According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are about 4,000 large truck accidents each year in the United States. These accidents often result in serious injuries or death, and they cause billions of dollars in property damage and lost productivity.
In Arizona, there were 1,223 truck accidents in 2018. Of those accidents, 123 resulted in fatalities and 1,527 people were injured. In 2020, those numbers increased significantly, with 2,088 people injured in a semi-truck accident Arizona authorities investigated.
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, accidents involving trucks in 2020 included:
There are many reasons why truck accidents most commonly happen. One reason is that truck drivers are often driving for long periods of time, which can lead to fatigue. Another reason is that trucks are often carrying heavy loads, which can make them more difficult to control. Additionally, trucks typically have larger blind spots than other vehicles, which can make it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles around them.
If you are involved in a truck accident, it is important to seek legal counsel from a phoenix truck accident lawyer, and one who specializes as a semi-truck accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected.
Truck accidents can be serious business, and if you have been injured, you need a serious truck accident attorney on your side. If you’ve been involved in one, you may be wondering what types of personal injuries and accidents qualify under a truck accident. Here are some of the most common:
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, it’s important to seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t think you’ve been injured. Some injuries, such as whiplash, can take days or even weeks to manifest. Once you’ve been seen by a doctor, you can then start the process of filing a truck accident claim with an Arizona truck accident lawyer.
Determining liability in a truck accident can often be complicated because multiple parties may share responsibility. Unlike smaller vehicle accidents, truck accidents commonly involve not just the driver but also truck companies, manufacturers, and even maintenance crews. This complexity can make it difficult for victims to figure out who is at fault and who should be held accountable.
Often, the initial police accident reports do not thoroughly investigate all the details surrounding the crash, which can lead to incomplete findings. These reports might not fully examine factors such as driver error, vehicle maintenance records, or compliance with safety regulations. As a result, the fault can remain unclear, leaving victims frustrated and unsure of how to proceed with their claims.
This is where a skilled truck accident lawyer becomes indispensable. An experienced attorney can conduct an independent investigation to gather important evidence that may not have been included in the initial police report. They can interview witnesses, analyze truck maintenance records, and obtain accident scene photos. By diving deeper, the attorney can uncover crucial details about the accident that help clarify who is responsible.
Additionally, proving fault in a civil case can be easier if the police investigation reveals a criminal offense, such as drunk driving. If a truck driver is found to be driving under the influence, this can strengthen the case against them and make it easier to determine liability. Ultimately, working with a knowledgeable lawyer can help victims navigate the complexities of determining liability in truck accidents, building a strong case so you can receive the compensation you deserve.
Truck drivers must take extra care when preparing to hit the road due to the sheer size of their vehicles and the extensive hours they spend driving each day. With their trucks weighing significantly more than regular cars, even a minor mistake can have serious consequences. This makes it crucial for truck drivers to remain alert, focused, and responsible while on the road.
That said, negligence can occur when drivers or trucking companies do not prioritize safety.
When trucking companies cut corners to save money or push their drivers beyond safe limits, accidents become more likely. For example, companies might encourage drivers to work longer hours without adequate rest. This can lead to driver fatigue, which greatly increases the risk of a crash. Drivers who are tired may have slower reaction times, make poor decisions, or fall asleep at the wheel.
To combat these issues, federal and state organizations closely regulate trucking companies to ensure that their drivers operate vehicles safely. These regulations are designed to hold companies accountable and protect both drivers and the public. One significant regulation is the hours of service regulations. These rules establish strict limits on how long drivers can operate their vehicles without taking a break. For instance, truckers must take rest periods after driving for a specified number of hours, which helps reduce fatigue.
By enforcing these regulations, authorities aim to reduce the number of accidents caused by truck driver negligence. Ultimately, a safer trucking industry benefits everyone on the road, creating a safer environment for drivers and pedestrians alike.
In a truck accident case, multiple parties may share responsibility for the incident. Understanding who could be liable is essential for victims seeking compensation and justice. Commonly responsible parties in a truck accident include the truck driver, trucking company, maintenance company, loading company, and third-party drivers. Each of these parties has specific responsibilities that can impact the safety of operations and contribute to an accident.
The truck driver is responsible for operating the vehicle safely and adhering to traffic laws. They must also:
The trucking company holds significant responsibility for the actions of its drivers. They may be at fault if they:
If a maintenance company is involved, their responsibilities include:
The loading company must ensure that:
Other drivers on the road can also be held liable if their actions contribute to the accident. They are responsible for:
A truck accident can involve multiple liable parties, each with specific responsibilities that impact safety on the road. Identifying these parties is crucial for building a strong case, and this is where Torgenson’s legal expertise comes into play. Our skilled attorneys can help victims navigate the complexities of liability, so that all responsible parties are held accountable and that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
In the aftermath of a truck accident, dealing with multiple liable parties often leads to interactions with various insurance providers. Each responsible party typically has their own insurance policy, which can complicate the claims process for victims seeking compensation. To maximize the financial recovery, your lawyer will need to file injury claims with all relevant insurers, ensuring no source of compensation is overlooked.
The process of filing these claims involves gathering extensive documentation, including medical records and accident reports, to substantiate your case. Once the claims are submitted, your lawyer will need to engage in negotiations with each insurer to reach a fair settlement. This can become quite complex, as insurers may dispute liability, minimize damages, or delay the process in an effort to lower their payout.
If negotiations do not yield satisfactory results, it may become necessary to take one or more insurers to court. This added layer of complexity requires an attorney who is skilled in litigation and experienced in handling cases that involve multiple defendants and insurers.
Your truck accident lawyer will serve as your advocate, navigating these challenging waters and ensuring that your rights are protected at every step. They will work diligently to engage with the various insurance companies, demanding that they honor their obligations and pay you the settlement amount you deserve. By working with an experienced lawyer, you can alleviate much of the stress associated with dealing with multiple insurers while focusing on your recovery.
Truck accidents often result in severe damages and catastrophic injuries, which can have a lasting impact on victims and their families. The scale of these accidents frequently leads to significant financial and emotional challenges. Understanding the types of damages that may be sought in a truck accident case is essential for victims looking to recover fair compensation for their losses.
A truck accident lawyer can help you recover fair compensation for these damages, which is crucial for addressing the financial losses resulting from the crash. The compensation you receive can assist in covering medical bills, lost income, and property repairs while also helping to make up for any decrease in your overall quality of life. By securing legal representation, you ensure that your rights are protected as you pursue the compensation you truly deserve for your suffering.
After a truck accident, victims often face significant challenges when seeking compensation for their injuries and losses. It is crucial to avoid making common mistakes that can jeopardize your claim. Being aware of these pitfalls can help protect your rights and enhance your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Given the legal complexities in truck accident claims, understanding these common mistakes is essential. At Torgenson Law, we play a crucial role in helping victims avoid these pitfalls. Our experienced attorneys work diligently so that all aspects of your case are handled with precision, allowing you to focus on healing while we pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, knowing the proper steps to take afterward is vital to your health and your potential legal claim. The actions you take immediately can significantly impact your recovery and the strength of your case.
By following these steps, you can better position yourself for successful recovery after a truck accident. Your lawyer can also guide you through this process so that you can make informed decisions as you move forward with your claim.
If you’ve been in a truck accident, you know how devastating it can be. The sheer size and weight of a truck can cause serious injuries and even death. You may be facing a long road to recovery, and it’s important to have an experienced attorney by your side.
Your Phoenix truck accident lawyer will help you navigate the complex legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. The trucking company will likely have a team of lawyers working to minimize their liability, and you need someone on your side to level the playing field.
Your attorney will also help you deal with the insurance companies. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize the amount of money that they pay out on claims, and they will try to take advantage of you if you’re not represented by a competent commercial truck accident attorney.
Finally, your attorney will be a valuable resource as you try to put your life back together after a truck accident. They can help you understand your rights and options, and they will be there to support you every step of the way.
Torgenson Law has experience with many different types of semi-truck accidents Arizona residents have encountered, including:
At Torgenson Law, you are more than just a case number, you’re a victim that deserves robust legal representation. Our attorneys are experienced trial lawyers who will stand up and defend your rights in court if need be.
Our entire staff will not stop fighting until we uncover every single detail that we need to know, and we are driven to help you recover the maximum compensation for your pain and suffering. Contact us today for your free consultation.