Trucking Accident Resources
Commercial truck accidents can cause serious injuries and property damage. The primary reason for this is that they simply weigh so much more and are so much larger than the average vehicle.
Accidents that involve big trucks often have multiple defendants. With any traffic injury claim, there is a certain standard of legal liability that must be met. Cases involving trucks need special attention and are different from the average motor vehicle accident injury claim.
Different licensing requirements and safety standards exist for commercial truck drivers. For example, CUI regulations for commercial drivers set the legal blood-alcohol concentration limit at 0.04 percent. This is half the legal limit for drivers of ordinary vehicles.
If you ever receive a motor vehicle accident injury, do not admit guilt or any measure of liability. Do not sign any forms their insurers may bring with the promise of a quick settlement. Before you make any decisions, research the trucking company and talk with a truck accident injury attorney.
Why Are Truck Accidents Different?
In a truck accident, you may have several people who are at fault for your injury. In the accident that caused your injury, it may be that multiple factors are responsible, including:
- The driver
- The carrier or trucking company
- The cargo loader
- Truck manufacturer
- Truck parts manufacturers
- Government agencies and contractors
With this many potential litigants, it makes sense for you to consider utilizing the services of a personal injury attorney who specializes in truck accidents. They will be accustomed to negotiating on many fronts. This can be to your advantage if you are considering legal damages.
The First Step After an Accident
After an accident, the first step is to seek medical treatment. Not only is this important for your future well-being, it also helps preserve your right to compensation under tort laws.
If you have sustained a traffic accident injury your first step is to seek medical help and follow whatever directions the doctor gives you with regard to follow-up appointments, medications, and therapy.
Resources for Truck Accident Victims
If you have suffered any kind of traffic accident injury, an important rule of thumb is to never sign anything until you’ve discussed your situation with a lawyer. Personal injury attorneys have experience dealing with insurance companies and trucking company attorneys. In addition to a lawyer, other resources are available to you, including:
American Trucking Associations
This group serves as an advocate for the trucking industry, providing research including truck driver and highway safety information.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
This division of the US Department of Transportation is responsible for offering safety programs, regulations, and the prevention of motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities.
Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance
This group, made up of industry representatives and safety officials from various governmental entities, offers research and suggestions to help standardize truck safety measures throughout North America.
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety/Highway Loss Data Institute
The “large trucks” section features fatality statistics, regulatory policies, safety ratings, and related safety information.
Insurance Information Institute
Safety section for highways includes information on insurance and vehicle safety.
Commercial Vehicles (AAA Exchange)
Truck safety education and advocacy organization created by AAA that offers information about the causes of truck accidents as well as safety tips.
Truck Driving Safety Tips (American Family Insurance)
Practical safety tips for commercial truck drivers, covering topics such as distracted driving and the importance of checking and rechecking blind spots.
National Safety Council: Safety on the Road
General information about defensive driving, focusing on the road, and other safety considerations for all motorists.
Commercial Motor Vehicle Traffic Enforcement (NHTSA)
In-depth information about the enforcement of commercial vehicle safety laws and regulations.
The Most Important Resource — A Truck Accident Injury Attorney
Arguably, the most valuable step you can take after being injured in a motor vehicle accident that involves a truck is to speak with a lawyer. No doubt you will have questions about filling out forms and how to speak to your insurance company.
Whatever you do, do not agree to or sign anything without speaking to an attorney who has been hired to look after your interests.
Why Hire an Auto Accident Injury Attorney?
A personal injury attorney can be of great value to you if you have suffered any sort of loss because of a traffic accident that involved a commercial truck. An attorney has experience that can help you in the following ways:
- Investigating your accident
- Taking statements from potential witnesses
- Negotiating with multiple defendants
- Helping to secure maximum compensation
- Representing you at trial if necessary
In any accident involving a commercial truck, there can be multiple defendants. An experienced personal injury attorney will know how to navigate negotiations to make sure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve under the law.
Kinds of Damages Available to Truck Accident Victims
There are some types of damages that are commonly available to motor vehicle accident victims. A personal injury accident lawyer can help ensure your settlement or awarded amount is just, and that you get the money you need to move on from your injuries. Compensation for injuries sustained in an auto accident can cover:
- Current and future accident-related medical expenses
- Lost wages or lost earning potential
- Loss of companionship or consortium
- Expenses for pain and suffering
These damages are available to accident victims to help them heal and move on from their injuries. Taking the first offer from an insurance adjuster may not give you the money you need. Only a personal injury lawyer can assess your case to help you determine what damages might be available to you.
Call a Truck Accident Injury Attorney to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been injured in an accident that involved a commercial truck, you may be entitled to compensation. At TrafficAccidents.com, we help those who have been injured in a motor vehicle accident.
Complete our accident review form now or call us at 919-341-0059. We can connect you with a skilled attorney for a free, no-obligation consultation to review a claim after your truck accident injury.
