A big rig accident can often spell disaster for smaller vehicles and their passengers. Fortunately, California laws can make it easier for injured drivers and other motorists involved in collisions with these massive trucks to pursue justice for their injuries and other expenses. Keep reading to explore your rights after a big rig accident, and how a Los Angeles commercial accident lawyer can help afterward.
Big Truck Accidents in California Are No Minor Occurrence
Big truck accidents are substantial across the country, and California is no different. With the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reporting more than 10,400 large truck crashes in the state in 2025, it’s no wonder that Californians find themselves involved in accidents with big rigs more often than not.
Large trucks are just that, big. This is why oftentimes accidents with these large trucks can leave other people emotionally reeling, hurt, and dealing with a mountain of unforeseen expenses.
What Are Your Rights After a Big Rig Accident in Los Angeles?
Imagine you’re cruising along on the 101, when suddenly a sudden stop in traffic makes you brake. A mere second later, you feel the impact of something massive throwing your car forward, causing you to collide against your steering wheel. The screech of metal fills your ears as your car becomes sandwiched between the relentless force behind you and the other small car in front of you.
In a matter of seconds, you find yourself injured in a big rig accident where your car has stood no chance. So, where to go from here? Many drivers aren’t aware of their rights after these kinds of accidents, but someone must answer for your damages.
After an accident involving a large commercial vehicle, your rights include:
The Right to Pursue Compensation
First and foremost, anyone involved in a big truck accident has the right to pursue compensation for economic and noneconomic damages. Economic damages look like medical bills, loss of wages, and car repairs. Noneconomic damages include pain and suffering, mental trauma, and the loss of enjoyment of life.
The Right to Get Answers for Your Injuries
Holding responsible parties accountable for causing an accident is a right any injured driver has after the events unfold. Big trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, so the drivers who operate them, and the companies who handle these trucks and employ the drivers, are some of the main parties often held responsible.
The Right to a Fair Legal Process
As outlined in the Constitution, all people who reside in the United States have a right to due process. This means injured drivers have the right to pursue a legal civil claim against another party and are entitled to a proper investigation with the right to review evidence and fully understand the depth of their legal actions.
Are These Rights Non-Negotiable?
Definitely. Every right exists to offer individuals in the country protection and opportunity. This is why many drivers or even pedestrians involved in accidents with large vehicles and massive companies should exercise their rights to the pursuit of legal justice and compensation.
After an Accident: A To-Do List
Big rig accidents are no laughing matter. It can feel like the rug was pulled from under you, and now right after an accident, every choice can feel questionable.
Here’s what can be done after an accident, to allow you to exercise your rights later on in the pursuit of justice.
- Call 911 to report the accident and your injuries.
- Get all the details of the drivers involved, and photos of the accident scene.
- Seek medical attention for any injuries, no matter how minor they may feel.
- Consider your rights after the accident, and how you want to exercise these rights for possible compensation.
Why Call a Los Angeles Commercial Accident Lawyer?
In a perfect world, there are no accidents. Unfortunately, big rig accidents are frequent, and in the aftermath, injured drivers and passengers are often unsure of their rights.
However, the right to compensation and a fair legal claim process is there for all California citizens to exercise. Speaking with a Los Angeles commercial accident lawyer, such as one from the BD&J law firm, can allow drivers to fully assert their rights in the wake of a large truck accident.