Accidents involving trucks, particularly semis, lead to devastating accidents on California’s roadways. Due to their sheer weight and size, commercial motor vehicle accidents often lead to catastrophic and even permanently disabling injury. If you or a loved one recently suffered harm in an accident involving a large truck, contact the truck accident attorneys at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly, and Schoenberger today. Our firm will conduct an investigation to determine the parties responsible and will demand fair compensation for your material and immaterial losses. Schedule your free case evaluation.
Highway 101 Cities and Collision Information
Highway 101, or US 101, is the longest and one of the only remaining U.S. routes in the country, and the longest highway of any kind in the State. It runs north-south, linking the Los Angeles Metropolitan area to the Central Valley region, Bay Area, and North Coast. Portions of Highway 101 may go by the name of the Hollywood Freeway, the Santa Ana Freeway, the Bayshore Freeway, or the Redwood Highway. The last 350 miles stretch through the world’s only preserve of old redwood trees.
US 101 stretches 808 miles and begins at the southern edge of Los Angeles. From L.A., the 101 winds north into Ventura and travels towards the Central Valley region. The 101 hugs the shore of the Pacific Ocean as it approaches the Bay Area, traveling through Silicon Valley and heading north to the historic redwood preserves of the north coast.
US 101 follows much of the same pathways as I-5, so many trucks choose the Interstate over the US highway. However, trucks still use this winding road to transport goods in and out of California’s major cities. In fact, land freight is the most common form of manufactured good transportation in the state – 78% of California’s communities rely exclusively on truck transportation to get goods in and out.
What Causes Truck Accidents on Highway 101?
Truck accidents have many causes, but some are statistically more common than others. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which governs the trucking industry, collects data on the root causes of commercial motor vehicle accidents. According to their research:
- The vast majority of truck accidents – some 87% — result from driver error. Some of the most common errors include speeding, misjudging the distance between other vehicles, and following other vehicles too closely. Other factors include operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as well as distracted driving behavior.
- Performance factors also play a role in trucking accidents. These may include things like brake performance and improper tire pressure.
- Environmental causes make up the minority of truck accident causes, but factors like inclement weather and improperly maintained roads can contribute to injury-causing crashes.
What to Do After Injury on Highway 101?
Truck accident claims are complex legal cases. Since truck drivers and their employers must follow rules set forth by the FMCSA, truck crashes involve matters of both federal and state law. If you or a loved one suffered material and immaterial losses in a trucking accident, it’s essential to retain the services of an experienced attorney. The personal injury lawyers at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly, and Schoenberger have extensive experience in truck accident laws and regulations. We will conduct an investigation into the cause of your accident, determine the parties responsible for your injuries, and help you hold them liable for their negligent actions. We negotiate on your behalf with insurance companies to achieve a fair settlement that reflects the degree of your injuries, suffering, and pain.
If your family is struggling with medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses following a California truck accident, contact the attorneys at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly, and Schoenberger today. Schedule a free and confidential review of your legal options and start your truck accident claim today.
