No one likes to think about what could happen if they or their family members are seriously injured, or worse, killed in a motor vehicle accident. However, auto accidents happen. Lives can be torn apart by the personal and financial losses associated with a collision. If you are in a collision with a truck, your injuries and property damage could be even worse that in an accident with a smaller, lighter vehicle.
Amidst the stress, pain and grief often associated with an accident, victims are left wondering where to turn to get help in paying the mounting costs of doctor’s visits, hospital stays, rehabilitation and even funeral expenses. If you have been in an accident with a truck, there is legal help available to you.
Could a Trucking Company Be Liable For Your Collision?
The simple answer is yes, they could be held liable for your accident. Specifically, the company could be found at fault if one of its drivers was negligent in the operation his or her truck or if Estes mechanics were careless in routine maintenance of the truck, perhaps resulting in failures of the truck’s brakes, engine or steering system. If Estes employees allowed the truck to hit the road with known mechanical or other safety issues, the company could be at fault in an accident.
Trucking company negligence may not be limited to human error, either. For example, Estes could be held liable if an accident was caused by a runaway trailer or sliding freight that causes damage to others on the highway. If you can prove in court that Estes’ negligence contributed to your accident, you could be compensated for your injuries.
Preparing Your Personal Injury Claim
If you have been in an accident involving a truck and believe you have a personal injury claim against the company, there are a few steps to take to help ensure success:
- First, take detailed notes as soon as possible after the accident. Record everything you and other witnesses can recall about the vehicles involved, the time of day, the weather and road conditions and, if available, the health and state of mind of all drivers involved.
- Provide as many details as possible about any and all injuries, no matter how minor, that result from the accident.
- Collect information on all hospital and doctor visits, medical bills and lost work time and wages.
- If possible, obtain statements from your doctors stating the extent of your injuries and tying those injuries to the accident.
- Take photographs of the accident scene, as well as pictures of the road and/or intersection in which the accident occurred. You should also take pictures of any damage to all vehicles involved and any property damaged in the area of the accident, such as road signs, guardrails, sidewalks and pavement.
If you feel you do have a personal injury claim against a trucking company, do not hesitate to contact a lawyer. An experienced personal injury lawyer will be the most important weapon you have in your battle for proper compensation for injuries and loss arising from an accident.
*The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Estes Express Lines, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
