Truck Accident Lawyers Protecting Your Rights After An Accident
If you have been in an accident with a commercial truck, you probably suffered severe damage both to your vehicle and yourself. Commercial trucks such as semis, tractor-trailers and delivery vehicles pose a great danger to cars when they collide, based on size alone. To make matters worse, these accidents often involve multiple responsible parties which can make the claims process confusing.
Rely on the experience and skill of Keller, Woods & Thompson, P.A. We have decades of experience assisting accident victims throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin. We will fight for the best outcome possible for your case. Though our attorneys have excellent negotiating skills, we frequently take cases to trial. Insurance companies know that we fight to win.
How Is A Truck Accident Different From Other Auto Accidents?
Not only are truck accidents more destructive than other types of motor vehicle accidents, they are also more complicated. In a regular auto accident, the two drivers and their insurance companies are often the only parties involved. With a commercial vehicle, however, the responsible parties may include:
- The driver – Driver negligence may be the direct cause of the accident. If the driver is an independent contractor, your claim may go through their insurance company.
- The driver’s employer – If the driver works for a company, however, you may need to deal with the company and possibly their insurance provider, as well.
- The company that loaded the truck – Some truck accidents are caused by improper loading, which brings in liability of the company that loaded the truck or owns the trailer pulled by the driver.
- Defective parts – The company may assert that defective truck parts caused the accident, in which case you may need to bring a claim against a manufacturer.
In many cases, an accident can involve liability from multiple parties. As you can see, parsing out liability issues requires a deep knowledge of these cases. You do not have to face this fight alone. Your Minneapolis truck accident lawyer will be with you from day one and fight for you throughout your case.
Semi Trucks Cause Serious Injuries
Due to the severe nature of these accidents, many accident victims suffer serious injuries. Common injuries may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Burns and disfigurement
- Amputation
- Internal injuries
These types of injuries often require extensive medical treatment and a long recovery process, and can rack up thousands of dollars in medical expenses. You want to know the extent of your injuries and medical bills before settling with an insurance company. We will make sure that all your needs are taken into account when negotiating a settlement or arguing your case at trial.
Sadly, these accidents are too often fatal. If your loved one was killed in a truck accident, discuss your options with a Minneapolis truck accident lawyer for pursuing a wrongful death claim. You should not have to struggle with a legal claim in addition to coping with your loss. Allow us to handle the legal issues for you.
What Factors Contribute To Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents are often the result of a combination of factors, ranging from human error to external pressures and conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the key contributors:
Distracted driving: Just like in any other vehicle, distracted driving is a major cause of truck accidents. Distractions include messaging or talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the radio or even using in-cab technology.
Driver fatigue: Truck drivers often face demanding schedules and tight deadlines, leading to fatigue. Even with training, fatigue can impair judgment and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Driving while impaired: Driving when under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious concern. Substance abuse can impair a driver’s cognitive functions and motor skills, making accidents more likely.
Speeding: Pressures to meet delivery deadlines may tempt truck drivers to exceed speed limits. This reduces the driver’s ability to react to abrupt events and increases the severity of accidents.
Inadequate training: While many drivers are well-trained professionals, inadequate training or a lack of experience can contribute to accidents. This includes insufficient knowledge of safety regulations, defensive driving techniques and vehicle handling.
Poor maintenance: Neglected or improperly maintained trucks are prone to mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, which can cause accidents even with skilled drivers behind the wheel.
External factors: Factors beyond the driver’s control, such as adverse weather conditions, road construction or other drivers’ actions, can also contribute to accidents.
Tight turnarounds and schedules: Trucking companies often impose tight turnaround times and strict delivery schedules on drivers. This can lead to drivers feeling pressured to cut corners, skip breaks or exceed regulated driving hours, increasing the risk of accidents due to fatigue or rushed decision-making.
When an accident occurs, especially one resulting in severe injuries, a personal injury attorney can investigate the circumstances and help pursue a claim.
Schedule A Free Consultation With A Minneapolis Truck Accident Lawyer
Find out what makes Keller, Woods & Thompson such strong advocates. Call to schedule a free consultation today at 763-447-4076 or fill out our online contact form.