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If you have been involved in a truck accident in San Bernardino, CA, consulting with an experienced truck accident attorney in San Bernardino can help you understand your legal options and secure the appropriate compensation. Contact our team at Countrywide Trial Lawyers at 844-844-9119 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Large truck accidents in San Bernardino can instantly turn everyday commutes into life-altering events. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make them especially dangerous on busy highways and local roads. Victims often suffer severe injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain that can last for months or even years. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck crash, the legal and medical consequences can be overwhelming without skilled legal guidance.
San Bernardino’s strategic location along major transportation corridors, including the I-10, I-215, and I-15, means it experiences a high volume of commercial trucking traffic daily. Whether it’s a delivery truck navigating downtown or a long-haul semi speeding through Cajon Pass, the risk of accidents is real. And when these crashes occur, victims are often left to deal with powerful insurance companies and trucking corporations that are quick to deny responsibility.
Countrywide Trial Lawyers is here to help you regain control. We represent individuals and families across San Bernardino who have been injured in truck accidents. Our team is ready to stand by your side, investigate the facts, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
San Bernardino is a major transportation hub in Southern California, with multiple freeways, industrial zones, and warehouse facilities bringing a constant stream of commercial truck traffic through the city. While this activity supports the region’s economy, it also increases the risk of serious truck accidents. Understanding the common causes of these crashes, especially in a local context, can help victims recognize when negligence may have contributed to their injuries.
Traffic jams are part of daily life in San Bernardino, especially along I-10 near Tippecanoe Avenue, I-215 through downtown, or during rush hour around the 210 interchange. In these high-stress conditions, some commercial drivers engage in dangerous behaviors like tailgating, sudden lane changes, or speeding to meet deadlines. Large trucks require much more time and distance to stop than smaller vehicles, so even a minor mistake can lead to devastating results.
Federal law limits how long truck drivers can operate before taking a break, but violations of these rules are still common. When drivers push through exhaustion to meet tight schedules, their reaction times slow, decision-making suffers, and the risk of falling asleep behind the wheel increases. Fatigue-related accidents are especially dangerous on long stretches of I-15 through the Cajon Pass or overnight routes along I-10.
Commercial trucks must be routinely inspected and maintained, but not every company meets that standard. Brake failure, blown tires, broken steering components, and other mechanical problems can turn an ordinary delivery into a life-threatening crash. These failures are particularly dangerous when trucks are navigating downhill grades near Glen Helen Parkway or sharp curves near University Parkway.
When cargo is too heavy or unevenly distributed, trucks can become unstable. Shifting loads may cause rollovers, jackknife accidents, or cargo spills that affect other drivers. These risks are heightened on local streets like Waterman Avenue or Mill Street, where trucks make turns or travel at inconsistent speeds. Unsecured loads also pose dangers on the I-10 or I-215 when debris flies into traffic.
Distractions behind the wheel are a growing cause of truck crashes. Some drivers use smartphones, onboard GPS devices, or communication systems while operating their rigs. Even momentary inattention can lead to lane drift, delayed braking, or a missed hazard. In a city with constant traffic flow and frequent merging, like San Bernardino, distraction can quickly turn deadly.
Some truck drivers rely on stimulants or prescription medications to stay awake, while others may drive under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances. Impaired drivers lack the focus, control, and judgment necessary to operate large vehicles safely. These cases often involve gross negligence and may lead to both civil and criminal liability.
Operating an 18-wheeler is not the same as driving a car. Some trucking companies hire underqualified drivers or fail to provide proper training in handling adverse weather, mountain driving, or emergency maneuvers. Inexperienced drivers are more likely to make critical errors on routes like I-15 through Cajon Pass or during turns in densely populated commercial zones, such as Hospitality Lane.
Not every accident is the truck driver’s fault. Dangerous road conditions, such as potholes, faded lane lines, malfunctioning traffic signals, or missing signage, can contribute to crashes. Construction zones, especially those on local routes like East Baseline Street or Kendall Drive, may lack adequate warnings or detours, putting all drivers at risk.
Some accidents are caused or worsened by the actions of others. Passenger vehicles that cut off large trucks, make sudden stops in front of a loaded trailer, or engage in illegal merges can all lead to rear-end collisions or rollovers. In other cases, third parties like shipping companies, repair contractors, or government agencies may share fault for improper loading, poor maintenance, or defective road design.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we look at every possible cause, not just driver error. Our team conducts thorough investigations to identify violations of safety regulations, equipment failures, third-party negligence, and other potential issues. This thorough approach helps us hold the right parties accountable and recover the maximum compensation for our clients.
Truck accidents tend to cause more serious injuries than typical car crashes due to the massive size and weight of commercial vehicles. Victims often face not only immediate medical emergencies but also long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Understanding the types of injuries and the compensation available is a key step in pursuing a successful personal injury claim.
Victims of truck crashes in San Bernardino often suffer:
Head trauma can lead to lasting cognitive issues, memory loss, mood changes, or even permanent disability. TBIs often occur when occupants strike their heads on windows, dashboards, or steering wheels during a high-impact collision.
Damage to the spine can result in partial or total paralysis. Victims may face years of physical therapy, need mobility aids, or require in-home care. These injuries are especially common in rollover or underride accidents.
The force of a truck crash can cause multiple fractures or crushing injuries, particularly to the legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis. Surgery, pins, or plates may be required, along with extended recovery periods.
Injuries to the liver, lungs, kidneys, or spleen can be life-threatening and may not be visible right away. Emergency surgery is often required, and complications can persist long after the initial trauma.
Truck collisions sometimes lead to fires, fuel spills, or severe scraping injuries from broken glass and metal. These can leave permanent scars and require skin grafts or cosmetic surgery.
Beyond physical trauma, many victims struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and nightmares. Mental health care is often essential for recovery.
Victims of truck accidents in San Bernardino may be entitled to a range of damages under California personal injury law, including:
This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, follow-up visits, rehabilitation, medication, and future medical needs related to the injury.
If you missed work due to your injuries or are unable to return to your previous job, you can recover the income you've lost and future losses if your ability to work has changed.
This refers to the physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life you’ve experienced as a result of the crash.
If your vehicle or other personal property was damaged or destroyed in the accident, you may seek reimbursement for repair costs.
Spouses and family members may also seek damages for the loss of companionship, support, or intimacy resulting from a serious injury.
If the truck driver or company acted with extreme recklessness, such as driving under the influence or knowingly violating safety regulations, you may be entitled to additional punitive damages designed to punish that behavior.
After a serious truck accident in San Bernardino, victims often face a complex and uphill battle, not just physically, but also legally. Trucking companies and their insurers act quickly to protect their interests, often sending legal teams to the scene within hours. That’s why it’s essential to have a team on your side that knows how to fight back. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we are fully prepared to stand up to powerful trucking companies and aggressively pursue justice for injury victims and their families.
Countrywide Trial Lawyers has a proven track record of success in handling complex and high-stakes truck accident claims. Our team has recovered millions for injured clients by holding negligent drivers, trucking companies, and third parties accountable. We understand the unique challenges of these cases, from federal trucking regulations to black box data, maintenance records, and driver logs. These cases require more than just legal knowledge; they require precision, strategy, and relentless advocacy.
While many personal injury firms focus only on settling, we prepare every truck accident case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies are aware of this, and it gives our clients a significant advantage. When negotiations stall or unfair offers are made, we don’t hesitate to escalate the case and fight for a fair verdict in court. Our trial readiness often leads to stronger settlements without ever requiring a courtroom appearance.
You’re not just a case number to us. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we prioritize communication, compassion, and hands-on guidance throughout every stage of your claim. You’ll work directly with your attorney, rather than being passed off to assistants. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and craft a personalized legal strategy tailored to your recovery.
Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties, drivers, trucking companies, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, and sometimes even government agencies. Our team dives deep into the details, gathering crash reports, black box data, surveillance footage, and witness statements to uncover the full truth. We also collaborate with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and economists to develop robust, evidence-based claims.
We know the last thing you need after a serious accident is more financial stress. That’s why we handle truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing up front, and we only get paid if we win your case. This approach ensures that you receive the legal representation you need without incurring additional risk.
When a truck accident turns your life upside down, Countrywide Trial Lawyers is here to help you get back on your feet with confidence, clarity, and experienced legal support.
While every case is unique, this example illustrates how Countrywide Trial Lawyers approaches complex truck accident claims with strategic focus and client-first advocacy.
A 43-year-old warehouse worker was driving eastbound on I-10 near Tippecanoe Avenue in San Bernardino when a commercial semi-truck suddenly veered into his lane. The truck driver, who had exceeded the federal driving hour limits and admitted to being on his 14th hour behind the wheel, failed to notice slowing traffic ahead. The collision caused the client’s vehicle to spin out and collide with the center divider.
Emergency responders transported the victim to Loma Linda University Medical Center, where he was diagnosed with multiple fractures, a herniated disc, and a mild traumatic brain injury. The injuries required surgery, six months of physical therapy, and left him unable to return to his physically demanding job.
Countrywide Trial Lawyers immediately launched a full investigation. We secured the truck’s black box data, reviewed driver logs, and obtained maintenance records showing the vehicle’s brakes had not been serviced in over a year. We also located nearby traffic camera footage that confirmed the truck’s lane deviation.
Our team filed a claim against the trucking company for negligent hiring, hours-of-service violations, and failure to maintain equipment. We also identified a third-party maintenance provider who had signed off on defective brake systems just weeks before the crash.
Through aggressive negotiation and trial preparation, our firm secured a $1.3 million settlement for the client, covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. More importantly, the trucking company changed its safety procedures and inspection policies as a result of the case.
While this is a hypothetical example based on real-world conditions in San Bernardino, it reflects the depth of investigation, legal skill, and client advocacy that Countrywide Trial Lawyers brings to every truck accident claim.
Navigating the legal system after a truck accident can feel overwhelming, especially while you’re dealing with painful injuries, financial stress, and emotional recovery. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we believe in empowering clients by helping them understand each step of the legal journey. Below is an overview of how truck accident claims typically proceed in California, including key deadlines, documentation requirements, and the role of local courts and agencies in San Bernardino.
In most truck accident cases, California law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you try to file a claim after this period has expired, the court will likely dismiss your case, no matter how strong the evidence is. That’s why it’s crucial to act promptly.
In some situations, such as when a government vehicle is involved (e.g., a city-contracted sanitation truck), the timeline may be shorter. In those cases, you may have only six months to file a claim against a public entity. A lawyer can help you determine which deadlines apply in your situation and ensure no key dates are missed.
Your health and safety come first. If you were injured in a truck crash in San Bernardino, whether on the I-215, the Cajon Pass, or city streets like Baseline Street, you should seek immediate medical care. Hospitals such as Loma Linda University Medical Center, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, and St. Bernardine Medical Center are commonly used by local accident victims.
In addition to protecting your health, getting prompt treatment also creates medical records that are vital to your claim. Be sure to follow all doctor recommendations and attend follow-up visits.
If law enforcement responded to the crash, make sure to obtain a copy of the official accident report from the San Bernardino Police Department or the California Highway Patrol (CHP). This document may include details about the truck driver, road conditions, and preliminary fault determinations.
Because truck accident cases often involve multiple parties, corporate defendants, and complex federal regulations, it’s essential to work with a law firm that knows how to handle them. Countrywide Trial Lawyers will launch a full investigation right away before evidence disappears or witnesses become unavailable.
We will take the pressure off your shoulders by:
You focus on healing. We focus on results.
The investigation phase is one of the most critical parts of your case. Trucking companies are required by law to maintain detailed records, but they’re not always eager to share them. That’s why Countrywide Trial Lawyers moves quickly to send spoliation letters that legally require the preservation of evidence, such as:
We then use this information to build a comprehensive picture of what happened, who is at fault, and what compensation you deserve.
After your claim is filed, negotiations with the insurance companies begin. In truck accident cases, there are often multiple insurers involved for the driver, the trucking company, cargo owners, or maintenance providers.
Insurance adjusters will try to minimize their payout, often by offering quick settlements that don’t reflect the full scope of your injuries and long-term needs. We push back with well-documented demands, expert evaluations, and a readiness to take the case to court if necessary. Our strong negotiation stance often leads to favorable settlements without a trial.
If the insurance companies won’t offer fair compensation, the next step is to file a formal lawsuit. In San Bernardino County, your case may be filed in the San Bernardino Justice Center, located downtown near West 3rd Street. This modern courthouse handles most civil personal injury cases in the area.
During the litigation process, both sides will engage in discovery—an exchange of evidence, depositions, and expert testimony. Many cases settle during or after discovery. However, if your case proceeds to trial, we’ll present your story clearly and powerfully in front of a judge or jury.
Countrywide Trial Lawyers is always prepared to go the distance.
If your case results in a successful verdict or settlement, you’ll receive compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. We’ll walk you through this final step, including how funds will be disbursed and how any outstanding medical liens will be handled.
Navigating the legal system may seem daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Countrywide Trial Lawyers has the knowledge, local experience, and resources to guide you through every step from your first consultation to the resolution of your case.
San Bernardino is a major transportation hub in Southern California, making it a frequent site for serious truck accidents. With a network of major freeways and a constant flow of commercial vehicles, residents and commuters face unique risks on the road. Understanding the local environment and how it contributes to truck collisions is key when building a strong legal case.
Several high-traffic areas in and around San Bernardino see a large volume of commercial truck activity. Some of the most common locations for serious truck accidents include:
Interstate 10 (I-10)
This busy east-west freeway cuts through the heart of San Bernardino and is heavily traveled by long-haul truckers. Accidents often occur near exits such as Tippecanoe Avenue, Waterman Avenue, and Mt. Vernon Avenue due to high merging volumes and lane changes.
Interstate 215 (I-215)
Running north to south through downtown, I-215 is a connector for many local commuters and delivery routes. Frequent construction zones, merging issues, and heavy traffic make it a hotspot for crashes involving tractor-trailers.
State Route 210 (SR-210)
Also known as the Foothill Freeway, SR-210 serves as a bypass route for trucks heading toward Highland, Redlands, and the Inland Empire. Narrow lanes and high-speed traffic increase the risk of side-swipe and rollover accidents.
Local Streets Near Industrial Zones
Truck activity is high around San Bernardino’s industrial corridors, such as Central Avenue, Mill Street, and E Street, where distribution centers, freight depots, and warehouses are concentrated. Tight turns, limited visibility, and pedestrian activity contribute to a high number of truck-involved incidents in these areas.
San Bernardino is home to one of the largest logistics hubs in the region. With warehouses for Amazon, FedEx, and Walmart located nearby, trucks are constantly entering and exiting the area. These distribution centers generate significant semi-truck traffic, particularly around the Inland Empire Logistics Center and the San Bernardino International Airport.
Delivery trucks and 18-wheelers frequent neighborhoods like Muscoy, Del Rosa, and the area surrounding the Carousel Mall. The increase in last-mile deliveries also brings more risk to residential streets not designed for heavy vehicle traffic.
In the event of a truck accident, victims are often treated at major trauma centers such as:
Emergency response may also come from the San Bernardino Police Department or the California Highway Patrol (CHP) – Inland Division, depending on where the crash occurs.
Obtaining copies of crash reports from the correct law enforcement agency and coordinating with local hospitals for medical records are important steps in building your case. At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we are familiar with the processes and agencies in San Bernardino and can assist with every aspect of documentation.
Personal injury claims in San Bernardino are typically filed with the San Bernardino County Superior Court. The main civil courthouse is the San Bernardino Justice Center, located at 247 West Third Street. This is where your case may be heard if it proceeds to litigation. Our attorneys regularly handle cases in this courthouse and are familiar with local procedures and expectations.
San Bernardino presents unique challenges for truck accident victims. From navigating crowded freeways to dealing with large logistics companies, having a legal team that understands the area can make all the difference. Countrywide Trial Lawyers brings deep local knowledge to every case, helping clients pursue justice with confidence and clarity.
Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine. Then, report the accident to the police and gather as much evidence as possible - photos, witness contact info, and insurance details. Finally, contact a personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and help you pursue a claim against the responsible parties.
Multiple parties may be liable, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, maintenance providers, or even the truck manufacturer. Identifying all responsible parties is crucial to maximizing your compensation. An experienced attorney can investigate thoroughly and determine who is at fault.
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If a government vehicle is involved, the deadline may be as short as six months. It’s essential to act promptly to ensure your case meets all legal deadlines.
Truck accidents are often more severe due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. They involve federal regulations, more complex evidence (like driver logs and black box data), and multiple layers of insurance. These factors make truck accident claims more complicated than typical car crashes.
You may be eligible for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, future medical treatment, and loss of earning capacity. In cases involving gross negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded. A lawyer can help estimate the full value of your claim.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. This allows you to get high-quality legal representation without adding financial stress during your recovery.
Not necessarily. Many truck accident cases settle before reaching trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, going to court may be necessary. Our firm prepares every case for trial from day one, so we’re ready if litigation becomes the best option.
Key evidence includes the police report, photos of the crash scene, medical records, witness statements, driver logs, black box data, truck maintenance records, and any available video footage. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be during negotiations or in court.
Yes. California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. An attorney can help prove that the truck driver or company was primarily responsible.
If the truck driver lacks adequate insurance, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may help cover your losses. You may also have claims against the trucking company or other responsible parties. A lawyer can explore all available options to help you recover full compensation.
Being injured in a truck accident can instantly turn your life upside down. You may be facing serious medical issues, time away from work, mounting bills, and uncertainty about how to move forward. Furthermore, dealing with powerful trucking companies and their insurers can be overwhelming and unfair.
The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to gather the evidence and legal support you need. Trucking companies often act fast to protect themselves, sending investigators to the crash scene, withholding crucial documents, or pressuring victims into lowball settlements. If you don’t act quickly, your ability to recover full compensation could be at risk.
That’s where Countrywide Trial Lawyers comes in. We help truck accident victims in San Bernardino and surrounding areas take back control. Our attorneys know how to investigate complex truck crashes, hold negligent parties accountable, and fight aggressively for every dollar you deserve. We treat every client with care, providing clear answers, personalized attention, and effective representation.
If you or a loved one was hurt in a truck accident near I-10, I-215, or anywhere in San Bernardino, don’t wait. Contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on your recovery.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.
