Answered: Your Most Burning Questions About Truck Accident Lawsuits

HERE ARE 4 COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT TRUCK ACCIDENT CASES

1. Why are truck accidents different from other motor vehicle accidents? 

Tractor-trailer accidents are much more likely to result in severe, permanent injuries and death compared to other auto accidents. This is due to their massive size and weight, which results in a more forceful collision. 

Another danger involved with trucking is the pressure drivers are under to make deliveries, resulting in long hours and fatigue. Semi-trucks will often be heavily loaded, and if not appropriately secured, a dangerous accident can occur. 

Because of these added dangers, the trucking industry is regulated by federal and state laws that protect others’ lives and safety on the road. 

These additional regulations make filing a lawsuit complex and challenging to handle without the help of an experienced truck accident attorney. 

2. What are some common causes of truck accidents? 

Large vehicles such as big rigs and 18-wheelers are made differently than regular passenger vehicles. Commercial trucks are much more difficult to operate; therefore, they present a greater risk for complications and defective parts. 

Some of the most common reasons for a trucking accident include: 

• Driver Error: There are countless reasons a truck driver could cause an accident, such as speeding, using a cell phone, drinking and driving, fatigue, and distracted driving. 
• Truck Equipment Failure: This includes malfunctions in design and manufacturing. Some of the most common defects are on tires and brakes.
• Weather Conditions: Because big rigs are so tall and heavy, wet or icy road situations can cause hazardous driving conditions. The average braking distance needed is often heavily restricted, requiring truck drivers to have an increased reaction time. Unfortunately, drivers do not always take these factors into account when operating a truck.
• Improper Loading: When a truck’s load is not equally disseminated throughout the entire trailer, the uneven load can potentially cause the truck to malfunction, causing a wreck.

3. What Type of Compensation am I Entitled To?

The severity of the injuries and damages suffered will make a big difference when receiving compensation. 

Generally, an injured person may be able to receive compensation for: 

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Lost future earnings
• Personal property damage
• Pain and suffering 

If the victim loses their life in a truck accident, the family can file a wrongful death claim if the accident was caused by negligence. 

Our personal injury attorneys are experienced in helping truck accident victims receive the maximum amount of compensation they deserve. 

4. Why do I need to hire a truck accident attorney? 

When you become the victim of a truck crash, it is important to seek help from an experienced attorney. Your attorney will launch an investigation into the accident, gather all necessary evidence, complete paperwork promptly, and interview any potential witnesses. 

It is up to your attorney to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf for a fair settlement. They will be prepared to take your case to trial if negotiations with the insurance company are unsuccessful.