U-Haul Truck Accident Lawyers

U-Haul Truck Accident Lawyers

In the year 2020, one way U-Haul trucks to California dropped 17%. With the Covid-19 crisis, many employees have been working from home for the past year. Many large companies, such as Pinterest, have even announced that working from home could potentially be indefinitely. With the rise of working from home job opportunities, many are considering moving to smaller towns and away from the congestion of large cities, such as Los Angeles. Every couple months, California is hitting record numbers on people moving out. Some companies, such as U-Haul, have been booked out for the next 3 weeks. Moving appointments cannot be made until a month later.

With many Californians moving out, many moving trucks are now seen driving on busy roads. The most common type of moving truck are U-Haul trucks. U-Haul trucks are rented by individual private people who drive the truck themselves. A U-Haul truck does not need any special type of license, and a regular Class C driver’s license will do. Further, U-Haul does not require extensive training or practice before renting out their trucks. U-Haul trucks can range from 6 feet to 26 feet long, which leads many to wonder: what happens if they’re hit by a U-Haul truck driver? Who would be responsible in this type of accident?

If you have been injured by a U-Haul truck driver, contact our team of truck accident attorneys today. Our car accident attorneys in Los Angeles will better determine whether you have a valid legal claim against the U-Haul truck driver. Each type of accidents vary, therefore it is very important to hire an experienced car accident lawyer to better assist you in seeking compensation for your injuries.

Understanding California Car Insurance Laws and Your Rights After an Accident

California law mandates that all drivers carry a minimum level of automobile insurance to protect themselves and others in the event of an accident. Specifically, the state requires liability coverage of at least $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident for bodily injury. However, these minimums serve only as a starting point, and many drivers choose to increase their coverage limits for added protection.

Additional Insurance Options in California

Many insurance providers now offer extended options, including truck rental insurance, which ensures that policyholders remain covered even when renting a vehicle. For example, if a driver rents a U-Haul truck and is involved in an accident, this type of coverage would extend to protect them. In such cases, the injured party can recover compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance to cover medical bills and other damages.

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Why Settlement Offers May Be Inadequate

If you are involved in an accident, insurance companies will often attempt to settle claims quickly. However, these settlement amounts are frequently much lower than the actual costs of medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Insurance Adjusters’ Tactics: Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts. Their initial offers are rarely sufficient to cover long-term expenses.
• Legal Representation is Key: Hiring an experienced car accident attorney can significantly improve your chances of securing a fair settlement. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf or prepare to take your case to trial if necessary.

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Q&A: Common Questions About California Car Insurance and Accidents

Q: What happens if the at-fault driver has minimal insurance coverage?
A: If the at-fault driver carries only the state minimum insurance, your medical bills and damages may exceed the coverage limits. In such cases, you may need to rely on your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (if you have it) or file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

Q: Is it worth increasing my coverage limits?
A: Absolutely. The minimum coverage may not be sufficient to cover severe accidents. Opting for higher coverage limits ensures greater financial protection and peace of mind.

Q: What should I do if I’m injured by a rental truck driver?
A: First, seek medical attention immediately. Then, gather evidence from the scene, including photos and witness information. Contact an experienced attorney to help you navigate the claims process and secure fair compensation.

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Protect Yourself After an Accident

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies and potential legal disputes. To safeguard your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, consult an attorney who specializes in California car accident cases. With the right guidance, you can focus on recovery while your legal team handles the complexities of your claim.

U-Haul Driver Accident Examples: Understanding Liability and Common Causes

Accidents involving U-Haul trucks can result in significant damage and injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Understanding the circumstances under which a U-Haul driver could be held liable is crucial for those seeking justice. Below are some common scenarios where a U-Haul driver may be responsible for an accident.

Speeding by the U-Haul Truck Driver

Speeding is a leading cause of vehicle accidents, and U-Haul trucks are no exception. When a driver operates a large vehicle like a U-Haul at high speeds, it becomes difficult to control the truck, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol

Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol is both illegal and dangerous. U-Haul drivers impaired by substances often experience slowed reaction times, poor judgment, and reduced coordination, leading to preventable collisions. This behavior not only puts the driver at risk but also endangers other road users.

Failure to Obey Traffic Signals

When a U-Haul driver fails to stop at a red light or disobeys other traffic signals, the risk of an accident increases dramatically. These reckless actions often lead to severe side-impact collisions, commonly referred to as T-bone accidents, which can cause devastating injuries.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of accidents on the road. A U-Haul driver checking their phone, adjusting a GPS, or even eating while driving poses a significant danger. Data shows that distracted driving is responsible for over 3,000 deaths annually in the United States.

Truck Defects or Mechanical Failures

Sometimes, accidents occur due to defects in the U-Haul truck itself. Issues such as brake failures, worn-out tires, or malfunctioning lights can contribute to crashes. In such cases, liability may extend to the rental company if they failed to maintain the vehicle properly.

Illegal Turns

Illegal turns, such as U-turns in restricted areas or failing to yield to oncoming traffic, can result in collisions. U-Haul trucks, with their large turning radius, require extra caution when navigating intersections or making turns.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Who is responsible if a defective U-Haul truck causes an accident?
A: If a defect in the U-Haul truck contributed to the accident, the rental company might share liability for failing to maintain or inspect the vehicle properly.

Q: Can I sue a U-Haul driver for damages after an accident?
A: Yes, if the U-Haul driver’s negligence caused the accident, you may be able to file a claim for damages. Consulting with a qualified attorney is recommended to understand your options.

U-Haul Truck Accident FAQ’s

If you’ve been injured in a U-Haul truck accident, it’s important to take specific steps to protect your rights and ensure you are fairly compensated for your injuries. To assist you, our experienced car accident attorneys have compiled this guide outlining the basic actions you should consider. For detailed legal advice, we encourage you to contact our personal injury attorneys for a free consultation today.

Immediate Actions After a U-Haul Truck Accident

1. Move to a Safe Location
   • If possible, relocate to a secure area away from traffic to prevent further accidents or injuries. Ensuring your safety is the top priority.
2. Call 911 Immediately
   • If anyone involved in the accident has been injured or requires urgent medical attention, contact emergency services without delay. A police report can also serve as an important piece of evidence in your case.
3. Gather Witness Information
   • Collect the names and contact details of any witnesses who saw the accident. Their statements can provide critical support for your claim.
4. Document the Scene
   • Take clear photographs of all vehicles involved, focusing on damages and the surrounding area. Capture evidence of road conditions, traffic signs, and any other relevant details.
5. Record Driver Information
   • Photograph the other driver’s license and insurance card. This information is essential for filing a claim and pursuing compensation.

Assess Insurance Coverage for U-Haul Truck Rentals

One unique aspect of U-Haul truck accidents is determining whether the at-fault driver’s car insurance policy covers truck rentals. Once you have the other driver’s insurance details:

• Contact Their Insurance Provider: Confirm whether their policy includes coverage for rented vehicles such as U-Haul trucks. This step can help you understand your options for recovering damages.
• Seek Legal Assistance for Denied Claims: If the insurance company denies coverage or offers an insufficient settlement, consult a qualified car accident attorney immediately.

Why Hiring a Car Accident Attorney is Crucial

A skilled attorney can advocate for your rights and maximize your compensation for injuries and damages. Common types of personal injury damages include:

• Medical Expenses: Covering hospital bills, medications, and ongoing treatments.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to the accident.
• Future Income Loss: Recovery for diminished earning potential caused by long-term injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.

Every case is unique, and the potential damages vary widely. Consulting a personal injury attorney is vital to accurately assess the value of your claim and pursue justice.

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FAQs About U-Haul Truck Accidents

Q: Who is liable in a U-Haul truck accident?
A: Liability can depend on factors such as driver negligence, improper vehicle maintenance by U-Haul, or other parties’ involvement. An attorney can investigate to determine responsibility.

Q: What should I do if the at-fault driver’s insurance denies coverage?
A: If coverage is denied, contact a car accident attorney immediately to explore alternative options for recovering compensation, including filing a lawsuit or pursuing other insurance claims.

Visit our page for more information on what to do after an accident.

How much could I recover in a U-Haul truck car accident?

Since each car accident is different, there is no specific amount a plaintiff could recover. This specific amount may be determined by the medical bills and costs plaintiff had to endure as a result of their injuries. Contact our attorneys today for a no-risk free consultation to better determine how much you could possibly recover.

Could U-Haul be liable for the car accident when driven by a private renter?

Depending on the circumstances of the case, the company U-Haul could potentially be liable for the driver’s negligence. The driver who is renting the vehicle could not be considered an employee, but if there are any issues with the U-Haul truck itself, U-Haul could potentially be liable. Examples how U-Haul could be liable include when the truck has faulty brakes, or U-Haul has neglected to maintain or repair their trucks.

California also requires that companies carry liability insurance when trucks that have been rented to private people are involved in accidents. If the driver’s insurance denies paying, a plaintiff could also go after the U-Haul company.  This could be done by contacting U-Haul’s specific insurance company. This involves several hurdles to jump over, and should be done with the assistance of a personal injury attorney.