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Truck Accident

Big rigs are everywhere on our highways and roads. Trucking is one of the largest industries in the country, which means 18-wheelers are out in force these days. While we all appreciate the important service they provide in hauling the goods that we use, there is nothing more dangerous than a careless truck driver. If you are injured in a truck accident, contact a California truck accident lawyer from Kalfayan Merjanian, LLP for a free consultation.

What To Do In Case of a Trucking Accident

In the event you are in a truck accident on a California roadway, it is important to know what to do.

  1. After an accident, turn on your hazard flashers. If your car is in a traffic lane and you can safely move to the shoulder, do so.
  2. Check for injuries then call 911 to report the accident and any injuries.
  3. Gather evidence. Take photos of the scene, of your car, of the truck, and talk to any witnesses. If possible, get photos of the other driver’s identification and insurance information.
  4. Call a trucking accident lawyer in California to help protect your rights and pursue compensation.

What a California Truck Accident Attorney Can Do

Sometimes the insurance company, the truck driver, or the trucking company may contest a claim. This is where a good attorney makes all the difference. They can determine who to hold liable and seek negotiations for compensation on behalf of their clients. An experienced lawyer may be able to find any of the following that others may have overlooked:

  • The truck driver is liable due to impaired driving, high-risk behavior on the road, or driving more consecutive hours than they are allowed by law.
  • The trucking company is liable due to long shift requirements, cutting corners on safety or training, or failing to maintain a safe vehicle.
  • Both the truck driver and trucking company are liable due to negligence or carelessness, such as loading the truck improperly, falsifying the driver’s logbooks, or otherwise violating California state trucking laws.

What To Expect From an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer

An experienced law firm thoroughly investigates potential claims and negotiates with the company. If that fails, a lawsuit may be filed in court. Sometimes the cause of the accident is so egregious that a semi-truck accident lawyer will file a suit immediately, regardless of the insurance company’s position. This may occur if the driver was clearly driving under the influence or to gain access to potentially important evidence that the truck driver or trucking company may be withholding.

What Types of Damages Can One Receive?

There are different types of damages one may be eligible to receive in the event of a truck accident. The 18-wheeler accident attorney will carefully assess the extent of damages to determine how best to approach a case. Some of these damages may include:

  • Compensation for pain and suffering. This can be physical, emotional, or mental suffering. Victims of truck accidents often suffer broken bones, bruising, whiplash, PTSD, internal organ damage, internal bleeding, traumatic brain injuries, dislocations, back and neck injuries, and more.
  • Lost wages. If the accident caused time off work to recover from your injuries, one may receive an amount equal to the pay lost.
  • Lost future earnings. Permanent injury or disablement may mean that one cannot work at all or have a reduced capacity to work. In this instance, one may receive money for what they would have made in the future.
  • Past and Future Medical costs. Compensation for any accident-related medical treatments had or may be needed in the future.
  • Wrongful death. If a family member in your car dies in the accident, their loved ones may be entitled to receive compensation for the loss of their love, companionship, comfort, and care as well as funeral and burial expenses, and their lost wages.
  • Punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the driver or the trucking company for their actions and are, therefore, not always pursued. To receive punitive damages the big rig accident attorney will have to prove that the truck driver or trucking company acted with malice, oppression, or fraud. A truck accident attorney may be able to assist in determining whether one may be entitled to punitive damages.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in California

Our truck accident lawyers often see serious injuries stem from semi-truck accidents, many of which could be avoided if drivers would be more aware, take proper precautions before getting on the roads, and if their companies were more responsible with their deadlines and scheduling.

We often see truck drivers cause accidents due to driving drowsy and late at night. With strict deadlines and limited time to meet these deadlines, truck drivers often feel the need to drive through the night. While there are less drivers on the road in the middle of the night, the effects of driving through the night can carry on to the next day when they continue their journey.

Trucking companies often overlook many safety aspects of their trucks and send drivers out with their trucks and trailers not being up to code. Things such as PSI checks, loads being secured well, doors being locked, straps tightened, and spare tires being locked correctly can be overlooked and cause terrible accidents on the roads.

We also see speeding, drunk driving, inclement weather, short off-ramps, poor road conditions, other reckless drivers, old equipment, and driving in the “no-zone” cause serious accidents.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in California

Different Types of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents aren’t always rear-end or sideswipe accidents. Due to the heavy loads these trucks tend to carry and the overall size of the vehicle, trucks often roll over, jackknife, hydroplane, cause wide-turn accidents, hit other vehicles head-on, t-bone others, and more.

We know these types of accidents can cause a variety of severe injuries and it’s crucial to document the type of accident that occurred. We help victims of truck accidents recover compensation for their losses whether or not they were involved in a head-on collision or in a t-bone accident.

What To Do Now

If you were in a truck accident and believe that the driver or the company was at fault, you should speak to a truck accident lawyer at California Trial Attorneys powered by Kalfayan Merjanian. A statute of limitations bars a person from the right to seek compensation if they fail to settle their claim or file a lawsuit within the specified time. In California, there are many factors governing the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit, and the time frame to settle a claim or file a lawsuit may be as little as six months from the date of the accident, so it’s best to not delay.

No Fees Unless You Win

It’s common to be concerned about legal fees when considering an attorney for your personal injury. Our highly-rated lawyers at CA Trial Attorneys powered by Kalfayan Merjanian never charge a fee unless we reach a settlement on your behalf.

That’s right. Once you become a client, you do not owe us any legal fees unless we win your case.

Rest assured that you will never pay us a penny out of your own pocket until your case is successfully settled. This ensures that you can focus on recovering from your injuries without worrying about the cost of pursuing legal action.

5 Stars

Very competent and professional team. I could not have asked for better services and results. A firm of singular tenacity that makes sure you get the settlement you deserve, thank you Mike Stodolka you are the best....

Claudia Bruce

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5 Stars

I worked with attorney John Shaver on my case, and he did an amazing job. The staff and him are superb, super responsive, always keeping me informed. I never felt just like another client with them. Highly recommend!...

Rajinder Sekhon

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5 Stars

I was in a really bad car accident and was getting shuffled around until I became involved with John Shaver. He helped me get the care I needed and was a big part of getting me back to 100%. Very professional with following up....

Josh Nichols

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5 Stars

I had the privilege of working with Attorney Vanessa C. Cardinale, Esq. following a car accident (Jul 2021), and I cannot speak highly enough of her exceptional legal expertise and compassionate support throughout the entire process. As I underwent through 10 months of treatment, Attorney Cardinale ...

Sally Min

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5 Stars

I cannot recommend this law firm enough! They helped my father and I through out a very difficult time. Communication was great throughout the process and we were always taken care of. I have already referred family members to this firm and will continue to do so. Vanessa was always available and qu...

Eva Martinez

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5 Stars

Great firm. Very responsive. And great email communication. Couldn’t ask for a better legal team in their niche....

Vincent C

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5 Stars

Realmente es un equipo de abogados muy amables yo se los recomiendo al 100% y muchas gracias de ante mano por todo el esfuerzo que an hecho con respecto a mi caso la verdad estoy muy satisfecho Gracias nuevamente atte mario torres...

Mario Torres

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5 Stars

Kalfayan Merjanian Law Firm was highly recommended to us after my elderly mom was in a car accident. Their staff were always professional and responsive, communicated clearly and without even asking kept us up to date as things progressed. The entire process was smooth from beginning to end and the ...

Kathleen Aguilera

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5 Stars

Agradezco infinitamente a Kalfayan Merjanian, LLP. por todas las atenciones y servicios que me brindaron en la resolucion de mi caso, especialmente a Vanessa C. Cardinale, Jessica Alonso y Marcela Sanchez, son un equipo muy profesional, me siento muy afortunado haberme puesto en sus manos y sin duda...

Juan Santos Buenrostro

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5 Stars

John and Team are absolutely amazing to work with. Everyone is friendly, responsive, and caring. They made the entire process so easy and comfortable. If I could rate them 10 stars I would!!!...

Marianna R.

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5 Stars

They made a long and dreadful process much easier and less stressful. They were very attentive and were always willing to clarify stuff that I didn’t understand. Overall, they were great and did a great job. I would definitely go back to them if I ever needed to....

Jesus Peralta

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5 Stars

I was so fortunate to have been referred to Kalfayan Merjanian after an unfortunate auto accident, I was well taken care of by Vanessa and the team. Everyone there is so friendly and on top of things 100% recommend!...

Salvador S.

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5 Stars

When I first met Vic Merjanian, I called him and asked him for legal advice regarding a food poisoning case in 2014. I had a severe case of Shigella from a restaurant in Newport Beach and was hospitalized for a couple of days and had to miss a week of school. I was worried because I did not know how...

Taylor

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5 Stars

I was in a terrible motercycle accident last August. As you can imagine this not only effected my health but also effected everything else in my life. A car blew through a stop sign as I was driving. I woke up 20 feet from the bike in the most pain I have ever felt in my life. When i was taken to th...

David

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5 Stars

This firm is immaculate; absolutely top notch people to work with.I will admit I didn’t know what to expect. I’ve been in 5-6 different accidents but have never filed a claim because it was never truly necessary. In this case, I was caught in a crossfire, sandwiched between two ...

Mei Z.

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5 Stars

Was t-boned 30 seconds away from my house. Car was totaled and a hip broken. I was recommend K&M by a friend of mine and called them immediately. Mike and his paralegal Jennifer were wonderfully accommodating and understanding. They took what was on paper incredibly difficult circumstances and t...

Yashal Najeeb

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5 Stars

I had an uninsured DUI accident and was very helpful with the entire process and I got more than I expected to! She came in halfway through the process and was able to wrap everything up in a timely manner after fighting with the insurance companies for several months....

Connor

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5 Stars

Vanessa and her law firm has taken great care in my cases, always on top of it, fast replies, great guidance, very professional, the team behind her was supportive, and very accessible. The outcome was excellent and fully transparent, detailed and well timed. I can only encourage others to hire Vane...

Daniele

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5 Stars

Very professional law firm. It was a pleasure to work with both Michael and Jessica. They constantly kept me updated about the current status of my claim and even sent me little gift packages for my birthday and holidays throughout the year. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience, and it was a c...

Christian P.

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5 Stars

I just wanted to say thank you to John and his team for being incredible! I was involved in an accident months ago and was left in a difficult situation about how to handle things and go about my case. I was able to receive the best services and support leaving me fully satisfied. Coming to John Sha...

Lana S.

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5 Stars

I just wanted to say thank you to John and his team for being incredible! I was involved in an accident months ago and was left in a difficult situation about how to handle things and go about my case. I was able to receive the best services and support leaving me fully satisfied. Coming to John Sha...

Lana Shehadeh

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5 Stars

Vanessa Cardinale has been fighting my case for over 6 months and has not let her foot off the gas one bit! This firm is the one to go with, I would highly recommend them to fight your case. Very personable attorneys that get back to you very quickly by phone & email, they keep you in the loop e...

Beau Gillin

google
5 Stars

Was t-boned 30 seconds away from my house. Car was totaled and a hip broken. I was recommend K&M by a friend of mine and called them immediately. Mike and his paralegal Jennifer were wonderfully accommodating and understanding. They took what was on paper incredibly difficult circumstances and t...

Yashal Najeeb

google
5 Stars

Top notch attorneys! Over the past 6 or so months I had the pleasure of working with attorney Mike Stodolka. What a great guy; a real straight shooter. He explained the process thoroughly so there wasn’t any surprises and followed through with everything he said he would. As for m...

Ryan Villa

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5 Stars

I endured a lot of back pain after my car was rear-ended and totaled. After haggling with an unresponsive other-party insurance for months, I enlisted Vanessa’s help. From that time on, I only had to focus on my recovery while Vanessa dealt with the insurance company and my various health provider...

Sandra

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5 Stars

I found myself in a very tricky situation after being in back to back car accidents last summer. I was badly injured in the first accident and then found myself t-boned in another accident just 3 weeks later. As you can imagine this was a nightmare claim. I spoke to several attorneys about my case b...

Angela Cheeseboro

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5 Stars

Vanessa is a compassionate human being and a very knowledgeable, experienced attorney. My case was not easy in any way, but with Vanessa’s experience, expertise, and her fearless negotiation skills, she secured a very positive outcome on my behalf. She gave me support through thick and thin and ev...

Roxana

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5 Stars

To whom it may concern: I don’t usually leave reviews but I felt a burning passion to leave this one. I give credit where it’s due and this team deserves every word!! Kalfayan & Merjanian, you guys came highly recommended to me in a time when I needed you the most! It is no ...

Rick

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5 Stars

Exceptional Service, Professionalism I was in an auto accident in 2016 and retained Kalfayan Merjanian to handle the ins and outs of my injuries. This was the best decision I could have made. The attorneys were professional, personable and walked me through the process every step of...

Jeanna

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5 Stars

Rear end car accident with children I was rear-ended on my way to drop off my kids to school. Thankfully my children were not physically injured mostly scared. However, my back was injured when a big van behind us hit us. Vanessa has helped me since the very beginning with therapies...

Leonela

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5 Stars

Rear End Car Accident (Multiple cars) I was involved in a car accident in Dec 17 with multiple cars. All of the parties were all denied their faults and the adjuster have tried to delay on my case. Vanessa and her team worked hard to negotiate with them and increase my settlement al...

Anh Ho

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5 Stars

Great Experience Vanessa was accessible and communicative. She negotiated my PT on a lien basis in addition to getting me the maximum settlement. She made an icky situation the best it could be!...

Cameran

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5 Stars

Absolutely the best I was rear ended in an accident a few weeks before a move. Vanessa and her team handled the case with great communication (even when my gmail did not cooperate) and the experience was seamless to me. She even negotiated a higher settlement than expected. I litera...

Swathi

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5 Stars

Car accident In August 2017 I got rear ended on the freeway. I made a phone call to Vanessa’s firm and they took my case. Since day one the process was smooth and seamless. They kept me up to date with the next steps. The case was closed in less than 6 months. I am truly greatful ...

anonymou

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5 Stars

Absolutely the best
Vanessa and her team were absolutely the best. They were always professional, attentive, and polite. They answered every single question I asked them. I specifically worked with Amelia and Selena on many occasions and they were absolutely wonderful. They were ...

Jocelyn

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5 Stars

Vanessa Cardinale is the best attorney.
Vanessa was very Heplful and attentive to every thing I needed during my entire case. She did not rest until she won the case and all my medical expenses were paid. I highly recommend Vanessa Cardinale and her team. Thank you Vanessa and Ma...

Jonathan Saúl Hernández

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5 Stars

Attentive and Helpful
Vanessa Cardinale was so helpful and attentive to all my needs. I truly appreciate the time and attention I was given through my entire case. I can’t recommend her and her team more....

Jeffrey

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5 Stars

Professional, effective and caring
My best friend and I came to Vanessa after being hit by a driver that recently got their license. Vanessa used her legal expertise to get us the funds we needed to take care of our medical expenses. She was very responsive and transparent throug...

Joseph

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5 Stars

Thorough, Diligent, and Understanding
Vanessa has been incredible and a tireless advocate for me in my case. She has followed up with me in a very timely manner, and I always felt that she had my best interest at heart. Vanessa followed up with and guided me through the entire pr...

Tracy

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5 Stars

The best attorney you could ask for Vanessa is amazing. She was on top of my case from the first moment. As a very disorganized person, I am glad that she was on my side. There many issues (checks and papers being lost in mail and such) with my case that made things messy. Thankfull...

Shar P.

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5 Stars

Honest and compassionate Vanessa Cardinale and her team at Kalfayan Merjanian where there to handle a rear-ended collision that had happened to me. She and her team let me know what to expect from details I gave and lead me through each process no matter how insignificant I thought ...

Kevin R.

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5 Stars

Car accident I was rear ended at a stop light by a kid on his cell phone. Unfortunately he didn’t hit his breaks until he hit me and he was driving a huge work truck. I ended up with a neck injury and 2 herniated lumbar discs. Not to mention, the back end of my car had $7k in dama...

Elizabeth

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5 Stars

I highly recommend this firm. Their rates are appropriate and they have the technology to make this a smooth process. I spoke with several attorneys before deciding to move forward with The Kalfayan Merjanian Firm. I also got several recommendations to use their services from multiple sources. It wa...

Angela C.

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5 Stars

Top notch attorneys,
Over the past 6 or so months I had the pleasure of working with attorney Mike Stodolka. What a great guy; a real straight shooter. He explained the process thoroughly so there wasn’t any surprises and followed through with everything he said he would. As for my situation, I...

Ryan V.

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5 Stars

To whom it may concern:
I don’t usually leave reviews but I felt a burning passion to leave this one. I give credit where it’s due and this team deserves every word!! Kalfayan & Merjanian, you guys came highly recommended to me in a time when I needed you the most! It is no surprise to me...

Rick S.

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5 Stars

We seldom leave reviews but i think Kalfayan Merjanian Law Firm deserves this!We are blessed to have chosen you to represent us in our first (and praying the last )car accident case. Since day one you guys have helped us a lot. You made us feel safe and secured. Your law firm has kept us well inform...

Marilou C.

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5 Stars

I endured a lot of back pain after my car was rear-ended and totaled. After haggling with an unresponsive other-party insurance for months, I enlisted Kalfayan Merjanian. Once Vanessa Cardinale was assigned my case, I was relieved that I only had to focus on my recovery while Vanessa dealt with the ...

Sandi C.

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5 Stars

My wife and I were introduced to John Shaver after being rear-ended by a drunk driver in March 2018. John was very professional, supportive and made sure we were well taken care along the whole process. John was in constant contact with us, keeping us updated with the progress made on our case as we...

Amit B.

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5 Stars

I was rear ended at a stop light by a kid on his cell phone. Unfortunately he didn’t hit his brakes until he hit me and he was driving a huge work truck. I ended up with a neck injury and 2 herniated lumbar discs. Not to mention, the back end of my car had $7k in damages. I sought medical care rig...

Elizabeth J.

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5 Stars

Highly recommend! This firm stuck by my side after I was slammed by a drunk driver. Through my pain and PTSD, they let me yell at them, hey let me vent my frustrations, and they met my needs through the difficult time. Money was tight, insurance moved slow, the staff at Kalfayan Merjanian provided m...

Heather G.

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5 Stars

Was t-boned 30 seconds away from my house. Car was totaled and a hip broken. I was recommend K&M by a friend of mine and called them immediately. Mike and his paralegal Jennifer were wonderfully accommodating and understanding. They took what was on paper incredibly difficult circumstances and t...

Yashal N.

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5 Stars

I was rear ended in an accident a few weeks before a move. Vanessa and her team handled the case with great communication (even when my gmail did not cooperate) and the experience was seamless to me. She even negotiated a higher settlement than expected. I literally had to do nothing except trust in...

Swathi N.

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5 Stars

Many thanks to Vanessa and her crew. I have never been treated so professionally. Their service is fantastic. They were there every step of the way making sure I made my doctor appointments and also to make sure the doctors were treating me properly. Who does this anymore? Just blown away. Thank you...

Kevin Bishop

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5 Stars

Thank you for all the help of Kalfayan Merjanian over the case. I could not be happier with the services I received from my Attorney John Shaver. He is extremely efficient and professional and always available to answer questions. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking an excellent attorney....

Kayira D.

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5 Stars

My lawyer John Shaver is so profesional, always kept me informed on my case and seemed interested on my health. He even reduced his fees and costs so I could get more cash. I highly recommend this law firm....

Sara Noriega

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5 Stars

I want to say thank you to Michael and staff for helping me throughout the case!! I appreciate Michael’s willingness to stick out for me. He made a break in the case late and was able to get the maximum amount. Thanks again!...

Jason Clifford

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5 Stars

I’m so thankful for this company. Vanessa and her crew are very professional and easy to work with. I couldn’t imagine going thru my PI case with anyone else. Great Results and Great people!!!...

ARON LABEL

google
5 Stars

Thank you for all the help of Kalfayan Merjanian over the case. I could not be happier with the services I received from my Attorney John Shaver. He is extremely efficient and professional and always available to answer questions. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking an excellent attorney....

Kayira Dilshat

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5 Stars

This firm was able to not only settle my personal injury case within 3 months, but I was also able to receive my settlement within those three months as well! I Highly recommend their service!...

Daniel Plata

google
5 Stars

I worked with attorney John Shaver on my case, and he did an amazing job. The staff and him are superb, super responsive, always keeping me informed. I never felt just like another client with them. Highly recommend!...

Rajinder Sekhon

google
5 Stars

I can’t thank Michael and his staff enough! They handled every detail of my case. Thank you for all of your help!...

John Corcoran

google
5 Stars

Very competent and professional team. I could not have asked for better services and results. A firm of singular tenacity that makes sure you get the settlement you deserve, thank you Mike Stodolka you are the best....

Oscar Bruce

google
5 Stars

10/10 will recommend their services. Very personal and understanding, I really do appreciate all that they have done for me. Thanks Mike, and team!...

Angie Chia

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5 Stars

Kalfayan Merjanian, LLP, helped me through a difficult time after being injured in an automobile accident. Hiring a law firm was a first for me, but KM was the right decision. The KM team is competent, reliable and sincerely cares by providing outstanding service to their clients. Your quality of li...

E B Trevor

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5 Stars

They did an outstanding job for the services that I required. The attorney on the case John was very effective. The director of client Serene kept me updated on my case and the paralegal Marcela was extremely helpful. Thanks rkvmlaw!...

Andrew Lee

google
5 Stars

The team of attorneys, Vic Merjanian and John Shaver, who worked on our case against a major retailer, were absolutely fantastic. From our initial meeting right to the end, they handled all matters professionally, efficiently, realistically and with total confidence. Along the way, they gave us deta...

Robert Matthews

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5 Stars

I have had an Absolutely Stellar experience with this top notch law firm, Kalfayan Merjanian. They Extremely Successfully turned an unfortunate situation around for me, turning my frown upside-down! Calling them was the best decision I have likely ever made. I can’t thank them enough....

Capt Bill

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5 Stars

From the beginning, the team at Kalfayan Merjanian helped make it easier to get through everything that comes with the bad experience of an auto accident.
I felt that the team at K&M went the extra mile for me and helped me get value for my vehicle, as well as taking care of my personal injur...

Carlos Anthony

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5 Stars

Got into a accident back in 2015 wit in few month I had a settlement offer my attorney Michael Stodolka (Mike) from Kalfayan Merjanian Is the person to go he kept me update each week follow up wit me to see how was I doing everything went really smooth never had a issue wit him the staff is friendly...

Jesus Millan

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5 Stars

I had an accident back in November 2016, I contacted Kalfayan Merjanian LLP . Since I had a broken knee I was not able to visit their office, so they sent out Mike Stodolka, a well experienced lawyer who came to my home and took care of everything for me. He coordinated with the medical institutions...

Daniel Castle

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5 Stars

I interviewed a few other offices, but am so thankful to have been recommended to Kalfayan Merjanian law office. I have legal insurance, but decided to bypass the benifits because I felt the outcome of the case would be more favorable here. I don’t regret that decision. John Shaver was helpful and...

Dalia Ficut

google
5 Stars

I was in a car accident recently & had no idea what to do. I was referred to Vic Merjanian & Michael Stodolka by someone I trust who had worked with them previously. They told me what to expect & totally delivered! In addition to keeping me updated regularly on my case, they made things ...

Justin Gilia

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5 Stars

I’ve talked to Vic many times about legal issues and he’s always provided good advice and valuable insight! A while back my mom got into a car accident by some jerk that fell asleep at the wheel and rear ended her. I tried to work with the guy as it was obviously his fault but he was being so un...

James H.

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5 Stars

If I could give Kalfayan Merjanian 10stars I would. I had never needed or used an Attorney .After my car accident rear ended by someone. I went to see Dr Gotta. He is the one that referred me to KM. They were nice enough to come to my work. After meeting them I felt very comfortable and trusted that...

Rachelle Fiscus

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5 Stars

This review should have been written over three years go. I’m sorry it took so long! This review is for my lawyers, John Shaver and Vic Merjanian. Three years ago they represented me after I was involved in a terrible food poisoning incident and suffered some health problems thereafter. Mr Shaver ...

Taylor Desirae

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5 Stars

I was in a vehicle accident January of 2016. I had aquired another attorney prior to going with Kalfayan Merjanian LLP. The prior attorney did not help me with anything and I had a very difficult time getting him on the phone. I was fed up and thru a referal from a friend contacted the law offices o...

Joel Coronel

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5 Stars

Vic Merjanian & John Shaver did an excellent job helping me deal with the insurance adjusters. At 1st I was attempting to fight the insurance adjusters by myself, but I was getting nowhere. Once I decided to hire Vic Merjanian, he made sure that John Shaver (Attorney) would take care of my case....

hbdrumma

google
5 Stars

The partnership of Vic and Mike was nothing short of a great decision for a team to work on my case. Not only was I dealing with an auto collision but also physical injuries. I am very happy with the results. They made sure that all my questions regarding insurance and treatment for my injuries were...

Greg Montoya

google
5 Stars

This was my first time ever using an attorney. Both Vic Merjanian and Mike Stodolka helped me with my case. They were both very informative and explained anything that I didn’t understand. Everyone at their law firm was very friendly and nice. Mike Stodolka even helped me with things after I had g...

Heather Gerard

google
5 Stars

Kalfayan Merjanian has been the best lawyers office for us. They promptly get your case resolved, quick to respond, and send you wonderful surprises as an appreciation for being a client. I would highly recommend them to any family and friend looking for a lawyer. Thanks for all you do Kalfayan Merj...

Sara Baird

google
5 Stars

I’m so thankful for this company. Vanessa and her crew are very professional and easy to work with. I couldn’t imagine going thru my PI case with anyone else. Great Results and Great people!!!...

Aaron Richardson

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5 Stars

I was in a really bad car accident and was getting shuffled around to different ineffective care until I became involved with John Shaver. He helped me get the care I needed and was a big part of getting me back to 100%. Very professional and great with following up with any questions I had. Highly ...

Josh Nichols

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5 Stars

No tengo palabras para agradecer a la familia Kalfayan Merjanian, LLP? en especial a VANESSA y su equipo que colaboró en mi caso dando como resultado un gran triunfo para ambas por eso les deseó que nunca les falte trabajo en este tiempo ya que son unos grandes profesionales para confiar para mi f...

Esperanza Popoca

facebook
5 Stars

I was in a really bad car accident and was getting shuffled around to different ineffective care until I became involved with John Shaver. He helped me get the care I needed and was a big part of getting me back to 100%. Very professional and great with following up with any questions I had. Highly ...

Joshua Morrissey

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5 Stars

I can’t say thank you enough! Michael and his staff did an amazing job!...

John Corcoran

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FAQ

  • Why Do I Need A Truck Accident Lawyer? Being injured in a truck accident in California can be very serious. You may not know whether to hold the truck driver or their company accountable for the accident. You will want to calculate economic and non-economic losses, which can be difficult to determine. Our California truck accident attorneys assist clients in holding truckers and their companies accountable for their negligence. We also work to maximize compensation for clients’ losses through personalized planning and strategy development.
  • What Are The Top 5 Causes For Commercial Trucking Accidents in California? Truck accidents are caused by numerous factors. Below are five commonly seen causes of truck accidents in California.
    • Driver fatigue;
    • Distracted driving;
    • Poor weather and road conditions;
    • Speeding or reckless driving; and
    • DWI/DUI.
  • Who’s Fault Is It When A Truck Hits A Car? Determining fault in truck accidents can prove difficult. Here are some questions to consider when determining fault. Who had the right of way? Was the truck driver speeding? Did the driver run a light or stop sign? Did the driver make an illegal turn? Did weather have a part to play in the accident? Are the road conditions poor where the accident occurred? All these questions and more can help determine fault. An experienced California truck accident attorney can give professional insight into the accident and help assess who is likely to be at fault.
  • What Should I Do After Being In A Truck Accident? Make sure you and your passengers are safe. If necessary, call 9-1-1 and request immediate medical attention.
    Contact the police and file an official report. If safe to do so, take pictures, videos, and witness contact information. This information can be valuable in a case to determine fault, confirm the chain of events, and to build a strong case.
  • How Long Do I Have To File My Truck Accident Claim in California? In California, all injury claims have a statute of limitations. A statute of limitations is a time frame in which victims have to settle their claim or file a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can differ depending on a variety of factors and, in some cases, can be as little as 6-months from the date of the accident. Victims who fail to settle their claim or file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations lose their legal right to seek compensation for their injuries. Therefore, it is imperative to consult with a trucking accident attorney as soon as possible, to help assess the applicable statute of limitations.
  • Can I Sue For My Injuries If I Was Partially At Fault? California has a comparative fault rule that allows a plaintiff to receive any portion of damages caused by the defendant. This means if a defendant was 95% at fault for the accident and the plaintiff was 5% at fault, the plaintiff could recover up to 95% of damages caused.
  • What Types Of Damages Can I Recover For Being A Victim In A Truck Crash? Common damages recovered in truck accidents are:
    • Pain and suffering;
    • Lost wages;
    • Medical bills;
    • Medication costs;
    • Therapy costs;
    • Future medical care costs;
    • Home accessibility renovations;
    • Hospital bills; and
    • More.
  • In California, How Long Does It Take To Settle A Truck Accident Claim? Every case is unique. Some cases settle outside the courtroom and some must go to trial. To get a better idea of what your case could look like, contact our California truck accident attorneys for a free initial case consultation.
  • Should Someone Accept Their 1st Settlement Offer For Their Truck Accident Claim? Insurance companies may make an offer to settle a claim early on following an accident. However, settling an injury claim before assessing the full nature and extent of an individual’s injuries can make that offer seem very small, especially if those injuries persist and require medical attention in the near and long term. For this reason, accepting an initial settlement offer can be risky. Working with an experienced California truck accident attorney can help better assess the potential value of a claim and increase the chances of maximizing compensation.
  • Is It Necessary To See A Doctor If I Don’t Feel Much Pain After Being In A Truck Accident? Following an accident, even if you don’t have much initial pain, it may be a good idea at least to be checked by a medical professional. In some cases, the full extent of pain and injuries may not surface immediately. It’s important to take the safe route and make sure you are healthy.
  • In California, What Happens If A Truck Crash Causes The Death Of Someone? In some cases, truck accidents can cause the death of people involved. These accidents are extremely tragic. Our firm works on behalf of our clients to help determine fault, hold negligent parties accountable, and recover compensation to help them get through difficult times.
  • Are There Any Differences Between A Car Accident and A Truck Accident Case? While motor vehicle accidents can all fall under an “accident” category, the injuries sustained and the severity of the accidents can drastically differ. Accidents involving trucks can result in rollovers, underride crashes, multi-vehicle pileups, and oftentimes have a higher risk of serious bodily injury due to the difference in the size of trucks compared to cars and the speed at which they travel.
  • What does the No-Zone means when it comes to commercial trucks? A big truck is moving on the busy road surrounded by different vehicles. Danger areas of the no-zone near the truck are marked with red color. Text on image says, Pass efficiently with a safe speed. Wait for the entire truck in your rear window before moving over in front. Never draft a big truck. Avoid staying in the right no-zone.

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