A tow truck’s arrival usually signals relief for accident victims or stranded motorists. However, these large, heavy trucks can also be the cause of severe accidents on the road. If you or a loved one suffered injuries due to a tow truck collision, a dedicated Sacramento tow truck accident lawyer can guide you through the process of pursuing compensation for your losses. Please contact the Law Offices of Ali Yousefi, P.C., to learn more.
How Do Tow Truck Accidents Occur?
Tow trucks, due to their size and the nature of their operations, are at increased risk for accidents. They are larger and heavier than many other vehicles and often carry additional equipment such as cables and winches. Tow trucks have different configurations, including larger flat-bed versions that are even heavier.
Pulling another vehicle makes a tow truck more hazardous to other motorists on the road. Factors such as speed, inattention, lack of experience, poor weather conditions, slippery roads, or truck mechanical failures can contribute to a tow truck accident.
Common Types of Tow Truck Accidents in California
Tow truck accidents can take on various forms, each with unique risks and damages. Some of the most common types of tow truck accidents include the following.
Rear-End Collisions
Tow trucks may need to stop in the roadway to pick up a vehicle. A rear-end accident may occur if another motorist doesn’t notice the stopped tow truck. Also, drivers who follow too closely to a tow truck might not be able to stop in time. Tow trucks might also rear-end a passenger vehicle, causing significant damage and injuries.
Sideswipe Accidents
These accidents typically occur when a tow truck is parked on the shoulder assisting another motorist. A careless driver might fail to provide enough space and sideswipe the truck. These collisions can also occur when a tow truck driver changes lanes without seeing there’s a vehicle in their blind spot.
Disconnecting or Shifting Vehicles
Tow truck drivers with vehicles hooked to their trucks need to be extra cautious about securing them. Sometimes vehicles can shift or even disconnect, creating a significant hazard to surrounding motorists. Also, drivers must be careful around tow trucks with cars attached. Don’t drive too closely or put yourself in danger should that vehicle shift.
Who Is Liable in a Tow Truck Collision?
Determining liability in a tow truck accident depends on the accident circumstances. A tow truck driver can be liable for damages resulting from their negligent acts. Examples include speeding, driving while fatigued, not obeying traffic laws, or failing to secure a vehicle on the truck properly.
However, you might also share a percentage of liability for the collision. California follows the rule of comparative negligence. This law is important to know. It means even if you are partially responsible, you can still collect a portion of your damages. However, your overall compensation might be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault, you will receive 80% of your damages.
Additionally, the towing company may have some responsibility for the collision. Tow companies have a legal duty to ensure regular vehicle inspections and maintenance. They can be held accountable if a tow truck accident occurs due to mechanical failures or because they employed an unfit driver. They can also be held vicariously liable for the actions of their employees.
How Can a Sacramento Tow Truck Accident Lawyer Help You?
The aftermath of a tow truck collision can lead to severe physical injuries and financial burdens. Medical expenses, loss of wages, property damage, and emotional distress are common damages that you might have. That is where a seasoned tow truck accident lawyer can provide essential assistance. Your lawyer can help assess your losses and calculate the potential settlement value of your case.
Navigating the complexities of a tow truck accident claim can be daunting, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our experienced tow truck accident attorneys are ready to assist you. We will thoroughly investigate your case, preserve evidence that helps establish liability, and aggressively negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your chances of receiving a higher settlement.
Contact the Law Offices of Ali Yousefi, P.C.
Tow truck accidents can be devastating, but you don’t have to face the legal aftermath alone. Contact an experienced tow truck accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Ali Yousefi, P.C. today. Schedule a free consultation, and let us review your case. We have years of experience assisting injured victims of tow truck accidents in Sacramento. We stand ready to help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve after a tow truck collision.