You may have the right to receive financial compensation after suffering a truck accident injury. Getting to that point, however, is rarely easy. While the law doesn’t require you to hire an attorney, legal representation can be crucial in getting a fair settlement. Before you try handling your claim alone, consider the importance of having an experienced commercial vehicle accident attorney on your side.
The Unique Complexities of Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Accidents involving commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks, are often more complex than standard car accidents. The involvement of multiple parties, government regulations, and higher insurance coverage limits can make navigating these cases particularly challenging.
Multiple Parties May Be Liable
Suing the trucking company because its driver caused the accident may not be enough. Dozens of parties may have a hand in manufacturing, maintaining, loading, and operating a commercial vehicle. In this sense, multiple parties may be liable for a single commercial vehicle accident, such as:
- The truck driver
- The company that owns the vehicle
- A contractor who loaded the truck’s cargo
- A maintenance company responsible for vehicle repairs
- The manufacturer of the truck or its parts
Unraveling the web of responsibility is essential to determine who’s at fault in a commercial vehicle accident. This monumental task requires substantial resources and a deep understanding of the trucking industry.
Federal and State Regulations May Apply
The commercial vehicle industry is subject to strict federal and state regulations that don’t apply to passenger vehicles. For example, truck drivers must adhere to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)’s Hours of Service regulations to prevent fatigued driving. The FMCSA also has drug and alcohol testing requirements, vehicle inspection and maintenance requirements, and employee training requirements.
Violating these regulations could make companies liable for resulting accidents. Understanding how these rules apply to your case is key to building a strong legal argument.
The Stakes Are Often Higher
The sheer size of commercial vehicles means accidents often involve more severe injuries. Victims may face greater medical expenses, more missed work, and permanent disabilities. As a result, damages for truck accident cases are generally higher than for other motor vehicle accidents.
Insurance regulations often account for this with higher minimum coverage requirements for commercial vehicles. However, insurance companies don’t want to pay more than they have to. They may fight harder to minimize commercial vehicle accident claims due to their financial stakes.
Benefits of Hiring an Experienced Attorney
You likely have life-altering injuries after a commercial vehicle accident. You want to make sure you get as much compensation as possible without burning yourself out with legal battles. That’s where a commercial vehicle accident attorney comes in.
Experienced accident attorneys understand federal and state laws, industry standards, and liability issues that apply to commercial vehicle accidents. They know how trucking insurance companies operate and can anticipate their tactics. This knowledge forms the basis of a solid legal strategy demonstrating the trucking company’s liability and the extent of your damages.
Strong evidence is necessary to prove liability and damages in a commercial vehicle accident case. The right attorney will have the resources to acquire black box data, driver logs, maintenance records, and expert analyses. They can use this evidence to identify who’s liable for your injuries and calculate your case’s value. They’ll then pursue maximum compensation by negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf.
While your attorney handles these legal details, you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.
The Attorney’s Role Throughout the Legal Process
A commercial vehicle accident attorney does more than handle your case’s administrative and legal tasks. They also serve as your advocate as you navigate possibly one of the most challenging times of your life.
Advocacy for Victims’ Rights
When you work with a commercial vehicle accident attorney, you can rest easy knowing someone is fighting for you. This can make all the difference in your well-being when you’re in a vulnerable state after an accident.
Providing Support and Guidance
You’ll need to make significant decisions about your future after a commercial vehicle accident. Your attorney can help you weigh your options and explain the potential outcomes of each. They’ll get to know you and your specific circumstances so they can help you make the most informed choices.
Your attorney can also connect you with resources that can aid in your recovery. They may refer you to medical specialists who can offer specialized care for your injuries. They can also help you access financial assistance until you receive your compensation.
Choosing The Right Attorney for Your Case
Not just any attorney can effectively handle a truck accident case. Look for an attorney who has the following qualities:
- Commercial Vehicle Accident Experience: The ideal attorney will have significant experience representing victims of commercial vehicle accidents. They’ll understand the major causes of commercial truck accidents and how to investigate them.
- Proven Track Record: Ask your prospective attorney about the results they’ve achieved in similar personal injury claims. The right attorney will have examples of favorable settlements and verdicts.
- Strong Communication Skills: Consider how well the attorney communicates with you during your initial consultation. They should listen attentively and provide clear, honest answers to your questions in language you can understand.
- Empathy: Truck accidents are often major traumas for victims and their families. Choose an attorney who shows compassion for your situation and is sensitive to your needs.
- Affordability: You’ll usually want to avoid working with an attorney who charges out-of-pocket fees. Most commercial vehicle accident attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive compensation. Their fees are a percentage of your final compensation, which makes their services more accessible to victims.
The Value of Legal Representation in Commercial Vehicle Accident Claims
You have enough on your plate after a commercial vehicle accident. Allow Morris & Dewett to take some of the burden off you.
If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident, our experienced car accident lawyers are ready to help you pursue fair compensation. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options and what we can do for you.
