Big rigs, delivery trucks, and other commercial vehicles are some of the most potentially dangerous vehicles on the road. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks mean that smaller passenger cars stand little chance in truck accidents, raising the risk of death and catastrophic injuries. The aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming for victims and their families, but a trusted truck accident lawyer can help. The Legal Helpers can connect you with a qualified truck accident lawyer who will listen to you and discuss the next steps to take in order to secure maximum compensation for your injuries and other losses. This legal matching service to help you find a lawyer is provided free of charge.
Unfortunately, many victims of truck accidents do not survive their injuries. If you’ve lost a loved one in this type of crash, you can contact a truck accident attorney to discuss filing a wrongful death lawsuit. Even when victims survive, they are often left dealing with catastrophic injuries, which may cause permanent complications or disfigurement. Some of the catastrophic injuries that may result from a trucking accident can include the following:
The most important thing to do following a truck accident is to seek medical help immediately. Call 911 and get to a hospital, even if you aren’t sure whether you or other victims are seriously injured. It’s entirely possible to have serious internal injuries without realizing it right away since the adrenaline from the crash can mask pain and other symptoms. However, if you’re able to do so while waiting for the emergency responders, you can begin gathering evidence that your lawyer can use to secure compensation for you. In addition to exchanging information with the truck driver, you can do the following:
When you talk to the truck driver, be careful never to say anything that could be interpreted as an apology. Avoid saying “I’m sorry,” for instance, as the truck driver’s lawyer might try to use this to pin the blame for the crash on you.
The catastrophic injuries that can occur in a truck accident can lead to significant medical bills and ongoing care expenses, particularly if the crash caused a permanent disability. A trusted truck accident attorney may be able to help victims secure compensation for the following:
Your truck accident attorney will carefully review the evidence to determine which party was likely at fault for the crash. The truck driver might be at fault for violating traffic laws or Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Other parties that might be at fault may include the following:
Truck accident law can be complicated, but a trusted attorney can guide you through the legal system. Depending on the specific details of the crash, you may have the basis to file a lawsuit against the truck driver, the trucking company, the truck part manufacturer, or another party. As the party filing the lawsuit, you are referred to as the plaintiff. The individual or organization you’re suing is the defendant. There can be multiple defendants in one lawsuit.
During the early stages of the lawsuit, your truck accident attorney may engage in settlement negotiations with the defendant. A settlement is an agreement between the plaintiff and defendant. The plaintiff agrees to drop the lawsuit in exchange for the defendant’s payment of an agreed-upon sum of money. Rest assured that you are not obligated to accept the settlement, and your lawyer cannot accept it for you. Only you can make that decision. If you decide not to accept a settlement, the case will go to trial. Your truck accident lawyer will be a strong advocate on your behalf to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Truck accidents can cause catastrophic injuries that can turn your life upside down. During this difficult time, it’s helpful to receive legal guidance from a qualified truck accident lawyer. A lawyer can evaluate your case and explain your legal rights and options. If you decide to move forward with a lawsuit, an attorney can negotiate a settlement on your behalf or provide you with a voice in court. Don’t be silenced by major truck companies. Speak up for your legal rights today.