trucking companies liable. Companies often prioritize profits over safety, but a thorough investigation can uncover their role. - Third Parties
Faulty truck parts, hazardous road conditions, or negligent maintenance teams can share responsibility. Holding these parties accountable requires expert legal guidance and a deep dive into the details.
Most accident victims sustain catastrophic injuries from a truck crash. As a result, they often accept whatever insurance companies offer without determining the total losses they should be compensated with.
Experienced truck accident attorneys in Bakersfield and Kern County can handle the complexities of your case, from identifying responsible parties to fighting for your rights so you get the most out of your case while focusing on rebuilding your life.
What Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth?
The value of your truck accident claim depends on several key factors:
- Severity of Injuries: Serious injuries often lead to higher compensation due to costly treatments, long-term care, or permanent disability.
- Life Impact: The settlement amount increases if your injuries affect your ability to work, maintain independence, or enjoy life.
- Shared Fault: Proving the truck driver’s negligence strengthens your claim, but your compensation may be reduced if you’re partially at fault.
- Medical Evidence: Clear medical records are essential to show how the accident affected your health and recovery.
Damages You Could Recover
- Economic Damages: These cover tangible losses that receipts and other documentation can support. They can include medical expenses, lost wages, future income, and vehicle repair costs.
- Non-Economic Damages: Address non-tangible and emotional losses from the crash, like pain and suffering, emotional distress, PTSD, and the loss of life’s enjoyment.
- Punitive Damages: Applied when the at-fault party acted recklessly, serving as punishment and deterrence.
Insurance companies often undervalue claims, ignoring the long-term effects of your injuries. A skilled truck injury lawyer ensures your settlement reflects the full scope of your losses, letting you focus on recovery while they fight for justice.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
In California, you have a limited time to file a claim. According to the California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1, you typically have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim.
Missing these deadlines could cost you your right to compensation. Partnering with an experienced truck accident attorney ensures you meet all deadlines and receive the legal support you need to build a strong case. Don’t wait—your recovery depends on timely action.
Should I Accept an Insurance Settlement for My Truck Accident Claim?
Insurance companies often push for quick settlements, tempting you with offers that may seem like a lifeline when medical bills and lost wages overwhelm you. But these offers rarely account for the full extent of your pain, suffering, and future needs.
Accepting a settlement without legal advice can leave you vulnerable to financial hardship, as it may not fully cover long-term medical care or lost earning potential.
Before you sign anything, let us step in to protect your future. Our experienced Kern County and Bakersfield truck accident attorneys will ensure the offer truly reflects all your losses so you can focus on healing and not worry about what’s next. Let us handle the negotiations while you recover.
What Happens If I’m Partly At Fault?
In California, even if you’re partly at fault for an accident, you still have the right to file a claim and seek compensation. The state’s pure comparative fault system means that your share of responsibility will reduce the amount of compensation, but it doesn’t eliminate it altogether. For example, if you are 30% responsible for the crash, you could recover 70% of the damages.
While the other driver may also claim compensation for their portion of the fault, you don’t have to face this complicated process alone.
Having an experienced attorney on your side is crucial. They’ll ensure your case isn’t unfairly reduced due to shared fault and fight for the full compensation you deserve. You have the right to pursue justice, no matter the circumstances.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Lawyer for Truck Accidents?
Hiring a truck accident lawyer in Kern County usually costs no upfront fees. Most lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. The fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or court award, ranging from 25% to 40%, with higher costs if the case goes to trial.
This arrangement allows you to focus on healing while your lawyer works to secure compensation for your injuries—without the stress of upfront legal fees. Plus, the contingency agreement often covers essential costs like obtaining medical records, ensuring you can pursue your claim without financial worry.
The Offices of Larry H. Parker, Your Trusted Partner in an Accident
Your choice to hire a truck accident lawyer is essential, and it’s one that could significantly impact your recovery. Remember, the responsible party will almost certainly have legal professionals working to protect their interests and reduce your compensation. Facing this challenge alone can be overwhelming and may leave you with less than you deserve.
The good news? It might not be as costly as you think. At The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t pay us unless we win your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.
Let us shoulder the legal burden while you focus on healing. Our dedicated truck accident attorneys in Bakersfield and Kern County are here to fight for your rights and ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Reach out for a free consultation—your path to recovery begins today.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Essential Steps to Take if You Have Been Involved in a Big Rig or Commercial Truck Accident in California
- Get the Facts About Why It is So Dangerous for Truck Drivers to Be Tired While Driving
- 6 Things To Consider When Calculating Personal Injury Settlements
- Liability in Flashing Yellow Light Intersection Collisions
Directory
EMERGENCY HOSPITALS
- Kern Medical – 1700 Mt Vernon Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93306
- Dignity Health – Memorial Hospital – 420 34th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
- Adventist Health Bakersfield – 2615 Chester Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
- Dignity Health – Mercy Hospital Downtown – 2215 Truxtun Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
URGENT CARE CENTERS
- Priority Urgent Care – 2509 Mount Vernon Ave SUITE 107, Bakersfield, CA 93306
- Accelerated Urgent Care – 9917 Olive Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93312
- Universal Urgent Care-Brimhall – 8325 Brimhall Rd STE 100, Bakersfield, CA 93312
- StatMD Urgent Care Inc. – 5701 Young St c201, Bakersfield, CA 93313
- Memorial Urgent Care – 3838 San Dimas St Ste B121, Bakersfield, CA 93301
COURTHOUSES
- Kern County Superior Court – 1415 Truxtun Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
- Bakersfield Federal Courthouse– 510 19th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
- Kern County Superior Court – Traffic Division – 3131 Arrow St, Bakersfield, CA 93308
- Kern County Superior Court – Juvenile Justice Center– 2100 College Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93305
- Kern County Superior Court Jury Services – 661 L St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Disclaimer – We do not endorse these companies or profit from listing them on our website.