The trucking industry provides a significant amount transport services across the country. Because of the demand for transportation services, there are more tractor-trailers and big trucks on the roads.
If you have been in an auto accident with a truck, you have most likely suffered significant damages. Your losses include personal injuries, loss of income, and property damage. You can pursue your damages by filing a personal injury claim, but to improve your odds of success must enlist the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer.
Determining Who is At Fault in A Commercial Truck Accident
To ensure you protect your rights, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer who has experience in handling commercial truck accident injury claims. Your personal injury attorney will thoroughly investigate the accident to show any acts of negligence or that the company or its driver was responsible for the crash. There are several causes for these accidents, but the majority of them could have been prevented.
In some states, comparative negligence laws come into play. These laws will let you receive damages even if you are partially at fault for the accident. Your percentage of fault in the crash is determined and your settlement amount is reduced by your amount of responsibility.
Your attorney will reveal what happened to cause the accident and why it happened, which is very important in the settlement process and also might prevent similar crashes in the future.
Examples of Negligent Actions Leading to Truck Accidents:
- Defective Parts - The tractor-trailer has faulty parts or it has not been properly maintained, so it suffers mechanical failure.
- Reckless Driving - Drivers violating traffic laws, speeding, or driving while distracted.
- Shifting Loads - If proper procedures aren't correctly followed when the truck is loaded, the contents might shift during the transport process, causing the truck to crash.
- Driving Under the Influence - Operating the truck while affected by drugs or alcohol.
If you suffered injuries because a driver conducted one of these negligent acts, consult with a personal injury attorney to see if you are eligible to file a personal injury claim to recover your damages.
Documentation Needed After Your Accident
In a negotiation, a large company such as Marten will offer an initial settlement that is lower than you are looking for. It is important to contact an experienced trucking accident lawyer because they will help you gather and review the evidence that you need to prove your claim and get the settlement - or decision - that you deserve. If you are physically able to, there are a couple of steps that you can immediately take to jump start your case:
Take Photographs - Photos are a great way to show exactly how your vehicle was damaged during the crash. Be sure to note specific areas in addition to the obvious dents and scratches. Broken head and taillights as well as deployed airbags can help prove the extent of the damage.
Gather Witness Statements - It can be difficult to gather witness statements, especially if you are on the highway and all the potential witnesses are in cars. However, you should make sure that you gather the contact information of anyone that saw the crash. This can help in determining who was at fault.
Note General Crash Information - Make sure that you have the names and contact information of all parties involved. This includes any passengers and other cars involved in the accident. Also be sure to have the name of the truck driver and the license or number of the truck.
Collisions Involving Large Trucks
If you have suffered catastrophic injuries and extensive damages because of a car accident involving a large truck, you should pursue a personal injury claim. Personal injury claims are complicated and it is extremely challenging to negotiate with the adjuster for the insurance company.
To ensure your rights are protected, enlist the help of an experienced personal injury attorney skilled in handling vehicle accidents. Schedule an initial consultation right away.
*The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Marten Transport, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
