Semi Truck Accident Lawyer

Semi Truck Accident

Semi Truck Accident Lawyers

Did you experience a trucking accident, such as a semi truck crash, pickup truck crash, commercial truck crash, or a large truck fatal crash? If so, you will need to seek legal advice from a truck crash accident lawyer.

Being involved in a car accident, especially large trucks, such as a tractor trailer trucking accident, will require you to hire a lawyer who specializes in car accident cases, specifically large truck crashes.

Who Can Be Held Liable In A Semi Truck Accident Case

Cases involving vehicle accidents, especially accidents with large trucks tend to be more complex compared to a passenger vehicle. Many people assume that only the truck driver can be at fault. However, it is not always true. Sometimes, there is more than one responsible party during an accident that can be held accountable. Here are some potential defendants in a vehicle truck accident case that may include, but are not limited to:

Vehicle truck driver
Trucking company
Truck manufacturer
Insurance companies
The shipping company (that loaded the cargo)
Government entities

In the United States, if the driver of the vehicle is an independent contractor of a larger trucking company, an issue may be how much control the company has over its contractors. In other cases, a part on the truck may have failed and caused the crash. That could also mean the trucking company or manufacturer that makes the vehicle part bears some liability. This is also the reason why hiring a truck accident lawyer is very important as you will not be able to point fingers so easily on who to hold accountable or liable in a vehicle truck accident.

Proving Your Semi Trucking Accident Case

Truck accidents are one of our practice areas. Even if you clearly know you are not at fault for your truck accident, you still have to prove this in court or in your insurance claim. There are four basic elements of negligence in personal injury cases, including truck accidents. As a person injured in a truck accident, you must prove that:

The truck driver owed you an obligation of care to drive safely and reasonably.
The truck driver violated or breached that duty of care.
That breach of duty is what caused you or your loved one’s injuries.
You or your loved one suffered damages and losses because of those injuries.

Common Semi Truck Accident Injuries You Can Seek Settlement For

Because trucks are so large and heavy, truck accidents can cause extremely severe injuries, or even death. Even those survivors who got lucky during an accident often still have to struggle with permanent damage that can disfigure and disable. Below are some of the most common injuries that can be caused by truck accidents:

Traumatic Brain Damage – The force caused by a truck accident can injure the victim’s head either through direct trauma or sudden jerking movements, resulting in a traumatic brain injury that may cause permanent physical and cognitive issues, such as forgetting your own personal information, even your name.
Spinal Cord Injuries – Spinal cord injury is very common in truck accidents. Back trauma from the accident can result in sensory problems that can affect your control of certain organs, and even cause paralysis.
Amputations – Truck accidents can impose enough damage to the victim’s limb that could be beyond saving or puts a victim at risk of infection. If you’re a truck accident victim, you may need to undergo amputation surgery to remove the damaged body part. As a result, you may experience immense pain, a long recovery process, and a significant handicap.
Internal Injuries – Depending on which of the organs were injured during the truck accident, victims can suffer everything from internal bleeding to collapsed lungs. Such injuries can result in decreased or permanent loss of organ function, which can drastically lessen a person’s quality of life.
Broken/Fractured Bones – Although car accidents can break bones, truck accidents can cause even more serious breaks and fractures. As a result, this will make the victim experience a significant loss of mobility and even permanent disability.

What To Do Following A Semi Trucking Accident?

Seek Immediate Medical Attention For Truck Collision Injuries Your first priority after a truck accident should be your health. Seek medical assistance as soon as you can by calling 911 or a first responder. If you did not suffer severe injuries, check everyone else who is involved in the accident and see if anyone needs medical care, and do first aid if you can. Do Not Admit Fault To Anyone For The Semi Truck Accident After the accident, you may feel forced to admit partial fault by either apologizing or saying you didn’t see someone. However, doing this can only affect your ability to receive compensation negatively. Posting the incident on social media can also be used against you. Collect Important Records For Your Semi Truck Accident Case One way of proving the at-fault party’s liability is displaying that their negligence caused the injuries you are seeking compensation for. Vital documents can help connect the at-fault party’s neglectful actions with your truck accident injuries. Some of these important records include police reports, traffic crash reports, and medical documents. Hire The Right Lawyer Hiring the right lawyer can simplify the semi truck accident claim process while you take time in recovering from your severe injuries. We can help you with everything you might need with your semi-truck accident case, such as filing a truck accident claim.

How Our Lawyers Can Help With Your Truck Accident Case

Our law firm has seasoned car accident and large truck accident lawyers that can help you with your case, especially in dealing with insurance companies. We have worked with various trucking companies, so if you’re a semi truck driver who sustained major and minor injuries from large truck crashes, we can help you in filing a lawsuit.

Have you been in a Semi Truck accident?

When you have been injured by a person working for a business or driving a Semi-Truck your injury case has special obstacles. You want to hire a firm that has the experience and is not afraid to go against the big business and their team of lawyers.

Joseph Brown (one of the founders of Accident Law Group) comes from a family of truckers. He has several uncles who have or are still Semi Truck owner-operators. We feel like this gives us better insight into the driver and what he or she may have done wrong to cause the accident. One of the biggest obstacles is also a benefit, large policy limits. A policy limit is a maximum amount the insurance company will pay for anyone’s loss to the injured party. Often times large businesses have retention. This means the business pays the first part of a loss out of its own pocket before the insurance starts to pay. We have handled cases against semi-trucks with retentions as large as $500,000. Large businesses may not even have a policy limit, this is because the Company is self-insured (they pay for all losses out of their profits). This would be typical of a company like Wal-Mart. Needless to say, when a company is paying out of their profits or business accounts they will fight even harder. They have shareholders or owners to answer to. We have experience fighting and winning these battles! Semi-truck cases have another level of difficulty. Often times the Semi-truck company hires an attorney to represent their interests within hours. It is not even uncommon for their attorneys to show up at the accident scene and get involved in the investigation. In addition, the trucks are frequently equipped with “black boxes” which record tremendous amounts of data right before and during an accident. The data recorders are rarely shared prior to litigation, and this information can be very valuable to prove liability against the truck driver. We are familiar with these issues and can help you stand up to large companies. Call Accident Law Group at (602) 333-3333.

Truck Accident FAQ

Here are calm, plain answers about truck accident claims in Arizona, from the federal safety rules trucking companies follow to how deadlines and fault usually work.

What federal hours-of-service rules apply to truck drivers?

Federal rules in 49 CFR Part 395 limit how long drivers of most property-carrying trucks may drive. In general, a driver must have 10 consecutive hours off duty before driving, may drive up to 11 hours, and may not drive after the 14th hour since coming on duty. A 30-minute break is required after 8 hours of driving, and weekly limits of 60 or 70 on-duty hours apply. Most carriers must record this time on an electronic logging device, or ELD. There are exceptions, including some short-haul trips, so the rules depend on the truck and the trip.

What rules cover who can drive a truck, and are drivers tested for drugs and alcohol?

Under 49 CFR Part 391, a motor carrier must keep a qualification file for each driver. It includes the job application, driving records from state licensing agencies, a road test certificate or its equivalent, an annual review of the driving record, and a medical examiner’s certificate. Part 382 requires drug and alcohol testing for drivers who need a commercial driver’s license, including testing before hiring, random tests, and tests after certain crashes, such as one involving a death, or an injury treated away from the scene when the truck driver gets a ticket. These records can show whether a company followed the rules.

What records matter after a truck crash, and how long are they kept?

Truck cases often involve records that car cases do not. Federal rules require motor carriers to keep drivers’ hours-of-service records and supporting documents for at least 6 months, along with a backup copy of ELD records. Inspection and maintenance records are kept for 1 year, and an accident register for 3 years. Drug and alcohol testing records are kept for 1 to 5 years, depending on the type. Many trucks also have an engine control module that may record speed and braking, and that data can be overwritten. A preservation letter asks the company to keep this evidence.

How much insurance does a trucking company have to carry?

Federal rules in 49 CFR 387.9 set minimum levels. A for-hire carrier hauling general, nonhazardous freight across state lines in a truck rated at 10,001 pounds or more must carry at least $750,000. Carriers hauling oil or many hazardous materials must carry $1,000,000, and some hazardous loads, such as certain explosives or bulk hazardous substances, require $5,000,000. These are minimums, not a measure of what a claim is worth. Some companies carry more, and some pay part of each loss themselves. Trucks that stay within Arizona may follow different rules. FMCSA has a public site showing a carrier’s insurance on file.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Arizona?

Arizona generally allows two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (A.R.S. 12-542). A wrongful death claim generally has two years from the date of death. If a city, county, or state agency may share responsibility, such as for a government truck or a road problem, a written notice of claim usually must be filed within 180 days, and a lawsuit within one year (A.R.S. 12-821.01 and 12-821). Different rules can apply to minors. Some trucking records are kept for only months, so it can help to have the dates reviewed early.

What if I was partly at fault, or more than one company was involved?

Arizona uses comparative fault (A.R.S. 12-2505). If you were partly at fault, your damages are generally reduced by your percentage of fault rather than barred, with limited exceptions. Arizona also generally divides responsibility among everyone at fault (A.R.S. 12-2506), so each defendant usually pays only its own share. One important exception is when the driver was acting as the company’s agent or employee, because the company can then be responsible for the driver’s share. That is one reason the relationship between the driver and the trucking company, such as employee or independent contractor, can matter.

Can I look up a trucking company’s safety record?

Yes, some of it. FMCSA’s SAFER Company Snapshot lets anyone search by USDOT number, MC number, or company name to see a carrier’s size, its safety rating if it has one, a summary of roadside out-of-service inspections, and crash information. FMCSA’s Safety Measurement System shows inspection and crash data and several safety categories, though for property carriers some measures, including the crash indicator, are not public. FMCSA cautions that this data alone does not show a carrier’s overall safety condition. A carrier’s licensing and insurance status is on a separate FMCSA site.

What information should I try to note after a truck crash?

Your health comes first. If you are able to, note the trucking company’s name and its USDOT number, which is usually shown on the side of the truck’s cab, along with the truck and trailer plate numbers, the driver’s name, and the location. Photos of the vehicles, the scene, and your injuries can help, as can names of witnesses. Ask the officer which agency is writing the crash report. On Arizona interstates and state highways, that is often the Department of Public Safety; on local roads, it is usually the city or county. When you are ready, call Accident Law Group at (602) 333-3333.

Related practice areas & guides

A truck crash can overlap with other kinds of injuries and claims. These pages may help you find related information.

Car accident attorney — crashes between passenger vehicles
Motorcycle accident lawyer — riders hurt in crashes with trucks or cars
Pedestrian accident lawyers — people hit while walking
Bicycle accident lawyer — cyclists hurt by turning or passing vehicles
Traumatic brain injury lawyer — head injuries after a crash
Product liability lawyer — when a defective truck part may be involved
Wrongful death attorneys — when a crash takes a loved one’s life
Wrongful death claims against the government — notice rules when a public agency is involved
Scar compensation calculator — how lasting scars are often evaluated
Frequently asked questions — general questions about injury claims
Meet our attorneys — the Accident Law Group team
Visit or contact us — offices in Arizona and New Mexico
Why preserving evidence matters after a truck crash — steps that help protect proof
Black boxes and ELD data in truck accidents — what the recorded data can show
When trucking companies hire inexperienced drivers — driver hiring and training

When you are ready to talk, call (602) 333-3333 in Arizona or (575) 333-3333 in New Mexico.

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   Davon 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great law firm very easy to work with, they are willing to take care of you and help you out with anything they can
  
 
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   Ruben Morales 
 4 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Muy amables responsible y atentos el dia de mi accidente fue en sabado  por labyarde y Esa misma noche me estavan ayudando  el abogado resolvio pronto el problema y los quiropracticos tambien fueron muy amables
  
 
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   Tatum Schmitt 
 6 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ana, Maitri, Monica, and Miguel assisted with my 2025 car accident case.
Not once did I question plan or process. Their communication and skills were beyond helpful. Plus, with the convenience of holding everything virtually and not needing to meet in person…. this mother of 4 didn’t have to go out of schedule/routine during an already chaotic situation.
From rental car, medical treatment, car seats, insurance, paperwork… their thorough and handled it all!!
I will be recommending them to any of my friends or family!!
  
 
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   Iris Sigala Armenta 
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 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Recently I needed to find an attorney and kept calling different places. Nobody would call back so a friend of mine gave me a business card. I called and immediately was pointed in the right direction..This place is amazing! Thank you Christina!!!!"
  
 
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   Victor Soto 
 8 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience working with Isme and Maitri. They were both professional, helpful, and kept me informed throughout the process. I really appreciate the time and effort they put into helping me and making everything as smooth as possible. Thank you, Isme and Maitri, for all your help. I would definitely recommend their law firm to anyone looking for professional and caring legal assistance.
  
 
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   hung nguyen 
 8 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I really enjoyed working with Accident Law Group. Everyone was very clear, professional, and helpful throughout the entire process. They even arranged for a chiropractor to come to my home, which made everything so much easier and convenient for me.
At first, I thought I might not receive the compensation I was hoping for, but they communicated with the other side and ultimately helped me receive a very reasonable settlement.
I truly appreciate everything Monica, Chris, and the entire law firm did for me. I would definitely recommend Accident Law Group to my friends and anyone who needs help after an accident.
Thank you so much for all your help and support!
  
 
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   Tommy nguyen 
 9 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a wonderful experience with Shev The Law Firm. Chris and Monica were very professional, kind, and helpful throughout my case. They always kept me informed and made the whole process much easier and less stressful. I truly appreciate their hard work and support. I am very happy with the service I received and would definitely recommend them to anyone who needs legal assistance. Thank you, Chris and Monica, for everything!
  
 
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   Ian Bartels 
 9 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was hit by a semi on valentine's day in 2022. Settled back in 2025. Got way less then my injuries 6 herniated discs. 3 partial torn ligaments. Post concussion syndrome (TBI) and 2 hernia's and now I use a cane when my back flares up. I truly feel like they dropped the bag and accused of being over treated. They weren't there like my fiancee seeing me in pain or sleepless nights cause the neck pain was so excruciating I had trouble sleeping.
Some the people we're nice. Others that won't be named but are the face of the law firm came off as rude and impudent. I felt betrayed somewhat in my time of need. Going to and from pain management and physical therapy being out of work for almost 4 Months. Draining my savings and inheritance over those years. It's truly sad trying to trust someone when your in your time of need. I had 140k in medical bills and only got cut a check For 45k.... yeah go somewhere else. I wish I did.
I now do daily regiments of foam roller, tens unit, stretching, my cane. Ice or heating pad. I try to play with my 5 year old now and sometimes I can keep up. BUT STILL ALWAYS IN PAIN. Come February it'll be 5 years from that accident.
  
 
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   Hugo Z 
 10 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best attorneys in Az! Shoutout Christopher for working on my case, making things right. Also shoutout to isme, Paralegal for working with me, keeping me updated with everything that was going on. Best work from this work field, and the people who work there.
  
 
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   Matthew Duran 
 12 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jamie, Clarissa, and the rest of the team at ALG were great! They made dealing with my accident very easy and were great at communicating throughout the whole process. Definitely recommend!

Semi Truck Accident