Keller Swan Injury Attorneys: Protecting Truck Accident Victims in Multi States across the United States.
Truck accidents are a leading cause of severe injuries and fatalities across various regions in the U.S. Given their size, weight, and the speed they travel, commercial trucks can create life-altering damage when involved in accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, Keller Swan Injury Attorneys is here to help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law and pursue the compensation you deserve.
The Scope and Risks of Truck Accidents in the U.S.
Trucks play a vital role in transporting goods across states and cities, but with high volumes of trucks on the roads come increased risks. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there were over 500,000 truck-involved accidents in the U.S. in recent years, many of which resulted in severe injuries or fatalities.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents happen due to a range of factors, many of which can be attributed to negligence on the part of the driver, the trucking company, or even the manufacturer of the truck or its components. Here are some of the most common causes of truck accidents:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to drowsy driving, which impairs reaction times and decision-making abilities.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Commercial trucks require regular maintenance. Worn-out brakes or tires, faulty steering mechanisms, and neglected engine upkeep can all contribute to deadly accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Distractions like cell phones, GPS, or other devices lead to split-second delays that can be disastrous.
- Excessive Speed: Truck drivers sometimes exceed speed limits to meet tight deadlines, but higher speeds increase both the risk and severity of accidents.
- Improper Cargo Loading: When trucks carry unbalanced or overweight cargo, it can cause the vehicle to tip over, particularly in sharp turns or adverse weather.
A knowledgeable attorney can investigate the cause of your accident to determine which parties are at fault and ensure accountability.
Investigating Truck Accidents and Holding Parties Accountable
Key Steps After a Truck Accident
If you are involved in a truck accident, the following steps can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the evidence you need for your case:
- Seek Medical Attention: Getting prompt medical care is crucial, both for your well-being and for documenting your injuries.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.
- Contact Authorities: A police report will provide an official record of the incident, which can be invaluable when pursuing a claim.
- Collect Contact Information: Obtain details from the truck driver, as well as any witnesses to the accident.
- Consult a Truck Accident Attorney: Working with a lawyer experienced in truck accidents ensures that evidence is preserved and that you have the strongest possible case.
Understanding Liability in Truck Accident Cases
Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, and determining liability can be complicated. Potentially responsible parties include:
- Truck Driver: If the driver was speeding, drowsy, or distracted, they might be personally liable for the accident.
- Trucking Company: Companies are responsible for training drivers, maintaining their vehicles, and ensuring that hours-of-service regulations are followed.
- Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded cargo can lead to accidents, making loading personnel or companies liable.
- Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers: Mechanical failure due to a defect in manufacturing can shift liability to the manufacturer.
High-Profile Truck Accident Cases in the United States (2013-2024)
Several recent cases highlight the devastating consequences of truck accidents and have resulted in significant settlements and increased calls for improved safety standards:
- 2018 New Jersey Limousine Crash: A tractor-trailer collided with a limo carrying students, resulting in multiple fatalities. Investigations revealed driver fatigue, prompting regulatory reviews.
- 2021 Texas Ice Storm Crash: A 100-car pileup involving multiple trucks on a Texas highway led to six fatalities. This incident underscored the risks posed by severe weather conditions combined with speeding and close following distances.
- 2023 Oregon Highway Pileup: A chain reaction involving a semi-truck and several passenger vehicles resulted in millions in damages and multiple fatalities, leading to lawsuits focused on driver negligence and poor visibility.
- 2024 California Freeway Crash: A multi-vehicle accident involving an overloaded truck led to significant legal repercussions for the trucking company and highlighted the dangers of improperly loaded cargo.
Legal Claims and Compensation for Truck Accident Victims
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of truck accidents can pursue several forms of compensation depending on the nature and severity of their injuries:
- Medical Expenses: This includes emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any long-term treatments required due to injuries.
- Lost Wages and Future Earnings: Compensation for time missed from work, as well as diminished earning capacity for those who are unable to return to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life resulting from the accident.
- Property Damage: Covers the repair or replacement of vehicles or other property damaged in the accident.
FAQs: Common Questions About Truck Accident Claims
- What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
After ensuring your safety, document the scene, contact authorities, and seek medical attention. Consult an attorney as soon as possible. - Who is liable for a truck accident?
Liability can extend to the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or vehicle manufacturers, depending on the specific circumstances. - How are truck accident claims different from car accident claims?
Truck accidents often involve federal regulations and multiple liable parties, making them more complex and requiring specialized legal expertise. - Can I sue if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, many states follow comparative negligence laws, allowing you to recover damages even if you are partially responsible, though your compensation may be reduced. - What if the truck driver was employed by a third-party contractor?
In cases where the driver is a contractor, liability may extend to both the driver and the trucking company if they failed to exercise reasonable care in hiring or training. - What if the accident was caused by a mechanical failure?
If the truck malfunctioned due to a manufacturing defect or inadequate maintenance, the truck’s manufacturer or maintenance provider could be held liable. - How long do I have to file a truck accident claim?
The statute of limitations varies by state, but it’s best to act promptly to preserve evidence and ensure your case is filed within the allowed timeframe. - Can I file a claim if I was injured as a pedestrian in a truck accident?
Yes, pedestrians injured by commercial vehicles have a right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. - How is compensation calculated in truck accident cases?
Compensation considers medical costs, lost income, and non-economic damages such as emotional trauma and reduced quality of life. - Do truck accident claims involve federal regulations?
Yes, the FMCSA regulates many aspects of trucking operations, and violations can be pivotal in determining liability.
Why Choose Keller Swan Injury Attorneys for Your Truck Accident Claim?
At Keller Swan Injury Attorneys, we have the experience, resources, and network to handle complex truck accident cases in Multi States across the United States. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of truck accident victims and securing fair compensation.
- Nationwide Representation: We handle cases across multi states and have extensive experience in both state and federal courts.
- Experienced Legal Team: Our attorneys specialize in cases involving commercial trucks and understand the complexities of multi-party liability.
- Results-Driven: We’ve successfully recovered high-value settlements for truck accident victims, helping them rebuild their lives.
Contact Keller Swan Injury Attorneys Today for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to reach out. Keller Swan Injury Attorneys offers a no-obligation consultation to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to begin your journey to justice.
