Why You Need a Semi Truck Accident Attorney
If you or someone close to you was injured in a crash caused by a commercial truck you might need to employ an attorney who handles semi truck accidents. These accidents are unique and you'll need someone who is knowledgeable of the laws and regulations that apply to commercial trucks.
There are many parties that are liable in the event of an accident with a truck, such as the driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer, and many more. A competent lawyer will be able to navigate all of these areas, and will ensure you get the compensation that you are entitled to.
1. Human error
Truck accidents are usually caused by human error. In fact, 87 percent of accidents involving trucks involve some type of error. This is an issue because the majority of people are unaware of the various factors which go into getting a big rig or 18-wheeler on the road, and keeping it safe.
Drivers of trucks who work long hours and don't get enough rest could also cause fatal accidents. Data shows that 30 percent of all truck accident fatalities are caused by driver fatigue.
As a result, it is crucial for truckers to follow federal and state rules regarding how long they can drive in one day, and how much sleep they need before they can drive again. This prevents accidents from occurring in the first place and also ensures safety for other drivers.
Human error is a thorny issue that can involve many individuals and different situations. It is difficult to determine who was at fault for an accident and what are liable for your injuries. It requires the help of an experienced and knowledgeable large truck crash lawyer to look into the causes of a crash in order to figure out who may have legal responsibility for paying damages in cash.
2. Defective equipment
Large machinery and industrial equipment can be susceptible to many issues, such as malfunctioning safety devices as well as defective parts. Injuries from defective equipment which can result in death or life-altering consequences for employees and others.
The equipment that is defective can damage a company's reputation and cause financial losses. A defective ladder can cause injuries and falls as well as electrical equipment may have a defective insulation that could result in burns or electrocution.
Furthermore, problems with the parts of the trailer and truck can pose danger to other drivers. For instance an inoperable brake system may make it difficult for truck drivers to steer the vehicle.
This can cause a number of truck accidents, including rear-end collisions and collisions other vehicles. Brakes can fail due to manufacturing issues or lack of maintenance from the mechanic.
In some instances the manufacturer could be held accountable for defective equipment. If a defect in a piece of equipment is the reason of an accident, a semi-truck accident attorney may seek compensation from the manufacturer.
3. Long hours
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates the number of hours that truckers are allowed work during the week. These limits are designed to avoid fatigue, which can lead to many accidents.
Many truck drivers don't adhere to the rules. In a bid to reach their company's mileage goals they push themselves well beyond these limits. This can lead to erratic driving habits and an increase in accidents risk.
Long commutes and a lack of sleep could lead to long hours, as well as a diminished capability to complete tasks in time. All of these factors can lead to burnout and stress, which can have a huge impact on your ability your job at a high standard.
Despite the risks of working long hours, it's important to remember that you deserve an honest shake. The best way to protect yourself is by hiring an experienced attorney for semi truck accidents.
A good lawyer can help you make an insurance claim, recover damages or prove negligence on behalf of the parties responsible. A competent lawyer will take the time to review your case to determine the best course of action to get the amount you are due.
4. Negligence
Negligence is defined as any act that breaches a person's duty of care for the public. It is the reason for the majority of personal injury lawsuits. This duty of care could include hiring and training safe drivers as well as testing them for drug use and alcohol consumption, and maintaining the trucks in a safe manner.
Distracted driving - Truck drivers frequently perform multiple tasks while on the roads, which can cause accidents. It is essential to adhere to all laws regarding distracted driving.
Equipment failure - In a few cases, a defect in the truck or trailer itself could be the cause of an accident. It is possible to file a product liability claim against the manufacturer of the truck, trailer or other components which caused the accident.
Cargo loaders - Companies that load trucks also have the responsibility to ensure that the cargo is secured and balanced. Unbalanced or loose cargo may cause a truck driver to lose control and could cause an accident.
An experienced semi truck crash attorney is recommended if or a loved is injured in a truck crash. They are familiar with these types of cases and will help determine if negligence is the reason for your injuries.
5. Defective design
A qualified attorney should review the maintenance records of the semi-truck as well as the manufacturer's records to determine the root of an accident. A seasoned Louisiana truck accident lawyer will use these data to identify possible design defects that can be used as evidence in an action against the manufacturer.
The law of product liability states that a company can be held liable for defective products if there are reasonable and foreseeable risks of injury. To prove a claim for design defects plaintiffs must demonstrate that a safer product was available at time of injury and that a safer alternative would have prevented the injury without impacting the utility of the product.
McCartney Stucky LLC's founders have a wealth of experience handling cases involving crashworthiness of heavy trucks and are able to help you seek compensation for your injuries. If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed in an accident caused by a defective truck, contact our team as soon as possible.
6. fort smith truck accident attorneys is vital in the trucking industry to ensure freight and drivers are secure. Incorrect maintenance could lead to tire blowouts, brake malfunctions and other hazards. Incorrect maintenance can cause serious truck accidents that result in injuries or even death.
Large trucks are often involved in accidents due to poor maintenance. The majority of these accidents can be avoided.
Companies can enhance their performance and reduce the risk of failure by planning maintenance. These include implementing proper safety procedures, regularly checking equipment and performing regular maintenance.
The process of creating a comprehensive maintenance plan isn't easy, however it can also help save money and avoid future accidents. In fact, the cost of preventative maintenance can typically be less than paying for repairs after an accident.
If you have been injured due to a company's defective maintenance of a commercial or residential property, the team at Leav & Steinberg LLP can help you find the solution to your case. Contact us for more information about our services. Our legal experts at our firm have vast experience in premises liability and will strive to maximize your compensation.
7. Injuries
The size and weight can result in severe injury or death if it is struck by a car. These accidents can result in the deaths of both the truck driver as well as the passengers.
There are a myriad of injuries that could be sustained from semi truck accidents However, the most common ones are broken bones , as well as other traumatic damage. You can sustain minor fractures or even severe Amputations.
Amputations can cause nerve damage, permanent nerve damage, and even infection. They can also be painful and difficult to treat.
Semitruck accidents can cause severe injuries such as spinal cord injuries. A spinal cord injury can cause victims to suffer physical and cognitive impairments that could affect their lives for a long time to come.
Neck and head injuries are also commonplace in semi truck accidents. These injuries can be caused either by the impact of a crash or flying objects hitting the victim's neck or head. Based on the nature of the crash, these injuries can cause whiplash or a brain injury.