Commercial truck lane-change accidents are among the most devastating crashes on California freeways. A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh 80,000 lbs — approximately 30x a passenger car. When a truck merges without checking blind spots or yields improperly, the resulting crash can be catastrophic. California Vehicle Code §21658 requires all lane changes to be made safely.
Is the truck driver at fault if they merged into my lane?
Almost always yes under CVC §21658. The merging vehicle must yield to traffic already in the lane. Blind spot defenses rarely succeed with proper evidence.
Can I sue both the truck driver and the trucking company?
Yes. Under respondeat superior doctrine, trucking companies are vicariously liable for their drivers. Direct liability (negligent hiring/training) may also apply.
What evidence should I preserve after a truck lane-change crash?
Dashcam footage, witness info, ELD (black box) data from the truck, driver logs, company maintenance records, and CHP report. Call us immediately.
How much is a truck lane-change accident worth?
Truck accident policies range from $750K to $5M minimum. Serious injuries in truck crashes regularly settle for $500K–$4M+.