Trucking Accident Lawsuits: How to Get the Compensation You Deserve
Trucking accidents are responsible for some of the most catastrophic accidents on the road. A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, whereas, the average car typically weighs only 3,000 pounds. When these two vehicles collide, it is likely that serious damage and injury will occur. This being said, semi truck accidents involving normal passenger vehicles have a higher fatality rate than just normal passenger vehicle accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a semi truck, there is a chance that you could be eligible for significant compensation. Navigating the legal process in these situations can be very complex, that is why it is important to seek out the right personal injury attorney to assure you get the right compensation for your injuries.
Why Trucking Accident Cases Are Different
Truck Accident Lawsuits can be very different than regular car accidents, here's why:
- Multiple Parties can be held liable - The truck driver, company, maintenance contractors, and even the people who loaded the cargo onto the truck could be held responsible for the accident.
- Stricter Regulations - Both federal and state laws regulate and govern trucking operations. Violations of these rules can strengthen your case.
- Bigger Insurance Policies - Commercial trucking insurance policies tend to have higher limits, but this means that insurance companies will fight even harder to minimize what they payout.
Don't fight the battle alone, hire an attorney to help you with a tailor made strategy to help claim what you are entitled to.
Steps to Take After a Trucking Accident
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Nothing is more important than your health. Although your injuries might seem small at first, a lot of the time they can take a few days and even weeks to start showing symptoms.
2. Call Law Enforcement
Police reports are vital for you case, helping establish liability.
3. Gather Evidence at The Scene
If it is possible, take pictures, get contact information from any witnesses, and note anything that might be relevant about the truck or the truck driver.
4. Avoid Talking to the Trucking Company's Insurance Adjusters
The insurance adjusters have one goal - reduce your claim. They will try everything to get you to admit fault or share any liability. Let your lawyer handle any communication with the insurance adjuster.
5. Contact a Truck Accident Attorney
The sooner you get a lawyer involved, the better your chances of building a strong claim and defense will be.
How a Truck Accident Attorney Will Help
A truck accident attorney will:
- Investigate the accident further using expert resources
- Obtain crucial evidence such as driver logs, black box data, and the trucks maintenance records
- Identify all liable parties in the accident to maximize payout
- Negotiate on your behalf with the insurance companies
- Take your case to trial (if necessary)
Bottom Line
Trucking accident lawsuits require a detailed investigation, precise actions, and both and understanding of personal injury law and the federal and state trucking regulations. With JDB Law advocating on your behalf, we will fight for the compensation that you and your loved ones deserve.
Contact JDB Law Firm today for a free consultation if you have been injured in an trucking accident.
We will protect your rights and help you get justice.
