Semi Truck Accident Law
If you get into an accident with a semi-truck the consequences could be devastating. Truck drivers, trucking firms, third-party brokers or manufacturers and trucking companies themselves, could be held accountable for your injuries.
You can seek compensation for economic and non-economic damages such as medical expenses and lost wages. A skilled NYC compensation lawyer can assist you in getting the settlement you deserve.
Seek help from the police
Getting into a truck accident isn't a laughing matter. These massive trucks are capable of causing catastrophic collisions, which can 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 result in hundreds of thousands of injuries.
While truck drivers are required to follow traffic laws and drive in a safe manner Their jobs are typically challenging and can cause them to become tired and distracted. This can lead them to make rash decisions at the wheel, and it only takes just a few seconds for a driver who is not paying attention to be asleep or lose control of their vehicle. The consequences of such mistakes can be catastrophic and leave families struggling with the aftermath.
When a truck accident occurs it is imperative that authorities investigate the scene of the crash and record all of the relevant details. The name of the driver, the business where he or she works, and the trucking firm that owns the vehicle are all crucial. It is important to obtain contact information, such as names and telephone 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 event of an accident. These devices can capture the details of the truck, including speed, brakes used and other data that may be useful in determining the person responsible for an accident. Our NYC truck accident lawyers are knowledgeable about the technology and know how to access and analyze the data to make a convincing case for our clients.
In addition to the trucker's negligence, it is possible that the governing body of the city in which the accident took place may be responsible for a crash. If the road was not maintained in a timely manner or there were obstructed signs on the road, it could be a cause for a claim. Our attorneys can determine who is responsible and hold them accountable for the harm caused by their negligence.
Collect Evidence
A successful truck accident claim will prove that someone else was in breach of their duty to care in a negligent manner, causing the accident. A successful negligence claim can result in the payment of all economic and non-economic damages you've endured, including medical bills, lost income property damage and pain and suffering and emotional anxiety.
To establish your case you'll need evidence that can establish each of the elements of negligence. While you're at the scene of your accident, snap pictures and videos of the vehicle damage including tire marks, the accident site as well as road and weather conditions including your injuries, and any other information you can think of that might help in supporting your case. Also, obtain the contact information of any witnesses so that your lawyer can later contact them to record their witness testimony and statements.
The logbooks of the trucking firms and other documents detailing the hours worked by the driver, cargo loads and maintenance tasks are also vital. These records can be helpful in establishing the driver's use of drugs or fatigue, which is a common reason for truck accidents. Federal regulations require trucking companies to retain these records. Lawyers can request the documents by submitting an official request if they do not want to provide them voluntarily.
A third type of important evidence is the truck inspection report that could be used to prove that the trucking business may have cut corners in order to save money, and that these shortcuts could have resulted in a dangerously unsafe or defective truck. Your lawyer may also attempt to obtain information from the black box as well as other high-tech devices and any information that you have about the driver's past, such as previous traffic convictions. Your lawyer will also be able obtain copies of any medical records, receipts from medications or treatments you've received or received, scans, the results of tests and other records that pertain to your case. All of this evidence will be essential in proving your case for damages. You will not be able to receive the amount of compensation you are entitled to without it.
Employ an attorney
If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries in a truck accident and you are a victim, you could be entitled to compensation. A lawyer with experience can guide you in the legal process of filing a lawsuit seeking damages incurred by the negligent actions of the driver at fault. They can also negotiate with insurance companies and follow the steps to negotiate a settlement.
A reputable lawyer can collect and analyze crucial evidence from the accident. This includes police reports, medical records as well as witness statements. They may also investigate other factors that may have contributed to the accident such as weather conditions or road conditions. They can also investigate the status of the truck driver's job and company, as well as any training certifications.
Truck accidents are typically more complex than crashes involving two vehicles due to the size and weight of these vehicles. There are numerous individuals who could be responsible in the incident, including truck drivers, trucking firms as well as truck manufacturers.
It is important to employ an attorney who is familiarized with the trucking regulations and the industry. This will maximize your chances of getting compensation. In addition, they must be prepared to defend the rights of their clients against large corporations and their teams of lawyers.
It is also important to hire a lawyer who is willing to communicate and keeps you informed on the progress of your case. They should be able to answer all of your questions and be able to meet face-to-face when needed. If they don't reply to your messages or calls promptly, it's an indication that they are not trustworthy and you should stay clear of them.
The best way to determine whether or an attorney is the right one for you is to inquire about their experience handling trucking cases. They are likely to be able you with examples of previous cases and specifics about their success rate. They should also provide their fees upfront and whether they cover any additional expenses, such as expert witnesses or accident reconstruction services.
Anyone who has lost loved ones in a truck crash may be eligible to file a wrongful-death claim. Under EPTL SS5-4.1 survivors can seek compensation to cover funeral costs and the loss of companionship. In addition, they can receive monetary compensation to cover medical expenses and loss of income.
Make a deal with your Insurance Company
The bills begin to pile up quickly after a semi-truck accident, and the injured victim is often put under pressure to get the funds needed. Insurance companies will profit from your dire situation and make low-ball offers to cover only a portion of your medical expenses.
A lawyer for a truck accident will guard you against this kind of manipulative. An attorney can help negotiate an agreement with the responsible party or insurance companies involved in your case. He will also be able to take phone calls from insurance representatives and ensure that you're not misled or swindled.
Your lawyer will begin the negotiation process by sending a demand letter to your insurance company. It will describe your losses and demand the amount you will receive for each one. This may require a back and forth between the two parties as it is normal for there to be some disagreements over certain sections or elements of your claim.
It is important to recognize that your medical bills and other financial damage will likely take an extended time to settle, especially the more serious your injuries are. This is why it's crucial to cooperate with your doctor and hospital to set up payment arrangements that allow you to receive medical treatment and still be able to wait for an equitable settlement.
A reliable lawyer can assist you in determining if your accident was caused by a the jackknife, or a loss in load. He will be able to determine whether your accident was the result of the truck driver's negligence or if there were other parties involved.
There are west jordan semi truck accident attorney of different entities that could be responsible for your injuries, including the trucking company, their drivers as well as the truck manufacturer third party shippers, as well as product manufacturers. Working with an experienced lawyer can help you find all potential defendants and seek maximum compensation from them.