Collisions with big rigs, semi-trucks, and other large commercial vehicles in Kern County can change lives in an instant. These massive trucks travel daily on I-5, Highway 99, and Highway 58—some of California’s busiest freight corridors—putting drivers at constant risk. A single moment of negligence by a truck driver or carrier can cause serious, even life-threatening injuries. When a crash disrupts your health, finances, and peace of mind, securing the right legal advocate is essential.
You need a Bakersfield truck accident lawyer who not only understands the high stakes but has the resources and grit to take on trucking companies and their insurers. At Pointer and Buelna, LLP – Lawyers For The People, we’re relentless in our pursuit of justice. We blend strategic litigation with compassion, fighting for the recovery and closure our clients deserve after traumatic truck accidents.
Bakersfield Truck Accident Lawyer
Why Choose Us for Your Bakersfield Truck Accident Case?
Not all injury law firms are built to take on trucking companies. We are. Our team has a proven track record of going toe-to-toe with national carriers and their insurers. Truck accident litigation is complex, and it demands a legal team that’s experienced in collecting crucial evidence like logbooks, black box data, and maintenance logs. We know what’s needed—and we move fast.
Clients choose us because we:
- Handle every case personally with strategic precision
- Work with accident reconstruction experts and investigators
- Never settle for less than what your claim is worth
- Operate on a contingency fee—you don’t pay unless we win
- We are available 24/7 to discuss your case
We don’t just claim to care. We show it in how hard we fight for our clients, both inside and outside the courtroom.
What Steps Should You Take After a Truck Accident?
Taking the right actions immediately after a crash can strengthen your case and protect your health. If you’re involved in a collision with a commercial truck, here’s what we recommend:
- Call 911. Make sure law enforcement and emergency responders are notified.
- Get medical help even if your injuries seem minor. Internal injuries may not show right away.
- Document the scene. Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and injuries.
- Collect information from the truck driver and witnesses.
- Don’t give a statement to the trucking company’s insurer before speaking with a lawyer.
- Contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible to begin investigating liability.
The sooner our firm gets involved, the sooner we can preserve crucial evidence before it’s lost or altered.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents on I-5, Highway 99, and Highway 58
Negligence is often at the heart of truck crashes, and we know where to look for it. In Bakersfield, the major transportation routes like I-5, Highway 99, and Highway 58 are heavily traveled by commercial vehicles moving goods throughout California. Unfortunately, these routes also see a high volume of trucking accidents, many of which stem from preventable human error or mechanical failure. When truckers or the companies that employ them cut corners or ignore safety protocols, the results can be catastrophic.
Among the most common causes of truck accidents in this region are:
- Driver fatigue from violating Hours of Service regulations
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, or interacting with navigation systems)
- Speeding or aggressive driving to meet tight delivery windows
- Improperly secured or overloaded freight
- Mechanical defects, such as brake failure or tire blowouts
- Inadequate training or lack of proper commercial licensing
Under California Civil Code Section 1714(a), every individual must act with reasonable care. When that duty is breached, they can be liable for injuries. In truck crash cases, that responsibility may extend beyond the driver to employers, contractors, maintenance crews, and parts manufacturers.
Who Is Liable for Your Truck Accident Injuries?
Liability in truck accidents is rarely straightforward, and that’s exactly why you need a lawyer. Trucking companies and their insurers often try to shift blame or minimize payouts. We build your case with evidence that uncovers all responsible parties.
The Driver, The Trucking Company, or a Third Party?
- Truck Driver: If they were speeding, distracted, or under the influence, the driver may be directly at fault.
- Trucking Company: These companies may be liable for negligent hiring, poor training, or pushing drivers beyond safe limits.
- Maintenance Providers: If brake failure or mechanical issues contributed, we investigate service records and third-party repair shops.
- Cargo Loaders: Unbalanced or loose cargo can shift during transit, leading to rollover or jackknife accidents.
Our team has the tools to trace responsibility to every negligent hand involved. That’s how we maximize your recovery.
What Is Your Truck Accident Claim Worth? Types of Compensation
Every injury has a financial and emotional cost, and we work to recover it all. Depending on your situation, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress or PTSD
- Property damage
- Loss of consortium (if applicable)
If the accident was fatal, we may pursue a wrongful death action on behalf of surviving family members. In catastrophic cases, punitive damages may also apply.
We rely on medical experts, economic analysts, and life care planners to determine the true value of your claim, not just what the insurance company says it’s worth.
How Long Do You Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in California?
You have a limited window to take legal action. Under California law, most personal injury claims—including those involving truck crashes—must be filed within two years from the date of injury.
If the accident involves a government entity (like a city vehicle or Caltrans truck), you may have as little as six months to file an administrative claim.
We urge accident victims to contact an attorney immediately. Waiting can result in lost evidence, unreliable witness memories, and missed deadlines that could jeopardize your entire case.
Speak with a Bakersfield Truck Accident Lawyer Today
You deserve answers, accountability, and compensation for everything you’ve been through. Whether it’s facing off against a national carrier or holding a negligent trucking company responsible, we’re ready to stand up for you.
Call us at (510) 822-7476 or schedule a free consultation here. Let Pointer and Buelna, LLP – Lawyers For The People, help you reclaim control after a devastating truck accident.
Our Truck Accident Lawyers Serve California and Surrounding Areas
Pointer & Buelna, LLP – Lawyers For The People provides legal representation for truck accident cases across the following California cities and counties:
Adanté Pointer
Pointer has received numerous awards and honors. He has been selected as the “Nations Best Advocate” by the National Bar Association, a “Superlawyer” in 2021 by Superlawyers Magazine and was recently featured as being “the Best Civil Rights Lawyer You May Not Have Heard Of” by the East Bay Express.
Years of Experience: 16+ years
