Truck Accident Lawyer

You got into an accident with a commercial truck and want to know what you should do next. First, you are very fortunate to have survived a crash with a big truck. Truck collisions come with a high rate of fatalities because of the very size and weight of the trucks. Lawsuits concerning truck accidents can be complex so it is important to enlist the help of personal injury attorneys experienced in truck accidents to help you maneuver through the maze of paperwork and details when dealing with all involved in the accident.

 

Why is a collision with a truck more apt to result in more serious injuries than accidents with another passenger automobile?

 

An average car weighs about 3,000 pounds as opposed to a large, cargo-filled truck which can weigh in over 80,000 pounds. This is the main reason a collision with a truck can often cause extremely serious and often fatal injuries.

 

What is the difference between a truck and a commercial truck?

 

Commercial trucks are typically much bigger and heavier than standard pickup trucks. Some examples of commercial trucks include tankers, large delivery trucks, freight trucks, and 18-wheeler tractor trailers. Larger commercial trucks will require the driver to have a commercial driver’s license in order to drive the vehicle.

 

How do I know who to file charges against for my damages and medical expenses?

 

The party ultimately responsible for compensating you for your damages can be tricky. If the truck driver was an employee of the trucking company, the company can be held responsible or liable for the negligence of their driver. If the driver is a contractor, it gets a little more complicated as the main question asked is what percentage of the driver’s time was spent working for the trucking company and how much supervision was given to contractors by the company.

 

What does driving in the ‘no-zone’ mean?

 

Driving in the ‘no-zone’ means driving in an area either beside or behind the truck where the driver of the truck cannot see you — his blind spots. The areas you need to stay away from are the rear right and left quarter of the truck, and right behind the truck.

 

What kind of damages can I receive for my injuries?

 

The kind of compensation you can receive if you win your personal injury case against the other driver or company, should they be found at fault, may include:

 

• Any medical expenses incurred as a result of the accident
• Wages lost because you had to take time off work for your injuries
• If you are seriously injured and cannot resume your job, you can collect compensation for future wages or earning capacity
• Property damage reimbursement
• Pain and suffering that occurred as a result of the accident

 

Truck accidents unfortunately often have not-so-happy endings. Know your rights as a victim of a truck accident and contact an experienced truck accident lawyer to discuss your specific situation and determine the appropriate next steps.