Common Causes of Big Rig Wrecks in California and How a Lawyer Can Help

With major freight corridors like I-5, I-10, and Highway 99 cutting through the state, it’s no surprise to see commercial trucks—especially big rigs—on the road. Increased traffic poses a serious risk of big rig accidents for California drivers, most of which are preventable. Understanding the causes of truck wrecks can help you know what to do if you or a loved one is hurt in a crash. A big rig wreck lawyer can overcome these obstacles to get you the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a big rig accident, don’t go it alone. You need a California truck accident attorney who understands the trucking industry and has the experience to take on large corporations and insurers. Contact Chain | Cohn | Clark for a no-obligation, free case review today.

So, what is the most common cause of Big Rig Wrecks collisions in California?

Drowsy driving is still a major cause of truck accidents. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times, have difficulty processing information, and may even fall asleep behind the wheel. Given the size and momentum of a fully loaded 18-wheeler, even a momentary lapse in attention can have catastrophic results.

To combat fatigue caused by irregular schedules and overnight driving, truckers are bound by federal hours of service (HOS) regulations designed to prevent drowsy driving. Unfortunately, truck drivers under tight delivery deadlines may be pressured by employers to break the rules, pushing through long hauls across state lines without sufficient rest.

2. Improper Maintenance

Big rigs are complex machines that require regular maintenance to ensure their safety. Unfortunately, maintenance is often neglected, especially by companies trying to cut corners. An experienced attorney can investigate maintenance records and uncover signs of negligence.

Common mechanical failures include:

• Brake system failure
• Worn or bald tires
• Faulty steering mechanisms
• Broken headlights or turn signals

3. Reckless Driving

Not all truck accidents are caused by equipment or fatigue. Some happen because of reckless driving—either by the truck driver or other motorists.

Large trucks have massive blind spots, especially on the sides and rear. If a truck driver isn’t paying attention or is driving aggressively, it becomes nearly impossible for other drivers to stay safe.

Common examples of reckless truck driving include:

• Speeding, especially downhill or in poor weather
• Tailgating smaller vehicles
• Unsafe lane changes or merging without signaling
• Failing to yield or running red lights

4. Overloaded Trucks

California has strict laws about the maximum weight a commercial truck can carry, but some trucking companies ignore these regulations in the name of profit. Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, throwing the truck off balance.

An unbalanced load may cause a trailer to tip, jackknife, or roll over—especially on curves or in windy conditions. Overloaded trucks also take longer to stop, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.

5. Inadequate Driver Training

Operating a big rig requires skill, experience, and knowledge of both state and federal regulations. Some trucking companies cut corners by hiring inexperienced drivers or failing to provide proper training. In these cases, you may be able to collect compensation for trucking company negligence or inadequate hiring practices.

How a Lawyer Can Help After a Big Rig Accident

Commercial vehicle injury claims are far more complex than typical car crashes. They often involve multiple parties, federal regulations, and powerful insurance companies ready to protect their bottom line. That’s where having an experienced truck accident lawyer at Chain | Cohn | Clark comes in.

Our Lawyers Investigate:

Our attorneys can send spoliation letters to preserve vital evidence, allowing us to review accident reports, black box data, and maintenance records to fully investigate the cause of the crash.

Liability Investigation:

Liability in a semi-truck crash lawsuit may fall on more than one party. We work to ensure that every responsible party is held accountable, including the truck driver, the trucking company, a third-party maintenance or cargo loading service, or the manufacturer of a defective truck part.

Our lawyers Negociate:

Trucking insurance policies are often worth hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars. But insurers won’t hand out that kind of money easily. Your lawyer will negotiate aggressively to ensure you get the full big rig accident compensation you deserve.