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Sacramento Bicycle Accident Attorney

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Trusted Bike Accident Lawyers in Sacramento, CA

Bicycle accidents often bring serious injuries, financial pressure, and a long recovery. If you were hurt in a cycling accident here in Sacramento, having the right legal help can make a real difference. At Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys, we’ve spent years helping cyclists after serious accidents. Our attorneys understand how these cases work and what it takes to deal with insurers and legal deadlines. When you come to us, you’ll get direct, straightforward help from a team that takes your case seriously. We’ve handled many of these before, and we work hard to get a result that reflects what you’ve been through. You can read what former clients have said on our testimonials page, or contact us to set up a free consultation.

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SETTLEMENT

$60,000,000

Data Breach

The Arnold Law Firm reached a settlement in the Morgan Stanley data breach class action lawsuit.

Learn More

SETTLEMENT

$18,276,000

Qui Tam / Whistleblower

A whistleblower case exposing fraudulent practices in the state of California resulted…
Learn More

SETTLEMENT

$17,000,000

Data Breach

The Arnold Law Firm reached a settlement in the Kemper and Infinity data breach…
Learn More

SETTLEMENT

$17,000,000

Data Breach

The Arnold Law Firm reached a settlement in the Kemper and Infinity data breach…
Learn More

SETTLEMENT

$8,000,000

Truck Accident

Late one spring afternoon, the Arnold Law Firm received a call from Angela, a young…
Learn More

JUDGEMENT

$3,900,000

Car Accident

The fatal collision between plaintiff’s Jeep Liberty and defendant’s Volvo truck…
Learn More

Why Should I Hire a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Sacramento?

If you were hurt in a bicycle accident, having a local attorney on your side can make a real difference. A Sacramento bike accident lawyer knows how these cases work and understands what needs to be done to protect your rights and help you pursue full compensation. California’s legal process can be hard to navigate on your own, but an experienced lawyer is familiar with the steps it takes to build a strong claim.

Insurance companies don’t always play fair after a crash. Their goal is to limit what they pay, even when your injuries are serious. A lawyer who’s handled bicycle accident claims before can step in and push back—whether it’s for medical bills, missed work, or other losses. Many people don’t realize how much their case is worth until they talk to someone who knows what to look for.

At Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys, we’ve helped people after all kinds of accidents—whether it involved a negligent driver, a hit-and-run, or unsafe street conditions. Every case is different, and we take time to understand what happened and what’s needed to move forward. While you focus on getting better, we’ll handle the legal work—from dealing with insurance to preparing a claim for court if needed.

When you choose our firm, you’re working with a team that’s serious about getting results. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t settle unless it’s fair. If you’ve been in a bike accident in Sacramento, we’re here to help you get answers and take the next step. Reach out for a free consultation today.

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Personal Injury Damages Recovered in a Bicycle Accident

If you were injured in a bicycle accident, you may be able to recover several types of compensation depending on how the crash affected you. These usually fall into two broad groups: financial losses and personal hardships.

  • Medical Costs – You can seek reimbursement for emergency treatment, hospital stays, follow-up care, rehabilitation, and any future medical needs tied to your injuries.
  • Lost Income – If the accident kept you from working, you may be entitled to recover the wages you missed. In some cases, this also includes future income loss if your ability to work is reduced moving forward.
  • Pain and Emotional Stress – A serious injury can take a toll on both your body and your mental well-being. Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for how the incident has changed your daily life and overall comfort.
  • Damage to Your Bike – If your bicycle was broken or destroyed in the crash, you can include the cost of repairs or a replacement in your claim.

At Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys, we work with injured cyclists to make sure all damages are properly documented and included. Our Sacramento attorneys understand what’s needed to build a strong case and push for the full amount you’re owed. If you’d like to learn more about what your claim may be worth, contact us for a free consultation today.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

If you find yourself involved in a bicycle accident, knowing the right steps to take can be crucial for your health and your legal case. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this challenging situation:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by obtaining a medical evaluation, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and timely documentation can be vital for your bicycle accident compensation later on.
  2. Document the Scene: Capture photographs of the accident scene, including damage to your bicycle, any visible injuries, and relevant road conditions. Gathering contact information from witnesses can also strengthen your case, so be thorough in your documentation.
  3. File a Police Report: Reporting the incident to local law enforcement creates an official record, which can be essential when you pursue a bicycle accident settlement. Ensure you get a copy of the report for your records.
  4. Avoid Admitting Fault: Be cautious with your words immediately after the accident. Even seemingly innocent remarks could be construed as an admission of liability. Stick to the facts when interacting with law enforcement or insurance companies.
  5. Consult a Bicycle Accident Attorney: Engage a Sacramento Bicycle Accident Attorney as soon as possible. A knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer in Sacramento will navigate the complexities of your case and protect your rights throughout the claims process.
  6. Track Medical and Financial Records: Keep meticulous records of all medical treatments, expenses, and any lost wages due to your injuries. This documentation is crucial for establishing the full extent of your damages.

Avoid delays in seeking medical care or neglecting to gather evidence at the scene. Additionally, refrain from speaking with insurance adjusters without the guidance of a Sacramento bike accident lawyer. Acting swiftly and wisely can significantly strengthen your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

How to File a Claim After a Bicycle Accident

Dealing with a bicycle accident claim can feel overwhelming, especially when insurance companies are involved. Here’s a general outline of what the process usually looks like and how to move through each stage:

  • Notify Your Insurance Company: Start by reporting the crash to your own insurer, even if you believe the other person caused it. Stick to the facts and avoid making assumptions or accepting blame when giving your account.
  • Collect the Right Documentation: You’ll need solid evidence to back up your claim. This may include your medical records, photos of your injuries and the scene, witness names or statements, and any repair estimates for your bike.
  • File the Claim: Once everything is organized, your attorney will send the full claim to the at-fault party’s insurance company. They’ll take over communication and push for a resolution that reflects what you’ve been through.
  • Negotiate—or Take It to Court: If a settlement offer comes in, your lawyer will look it over and handle negotiations to try to improve it. If the offer isn’t reasonable and talks stall, they may recommend filing a lawsuit to seek compensation through the court system.

How Can I Claim for a Hit and Run Bicycle Accident?

Getting injured in a hit-and-run can leave you feeling stuck—especially when the driver doesn’t stay at the scene. Even so, there are ways to move forward with a claim and seek compensation. Here’s how to get started:

  • Report the Crash to Police: Call law enforcement as soon as possible. A police report gives an official account of what happened and helps document key details that may be needed later.
  • Collect What You Can at the Scene: If you’re able, take photos of the area, your bike, and any injuries. Talk to people nearby who may have seen it happen, and ask if any security cameras could’ve captured footage. Anything that might help identify the driver or support your version of events can make a difference.
  • Review Your Insurance Coverage: Check whether your auto policy includes uninsured motorist coverage. This can help cover your losses in cases where the driver can’t be found or doesn’t carry insurance. It’s one of the most common ways hit-and-run claims get paid.
  • Get Legal Support Early On: These cases are often more complex than regular bicycle accident claims. A lawyer can step in to help investigate, organize the evidence, and file the right kind of claim—either through your insurance or, in rare cases, against a known at-fault party. They’ll also make sure your rights are protected throughout the process.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Sacramento

Bicycle accidents in Sacramento can arise from various factors, often leading to serious injuries for cyclists. Understanding these causes can help riders stay vigilant and reduce their risk of accidents. Here are some of the most prevalent causes:

  • Driver Negligence: Many accidents occur due to driver carelessness, including failing to yield the right of way to cyclists, aggressive driving, or simply not noticing a cyclist on the road. This negligence often puts cyclists in harm’s way.
  • Distracted Driving: The rise of mobile phone use has contributed significantly to cycling accidents. Drivers who text, call, or engage with their devices are less attentive to their surroundings, leading to dangerous situations for cyclists.
  • Road Hazards: Poorly maintained roads can pose serious dangers to cyclists. Debris, potholes, and uneven surfaces can cause riders to lose control, resulting in crashes that might have been preventable with better road conditions.
  • Dooring Accidents: This dangerous scenario occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door without checking for oncoming cyclists. This unexpected obstacle can lead to severe collisions, often leaving the cyclist with significant injuries.

By recognizing these common causes, cyclists can take proactive measures to protect themselves while riding. If you find yourself injured in a bicycle accident, consulting a Sacramento Bicycle Accident Attorney can provide the legal representation you need to pursue compensation. 

What is the Injury Rate of Bicycles?

Bicycle-related injuries are a significant concern across the United States, with approximately 500,000 injuries occurring annually. This alarming statistic underscores the importance of cycling safety, especially in urban areas like Sacramento, where the rate of bicycle accidents has risen due to increasing traffic congestion and the prevalence of shared roadways.

Recent research published in PubMed reveals that cyclists face a higher risk of injury compared to motor vehicle occupants during accidents. Specifically, a study analyzing bicycle-related injuries from 2012 to 2021 estimated 4,666,491 injuries, demonstrating a noteworthy decrease in overall injury rates. However, the incidence of injuries among elderly cyclists has risen, with fractures and head injuries being the most common types across all age groups. These findings emphasize the need for effective safety measures, including wearing helmets and adhering to traffic regulations.

How to Choose the Best Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Selecting the right legal representation is crucial after a bicycle accident. Here are some essential tips for choosing a reputable Sacramento bicycle accident lawyer to ensure you receive the best possible outcome for your case:

  1. Experience with Bicycle Accident Cases: Seek out a bicycle accident attorney in Sacramento who specializes in handling bicycle-related injuries. Their familiarity with local laws and regulations can significantly impact the strength of your case.
  2. Client Testimonials: Reviewing feedback from former clients can provide insight into a lawyer’s expertise and the level of satisfaction they offer. Explore the testimonials at Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys to see how our dedicated Sacramento bicycle lawyers have successfully assisted clients in similar situations.
  3. Personalized Attention: Opt for an attorney who prioritizes individualized attention. You want a lawyer who treats you as more than just another case number, ensuring your unique needs and concerns are addressed throughout the legal process.
  4. Proven Negotiation Skills: A skilled Sacramento bike accident lawyer understands the nuances of negotiating with insurance companies. Look for someone who has a track record of successfully securing maximum compensation for their clients.

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Why Choose Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys As Your Bike Accident Lawyers?

At Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys, we pride ourselves on our successful track record in handling bicycle accident cases throughout Sacramento. With years of experience and a commitment to serving our community, our team is dedicated to ensuring that every client receives the legal support they deserve. Navigating the complexities of insurance and legal issues can be overwhelming, especially after an accident. Without the guidance of a knowledgeable Sacramento bicycle accident attorney, you risk leaving valuable compensation on the table, as insurers often seek to minimize payouts.

Hiring our firm comes with several distinct advantages:

  1. Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize our clients’ needs, ensuring that your voice is heard throughout the legal process. Our attorneys take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our services accordingly.
  2. Proven Results: Our history of successful settlements and verdicts speaks volumes about our ability to secure favorable outcomes for our clients. We leverage our extensive knowledge and experience to build strong cases that maximize your compensation.
  3. Expert Negotiation Skills: Dealing with insurance companies can be intimidating, but our Sacramento bicycle accident lawyers are skilled negotiators. We advocate for your rights and work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

By choosing Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys, you gain a dedicated partner committed to maximizing your compensation. Let us handle the complexities of your case while you focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the justice you deserve.

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Contact Our Sacramento Bicycle Accident Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, Arnold Law Firm Accident & Injury Attorneys is your trusted choice for legal representation in Sacramento. Our team of experienced Sacramento bicycle accident lawyers is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of your case and secure the compensation you deserve. With a proven track record of success and a commitment to our clients, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Don’t face the aftermath of your accident alone. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your situation and learn how we can assist you in achieving a favorable outcome. Your path to justice starts here!

LATEST NEWS

Treble Damages in California Trucking Cases

justice4you January 30, 2026

California law provides a specific statutory remedy for victims injured by impaired commercial vehicle drivers when their employers fail to meet federal safety requirements. Understanding when treble damages apply—and how they differ from standard punitive damages—is crucial for truck accident victims seeking maximum compensation. What Are Treble Damages? Treble damages allow injured parties to recover three times their actual damages under specific legal circumstances. In California trucking cases, this remedy is narrowly defined and differs significantly from general punitive damages available in other personal injury cases. California Civil Code § 3333.7: Statutory Treble Damages Requirements for Recovery Under California Civil Code § 3333.7, injured parties may recover treble damages from a commercial motor vehicle driver’s employer when all of the

California Trucking Accidents: Standards of Care

justice4you January 29, 2026

California law establishes different standards of care for trucking operations depending on the type of service provided. While most commercial trucking companies transporting freight are subject to ordinary negligence standards, federal motor carrier safety regulations impose enhanced duties that can significantly affect liability in truck accident cases. Key Takeaways: Commercial carriers of goods generally DO NOT have the duty of “utmost care” Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) DO create heightened standards in specific situations Large truck drivers must exercise greater caution than ordinary motorists Licensed motor carriers have nondelegable safety duties Common Carrier Standard: When Does “Utmost Care” Apply? The Enhanced Duty for Passenger Transportation California Civil Code section 2100 requires carriers of persons for reward to use “the

Punitive Damages in California Personal Injury Cases

justice4you January 28, 2026

What Are Punitive Damages? Punitive damages are extra money a court can order a wrongdoer to pay, on top of the money that compensates an injured person for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The main goal of punitive damages is not to repay the victim, but to punish especially bad behavior and to discourage similar conduct in the future. Think of punitive damages as a financial penalty for conduct that is much worse than ordinary carelessness. In California, punitive damages are not common. They are reserved for cases where the defendant’s conduct is particularly harmful, intentional, or shows a conscious disregard for the safety or rights of others. Most personal injury cases involve simple negligence (for example,

Settlement - $3,900,000

Car Accident

The fatal collision between plaintiff’s Jeep Liberty and defendant’s Volvo truck left Ryan Eisenbrandt’s surviving wife and parents with a judgment of $3.9 million, but the defendant’s insurance company refused to pay. This resulted in a second, intense legal battle between Plaintiffs and Defendant’s insurance company.

During the pendency of the wrongful death case, Defendant’s insurance company had filed a federal court action to rescind the defendants $1,000,000 insurance policy, claiming that defendant had made misrepresentations when applying for that policy. Initially, the federal court agreed with the insurance company, granting summary judgment that effectively denied recovery to the Eisenbrandts given the defendant was otherwise insolvent. The Arnold firm and the Eisenbrandts refused to accept this unfair outcome. They appealed the federal judge’s ruling to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The Ninth Circuit reversed the lower court and sent the case back to the same federal judge for a trial on the merits.

Christine Doyle of the Arnold Firm tried the case in February 2011 in front of the same judge who had previously thrown out the Eisenbrandt’s case. A unanimous advisory jury and the trial judge, after hearing the true facts about the insurance company’s effort to avoid responsibility, found in the Eisenbrandts favor. After four years of fighting for what is right, the insurance company was ordered to pay up.

Settlement - $8,000,000

Truck Accident

Morgan Stanley Class Action Data Breach Settlement Attained by the Arnold Law Firm

Late one spring afternoon, the Arnold Law Firm received a call from Angela, a young mother of three. She was calling from the hospital where her husband Christopher had been air-lifted for treatment of severe injuries from a tragic motor vehicle accident earlier that day. Angela’s mother, a past client of our firm, had encouraged her to give us a call.

As it turns out, Angela’s prompt contact with us was a very important decision for their family. Immediate representation allowed our team to secure critical evidence right away — appropriate storage and analysis of the vehicle to avoid tampering, timely professional photography of the scene, and interviews of involved parties — which ended up being imperative to the details of Christopher’s case.

A commercial vehicle had failed to stop at a rural stop-sign intersection, colliding with the compact sedan driven by Christopher, an active 33-year-old father. The impact caused extensive damage to his spinal cord in the cervical area. Despite multiple surgeries, rehabilitation programs for physical and psychological therapy, and in-home care, his injuries rendered him a paraplegic, paralyzed from the mid-chest. In an instant, life as he had known it was gone forever.

At the time of the accident, the at-fault driver of the commercial vehicle was acting within the scope of his employment with a large corporation. With the employer being directly liable, as such, defense counsel fought hard to minimize Christopher’s damages, claiming that his being unemployed at that time devalued his losses. Our legal team made sure Christopher’s true losses were represented, including his potential income, his options and mobility, his ability to provide for and support his family, and the lifetime of care he now needed. Christopher’s injuries also dramatically affected his spouse’s daily life, resulting in a claim on her behalf.

Furthermore, the extent of Christopher’s injuries were, in part, due to defects involving the dual-restraint system in his own vehicle. Despite the manufacturer’s efforts to deny any responsibility, the Arnold Law Firm established negligence relevant to his case.

The result was a settlement of $8 million — the largest pre-trial settlement for this type of case in the region. Christopher now has the resources to receive the ongoing care he now requires, improve the quality of his life and take care of his young family.

Verdict - $10,200,000

Motorcycle Accident

The Arnold Law Firm is pleased to report that our attorneys received a $10.2 million verdict handed down in Modesto. Defense counsel was Kevin Cholakian of San Francisco. The defense rejected a 998 within the $1 million policy limits three years ago. The highest defense offer was $350k.

The case involved a blind corner dirt fire road collision between a truck driven by the defendant and a motorcycle driven by the plaintiff Dan Nixon. THe plaintiff had no recollection of the collision. The defendant claimed that the plaintiff had too much speed for the corner and lost control. The plaintiff’s son (who identified the wrong curve in discovery) claimed that the defendant was on the wrong side of the curve, causing his dad to make an unsuccessful emergency maneuver. The jury assessed 70% fault to the defendant and 30% to plaintiff.

The plaintiff, now 50-years-old, suffered a dislocated right knee with popliteal artery rupture which has left him with an unstable knee, and permanently damaged lower leg. Because of vascular damage he is not a candidate for knee reconstruction or replacement. The plaintiff’s treating doctors testified that he will require an above knee amputation within 20 years. Past lost wages were $78,000 and past medicals were $570,000. The jury awarded $7.5 million in general damages (3 m. past and 4.5 m. future) as well as all future economic damages asked for by the plaintiff. The jury deliberated for 3 and a half hours.

Settlement - $17,000,000

Data Breach

Infinity/Kemper Class Action Data Breach Settlement Attained by the Arnold Law Firm

The Arnold Law Firm, along with co-counsel at Morgan & Morgan, and Mason, Lietz, & Klinger, and Wolf, Haldenstein, Adler, Freeman, & Herz LLP, reached a settlement in the Kemper and Infinity data breach class action lawsuit, also known as Irma Carrera et al. v. Kemper Corporation and Infinity Insurance Company, filed in the United States District Court Northern District of Illinois, Case No. 1:20-cv-01883. The settlement is valued at over $17 million.

The Honorable Judge Martha M. Pacold granted Preliminary Approval of the settlement on October 27, 2021.

In addition to substantial injunctive relief, the class members will receive access to Aura’s Financial Shield Services for a period of 18 months, up to $10,000 for reimbursement of documented out-of-pocket losses reasonably traceable to the Data Breach, up to 3 hours of time spent remedying issues related to the breach at $18 per hour, and $50 for Class Members who are California residents.

History of the data breach: On April 8, 2021, the Arnold Law Firm and Wolf, Haldenstein, Adler, Freeman, & Herz LLP filed the first class action complaint against Kemper and Infinity in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois entitled Irma Carrera Aguallo et al. v. Kemper Corporation and Infinity Insurance Company, Case No. 1:21-cv-01883. The complaint asserted claims against Defendants for: (1) negligence; (2) negligence per se, (3) violation of California’s Unfair Competition Law, Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200, et seq. – Unlawful Business Practices, (4) violation of California’s Unfair Competition Law, Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200, et seq. – Unfair Business Practices, (5) violation of the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”), Cal. Civ. Code § 1798.100, et seq., (6) violation of California’s Consumers Legal Remedies Act, Cal. Civ. Code § 1750, et seq., (7) violation of Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act, Florida Statute § 501.201, et seq., (8) breach of implied contract, (9) declaratory judgment, and (10) unjust enrichment arising from the data breach.

Settlement - $18,276,000

Qui Tam / Whistleblower

Whistleblowers Represented by Arnold Law Firm Expose Fraudulent Practices by the Pill Club, Case Settled With California DOJ

The Arnold Law Firm and the Hirst Law Group represented two whistleblowers who helped expose fraudulent practices by a start-up online pharmacy company called The Pill Club.

The company allegedly used fraudulent practices to bill California’s Medicaid program, Medi-Cal, for their services. The Pill Club is also alleged to have violated state laws by allowing nurse practitioners to prescribe contraceptive products to women without proper supervision or training from a licensed medical doctor.

For their part in blowing the whistle on the company they worked for, and as part of California Qui Tam laws, the whistleblowers and their attorneys recovered $4.9 million from the $18.275 million settlement paid to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the California Department of Insurance (CDI).

Settlement - $60,000,000

Data Breach

Morgan Stanley Class Action Data Breach Settlement Attained by the Arnold Law Firm

The Arnold Law Firm, along with co-counsel at Morgan & Morgan, Nussbaum Law Group, P.C. and others, reached a settlement in the Morgan Stanley data breach class action lawsuit, also known as In re Morgan Stanley Data Security Litigation, filed in the United States District Court Southern District of New York, Case No. 1:20-cv-05914-AT. The settlement resulted in a $60 million settlement fund to benefit class members.

The Motion for Preliminary Approval was filed on December 31, 2021 with the Honorable Judge Analisa Torres.

In addition to substantial injunctive relief, the 15 million class members will be provided access to Aura’s Financial Shield services for at least two years, which includes a $1 million insurance policy protecting each subscriber, credit monitoring, identity freezing, dark web monitoring, income tax protection and more services. The fund will also provide payments to people who submit valid claims for out-of-pocket expenses and/or up to four hours of lost-time incurred as a result of the data breach. Lost time allows victims of the data breach to be paid at $25 per hour for up to four hours of attested time spent dealing with the data breach. Out-of-pocket expenses can be claimed up to $10,000 if the costs or expenditures are fairly traceable to the data breach.

History of the data breach: On July 29, 2020, the Arnold Law Firm and Morgan & Morgan filed the first class action lawsuit against Morgan Stanley in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York entitled Sylvia Tillman et al. v. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, LLC., Case No. 1:20-cv-05914. The complaint asserted claims against Defendants for: (1) negligence; (2) invasion of privacy; (3) negligence per se; (4) unjust enrichment; (5) violation of the California Unfair Competition Law, Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200, et seq. – Unlawful Business Practices; and (6) violation of California’s Unfair Competition Law, Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200, et seq. – Unfair Business Practices.

Settlement - $3,767,000

Truck Accident

A 20-year-old man who had been married for just 12 days left home on his way to work. He was driving on Pleasant Grove Road in Sutter County in the early morning when he came upon a slow-moving truck. As he pulled out to pass the truck, the truck driver turned left in front of him. The young man attempted to steer back into his lane but his vehicle struck an un-flagged piece of metal extending from the back of the truck. He died in the resulting crash.

Expert witnesses brought in by the Arnold Law Firm proved that the truck, owned and operated by a hauling firm, should never have been on the highway that morning. Specifically, the rear and side turn signals did not work and the rear-view mirror was in a poor state of adjustment at the time of the collision. As a result, the driver, who had failed to properly inspect the vehicle before setting out that morning, couldn’t see the young man’s vehicle as it attempted to pass.

The poor condition of the truck, its lack of maintenance and the manner in which it was operated were found to be substantial factors in causing the collision that killed the young man. The testimony also established that the man had been making a lawful pass at the lawful speed limit and acted reasonably when he attempted to avoid the collision.

The man’s 20-year-old widow was awarded $3,767,000.77, his parents were awarded $185,131 and the family was reimbursed $11,899 in funeral expenses. Though money is a poor substitute for a young man’s life, this verdict demonstrates that drivers who endanger the lives of others will be held accountable for their actions.