FAQ
In speaking with our clients, we have assembled a list of frequently asked questions that usually come up when a person has been injured or killed in a trucking accident. We have answered these questions in an easy-to-understand format. However, there is no substitute for a one-on-one consultation with an attorney at our firm to talk about your case. If you would like a free consultation with an attorney, click here.
- When do I need to hire a lawyer after a trucking accident?
- What makes your firm different from other firms?
- What are some of the dangers associated with trucks?
- What are some common causes of trucking accidents?
- Is there a difference between car and truck accident lawsuits?
- What state and federal regulations govern truck drivers?
- Who can be sued in a trucking accident lawsuit?
- What damages can be recovered in a truck accident lawsuit?
When do I need to hire a lawyer after a trucking accident?
You need to hire a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to make sure that evidence is preserved and is not destroyed. Physical evidence at the scene such as skid marks, yaw marks and scuffs begin to disappear within hours after an accident. An accident reconstructionist needs to be called to the scene to preserve and document this evidence. The trucking company is allowed to destroy relevant documents such as electronic messages within days of the accident if a spoliation letter is not sent to them demanding that they preserve and not alter this evidence. Without an attorney on your side, your case can be lost before it even begins. To contact one of our trucking attorneys for a free consultation, please click here.
What makes your firm different from other firms?
We are trucking attorneys. We focus our practice on handling trucking cases and understand the importance of the state and federal regulations governing trucking companies. Many firms will sign up a trucking case even though they do not have the experience or knowledge to handle it. Ultimately, these firms treat the case like a regular automobile accident collision and force the client to settle the case at way below value. We know how to maximize the value of trucking cases. You can take comfort in knowing that your case will be handled professionally and that the end result will meet your expectations. Every trucking case needs a trucking attorney.To contact one of our trucking attorneys for a free consultation, please click here.
What are some of the dangers associated with trucks?
Semi-tractor trailers have certain limitations that other occupants of the road must be aware of. Truck limitations include:
- Blind spots. Many semi- tractor trailer accidents are caused by blind spots, or “no zones.” When another vehicle is in one of these areas (typically located in the immediate front, back and on either side of the trailer), the truck driver is usually unable to see it. All too often, a truck turns into a passing vehicle, causing a serious accident.
- Wide turns. Semi- tractor trailer trucks need to swing wide to the left in order to perform a right turn. When a truck makes a wide turn, the driver is often not able to see smaller vehicles directly behind or beside his truck. Similarly a truck’s trailer often has the tendency to sway into other lanes when traveling at a high speed.
- Stopping distance. Semi-tractor trailer trucks require a greater stopping distance than other vehicles. When a truck does not have the stopping distance required, a rear-end collision may occur.
To contact one of our trucking attorneys for a free consultation, please click here.
What are some common causes of trucking accidents?
Trucking accidents are caused by a variety of reasons. More often than is acceptable, as truck companies try to cut expenses, they cut down on safety resulting in many unsafe trucks. Other common causes of semi-tractor trailer collisions include:
- Aggressive or reckless driving
- Failure to install blind-spot mirrors
- Defective brakes
- Bald tires
- Unsteady loads
- Drugs or alcohol
- Sleep deprivation
To contact one of our trucking attorneys for a free consultation, please click here.
Is there a difference between car and truck accident lawsuits?
Absolutely. At Fried Rogers Goldberg LLC, we believe that the biggest mistake an attorney can make is to treat a trucking claim like a typical automobile accident claim. There are a host of unique federal regulations applicable to commercial vehicles. In an effort to explain these complexities, we published Understanding Motor Carrier Claims, a comprehensive resource used by attorneys nationwide. To contact one of our trucking attorneys for a free consultation, please click here.
What state and federal regulations govern truck drivers?
There are numerous state and federal regulations that all motor carriers are required to follow. Our book, Understanding Motor Carrier Claims, summarizes the federal trucking regulations. These areas include:
- The Basics of Interstate Motor Carriers
- Theories of Liability
- Driver Qualifications
- Alcohol and Controlled Substances Testing
- Hours of Service Regulations
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
- Insurance Coverage
To contact one of our trucking attorneys for a free consultation, please click here.
Who can be sued in a trucking accident lawsuit?
Any person, company, or entity that was at fault for causing the accident can be held liable for damages. Possible truck accident defendants include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The owner of the trailer
- The shipper
- The manufacturer of a defective product (tires, brakes, etc.), and/or any other person or entity responsible in anyway for the accident.
To contact one of our trucking attorneys for a free consultation, please click here.
What damages can be recovered in a truck accident lawsuit?
Truck accident victims may be entitled to compensation for any physical, emotional, or financial losses suffered in an accident. Victims are entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost income
- Diminished earning capacity
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
In assessing and presenting your accident claim, our skilled attorneys will consider all aspects of your resulting harm and loss. We will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for you injuries. To contact one of our trucking attorneys for a free consultation, please click here.