If you are involved in an accident with a commercial truck, proving fault can be tricky. Commercial trucks are often operated by large companies with teams of lawyers ready to defend their drivers. To ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve, it is important to understand how to prove fault in these types of accidents. The following steps will help you build a strong case and win your claim.
Seeking A Reputable Attorney
After being involved in an accident with a commercial truck, the first step should be to seek out a reputable attorney. A good lawyer will have experience dealing with these types of cases and will know how to navigate the complex legal landscape. They will also be able to quickly assess your case and determine if you have a strong claim.
Do not try to go up against the trucking company on your own, as you will likely be outnumbered and outgunned. Because of this, a trained truck accident lawyer will be your best asset in these situations. For example, if the truck driver was fatigued at the time of the accident, your attorney will be able to obtain the truck’s black box data to prove this.
Determining Fault
Many factors go into determining who is at fault in a truck accident. One of the first things your attorney will look at is the police report. This document can provide valuable insight into what happened and who was at fault. Your lawyer will also speak to eyewitnesses and review any available video footage to get a clear picture of what occurred. In some cases, multiple parties may be found at fault for an accident.
For example, if a truck driver was speeding and ran a red light, but the victim also failed to yield, both parties may be held liable. Determining fault can be complicated, so it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side. Additionally, if the truck driver was working for a company at the time of the accident, that company may also be held liable. This is known as vicarious liability and it can be complex to prove. Your attorney will need to show that the company knew or should have known about the driver’s dangerous habits to hold them responsible.
Compensation
If you are involved in an accident with a commercial truck, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. These are designed to punish the at-fault party and deter future accidents through compensation from the company or an insurance company. If you have been involved in an accident with a commercial truck, do not hesitate to contact an experienced attorney who can help you get the compensation you deserve.
- For example, if the accident was caused by the truck driver’s negligence, you may be able to recover damages from the trucking company. If the accident was caused by a defective part on the truck, you may be able to recover damages from the manufacturer of that part. An experienced attorney will know how to investigate your case and build a strong compensation claim. Contact an attorney today to learn more about your legal rights and options after an accident with a commercial truck.
Types Of Accidents
Many different types of accidents can occur involving commercial trucks. The most common type of accident is a rear-end collision. This happens when the truck driver fails to brake in time and crashes into the back of the vehicle in front of them. These accidents can often be caused by speeding or tailgating. Head-on collisions are another type of accident that can occur, and these are usually much more serious. Side-impact collisions, rollovers, and jackknifes are also relatively common. No matter what type of accident you have been involved in, an experienced attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.
- Rear-End Collision: These accidents are among the most common, and also some of the most serious. Often, a rear-end collision is caused by the driver in front stopping suddenly and the driver behind not having enough time to stop. The driver behind is almost always at fault in these accidents. If you’ve been in a rear-end collision, it’s important to get the contact information of any witnesses as well as take photos of the damage to both vehicles.
- Head-On Collision: These accidents are often very serious, and can even be fatal. Head-on collisions are almost always the fault of the driver who crossed into oncoming traffic. If you’re in a head-on collision, it’s important to get the contact information of any witnesses as well as take photos of the damage to both vehicles.
- Side-Impact Collision: These accidents are also known as T-bone collisions, and they can be very serious. Side-impact collisions are usually caused by one driver running a red light or stop sign and hitting another vehicle that’s passing through the intersection. If you’re in a side-impact collision, it’s important to get the contact information of any witnesses as well as take photos of the damage to both vehicles.
How To Avoid An Accident
Of course, the best way to deal with an accident is to avoid one altogether. There are some things you can do to help reduce your risk of being involved in an accident with a commercial truck. First, always use caution when driving near a truck. They are much larger than passenger vehicles and they have blind spots in which you may not be visible. Additionally, give trucks plenty of space when passing and do not cut them off.
Remember, it takes trucks longer to stop than it does passenger vehicles, so give them time to brake. If a truck is tailgating you, do not hesitate to pull over and let them pass. And finally, always obey the posted speed limits and use caution in adverse weather conditions.
Accidents involving commercial trucks are often very serious, and can even be fatal. If you’ve been involved in an accident with a commercial truck, it’s important to get the contact information of any witnesses as well as take photos of the damage to both vehicles. Following these tips can help you avoid an accident with a commercial truck, but if you do find yourself involved in one, be sure to contact an experienced attorney who can help you get the compensation you deserve.
