San Diego Semi-Truck Accident Attorneys Fighting for Full Compensation

Seconds become minutes when there’s a trucking accident. Evidence disappears in an instant, trucking companies send their attorneys promptly, and insurance claims adjusters are already working towards reducing payouts. That’s the reason why our San Diego semi-truck injury lawyers move faster. We start full investigations on day one, preserve black box data, and build aggressive strategies to accommodate California’s extremely strict trucking legislation.

Wherever your crash took place, on Interstate 5, SR-94, or a side road by the Port of San Diego, our law firm knows the roads, the hazards, and the legal system that governs your case. With years of truck accident experience and a proven track record, our truck crash attorneys work to secure the maximum award of damages for your medical bills, lost income, and pain.

If you or a loved one were hit by a semi-truck in San Diego County, don’t wait. Contact our heavy truck accident lawyers today for a free consultation and start the recovery process.

Local Trucking Dangers Unique to San Diego County

San Diego’s role as a major gateway for international freight makes it a high-risk zone for serious semi-truck accidents. With thousands of 18-wheelers crossing between Otay Mesa and the Port of San Diego every day, the city faces some of the highest concentrations of heavy commercial traffic in Southern California. At Gershen Law, our San Diego semi-truck accident attorneys leverage deep knowledge of these patterns to investigate collisions and hold all negligent parties accountable.

From coastal delivery routes to congested freeways like I-805 and SR-15, the pressure on truckers to meet delivery windows creates a dangerous blend of speed, fatigue, and distraction. According to the California Department of Transportation Freight Mobility Plan, San Diego’s freight network is growing at a rapid pace—with semi-trucks expected to account for nearly half of all cargo movement by weight.

This increase puts everyone else on the road at greater risk. Gershen Law uses these traffic trends, crash data, and local infrastructure analysis to craft legal strategies that resonate in court and during settlement negotiations.

Why San Diego’s Freight Routes Are Especially Dangerous

San Diego’s unique topography and urban layout present serious challenges for large commercial vehicles. While trucks are designed for long-haul interstate travel, they frequently navigate tight residential streets, aging infrastructure, and narrow freeway interchanges throughout the county. This mismatch between truck design and road capacity makes accidents more likely—and often more devastating.

Busy freight corridors like Otay Mesa Road, Main Street in Chula Vista, and Pacific Highway near the Port see near-constant truck activity. These areas feature poorly maintained roads, confusing signage, and limited lane space, creating a perfect storm for jackknife accidents, wide-turn crashes, and rear-end collisions involving semi-trucks.

Moreover, commercial drivers are often pushed to meet tight schedules, which increases the risk of violations of federal Hours-of-Service rules. Many truckers skip rest breaks, ignore safety checks, and engage in risky behavior just to stay on deadline. When those shortcuts lead to disaster, our San Diego semi-truck accident attorneys step in to pursue justice.

Crash Hotspots Every Driver Should Know

Some areas of San Diego are far more dangerous than others when it comes to semi-truck traffic. These crash zones are well-known to first responders—and to our legal team.

• I-5 between Downtown San Diego and National City: Frequent lane changes, high-speed trucking, and heavy commuter traffic create daily hazards.
• SR-94 through Sherman Heights and Golden Hill: This narrow corridor is a prime location for truck rollover accidents and head-on collisions.
• Otay Mesa Commercial Border Crossing: As one of the busiest freight crossings on the West Coast, this region sees thousands of trucks per day.
• Barrio Logan industrial district: With its close proximity to the Port, trucks often navigate tight corners, increasing the risk of sideswipes and pedestrian collisions.

These routes are not just busy—they are dangerous. In many cases, they lack adequate signage, visibility, or space for proper truck maneuvering. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, fatalities involving large trucks have increased year over year, particularly in port cities like San Diego.

At Gershen Law, we go beyond the police report. Our attorneys collaborate with transportation engineers, city planners, and accident reconstructionists to pinpoint why a crash occurred and who could have prevented it. By understanding the road, the traffic, and the unique dynamics of each location, we’re able to uncover crucial details that other firms miss.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a San Diego Semi-Truck Crash?

After a devastating crash involving a semi-truck, identifying every responsible party is crucial to building a strong case. These collisions often involve complex chains of liability that go far beyond the driver. At Gershen Law, our San Diego semi-truck accident attorneys conduct aggressive investigations to uncover every negligent entity—from trucking companies to parts manufacturers—to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation allowed under California law.

Holding all liable parties accountable is not just good legal strategy—it’s the difference between an average recovery and a life-changing settlement. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, large truck crashes tend to cause more severe injuries and fatalities than standard passenger vehicle accidents. This makes thorough liability analysis absolutely essential.

The Truck Driver and Their Employer

In most cases, the driver behind the wheel is the first link in the liability chain. Whether they were speeding, distracted, or simply exhausted, their actions often trigger the initial impact. However, under California law, the company that employs the driver is typically vicariously liable for their conduct while on the job.

Our San Diego semi-truck accident attorneys examine:

• Logbooks and GPS records for Hours-of-Service violations
• Cell phone records to confirm distractions
• Toxicology screens and driver history reports
• Training logs and employment documentation

In many cases, employers push drivers to violate federal rest guidelines or ignore maintenance needs to boost delivery speed. When profit takes priority over safety, we make sure the trucking company is held financially responsible.

Freight Brokers, Logistics Firms, and Shippers

Often, third-party logistics companies play a major role in arranging freight schedules, loading cargo, or hiring underqualified drivers. These behind-the-scenes entities may seem distant from the crash—but their decisions frequently set dangerous wheels in motion.

Our San Diego semi-truck crash lawyers investigate whether:

• The freight broker hired a trucking company with safety violations
• Cargo was overloaded or improperly secured
• The load shifted and contributed to a jackknife or rollover

We work with certified transportation experts to evaluate contracts, cargo manifests, and shipping practices. When negligence is found, we bring claims against every party who contributed to the unsafe conditions that caused your injuries.

Truck Manufacturers and Parts Suppliers

Sometimes, the truck itself is defective. Faulty brakes, worn-out tires, malfunctioning steering columns, or trailer hitch failures can all lead to catastrophic crashes. These failures often occur without warning—and require in-depth forensic investigation to detect.

Our legal team partners with mechanical engineers to assess the condition of:

• Air brake systems
• Tire tread depth and pressure logs
• Engine control modules (black boxes)
• Hydraulic and steering systems

If a product defect is discovered, we bring claims under California product liability laws, holding manufacturers accountable for defective equipment. You can learn more about defective product claims from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Government Entities and Road Maintenance Contractors

Some big rig crashes result not from human error, but from dangerous road conditions, poor signage, or improperly managed construction zones. If the city or state failed to maintain a safe roadway—or if a contractor set up an unsafe traffic detour—they could be held responsible.

Liability may extend to:

• Caltrans or the City of San Diego
• Road resurfacing crews
• Highway design consultants

Filing a claim against a government agency in California requires following strict deadlines and procedures. At Gershen Law, we know these deadlines inside and out, and we act quickly to preserve your right to recover damages from negligent public entities.

Severe Injuries from San Diego’s Semi-Truck Corridors

Crashes involving 18-wheelers often result in life-altering injuries that demand immediate and long-term care. On roadways like Interstate 5, SR-94, and Otay Mesa Road, the massive size and speed of semi-trucks make even minor collisions dangerous. At Gershen Law, our San Diego semi-truck accident attorneys know how these injuries affect every part of your life—from physical health to earning potential—and we fight relentlessly for full compensation.

We build each case with the future in mind. From ongoing rehabilitation to permanent disability, our attorneys ensure that no detail is overlooked and no damage is undervalued. According to Sharp HealthCare, many truck crash survivors in San Diego require years of specialized recovery.

When a Commute Turns into a Lifetime of Spinal Trauma

Rear-end impacts and underride collisions frequently cause damage to the spine. Victims may suffer herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or complete paralysis, especially when struck from behind at high speeds along congested freeways like I-805 or SR-163.

These injuries often require:

• Emergency surgery
• Extended hospital stays at facilities like Scripps Mercy Hospital
• Long-term care from specialists at Sharp Rehabilitation Center

Our team documents your entire recovery journey—from the initial ER visit through physical therapy and future mobility support. We collaborate with medical experts and life care planners to prove the full financial impact of spinal trauma.

Brain Injuries in the Wake of a Semi-Truck Impact

San Diego’s narrow freeway ramps and sharp interchanges are frequent sites of rollover crashes and high-speed side impacts. When a semi-truck collides with a passenger car near Mission Valley or Golden Hill, the risk of traumatic brain injury (TBI) skyrockets.

Common symptoms include:

• Chronic migraines
• Memory loss or cognitive delay
• Sensory impairment
• Emotional volatility

We work with neurologists and neuropsychologists to track the lasting effects of brain injuries. Many of our clients are treated at top regional centers like UC San Diego Health – Hillcrest. Learn more about how TBIs affect long-term function at the Brain Injury Association of America.

Crush Injuries in Port-Area Pileups

Multi-vehicle crashes near the Port of San Diego often leave victims pinned inside their vehicles. Legs, arms, or hips may be crushed under extreme force. These injuries require orthopedic surgery, internal fixation hardware, and extensive rehabilitation.

At Gershen Law, we fight for every cost related to:

• Reconstructive surgery
• Prosthetics
• Wheelchair-accessible home modifications
• Lost income from permanent work restrictions

We also recognize the emotional toll. Disfigurement and loss of independence can trigger severe depression and anxiety, which we include in our damage valuations.

When Burns and Lacerations Leave Permanent Scars

Fuel leaks and electrical fires are tragically common in high-speed truck crashes, particularly on SR-905 or in industrial zones like Otay Mesa. Victims often suffer second- or third-degree burns requiring skin grafts and long-term infection control.

These injuries may also include:

• Deep lacerations from shattered glass or twisted metal
• Facial injuries requiring plastic surgery
• Emotional trauma from visible scarring

Our firm works closely with local burn units and psychological experts to ensure both physical and emotional damage are fully represented in your claim. Learn more about severe burn care from UC San Diego Health’s Regional Burn Center.

The Silent Aftermath: Psychological Injury from Truck Collisions

For many survivors, the emotional scars last longer than the physical ones. Whether it’s the sound of brakes or the sight of traffic, survivors often relive the moment over and over. This type of trauma is especially common in victims who witnessed fatalities or were trapped inside their vehicles.

Symptoms may include:

• Flashbacks and nightmares
• Avoidance of driving or riding in vehicles
• Panic attacks or hypervigilance

Our San Diego semi-truck crash lawyers take emotional injury seriously. We work with licensed psychologists and psychiatrists to document how post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression affect your daily life. These damages are real—and we pursue them aggressively.

Our Proven Process for Winning Semi-Truck Injury Cases

At Gershen Law, we don’t leave your case to chance. Every claim involving a semi-truck is built from the ground up with precision, speed, and strategy. Our San Diego semi-truck accident attorneys take a proactive approach to crash investigations, liability analysis, and aggressive negotiation. We know the tactics trucking companies use—and we are ready for them from day one.

Truck crashes require more than paperwork. They demand expert coordination, legal foresight, and real courtroom readiness. From the moment we take your call, we begin working to secure the strongest possible outcome.

Evidence Disappears Fast—We Don’t Waste a Second

Truck companies often move quickly to protect themselves. Black box data gets wiped, vehicles are repaired, and witnesses become harder to find. That’s why we launch our investigation immediately.

Our first steps include:

• Sending spoliation letters to preserve dashcam footage and ECM data
• Collecting surveillance footage from intersections or local businesses
• Requesting 911 dispatch audio and police body cam video

We often partner with private investigators and crash reconstructionists to analyze high-risk corridors like I-5, SR-54, and the Otay Mesa freight route. Their reports give us leverage early—and prevent defense teams from rewriting the facts later.

Building a Medical Timeline That Proves the Full Extent of Your Injuries

A strong case needs strong medical evidence. Gershen Law work directly with leading doctors, surgeons, and trauma specialists in San Diego to build a detailed injury record that tells your story from first impact through long-term recovery.

We help coordinate care at:

• UC San Diego Health for head and spinal trauma
• Sharp Memorial Hospital for emergency surgery
• Scripps Mercy Hospital for orthopedic care and diagnostics

We also ensure your claim includes projections for future surgeries, long-term rehab, assistive equipment, and mental health treatment when necessary.

Strategic Demand Letters That Leave No Room for Denial

Our team crafts detailed, evidence-packed demand letters that leave insurance carriers with little room to argue. These letters include:

• Full liability breakdowns across all responsible parties
• Medical expert summaries and cost projections
• Economic loss reports with future wage impacts
• Pain and suffering narratives backed by psychological evaluations

This approach shifts the power dynamic. We set the terms—and force insurance companies to respond seriously or face litigation

Trial-Ready Preparation from Day One

Even though most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it will go to court. Defense lawyers know which firms take shortcuts—and which ones don’t. Our preparation speaks volumes.

At Gershen Law, we:

• Prepare exhibits, expert witness lists, and visual accident reconstructions early
• Anticipate defense arguments and pre-build rebuttals
• Practice jury-focused storytelling that connects with real people

If settlement fails, we don’t flinch. We walk into the courtroom with full confidence, ready to fight for your future.

Speak With a San Diego Semi-Truck Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with a semi-truck, do not wait to protect your rights. The trucking company already has legal counsel working to reduce your claim. Now is the time to take control—with a team that knows how to fight and win.

At Gershen Law, our San Diego semi-truck accident attorneys are ready to take immediate action on your behalf. From the first call, we begin preserving critical evidence, documenting your injuries, and building a claim for the compensation you deserve.

We offer:

• Free, no-obligation consultations
• No fees unless we win your case
• Direct access to an experienced truck accident lawyer

Our office is centrally located minutes from the San Diego Superior Court and within reach of major hospitals, making it easy to schedule your consultation. We also offer virtual appointments for clients throughout La Jolla, Chula Vista, and Otay Mesa.

You’ve been through enough. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on recovery.

Call (619) 492-5526 now or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.