Semi Truck Accident Law
Accidents involving semi-trucks can cause devastating injuries. Truck drivers, trucking companies, third-party brokers or manufacturers, as well as trucking companies themselves, could all be held accountable for injuries.
You can claim compensation for your non-economic as well as economic injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering and pain. A NYC compensation lawyer can assist you in obtaining the compensation you're entitled to.
Get help from the police
A truck crash isn't something to be laughed about. These huge vehicles are capable of devastating collisions that could result in serious injuries or damage that is significant. Every 16 seconds, there is an accident involving a truck in the United States. These crashes cause hundreds of thousands of injuries.
Truck drivers are required to follow traffic laws, but their work can be very demanding and lead them to become exhausted and distracted. This can result in impulsive choices while driving, and it only takes just a few seconds for an inattentive driver to get sleepy or lose control of their vehicle. The consequences of these errors can be severe, and they often leave families struggling with the consequences.
It is crucial that when there is a crash involving a truck, authorities investigate the crash scene and record all relevant details. This includes the name of the driver, the employer, and the trucking company which owns the truck. It is essential to collect contact details, like names and telephone numbers from witnesses. The information you have will be valuable when it comes time to bring a lawsuit.
Semi trucks are also equipped with "black box" devices which can offer valuable information in the case of an accident. These devices record a vast amount of data about the speed of the truck and brake usage, as well as other data that could prove helpful in determining fault in an accident. Our NYC truck accident lawyers are knowledgeable about this technology and know how to analyze and access the information to build a strong argument for our clients.
It is possible that in addition to the driver's negligence and the city or governing body that caused the accident took place could be held accountable for the accident. If the road was not maintained in a timely manner or there were obstructed signs on the road, this could be grounds for an action. Our lawyers can determine who is responsible and hold them liable for the injuries caused by their negligence.
Collect evidence
One of the key elements of a successful truck crash claim is establishing that someone else was owed the duty of care and negligently breached that obligation, causing your accident. A negligence claim that is successful will result in compensation for your economic and non-economic losses. These include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, emotional distress as well as suffering and pain.
You'll have to prove for each of the elements of negligence to establish your case. While at the scene of your accident, take pictures and videos of the damage to your vehicle and tire marks, the crash site as well as road and weather conditions, your injuries, and anything else you can think of that could help in the case. Also, gather the contact details of any witnesses so that your lawyer can later contact them to record their witness testimony and declarations.
Another type of important evidence is the logbooks of the trucking company as well as other documents that document the driver's hours as well as cargo loads and maintenance activities. These records could be helpful in establishing the driver's drug or fatigue use which is a frequent cause of truck accidents. Federal regulations require trucking companies to keep these records. Lawyers can request the documents by submitting a formal request if they are unable to do so by choice.
Another type of crucial evidence is the inspection report for a truck, which could be used to prove that the trucking firm may have taken shortcuts in order to save money and that these sloppy practices could have resulted in a dangerously unsafe or defective truck. Your lawyer will also try to obtain black box information and other high-tech devices which can aid in the development of your case, and any information you may have regarding the background of the truck driver, including any prior traffic convictions. Your lawyer can also get copies of any medical records, medical receipts, or treatments you've received, scans, results of tests, and other documents relevant to your case. All of this evidence will be crucial in proving your case for damages. You won't be able to claim the amount of compensation you are entitled to without it.
Hire an Attorney
If you or a loved one has suffered severe injuries in the course of a truck crash and you are a victim, you could be entitled to compensation. A lawyer who is knowledgeable can assist you through the legal process of filing a lawsuit seeking damages incurred by the negligent actions of the at-fault driver. They can also bargain with insurance companies, and take the necessary steps to secure a fair settlement.
A professional lawyer with experience can gather and analyze crucial evidence from the accident. This includes police reports, medical records and witness statements. They may also look into other factors that led to the accident, including weather conditions or road conditions. They can also inquire about the status of employment of the driver of the truck and his company, and any training certificates.
Due to their size and weight, truck accidents are more complicated than accidents involving two cars. In addition, there are a variety of different individuals who could be responsible for the incident which include truck drivers, trucking companies, and even truck manufacturers.
It is crucial to choose an attorney who is knowledgeable with the regulations for trucking and industry. This will increase your chances of receiving compensation. They should also be willing to advocate for their clients against large corporations and their legal teams.
It is important to select an attorney who will communicate with you and keep you updated about the progress of your case. They should be able to answer all of your questions, and even meet with you face-to-face whenever necessary. If they don't reply to your emails or calls promptly, it's an indication of danger and you should avoid them.
The best way to determine if or whether an attorney is the right choice for you is to inquire about their experience in handling trucking cases. They will be able to provide examples of cases they have handled in the past and information about their success rate. They should also disclose their fees upfront and whether they include any extra costs, such as expert witnesses or accident reconstruction services.
Anyone who has lost a loved one in a truck crash may be able to file a wrongful death claim. Under EPTL SS5-4.1 survivors are entitled to reimbursement for funeral expenses and the loss of companionship. They can also receive reimbursement for medical expenses and lost wages.
Talk to your Insurance Company
The bills begin to pile up quickly following a semi truck accident, and the victim is often pressured to pay the bills. Insurance companies will profit from your dire situation and offer low-cost solutions to cover only a portion of your medical expenses.
A seasoned truck crash lawyer at your side will protect you from this kind of manipulation. A lawyer can help negotiate a settlement with the liable party or insurance companies that will be involved in your case. Attorneys can also take phone calls from insurance agents and ensure that you're not misled or swindled.
Your lawyer will begin negotiations by sending an insurance company a demand letter detailing your losses and request an exact 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 some disagreements regarding certain sections or aspects of your claim.
It is important to understand that your medical bills and other damages will probably take some time to settle, particularly the more severe your injuries are. This is why it is crucial to work with your doctor and hospital to create payment arrangements that allow you to get treatment but still be in a position to receive a fair settlement.
A reliable lawyer can to determine if your accident was caused by a accident with a jackknife or loss of the load. orem semi truck accident lawsuit will be able determine whether your accident was the result of the negligence of the truck driver, or if there were other parties involved.
You can hold a range of individuals accountable for your injuries. This includes the trucking company and their drivers, as well as the truck manufacturer, third-party shippers, or even the product manufacturer. By working with an experienced attorney, you will be able recognize the potential defendants and seek the maximum amount of compensation from each.