What Injury Lawyers Know About Truck Accidents That Can Save You Money
Most drivers are aware of the dangers of operating near large trucks. Despite a downward trend in truck crash statistics, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (“FMCSA”) reports that nearly 4,000 people were killed and another 95,000 injured in accidents involving large trucks in 2013. Due to the sheer size and weight of the average commercial truck, these types of accidents can be extremely damaging. To make matters worse, numerous parties may be at fault for a crash. Understanding commercial trucking industry regulations and how they relate to the legal rights of vehicle drivers can make a difference when it comes to your recovery process and receiving appropriate compensation.
How can you be fairly compensated after a truck accident?
Log Book Regulations
Commercial truck drivers must adhere to strict regulations with respect to how long they are allowed to stay on the road before they need to rest. In an effort to make deadlines, however, some drivers have been known to violate these rules and drive while fatigued or distracted
State and federal agencies that regulate trucking activities encourage trucks to use an electronic log book rather than a paper log book which may show a different number of hours on the road for a driver. Obtaining and analyzing this information can be crucial to your case. An experienced lawyer will demand this information be presented for analytics following a crash.
Understand the mechanics of large trucks.
It’s the responsibility of trucking companies to not only maintain reasonable schedules for drivers but to make sure their trucks are in good operating condition. Deferring maintenance on a truck for any reason can affect how well it reacts in an emergency situation.
Hire an expert who understands the mechanics of large commercial vehicles and what to look for after an accident. It can make a difference in your case, especially if liability is disputed by the trucking company’s insurer.
Determine if safety precautions were taken by all parties involved.
Snow, ice, fog and heavy rain all impact visibility and can make it difficult for truck drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. Like all motorists, truck drivers must adjust their speed and take special precautions when driving in hazardous conditions. Measuring speed, distance between locations and other related facts (including road or weather conditions) may help to substantiate your claim.
These are only a few ways to ensure you are compensated fairly after an accident. Understanding how to collect data about your truck accident is crucial when establishing facts in your case. Driver versus company negligence is also a topic we often encounter. Learn more about collecting the facts for your case on our website or call to speak with an attorney at Tabor Law Firm.
If you were injured or if a loved one suffered a life threatening injury died in a commercial truck accident, learn about your rights and what evidence must be presented soon after the collision in a free consultation.
With more than 75 years of combined legal experience, Tabor Law Firm has the knowledge, skill and tenacity needed to help you recover damages for:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Past & future wage loss
- Funeral and burial costs
Located in Indianapolis, our dedicated legal team serves clients across Indiana. Arrange a free consultation with one of our attorneys by calling (317) 236-9000 or contact us online.
