Due to their sheer size, large commercial trucks like tractor-trailers, big rigs, and eighteen-wheelers are the most dangerous vehicles on our roadways. Trucking accidents are far too common and can have fatal consequences. More than 100,000 people are injured each year in truck crashes and the number of people injured continues to climb. A collision between a motor vehicle and an eighteen-wheeler often results in permanent and catastrophic injury, leaving family and loved ones searching for answers.
The trucking accident attorneys at the Krause & Kinsman Law Firm understand the complexities involved after a truck accident. Commercial truck companies and their insurance companies will usually send representatives to determine the cause of the accident and who is at fault. These representatives are not working for you, and they will try to minimize their driver’s fault by following procedures designed to limit your recovery. After their investigation, the insurance companies will not offer you or your loved ones compensation equivalent to what you are rightfully owed.
Our attorneys will conduct our own investigation and work alongside accident reconstructionists, engineers, and other specialized experts. We will conduct witness interviews, retrieve camera footage if any is available, review accident and police reports, review medical records, and interview medical staff. Our attorneys also investigate the driver and company by investigating driving logs and records including GPS and black box data, maintenance reports, and any potential violations of state and federal law. If you or a loved one have been injured in a truck accident it is likely that neither yours nor the trucking company’s insurance will cover the extent of your injuries. When drivers and commercial trucking companies cut corners you are at risk.
Therefore, you need attorneys who are committed to representing you during negotiations and at trial so you can retrieve the justice and compensation you deserve for the extent of your injuries. Our firm will advance all expenses for your case and protect your rights. We don’t get paid unless you get paid. Call us today for a free consultation.
How do trucking accidents occur?
Occasionally, there may be a defect in the design or manufacturing of a certain part of the truck. More frequently, however, commercial trucking accidents occur as the result of the negligence of the driver or trucking company. As a result of more goods being shipped on our highways, the pressure on drivers and commercial trucking companies to get their loads delivered on time increases every day. Pressure on the driver and company often leads to overlooking or failing to look for simple details. In fact, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 20.13% of vehicles were taken out of service once inspected in 2012 for having too many violations.
Causes of accidents, or signs that there may have been negligence by the driver or company include but are not limited to:
- Alcohol Abuse
- Aggressive Driving
- Distractions – including cell phone use, GPS, radio, passengers, and more.
- Driver Error
- Driver Fatigue
- Drug Abuse
- Failing to carefully check blind spots
- Failing to hire qualified drivers
- Illegal Maneuvering
- Inadequate inspection of safety equipment including breaks, lights, and mirrors
- Improper Loading
- Improper Training
- Improper Vehicle Maintenance
- Lack of Sleep
- Over-the-counter Medication Abuse
- Speeding
- Weather Conditions
- Other Causes
Who can be liable?
In order to determine who may be liable for your accident, you need attorneys who will conduct the proper investigation into the driver and companies involved. Those who may be at fault and liable include the following:
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- Company leasing the truck
- Company leasing the trailer
- Designer of the truck or trailer, or part of
- Driver
- Driver’s Employer
- Manufacturer of the truck or trailer, or part of
- Owner of the truck
- Owner of the leasing company
- Owner of an attached trailer
- Passenger(s)
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident call our offices immediately. The sooner we can begin our investigation the better it is for our clients. Call us for your free case evaluation.
