Semi Truck Accident Law
If you are involved in an accident with a semi truck, the results can be devastating. There are a variety of parties that could be responsible for your injuries, such as truck drivers, trucking companies, and third party brokers or manufacturers.
You are entitled to compensation for 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.
Get help from the police
Being involved in a truck collision is not a joke. These huge vehicles can weigh more than 30 times the weight of an automobile for a single person and can be a cause of catastrophic collisions that usually leave victims with serious injuries and significant damage. Sadly, every 16 seconds, a truck crash happens in the United States, and these crashes have been blamed for a multitude of fatalities and hundreds of thousands of injuries.
While truck drivers are expected to obey traffic laws and operate their vehicles safely Their jobs are typically challenging and can cause them to become fatigued and distracted. This can lead to impulsive decisions while driving and it can take a split second for a distracted driver to fall asleep or lose control of their vehicle. The consequences of such mistakes can be catastrophic, and they often leave families struggling with the consequences.
It is vital that if an accident with a truck occurs the authorities investigate the crash scene and record all relevant details. The name of the driver, the name of the company in which he or she works and the trucking company who owns the vehicle all important. It is also important to obtain contact details from witnesses that you can get, including their names and telephone numbers. This information is invaluable when it's time to file a lawsuit.
Furthermore, semi-trucks are equipped with "black boxes" that can provide crucial evidence in the event of a truck accident. These devices record a tremendous amount of information about the speed of the truck and brake usage, as well as other details that could be helpful in determining who is at fault for an accident. Our NYC truck accident lawyers are knowledgeable about this technology and know how to access and analyze this information in order to present a convincing argument for our clients.
It is possible that in addition to the driver's negligence the municipality or governing body in which the accident occurred could be held accountable for the crash. For example, if the roadway was poorly maintained or obstructed by signs and signs, this could be reason to bring a lawsuit against the municipality. Our lawyers will determine who is at fault and hold them liable for injuries caused by their negligence.
Collect Evidence
A successful claim for a truck accident will prove that someone else did not fulfill their duty of care in a negligent manner, causing the accident. A negligence claim that is successful will result in a payout for your economic and non-economic losses. These include medical bills, lost wages emotional distress, property damage, and pain and suffering.
To establish your case you'll need evidence to prove each element of negligence. While at the scene your accident, snap pictures and videos of the damage to your vehicle, tire marks, the site of the crash as well as road and weather conditions, your injuries, and everything else you can think of that could aid in supporting your case. Also, collect the contact information for any eyewitnesses, so your attorney can contact them later to keep their statements and witness testimony.
The logbooks of the trucking companies and other documents detailing the driver's work hours along with cargo loads and maintenance activities are also essential. These records may be useful in establishing a driver's drug or fatigue use which is a frequent reason for truck accidents. Trucking companies are required by federal regulations to keep these documents, and your lawyer can request them by filing a formal discovery request if the company refuses to turn them over voluntarily.
Another type of crucial evidence is the inspection report for a truck, which can be used to demonstrate that the trucking company may have taken shortcuts in order to save money, and that these cuts could have resulted in a dangerously defective or unsafe truck. Your lawyer can also try to obtain information from the black box, other high-tech devices, and any other information you have on the driver's past, including previous traffic violations. Your lawyer can also to obtain copies of medical documents, receipts from medicines or treatments you've received or received, scans, the results of tests and other records that pertain to your case. All of these documents will be essential to prove damages. It is impossible to get the amount you are entitled to without it.
Employ an attorney
If you or someone close to you has suffered serious injuries in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal procedure of filing a lawsuit in order to seek compensation for damages resulting from the at-fault party's negligent actions. They can also bargain with insurance companies, and make the necessary arrangements to obtain a fair settlement.
A trustworthy lawyer can collect and analyze vital evidence gathered from the accident. This includes police reports and medical records. They can also look into other factors that may have caused the accident, such as road conditions or weather conditions. They can also inquire about the status of the truck driver's employment and company, as well any training certificates.
Truck accidents are typically more complicated than crashes involving two passenger cars because of the size and weight of these vehicles. There are numerous individuals who could be at fault for the accident, including truck drivers, trucking companies as well as truck manufacturers.
It is crucial to choose an attorney who is familiarized with the trucking regulations and industry. This will increase your chances of receiving compensation. Additionally, they must be willing to defend the rights of their clients against large corporations and their teams of lawyers.
It is also important to choose a lawyer who is a good communicator and keeps you informed on the progress of your case. They should be able to answer all of your questions and be available to meet face-to-face when needed. If gastonia semi truck accident law firm don't respond to your messages 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 whether an attorney is the right choice for you is to ask about their experience with handling trucking cases. They should be able to provide you with previous case examples as well as details on their success rate. They should also disclose their fees upfront and whether they cover any additional costs, such expert witnesses or accident 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 claim reimbursement for funeral expenses and the loss of companionship. They may also be eligible for compensation for medical bills as well as lost wages.
Discuss your options with your Insurance Company
The bills begin to pile up quickly following a semi truck accident, and the injured victim is often pressured to find the funds required. A smart insurance company will be aware of this and could leverage your situation's urgency to their advantage, offering low-ball offers that do not cover the total cost of your injuries.
A lawyer who handles truck accidents will protect you against this type of manipulation. A lawyer can help you negotiate a settlement with insurance companies or other parties involved in your case. He can also handle any calls made by insurance representatives and ensure you aren't misled or cheated.
Your attorney will begin the negotiation process by sending a demand letter to your insurance company. It will detail all of your losses and ask for an exact amount of compensation for each one. This may require a back and forth between the two parties, because it is typical for there to be disagreements regarding certain sections or aspects of your claim.
It is important to realize that the settlement of your medical bills as well as economic damages could take a long time, particularly when your injuries are serious. It is essential to collaborate with your physician and hospital to create payment plans that allow you to continue receiving treatment while waiting for an appropriate settlement.
A reputable lawyer will be able to help you determine the cause of your accident, whether it was caused by a jackknife, an inability to load, or a different issue. Additionally, he will be able to determine if the driver of the truck was at fault or if other parties shared in your accident.
There are a number of different entities that could be held responsible for your injuries, including the trucking company and their drivers as well as the truck manufacturer, third party shippers, and even product manufacturers. If you work with a knowledgeable attorney, you will be able to identify all potential defendants and seek maximum compensation from each.