Being involved in a collision with a commercial truck can be a life-altering event. Due to their size and weight, trucks can cause serious injuries and extensive damage when accidents occur. In the aftermath of such a traumatic experience, it can be overwhelming to navigate the legal and insurance complexities that follow. That’s why hiring a truck accident lawyer is crucial. A specialized attorney can help protect your rights, gather the necessary evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Here are the key reasons why you need a truck accident lawyer after a collision with a commercial vehicle.
1. Understanding Complex Trucking Laws And Regulations
The trucking industry is heavily regulated by federal and state laws, such as those enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These laws govern areas like driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading. In the aftermath of a truck accident, it’s essential to determine whether any of these regulations were violated, as this could impact liability.
A truck accident lawyer has the knowledge and expertise to analyze these complex regulations and identify violations that could strengthen your case. Whether it’s proving that the driver was fatigued from driving too many hours or that the trucking company failed to properly maintain the vehicle, your lawyer will use their understanding of the law to build a compelling argument on your behalf.
2. Handling Multiple Liable Parties
One of the most challenging aspects of a commercial truck accident is determining who is at fault. Unlike typical car accidents where one driver may be responsible, truck accidents often involve multiple liable parties. These can include the truck driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer of the truck or its parts, and even the company responsible for loading the cargo.
A truck accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the case to identify all parties who may share responsibility. They will review contracts, driver logs, maintenance records, and employment agreements to determine where negligence occurred.
3. Gathering And Preserving Crucial Evidence
After a truck accident, gathering evidence is critical to building a strong case. However, some evidence is controlled by the trucking company or the truck driver, making it difficult for victims to access. A truck accident lawyer knows exactly what evidence to request and how to preserve it. This includes the truck’s black box data, which records crucial information such as the truck’s speed, brake usage, and the driver’s hours of service leading up to the crash.
4. Dealing With Insurance Companies
Commercial trucking companies typically have powerful insurance companies with aggressive legal teams. These companies are focused on minimizing payouts and protecting their bottom line, not ensuring that accident victims receive fair compensation. Without a lawyer, you may be pressured into accepting a low settlement offer that doesn’t cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
A truck accident lawyer from Law Firm of Edward Blinder, PLLC will handle all communications with the insurance companies, protecting you from being taken advantage of.
Conclusion
Hiring a truck accident lawyer after a collision with a commercial vehicle is essential for navigating the complex legal landscape and ensuring that your rights are protected. With their expertise in trucking laws, ability to handle multiple liable parties, and skill in negotiating with insurance companies, a truck accident lawyer can help you secure the compensation you need to recover fully from your accident.