Semi Truck Accident Law
If you get into an accident with a semi truck the consequences can be devastating. Truck drivers, trucking companies such as third-party brokers or manufacturers, as well as trucking companies themselves, could be held accountable for your injuries.
You can seek compensation for both economic and non-economic losses such as medical expenses and lost wages. A knowledgeable NYC compensation lawyer can assist you in getting the compensation you deserve.
Seek help from the police
A truck crash isn't something to be laughed about. These huge vehicles can weigh up to 30 times more than the average passenger car, and they can cause devastating collisions that can leave victims with serious injuries and extensive damage. Unfortunately every 16 seconds, a truck accident occurs in the United States, and these crashes have been blamed for thousands of deaths and hundreds of thousands of injuries.
While truck drivers are expected to obey traffic laws and be safe but their duties are usually stressful and can cause them to be exhausted and distracted. This can result in impulsive decisions at the wheel, and it only takes a split second for a driver who is not paying attention to fall asleep or lose control of their vehicle. The consequences of these mistakes could be disastrous, and they often leave families struggling to cope with the consequences.
It is crucial that when an accident with a truck occurs authorities investigate the crash scene and record all relevant details. The name of the driver, his company where they work and the trucking company that owns the vehicle are all vital. It is essential to collect contact information, including names and numbers, from witnesses. This information will be invaluable when it comes time to file a suit.
Semi trucks are also equipped with "black box" devices that can provide important information in the case of an accident. These devices collect a huge amount of information about the truck's speed and brake usage, among other data that could prove useful in determining the cause of an accident. Our NYC truck accident attorneys are well-versed in the technology and know how to access and analyze the data to develop a strong case for our clients.
In riverside semi truck accident lawyer to the trucker's negligence and the possibility that the city or governing body in which the accident took place could be liable for a crash. For instance, if the road was not properly maintained or obstructed by signs or signs, it could be an excuse to file a claim against the city. Our lawyers can identify who is responsible and make them accountable for any injuries resulting from negligence.
Collect evidence
One of the main components of a successful truck crash claim is to prove that someone else was owed an obligation of care and negligently breached the duty, causing your crash. A successful negligence claim will result in a settlement for all economic and noneconomic losses you've suffered, including medical bills, lost income property damage or injury, and emotional anxiety.
To establish your case you'll need evidence that can establish each of the elements of negligence. Take photos and videos of the scene of the accident. These can include the car damage, tire tracks, the crash site and the weather conditions. You may also want to document your injuries. Also, collect the contact details of any witnesses to your case so that your attorney can later contact them to record their witness testimony and declarations.
The logbooks of trucking companies and other documents that record the time of work as well as cargo loads and maintenance activities are also crucial. These records can be helpful in establishing a driver's drug or fatigue use as it is a major cause of truck accidents. Federal regulations require trucking companies to retain these documents. Your lawyer can get the documents by submitting a formal request if they don't want to do so by choice.
A third type of important evidence is the truck inspection report, which can be used to prove that the trucking company could have taken shortcuts in order to save money. In addition, these cuts could have resulted in a unsafe or defective truck. Your lawyer may also attempt to get black box information, other high-tech devices, and any information you have regarding the driver's history, including prior traffic convictions. Your lawyer can also obtain copies of your medical records as well as receipts for any prescriptions or treatments you've received, scans, tests results, and other records relevant to your case. All of this evidence is essential in proving your case for damages. Without it, you have no way to receive the amount you are due.
Employ an attorney
You may be entitled compensation if you or family members have suffered serious injuries from a truck accident. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate the legal process of filing a lawsuit in order to claim damages for the at-fault party's negligent actions. They can also negotiate with insurance companies and make the necessary arrangements to negotiate an equitable settlement.
A reputable attorney can collect and analyze the most important evidence from an accident. This includes medical records, police reports as well as witness statements. They can also research other factors that may have contributed to the accident such as weather or road conditions. They can also look into the status of the truck driver and the company he works for, as well as any certificates of training.
Due to their weight and size, truck accidents can be more complicated than accidents that involve two cars. In addition, there are a variety of different people who could be responsible for the incident which include truck drivers, trucking companies and even truck manufacturers.
To maximize the chances of receiving compensation, it is essential to find a lawyer who is familiar with the trucking industry as well as regulations. Additionally, they must be prepared to defend the rights of their clients against large corporations and their teams of lawyers.
It is essential to select an attorney who can communicate with you and keep you updated about the progress of your case. They must be able to respond to all of your questions, and meet with you face-to–face when necessary. If they don't reply to your emails or calls promptly, it's an indication that they are not trustworthy and you should stay clear of them.
The best method to determine whether or the attorney you choose is suitable for you is to inquire about their experience in handling trucking cases. They should be able provide you with details about their success rates as well as previous cases. They should also be able to explain their fees upfront and whether they are inclusive of additional costs, such expert witnesses or reconstruction services.
Anyone who has lost loved ones in a crash involving a truck may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. Under EPTL SS5-4.1 survivors can seek reimbursement for funeral expenses and loss of companionship. In addition, they can receive financial compensation to pay for their medical bills and lost income.
Negotiate with your Insurance Company
The costs start to mount quickly after a semi-truck accident, and the injured victim is often put under pressure to find the funds required. A smart insurance firm will be aware this and could leverage your situation to its advantage, providing low-cost options that will not cover the entire cost of your injuries.
A seasoned truck crash lawyer at your side will safeguard you from this type of manipulation. An attorney can help negotiate a settlement with the liable party or insurance companies that will be involved in your case. He will also be able to take phone calls from insurance representatives and ensure that you are not misled or exploited.
Your attorney will begin the negotiation process by delivering an insurance company a demand letter detailing your losses and ask for a specific amount of compensation for each. The process could involve a back and forth between the two parties because it is typical for there to be disagreements about certain sections or parts of your claim.
It is important to recognize that your medical bills and other economic damages will probably take a long time to settle, especially the more serious your injuries are. It is essential to collaborate with your hospital and doctor to establish payment arrangements that allow you to continue receiving treatment while you wait for an equitable settlement.
An experienced lawyer will be able to help you determine the cause of the accident, whether it was caused by a jackknife, an unloading issue, or another issue. Additionally, he will be able to determine if the driver of the truck was negligent, or if other parties were involved in the accident.
There are many different entities that could be accountable for your injuries including the trucking company and their drivers as well as the truck manufacturer, third party shippers, and even product manufacturers. Employing a knowledgeable lawyer will enable you to find all potential defendants and seek maximum compensation from them.