Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyer: Why You Need One After a Truck Wreck
Tractor-trailer accidents in California can have devastating consequences, resulting in severe injuries, vehicle damage, and even loss of life. These accidents, due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, pose unique risks to passenger vehicle drivers.
The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that in 2021, 5,700 large trucks were involved in fatal accidents. The same report shares that large trucks made up 9% of all vehicles involved in fatal crashes.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a tractor-trailer accident, it is crucial to understand the importance of obtaining legal representation. By enlisting the support of experienced attorneys, victims can navigate the complex legal landscape, protect their rights, and pursue fair compensation.
In this article, we will discuss:
- What to look for in a tractor trailer accident lawyer
- Case study: semi-truck collides with motorist at intersection
- Legal process of a tractor trailer accident claim
- Hiring an experienced tractor trailer accident lawyer
Have you been injured in a truck accident?
What to Look For in a Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyer
When seeking a tractor-trailer accident lawyer, consider several factors to ensure you find the right attorney to handle your case. Here are some important aspects to look for:
- Experience and expertise – Look for a truck accident lawyer with significant experience and expertise in handling tractor-trailer accident cases. They should have a deep understanding of the specific laws, regulations, and complexities involved in these types of accidents. An experienced lawyer will know how to navigate through the intricacies of trucking regulations, investigate liability, assess damages, and build a strong case on your behalf.
- Track record of success – Research the truck accident lawyer’s track record and success rate in handling tractor-trailer accident cases. Review their past settlements and verdicts to gauge their ability to achieve favorable outcomes for their clients. A proven track record demonstrates the attorney’s skill and effectiveness in advocating for accident victims.
- Resources and support – Tractor-trailer accident cases often require substantial resources for investigation, gathering evidence, expert testimony, and legal representation. Ensure that the truck accident attorney and their law firm have the necessary resources and support staff to handle your case diligently. This includes access to accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, investigators, and other professionals who can contribute to building a strong case.
- Trial experience – While most truck accident claims are settled out of court, select a personal injury lawyer who is experienced and prepared to take your case to trial if needed. Trial experience demonstrates the attorney’s ability to present a compelling case in front of a jury and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.
- Communication and accessibility – Effective communication is vital in any attorney-client relationship. Look for an experienced truck accident attorney who communicates, promptly, and regularly about the progress of your case. If your primary language is Spanish, you may want to consider hiring a Spanish-speaking truck crash lawyer.
- Personalized approach – Each tractor-trailer accident case is unique, and a competent trucking attorney will approach your case with individual attention and care. Look for a skilled attorney who takes the time to understand your specific circumstances, listens to your concerns, and develops a tailored strategy that aligns with your needs and objectives.
Choosing the right tractor-trailer accident lawyer is crucial in protecting your rights, maximizing your compensation, and navigating the complexities of these complex cases effectively. By considering these factors, you can find a skilled attorney who will advocate for your best interests and guide you through the legal process.
Case Study: Semi-Truck Collides With Motorist at Intersection
On April 20, 2018, our client was traveling eastbound in her 2012 Ford and stopped in traffic just after crossing the intersection. A large semi truck driving westbound on the same road attempted to make a left turn.
The large truck was driving at a high speed and made an unsafe turn that caused the 20,000-pound trailer to collide with our client’s vehicle, dragging it along. Our client suffered immediate physical injuries, including on the back and neck. These severely impacted her quality of life, requiring her to undergo physical therapy, pain management, and surgery.
In this case, the commercial truck driver was deemed negligent and, therefore, the responsible party. Seeing as the aftermath not only caused our client great physical pain, but mental and emotional pain. We fought to recover the financial compensation she was owed.
Our client’s claim included the medical bills and property damage that resulted from the accident. It also included other types of economic and non-economic damages such as loss of income, mental anguish, emotional distress.
Through Farahi Law Firm’s aggressive approach, we successfully recovered $225,000 for our client’s devastating injuries, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Have you been injured in a truck accident?
Legal Process of a Tractor Trailer Accident Claim
As the injured party, you may be eligible to file a claim against the party at fault. Please note that the legal process for a tractor-trailer accident claim can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances of the case. However, the following is a general overview of the typical legal process involved in filing a claim:
1. Seeking medical attention – Seek immediate medical help. Even if you only sustained minor injuries, you must be assessed by a healthcare professional. Internal injuries may not present themselves outwardly, and a late diagnosis may cause permanent disability or long-term medical complications.
2. Contacting authorities – Report the accident to the appropriate authorities, such as the police or highway patrol. They will create an official accident report, which can be valuable when filing your personal injury claim.
3. Gathering evidence – This includes taking photographs of the accident scene, obtaining witness statements, and documenting any visible physical injuries or property damage.
4. Notifying the insurance companies – With the aid of a lawyer, notify your insurance carrier about the trucking accident, as well as the insurance company of the truck driver or truck company involved. Provide them with the necessary details of the accident.
5. Consultation with an attorney – An experienced tractor trailer accident lawyer can provide legal advice, evaluate the strength of your claim, and guide you through the legal process.
6. Investigation – Your personal injury attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, which may involve gathering additional evidence, reviewing medical records, examining driver logs, and assessing the maintenance records of the truck involved.
7. Demand letter – Your truck wreck lawyer will draft and send a demand letter to the at-fault party or their insurance company, outlining the types of injuries you have sustained, damages, and a proposed settlement amount.
8. Negotiations – The insurance company may respond with a settlement offer or attempt to negotiate a lower amount. An experienced truck accident lawyer will fight on your behalf to reach a fair settlement. It’s important to note that not all cases reach a settlement, and some may proceed to litigation.
9. Filing a lawsuit – If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your truck crash attorney may file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf. This initiates the formal legal process, and both parties will be required to present their case in court.
10. Trial – If the case proceeds to trial, both parties will present their arguments and evidence before a judge and jury. The jury will ultimately determine liability and award damages, if applicable.
Dealing with the aftermath of a tractor-trailer accident can be overwhelming. Hiring an experienced lawyer allows you to focus on your recovery and well-being, knowing that a dedicated legal professional is handling the intricate legal matters.
Hire an Experienced Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyer Today!
If you or a loved one were truck accident victims because of somebody else’s reckless actions, you may be eligible to take legal action and file a claim. A truck accident claim will enable you to recover compensation for any injuries and damages sustained.
The claims process can be difficult to handle alone, especially while trying to recover from your injuries. Award wining California accident specialist Farahi Law Firm is dedicated to helping victims of truck accidents recover the financial compensation. Not only will we handle the complex paperwork of your case, but we will also ensure that you receive the best medical care you need.
We work on a contingency fee basis and work on a No Fee Guarantee policy. This means you won’t need to pay us a single cent unless we win your case.
Contact us today at (844) 824-2955 for a free case consultation. We speak English, Spanish, and Filipino!
