From severe injuries to mounting medical bills and lost wages, the aftermath of a trucking accident can be overwhelming. That’s where a skilled truck accident lawyer comes in. Much like premises liability law holds property owners accountable for maintaining safe environments, truck accident law holds responsible parties liable for injuries resulting from negligence or misconduct. In this article, we’ll explore the critical role that a truck accident lawyer plays in advocating for victims’ rights, navigating complex legal processes and securing fair compensation. Whether you’re facing a commercial trucking giant or struggling to deal with insurance companies, understanding how a truck accident lawyer can assist you is key to protecting your rights and achieving a favorable outcome in your truck accident case.
What is considered a truck accident?
A truck accident refers to any collision involving large commercial trucks such as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers or buses. Accidents involving large and heavy vehicles, especially those potentially carrying hazardous materials, can lead to serious injuries or even loss of life. Common scenarios leading to trucking accident claims include cars being hit by trucks, pedestrians being struck by trucks or buses and accidents involving buses, whether they impact passengers or pedestrians on the street. It’s crucial to address these incidents promptly with a seasoned truck accident attorney to ensure proper handling and resolution. At Friedman & Throop, we handle truck accident cases where individuals have been injured due to the negligence of truck drivers or malfunctions in truck/bus equipment. Our experienced team specializes in representing plaintiffs who have suffered injuries in these types of accidents, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
What are the main causes of truck accidents?
Truck accidents are a sobering reality on our roads, often resulting in devastating consequences for those involved. As legal advocates for those affected by such incidents, we recognize the critical importance of understanding the primary causes behind these crashes. By delving into some of these factors, we aim to shed light on the complexities surrounding these incidents and provide valuable insights for those seeking legal recourse after a truck crash.
- Driver Error: Driver error stands as the most prevalent cause of truck accidents, significantly outweighing other contributing factors. According to a recent study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), driver error is ten times more likely to lead to a crash than any other factor. Various forms of driver error, such as nonperformance (e.g., falling asleep, physical impairment), recognition (e.g., distraction, inadequate observation), decision-making (e.g., driving too fast, misjudging speed), and performance (e.g., panic, poor directional control), collectively contribute to over half of all truck accidents.
- Inadequate Training and Oversight: Insufficient training and supervision of truck drivers can significantly contribute to accidents on the road. Lack of proper guidance in defensive driving techniques, cargo handling and adherence to safety regulations can leave drivers ill-prepared to navigate the challenges of the job safely, increasing the risk of accidents. Often, an organization’s commitment to meeting client delivery deadlines leads to unrealistic schedules, improper loading practices and increased driver fatigue and stress. Additionally, concerns about substance abuse may be overlooked due to the pressure to maintain productivity.
- Equipment Failure: Mechanical failures in trucks, such as brake failure, tire blowouts and transmission issues, can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Failure to properly maintain and inspect truck equipment can lead to catastrophic consequences on the road. Regular maintenance and adherence to safety protocols are essential in preventing equipment-related accidents.
- Poor Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, ice or fog, can pose significant challenges for truck drivers. Reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces increase the likelihood of truck accidents, especially if drivers fail to adjust their driving behavior accordingly.
- Improper Loading and Cargo Securement: Improper loading of cargo or failure to secure it adequately can result in load shifts or cargo spills, leading to loss of control over the vehicle and potential trucking accidents. Truck drivers and cargo handlers must ensure that cargo is loaded evenly and securely to prevent accidents caused by unbalanced loads or shifting cargo.
How can a truck accident lawyer help?
A qualified semi-truck accident lawyer provides crucial support by navigating complex legal regulations, determining negligence, advising on insurance coverage, accessing expert resources and ensuring fair compensation, offering peace of mind throughout the legal process.
- Legal Guidance: A truck accident lawyer can provide you with expert legal advice, clarifying and interpreting state laws, aiding in informed decision-making, and assessing negligence in your case, all while safeguarding your legal rights.
- Investigation: They will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your accident, gathering evidence (e.g. police reports, witness statements, photos and videos, black box data, etc.) to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Truck accident lawyers are adept at negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages as well as pain and suffering incurred from the accident.
- Trial Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your truck accident lawyer will represent you in court, advocating for your rights and seeking the maximum compensation possible.
- Emotional Support: Dealing with the aftermath of a truck crash can be emotionally challenging. A compassionate truck accident attorney can provide you with the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.
- Access to Resources: Truck accident lawyers have access to a network of experts, including accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, who can provide valuable testimony to support your case.
- Peace of Mind: By entrusting your case to a skilled truck accident lawyer, you can focus on your recovery knowing that your legal matters are in capable hands.
Is it worth obtaining a truck accident attorney?
Having a truck accident attorney by your side can make a world of difference as you navigate the legal aftermath of a truck accident. From navigating complex legal procedures to fighting for your rights, their expertise can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. If you or a loved one have been injured in a trucking accident, you need a professional and aggressive attorney to ensure that you are treated fairly and compensated adequately.
The Law Offices of Friedman & Throop specializes in Nevada trucking accident cases and are here to help. Visit our Trucking Accidents page for more information on how our dedicated team can assist you in navigating the complexities of your case. Contact our offices today at 775-322-6500 to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward getting the compensation you deserve.
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