A large truck accident can take away many things from you – but a truck company won’t take away your rights.
When a large truck collides with your vehicle, the consequences can be devastating – from brain injuries, to burns, spinal cord injuries, to scars and amputations. Or worse. Your injuries could result in years of expensive rehabilitation, leaving you unable to provide for your family. An estimated 10% of people injured in large truck collision are killed.
With 35 years of experience, I have the skills to investigate and document the scene of an accident, including interviewing witnesses, taking photographs, and gathering evidence about the truck driver and the trucking company. I will work tirelessly to recover the compensation you deserve, ensuring your rights are preserved, and you and your family receive every benefit you are owed.
If you or a loved one has been injured or worse in a truck accident, here are answers to questions you may have.
Contact me as soon as possible to discuss your legal options. There is a statute of limitations in place, meaning you have only have a certain amount of time to file a claim for a trucking accident. Also, the sooner I can gather the evidence needed to build a truck accident lawsuit, the better. Insurance companies usually try to settle as quickly as possible, and often won’t fully cover costs for your injuries. I will gather the necessary information, including accident reports, driver’s log, truck maintenance records and accident-related costs. My goal is simple – to make sure you receive the maximum amount of compensation you deserve.
A “large” truck is one weighing 10,000 lbs., and many weigh 80,000 lbs. The size and weight of a commercial truck can inflict devastating property damage and personal injuries. Trucking accidents are often caused by:
Strict regulations are in place to ensure that truck drivers get adequate amounts of restful sleep. Failing to log these hours or take rest time is against federal safety regulations, and puts everyone in danger on the road.
Commercial trucks are more difficult to operate than a regular motor vehicle. For example, it takes longer for a truck to slow down or brake. A commercial truck driver should maintain a proper distance between vehicles to prevent accidents from happening.
Each truck company must take every precaution to provide safety on the road, from training drivers, keeping updated records of vehicle repair, and following changes in safety guidelines. When an accident occurs, both the driver and truck company can be held liable for damages.
Truck drivers are directly accountable for the accidents they cause. However, the company the driver works for is also responsible. The company the shipment is being delivered to, or the company that loaded the truck may also be responsible. Trucking companies must properly inspect and maintain their vehicles. The driver and truck company are also responsible for ensuring that logbooks are updated and protocols are being followed.
Focus on your health and recovery. That’s the most important thing. Because medical costs can add up quickly, hiring an attorney early is critical. I can help you get the compensation you need from the insurance company to cover expenses. Payment for damages include:
The costs associated with a trucking accident can last for weeks, months or even years afterwards. I will make sure that you are eligible for all compensation, and will fight for what you deserve.
Without an attorney, an insurance company may pay only a minimal settlement. This will not even begin to cover the cost of your injuries. I will fight for a favorable verdict and fair settlement offer. Because there is a statute of limitations in place, you only have a certain amount of time to file a claim. It’s best to speak to me early. Together, we will review your options, and I will begin building your case.
Whether it’s a trucking company or your insurance provider, the opponent’s priority is to pay you as little as possible. Please don’t speak to an insurance adjuster or record a statement before consulting an attorney first. A quick response is critical, so don’t wait.
If you have been injured in a car accident, don’t put yourself or your family’s future at risk. To schedule a free consultation, please contact me.