Truck Accident Attorneys
Each year, 5,000 people die in accidents caused by large trucks. In the event of a crash it's crucial to find truck accident lawyers that understand the various elements involved.
An attorney must immediately submit a claim to the insurance company of the driver and with the company that operates and owns the truck. This is done so as to maximize the insurance coverage available.
Liability
Although trucks comprise only 4 percent of the vehicles on the road yet they are involved more than five percent of all vehicle accidents. Most of those accidents cause catastrophic injuries with victims suffering permanent and life-altering disabilities. The financial burden associated with these injuries can be enormous and the victims and their families have to seek damages to live a life of dignity. Unfortunately trucking firms and their insurance companies will leave no stone unturned in an attempt to minimize the amount of compensation that a victim is entitled to. You need a seasoned strong and experienced semi truck accident lawyer to confront insurance companies and their lawyers. John Hensley and his team have the experience, knowledge and the strength to make a difference in your case.
A semi-truck, also referred to as a tractor-trailer or an 18-wheeler is a large commercial vehicle made up of an engine (tractor unit) and an detachable trailer which carries cargo. These trucks are susceptible, due to their weight and size to serious accidents if they are driven in reckless manners. Truck accidents are usually caused by distracted drivers, speeding and the inability to spot blind spots when changing lanes or turning. Another reason for truck accidents is the improper loading of cargo, which can cause shifting and swaying that could lead to the truck rolling over.
In addition to the driver, other parties may share the blame in an accident involving a truck. This includes the company that is responsible for the driver or the company the driver is responsible for hauling goods or the person who is responsible for setting up the load. It can be difficult to prove the fault when there are several insurance companies involved, because each will try to limit their own liability.
In some cases, the local government agency may also be liable for accidents that occur on its property. If, for example a road that was not maintained or a poorly designed layout caused an accident, then the county board may be responsible for the victim's damages. This kind of claim is based on the concept of vicarious liability which holds the supervisory party accountable for the actions of an employee while acting within the scope of their duties.
Damages
The emotional and physical trauma that can result from a motor vehicle accident could be severe. The results of a collision involving semi-trucks are more severe than other types of accidents. These vehicles can cause serious injuries and damage property. This can lead to a significant financial burden. A semi truck accident lawyer can help determine the full extent of your losses and pursue the appropriate compensation.
Although it's generally an excellent idea to consult an injury attorney after any kind of accident this is especially important for cases involving large-sized trucks. In addition to the general laws that govern personal injury and traffic, there are special regulations for commercial trucks. They can impact how a accident occurs, who is accountable, and what types of damages that could be awarded. A lawyer can ensure that you are aware of the regulations and ensure that the parties responsible are held accountable.
When a truck collision occurs, it is not uncommon for there to be several parties that could be responsible, including the truck driver and the company they work for, and the company that carried the load. In fontana semi truck accident claim , blame can be attributed to the manufacturer of the truck, or any defective components that led to the accident. A semi truck accident lawyer can provide the evidence necessary to prove that all parties at fault are responsible and to demonstrate that you have a right to fair compensation.
A semi truck accident lawyer who has experience will be able to protect you from common tactics used by insurance firms to deny or reduce your claim. Injured victims are often looking for money in order to pay for medical treatment and other expenses. Insurance companies know this and take advantage of delay as a way to to force you to accept lower than you should.
An attorney can help determine the total amount of present and future damages that you are entitled to, including medical bills as well as lost income, property damage, and suffering and pain. A lawyer can also help you determine the right amount of punitive and compensatory damages to award in your particular case. Compensatory damages are meant to compensate you for your losses, whereas punitive damages are meant to punish the responsible party and deter others from committing similar actions.
Expert Witnesses
As opposed to a typical car crash scenario, truck accidents generally contain a large amount of specific information regarding industry regulations including truck mechanics, the long-term medical and economic consequences of the accident. A semi-truck crash lawyer must have access to the best experts who can fill in gaps in knowledge and provide evidence that could be vital to a client's case.
The specialists in accident reconstruction are among the most valuable experts that a semi-truck accident lawyer could call upon. They are skilled and can assess the scene of an accident, examine both the truck and the vehicle involved in it, determine the cause of the crash, and explain their findings in a manner that is clear and comprehendable. They are often a crucial component of any successful lawsuit because they can help the jury understand how the crash occurred, and who might be accountable for it.
Expert witnesses can also determine the damage that is applicable and the value. For instance, a life care planner can be hired to demonstrate the impact a serious accident could have on a victim's ability to work, their medical needs for the remainder of their lives and any other long-term repercussions. An economist may also be able to calculate the loss of earnings damages which is a major element of any compensation award.
Forensic toxicologists as well as experts in the field of recognition of alcohol and drugs are also essential in a successful claim. These types of experts could aid in drawing a clear line between intoxication and the accident, particularly in cases where the trucker may have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the collision. A metallurgist can be an expert witness. They can test metal components of the truck involved in the crash to determine if they loaded with too much.
In certain instances an attorney representing an New York semi truck accident will employ an expert who will investigate the trucking business and how it operates. This is essential, particularly in the case of a trucker who worked for a large trucking firm and was subject to the same standards as other drivers were not. A qualified expert can review the safety procedures of the trucking firm, hiring practices, and any other information which could aid in determining fault.
Time Limits
When a truck collision occurs, evidence is often lost or destroyed. It is crucial to contact a semi-truck accident attorney as quickly as possible. Our attorneys will conduct an extensive investigation to determine who's accountable for your injuries. We'll work with accident reconstruction specialists along with medical professionals and financial analysts to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
The most common reason for truck accidents is driver carelessness. This can include driving distracted or under the influence or reckless driving. The trucking company that owns and operates the truck could be at fault for accidents in the event they fail to comply with safety regulations or hire unqualified drivers.
A vehicle that is not maintained properly is another reason for the possibility of a crash with a truck. Failure to examine or repair the brakes, tires or other components of a truck can cause a dangerous accident. It is vital that your lawyer for truck accidents understands the maintenance requirements of large trucks to investigate any safety issues.
Another reason for a car accident is a poorly loaded trailer or cargo. A poorly loaded truck can cause the truck or trailer to jackknife when it's not properly loaded. This is a serious hazard that can cause serious or fatal injuries to other motorists who are driving.
Inattention of other drivers could also cause truck accidents. They may cut off the driver of the truck or merge into the wrong lanes. These actions could cause the truck driver to veer from the road, causing it to be in collision with other vehicles or pedestrians.
A head-on collision between two vehicles, a truck and a vehicle is among the most deadly kinds of truck accidents. The front of the car is typically the one to take the brunt, leading to serious injuries and sometimes even death. These accidents occur when a truck driver is asleep, or is swerving to avoid another vehicle or is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Trucks may also cause accidents by spilling hazardous materials. These accidents can cause environmental harm and health hazards to people who come into contact with the chemicals.