A truck accident may not seem different from a car accident, but from a legal perspective, there are unique considerations. Commercial trucks and trucking companies can be a challenge to work with. If you’ve been in an accident with a commercial truck. If you’ve been in a truck accident, you should consult with a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible so you don’t compromise your rights.
Injuries and property damage resulting from a truck accident tend to be more severe due to the velocity and size of a commercial truck. Quite often, commercial truck drivers have limited visibility due to the specific construction of these vehicles. Lastly, items related to liability are often different in a truck accident, as it takes a longer distance to stop a commercial vehicle as compared to a car or motorcycle.
While the trucking company may have a commercial policy through a company like State Farm or Allstate, they may also “self insure” through their corporate policy. Negotiating with a self-insured defendant often requires a different approach employed by the personal injury attorney. Additionally, the corporation typically views the claim as an expense that is detracting from profits.
The Numbers Are Growing
According to recent truck accident statistics, there are more than half a million commercial truck accidents in the United States every year. These numbers of commercial and non-commercial vehicles on the road each year are increasing, and as a result, the number of accidents increases each year as well.
Getting Fair Compensation
In some truck accident claims, determining fault can present a specific challenge. The weather perhaps played a significant role, or contributory negligence might bar recovery if both parties are at fault. If your personal injury attorney can successfully make the case for liability based on the negligence of the driver or the company’s failure to properly care for the vehicle, you can typically reach a fair settlement with the truck company.
By engaging an injury attorney, not only will you have someone protecting your interests regarding your injuries, but you’ll also be able to move forward with your life while someone else works on the case for you.
Types of Injuries
Every personal injury case is different, but if you’ve been in an accident with a commercial truck, you may have a claim for compensation related to loss of future earning capability, income lost via missed work missed, emotional stress, and other injuries known as “Special Damages.” A personal injury attorney who has experience in this area can help ensure you reach a fair settlement.
A truck accident lawyer who understands the aspects of trucking accidents will examine your case from the unique perspectives presented by these types of accidents. This includes jackknifing, equipment failure, stopping distance, and driver blind spots.
If you’ve been in a truck accident, call us to get your questions answered. We can be reached at 704.749.7747 or you can fill out a request for a phone consultation HERE.