All drivers have a legal duty to follow applicable traffic rules and to take action to prevent motor vehicle collisions. However, some drivers may engage in dangerous driving behaviors due to being in a hurry, impatience or driver fatigue. These conditions are particularly prevalent in the trucking industry where companies are paid by the load. If a truck driver improperly passes and causes a collision, you may have the right to pursue financial recovery for the losses you suffered as a result.
A Los Angeles improper passing lawyer can discuss the circumstances that led to your accident and whether you may have a claim. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 794-0444 for a free consultation to learn about your rights and legal options.
California Passing Laws
Truck accidents can occur when drivers do not adhere to traffic rules for safe passing. You must follow these steps to pass safely, according to the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles:
- Look ahead for road conditions that may pose a danger to safely pass
- Do not pass if you are approaching a hill or curve and cannot see oncoming traffic
- Do not pass if you are within 100 feet of a railroad crossing, intersection bridge, tunnel or other hazardous area
- Pass on the left-hand side
- Only pass on the right-hand side if the lane is clearly marked for two or more lanes of travel in the same direction you are traveling
- Avoid passing other vehicles on two-lane roads
- Signal before attempting to pass
- Leave enough space between you and the vehicle you just passed to avoid danger
If a truck driver did not follow these rules and crashed into you during an improper lane change, you may have a right to recover compensation for your property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact us for a free case review.
No Zones
You should also be cautious of a truck driver’s “no zones” when driving beside these vehicles. A no-zone is a large blind spot where a truck driver cannot see other vehicles. While all vehicles have blind spots, these spots are larger for commercial vehicles, making driving in these areas particularly dangerous for passenger vehicles.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration says that large trucks have four no zones as follows:
- 20 feet directly in front of the truck
- 30 feet directly behind the truck
- Directly in the left lane nearest the truck for the length of the truck
- In the nearest two right lanes to the truck for the length of the truck
When you are passing a commercial truck, be aware of these no zones. Be particularly careful when the vehicle is turning, reversing or changing lanes. If you are in one of these no zones, the truck driver may not be able to see you. Always check that you can see yourself in the truck’s side mirror because if you cannot see the driver, the driver cannot see you.
For a free legal consultation with a Improper Passing Accidents Lawyer serving Los Angeles, call (800) 794-0444
Dangers of Commercial Truckers Improperly Passing
Truck drivers are often in a hurry because they make more money for the more deliveries they complete. These trucks may weigh more than 20,000 pounds, so they can instantly crush smaller vehicles that get in their way due to their massive weight and size. Some truck drivers may take advantage of their size by running other vehicles off the roads.
When a truck driver negligently causes a collision, he or she often exacts a devastating toll. The occupants in passenger vehicles are much more likely to be injured because of the sheer weight and power of the commercial vehicle. They are also more likely to suffer serious injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Amputations
- Fractures
- Internal injuries
- Lacerations
Sadly, these negligent actions sometimes result in the loss of a loved one.
Los Angeles Improper Passing Accidents Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
How a Los Angeles Improper Passing Lawyer Can Help
At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, we focus on helping personal injury victims and their families recover the compensation they need after an injury. We hold trucking companies and truck drivers responsible for their negligent behavior and seek maximum compensation for your injuries.
A Los Angeles improper passing lawyer from our legal team can help you with all aspects of your claim, including:
- Investigation – We will quickly get to work on your case and work to gather and preserve evidence. This may include requesting the trucking company keep the black box data from the truck that reveals the speed, braking, and other actions the truck made just before the accident. We will also determine all potentially liable parties in order to maximize your recovery.
- Communication – As personal injury lawyers, we know that your injury may have a significant effect on your health, life, and finances. We will handle communications with the insurance company so that you can focus on your medical recovery. We will communicate new information about your claim so that you do not have to worry about the status of your case.
- Negotiation – Our legal team negotiates personal injury claims on a routine basis, and we will put this experience to use to fight for your fair recovery. We will collect evidence to help substantiate your claim and your demand for compensation, including factoring in all of the direct and indirect results caused by the truck accident.
- Representation – If the trucking company does not offer a fair settlement, we can discuss the possibility of taking your case to court. We provide zealous client advocacy and fight for our clients from start to finish.
We will stand by your side during this difficult time, championing your rights.
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Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in a collision because of improper lane passing, the legal team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm is ready to help. Call us today at (800) 794-0444 to get started on your claim. You will pay no attorney’s fees unless we help you recover compensation.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form