Whether you call them big rigs, 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, or semis, large commercial trucks are complex vehicles designed to transport many thousands of pounds of cargo. In addition to being larger and heavier than a passenger vehicle, a large truck is also equipped with more complicated systems for acceleration, shifting gears, and even braking. Truck drivers must be properly trained in order to safely operate these massive machines. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for drivers and trucking companies to take shortcuts when it comes to driver training.
At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we know that improperly trained drivers are a danger to themselves and everyone who shares the road with them. If you have been injured in a crash that you suspect was caused by improper truck driver training, our experienced team is prepared to help you.
Enforcing Driver Training Standards in Northern CaliforniaThe Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established requirements for the training that a truck driver must undergo. The FMCSA also requires drivers to pass background checks and physical exams. The purpose of these requirements is to ensure that a consistent standard is used for driver training and fitness across the country. In an ideal world, no driver would attempt to operate a big rig without the proper training, but industry pressure and tight deadlines push trucking companies to use drivers who have not received the federally-mandated minimum training. When an improperly trained driver causes an accident, it is usually the occupants of other vehicles who suffer the most severe injuries. Many are even killed.
At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we work hard to hold trucking companies accountable when they fail to train their drivers properly. In 2014, a man died as the result of a truck crash on Highway 17 that could have been prevented if the driver of the truck had been trained to follow California laws regarding safety inspections. The driver’s company, however, specifically trained him on how to avoid state inspection stations. When the truck’s brakes eventually failed, it cost an innocent man his life. Our firm represented the victim’s family and secured a $9.5 million wrongful death settlement. The trucking company was forced to file bankruptcy as a result.
At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we know that truck drivers must be responsible for obtaining the proper training they need to safely operate an 18-wheeler. However, trucking companies and transport carriers must also bear a significant portion of the responsibility as well. If you have been injured by a truck driver with improper training, the driver may be held partially liable for your injuries, but there will likely be other liable parties as well. The owner of the truck, the dispatch company, and the trucking company may all share financial liability for failing to ensure that the driver was properly trained. The entity that hired the trucking company could even be partially liable.
Determining who might be liable for your injuries is complex and requires the skill of an experienced truck accident attorney. Our team has been representing truck accident victims in Northern California for over a decade, and our lawyers have more than 80 years of combined legal experience. We have obtained more than $100 million in verdicts and settlements for clients injured by the negligent actions of truck drivers and trucking companies. We are ready to put our proven approach to work for you.
California Truck Accident LawyersEven before an accident occurs, trucking companies have attorneys working hard to limit their financial exposure and potential liability. The same is true for insurance carriers. When you have been injured by an improperly trained truck driver, you need a team on your side who will work equally as hard. At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we will not be intimidated into accepting a settlement that does not meet your needs. Instead, we will aggressively advocate on your behalf until you get the compensation you deserve.
To learn more about our firm and our approach to California truck accidents, contact our office. Call (408) 289-1417 for a free consultation today. We have successfully handled truck accidents throughout the San Jose and San Francisco Bay Area, including but not limited to Highway 17, Highway 152, Highway 101, Highway 1, Highway 680, Highway 580, and Highway 5.
“Working with CBA has been a truly remarkable experience. They exude genuineness, openness, and transparency, transforming a challenging situation into a positive one. Lauren, in particular, consistently displayed empathy, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment throughout.”
“Every step of the way, Lauren gave me hope when I felt hopeless, and she gave me help when I felt helpless. Lauren was the attorney who I knew was in my corner, and she will undoubtedly continue to be in the corner of survivors to hold their abuser and institution accountable.”
“What happened to me needed to be addressed. I missed out on such an important part of my life, while my institution made no qualms. You don’t get to push kids under a rug. I’m glad I was given an opportunity to address my broken life.”