TRUCK ACCIDENTS - A Specialized Truck Accident Attorney Can Make a Difference.
Historically, oversized trucks account for about 8 percent of the vehicles involved in fatal roadway crashes. Of that 8 percent, a statistically significant 74 percent are tractor-trailer combinations commonly known as big rigs. A collision between an automobile and a substantial truck is more likely to result in death or injury to the occupants of the car than to the truck driver.
There are many causes for truck-involved accidents. Some of the more frequent causes may include:
- Negligence by the trucking company or truck driver
- Truck driver fatigue, inexperience or criminal behavior
- Defective truck equipment or unsuitable truck maintenance
- Dangerous roads or defective highway maintenance
- Unsafe travel in inclement weather
- An overloaded truck or trailer
Thousands of people are injured or killed each year in collisions that involve a large delivery truck versus a car, motorcycle, sports utility vehicle, van or light truck. In most cases, the driver of the smaller vehicle is not at fault. Those injured are entitled to compensation for their injuries, but cases involving trucks are intricate. In big rig lawsuits, issues may involve state and federal trucking regulations as well as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). A specialized truck accident attorney can effectively navigate the complex issues of these rules to the benefit of an injured party.
Some devastating consequences of an accident with a large truck may include:
- The death of a loved one
- A head injury
- A spinal cord injury
- A traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Disfigurement
- The loss of one or more senses or limbs
- Bone damage or internal injuries
- The loss of quality of life
Compensation may be available to injured parties for damages such as:
- Current and ongoing medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of income or future earnings
- Loss of companionship or support
- Punitive damages for defective vehicles or gross negligence
Injuries may not always be readily apparent following a truck-involved accident, and adverse symptoms may develop over time. Delayed action following an accident can limit or even eliminate otherwise pursuable causes of action. Follow these guidelines to protect current or future claims.
- Seek legal advice immediately and follow the attorney’s advice
- Do not sign anything without legal representation
- Seek immediate medical assistance
- Keep records
An injured victim is in danger of waiving all legal rights if he or she disregards the above guidelines.
Opposing parties will seek to minimize claims. Representation by the right truck accident lawyer can protect injured claimants from further harm.
If you have been injured in a truck-involved accident, or a loved one has been lost, use our free evaluation form to learn your rights. Understanding all available recourses that may provide compensation for your loss is only a communication away. Complete our evaluation form below, and a knowledgeable and experienced attorney will contact you. In truck accident cases, time is of the essence. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can help initiate the recovery you deserve.
Keywords: Truck Accident Attorneys | Truck Injury Law Firm | Truck Lawyers | Wrongful Death
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