Truck accidents can result in serious injuries and extensive property damage, leaving you with medical bills and emotional distress. One moment on the road can affect your life in many ways for a long time. If you or a loved one has been in a truck accident, you are likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next.
That's where a truck accident lawyer can help. With their experience in this area of law, they can guide you through the legal process, assessing and protecting your rights to compensation under the law. Truck accident attorneys can benefit your case in many valuable ways, so it is always worth it to consult a law firm about a possible case.
Contact an experienced truck accident lawyer near you today to discuss your situation, learn your legal options, and find out how they can help in a stressful time.
Why You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents are common on the roads of the United States. According to the most recent data, over 536,000 truck-related accidents were reported in the country in one recent year alone. Many of these accidents had severe consequences, often resulting in catastrophic injuries and even death.
The aftermath of a truck accident claim can be extremely challenging. Unlike regular car accidents, truck accident claims are more complex due to the multiple parties involved, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and potentially even the truck's manufacturer.
It can be difficult for a victim to deal with the legal system and these various parties on their own. That's where a truck accident lawyer comes in. A truck accident lawyer builds strong cases proving the rights of truck accident victims, taking all the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on your physical recovery.
Lawyers can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent their clients in court if necessary. Hiring a truck accident lawyer can often make a significant difference in the outcome of your case and the amount of compensation you receive.
When to Consult a Truck Accident Attorney
Certain indicators suggest it may be time to consult a truck accident lawyer.
If you answer "yes" to any of the following questions, seek legal representation:
- Do you have injuries? Truck accidents can result in severe injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. If you have sustained any injuries in the accident, consult a truck accident lawyer to ensure you receive the appropriate compensation for your losses. Remember, even seemingly minor injuries can result in costly losses that should be compensated.
- Do you blame the truck driver or trucking company? If you believe that the truck driver's or trucking company's negligence or wrongdoing caused the accident, you should consult a truck accident lawyer. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case to prove liability.
- Did you incur any financial losses? Truck accidents can result in significant financial losses, including medical bills, property damage, and lost income. If you have suffered financial losses due to the accident, a truck accident lawyer can seek the compensation you deserve.
- Has an insurance company contacted you? Insurance companies may reach out to accident victims soon after the incident. It is important to remember that insurance companies are not on your side. They aim to minimize their liability and pay out as little as possible. Consulting a truck accident lawyer can protect you during interactions with insurance companies.
- Has an adjuster requested medical records or a recorded statement? Insurance adjusters may request access to your medical records or ask you to provide a recorded statement regarding the accident. A good practice is to consult a lawyer before releasing any information to ensure that your rights are protected and that you do not say or do anything that can harm your case.
- Did an insurer make a quick settlement offer? Insurance companies may try to offer you a quick settlement soon after the accident. These settlement offers are often far less than what you may be entitled to. A truck accident lawyer can determine your claim's true value and negotiate a fair settlement.
- Did the trucking company offer to settle the matter privately without insurance? Some trucking companies may try to settle the matter privately without involving insurance companies. It can indicate they are trying to avoid liability and pay as little as possible.
In any of these situations, meet with a lawyer immediately. Even if you are unsure, consultations are free, and the attorney will advise whether you need their services.
What Causes Truck Accidents?
To begin with, piloting an 18-wheeler or semi-truck is already a difficult job, which can become dangerous with certain factors. Truck accidents are usually catastrophic, and a large truck requires a stopping distance much longer than a car.
These are the typical reasons behind truck accidents:
- Fatigue
- Impaired Driving
- Distracted Driving
- Reckless Driving
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance
- Badly Loaded Cargo
- Road Conditions
- Inclement Weather
- Negligent Working Conditions
- Poor Driver Training
- Defective Machinery
Common Injuries Sustained in Truck Accidents
Truck accidents can result in many catastrophic injuries. Due to the size and weight of trucks, the injuries sustained in these accidents are often more severe than in regular car accidents. Here are some common injuries that truck accident victims may experience:
Broken Bones
The force of impact in a truck accident can cause severe fractures and breaks in the bones. Some broken bones require multiple surgeries and years of recovery time.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Truck accidents can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis. This type of condition will completely change the course of a victim’s life.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
The head trauma caused by a truck accident can lead to traumatic brain injuries, which can have long-term effects on cognitive function. TBIs are often misunderstood and underestimated injuries, as they can have devastating effects on a victim’s life.
Internal Organ Damage
The impact of a truck accident can cause damage to internal organs, leading to internal bleeding and other serious and life-threatening complications. These injuries often require emergency trauma care, immediate surgeries, and hospitalization.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Whiplash, strains, and sprains are common soft tissue injuries that can result from a truck accident. Never underestimate the pain and limitations a soft tissue injury can cause.
Recovering from these injuries can be a lengthy and expensive process. Many truck accident victims require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, and may even experience long-term or permanent disability.
Lost future earnings can also add to the financial burden. A truck accident lawyer can do everything possible to ensure you receive the proper compensation to cover these expenses.
Why Hiring a Lawyer is Necessary
Hiring a truck accident lawyer is necessary for several reasons.
First and foremost, truck accident claims are complicated due to their multi-party nature. In addition to the truck driver, you can hold the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, and even the cargo-loading company liable. A truck accident lawyer has the experience and knowledge to hold these parties accountable.
Furthermore, insurance companies are notorious for trying to minimize their liability and pay out as little as possible. They have adjusters and lawyers whose job is to protect their interests.
By hiring a truck accident lawyer, you level the playing field. Your lawyer will represent your best interests, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Also, a truck accident lawyer understands the long-term impact of truck accidents on victims' lives. They will seek damages not only for immediate medical expenses and property damage, but also for long-term treatment and subsequent pain and suffering.
Insurance companies often dismiss the long-term effects of injuries, but a truck accident lawyer will ensure you seek fair compensation for your future needs.
Who Is Liable After a Truck Accident?
After a truck accident, multiple parties may be held liable for your injuries and damages.
These parties can include:
- The truck driver: If the truck driver was negligent or reckless in their actions, they can be held personally responsible for the accident. The driver’s employer may be liable if the employer was working excessive hours of service.
- The trucking company: The trucking company may be held liable if they failed to properly maintain the truck, provide adequate training to the driver, or enforce safety regulations.
- The truck manufacturer: If a defect in the truck or its components contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be held responsible.
- The cargo-loading company: If the accident was caused by improperly loaded or secured cargo, the company responsible for loading the truck may be liable.
Consult a truck accident lawyer to determine all potentially responsible parties and ensure your case is filed against the appropriate entities. They will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case to prove liability.
What to Do After a Truck Accident?
After a truck accident, to protect your rights and ensure that you have a strong case:
Seek Medical Attention
Make your health and well-being your top priority. Even if you do not have visible injuries, get a thorough medical evaluation after a truck accident. Some injuries may have delayed symptoms, and prompt medical intervention can prevent further complications.
Report The Incident
Contact the police and file an accident report. This will create an official record of the incident, which you need later in the case.
Consult a Truck Accident Lawyer
Contact a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can guide you through the legal process, advise on your options, build a strong case, and fight for fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
A Truck Accident Attorney Will Bring Peace of Mind
After a truck accident, you need to focus on your recovery and healing, not chasing down claim settlements. Hiring a truck accident attorney can bring you peace of mind during this challenging time.
A truck accident attorney will handle all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies, to representing you in court if necessary. They will present a persuasive claim to ensure you receive every dollar you need to cover your injuries and damages. This allows you to focus on your physical and emotional well-being while leaving the legal matters in capable hands.
Taking on a truck accident claim is fraught with challenges. The process can be lengthy, and truck insurance companies will often try to avoid paying out a fair settlement. Additionally, some injuries may not fully manifest until later, and you may require ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.
A truck accident attorney will understand the true value of your claim based on the long-term impact of the accident, and will fight to ensure that you receive the compensation you need for your future needs.
Call a Truck Accident Lawyer Today
After a truck accident, consult a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. They have the knowledge, experience, and resources to successfully handle truck accident claims, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Don't let insurance companies take advantage of you. Contact an experienced truck accident lawyer near you today to discuss your case and find out how they can help you through this difficult time. Remember, most truck accident lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case.
Don't let the fear of financial burden prevent you from seeking the legal representation you deserve. Contact a truck accident lawyer today and take the first step toward getting the compensation you need and deserve.
Steve Fields
Founder | CEO | Principal | Attorney
Steve Fields founded Fields Law in 2001 and quickly established a reputation with his Personal Injury clients for being a lawyer who truly cares. After more than 20 years, those clients continue to refer their friends and family whenever they have been injured or become disabled.
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