The Role of Truck Accident Attorneys in San Diego: Why Legal Representation Matters

author
Conor Hulburt
published
January 23, 2025
Red eighteen wheeler with white trailer driving down rural highway.

Truck accidents in San Diego often result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Victims are left facing physical pain, emotional trauma, and mounting financial burdens. During these times, having an experienced truck accident attorney by your side is crucial for protecting your rights and securing fair compensation.

Here’s why you need a truck accident attorney:

1. Navigating Complex Trucking Laws and Regulations

Truck accidents are governed by a complex web of federal and state laws, including regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). These laws cover:

  • Hours-of-Service (HOS) Regulations: Limit how long drivers can operate without rest to prevent fatigue.
  • Vehicle Maintenance Requirements: Ensure trucks are properly maintained to prevent mechanical failures.
  • Cargo Securement Rules: Govern how cargo must be loaded and secured to prevent accidents.

An experienced truck accident attorney understands these regulations and can identify violations that may have contributed to the crash. Without this knowledge, victims risk being taken advantage of by trucking companies and their insurers.

2. Conducting a Thorough Investigation and Gathering Evidence

Building a successful truck accident case requires gathering and preserving critical evidence. Trucking companies and their insurers often move quickly to minimize their liability, which is why immediate action is necessary.

Key Evidence Your Attorney Will Collect:

  • Police Reports: Initial findings and statements from witnesses.
  • Black Box Data: Information from the truck’s Electronic Control Module (ECM) detailing speed, braking, and engine performance.
  • Driver Logs and ELD Records: To check for Hours-of-Service violations.
  • Maintenance and Inspection Records: Evidence of neglected repairs or faulty maintenance.
  • Cargo Loading Documents: Proof of improper or overloaded cargo.
  • Surveillance and Dashcam Footage: Visual evidence of the accident.
  • Witness Testimonies: Statements from eyewitnesses and accident scene experts.

At Hulburt Law Firm, we act swiftly to issue preservation letters that legally require trucking companies to preserve all relevant evidence.

3. Determining All Liable Parties

Truck accident cases are often more complex because multiple parties may share liability. Identifying all responsible parties is critical for maximizing compensation.

Parties That May Be Liable Include:

  • Truck Driver: For negligent driving (speeding, distracted driving, fatigue).
  • Trucking Company: For negligent hiring, training, or enforcing unsafe policies.
  • Motor Carrier: For statutory employment of an independent contractor truck driver.
  • Cargo Loaders: For improperly securing or overloading cargo.
  • Truck or Parts Manufacturers: For defective parts that caused mechanical failure.
  • Maintenance Providers: For inadequate repairs or missed maintenance issues.
  • Government Entities: For dangerous roadway conditions that contributed to the collision.

A skilled truck accident attorney will investigate every angle to ensure all negligent parties are held accountable.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed as a result of a truck accident, hiring an experienced truck accident attorney is essential to level the playing field and ensure you recover the compensation you deserve.

4. Handling Communication and Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are businesses focused on minimizing payouts. They may offer lowball settlements or attempt to shift blame to the victim. Trucking companies typically have large insurers and legal teams working to protect their interests.

How an Attorney Levels the Playing Field:

  • Manages All Communications: Protects you from being tricked into admitting fault or accepting a low offer.
  • Calculates Fair Compensation: Accurately assesses the value of your claim, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
  • Negotiates Aggressively: Fights for a settlement that fully covers your losses.
  • Prepares for Trial: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney will be ready to take the case to court.

At Hulburt Law Firm, we know how to challenge aggressive insurance tactics and demand fair compensation.

5. Maximizing Compensation for Victims

Victims of truck accidents often face significant financial burdens. An experienced attorney will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To:

  • Medical Expenses: Current and future medical bills, rehabilitation, surgeries, and therapy.
  • Lost Wages: Income lost due to inability to work and reduced earning capacity.
  • Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress.
  • Property Damage: Repairs or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property.
  • Wrongful Death Damages: Funeral costs, loss of companionship, and financial support for surviving family members.

Without legal representation, victims risk settling for far less than what they are entitled to.

6. Providing Emotional Support and Guidance

Truck accidents are traumatic, and victims often feel overwhelmed by the legal process. A compassionate attorney provides not only legal support but also emotional reassurance.

How Hulburt Law Firm Supports Clients:

  • Clear Communication: We explain every step of the process so you know what to expect.
  • Personalized Attention: Every case is unique, and we tailor our strategy to your needs.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that experienced attorneys are handling your case allows you to focus on healing.

We’re here to listen, support, and fight for you.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in San Diego

Taking the right steps after a truck accident can protect your rights and strengthen your case.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Truck Accident:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health.
  2. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters: Do not provide recorded statements or accept quick settlements.
  3. Contact a Truck Accident Attorney: The sooner you have legal representation, the stronger your case will be.

Attorneys Conor and Leslie Hulburt

Why Choose Hulburt Law Firm for Your Truck Accident Case?

At Hulburt Law Firm, our San Diego Truck Accident Attorneys, Conor and Leslie Hulburt, are award-winning trial attorneys with extensive experience in handling catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. Conor Hulburt has recovered numerous seven and eight-figure results on behalf of truck accident victims. He has handled cases involving semis, dump trucks, box trucks, commercial vans, work trucks, and more. 

We understand the complexities of truck accident claims and are prepared to stand up to powerful trucking companies and their insurers.

What Sets Us Apart:

  • No Fees Unless We Win: You pay nothing unless we recover compensation.
  • Trucking Expertise: We have the expertise to handle complex trucking claims. 
  • Aggressive Representation: We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
  • Personalized Attention: You’re more than just a case number—we care about your recovery.

Contact Hulburt Law Firm Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in San Diego, don’t wait. Evidence can disappear, and insurance companies will act fast to protect their interests. Let Hulburt Law Firm protect yours. Call us at 619.821.0500 or complete the contact form below.

Related Content:

No items found.
No items found.

Request a Free Case Review

Simply fill out the form or call 619.821.0500 to receive a free case review. We’ll evaluate what happened, your injuries, and potential defendants to determine how we can best help you.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.