Truck Accident Lawyer

Commercial truck accidents can cause life-altering injuries or fatalities, and cases involving trucking companies are highly complex. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, you need a truck accident lawyer with the experience and resources to take on powerful corporations and insurance companies.

Heninger Garrison Davis has a proven track record of success in these cases and can assist you in obtaining a full recovery for your injuries or the wrongful death of a loved one. We know how devastating these accidents can be and are dedicated to helping accident victims and their families maximize their claims.

Why Choose Our Truck Accident Law Firm?

Our firm has a proven track record of success with trucking accident claims and has obtained many large settlements for our clients. We stand up to the large trucking companies involved in these accidents and pursue fair compensation.

We offer a range of services to help you get fair compensation after a truck accident, including:

Free case evaluation: We offer a free consultation to discuss the details of your case and determine your best course of action.
Video consultations: Our attorneys are available for phone or video consultations to make the process as convenient as possible.
Contingency fee payment structure: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if we win your case.
24/7 nationwide attorneys: We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can assist you, regardless of your location.
Aggressive legal representation: Our attorneys are experienced in taking on large trucking companies and will leave no stone unturned when pursuing compensation for your injuries and losses.

Our firm has a proven track record of success and will give your case the personalized attention it needs.

Over $3 Billion Recovered

With over $3 billion in recoveries for our clients and accolades and awards from Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and AVVO Preeminent Rating, you can trust that we have what it takes to help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

For a free legal consultation, call (205) 326-3336

Why Truck Accident Cases Are So Complicated

Truck accident cases can be complex and challenging to navigate. There are several reasons why these cases are so complicated:

Multiple involved parties: Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the driver, the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, and any third party involved in the vehicle’s operation or maintenance. Determining who is liable for the accident and to what extent is challenging.
Federal regulations: The trucking industry is subject to complex regulations designed to promote safety and prevent accidents. These regulations cover everything from truck driver qualifications to vehicle maintenance. Proving an at-fault party violated one of these regulations can be difficult.
Extensive damages: When massive semis collide with small passenger vehicles, extensive damages result, including severe injuries and property damage. The resulting bills can be high, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering and loss of consortium can be difficult to quantify.
Insurance companies: Insurance companies representing truck companies and other parties may attempt to minimize their liability and the compensation they must pay. This situation can result in lengthy and challenging negotiations with insurance companies, making it vital to have an experienced attorney.

Given the complexity of commercial vehicle accidents, working with a qualified attorney who regularly handles these claims is essential. Our attorneys have the expertise to determine liability, calculate damages, and negotiate with insurance companies to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

The size and weight of commercial trucks traveling at high speeds can result in catastrophic injuries or death. Truck accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-altering conditions.

Some of the most common injuries that result from truck accidents include:

Neck injuries: Whiplash is a common injury in motor vehicle accidents. The sudden force of a collision can cause the neck to whip back and forth, resulting in soft tissue damage or other injuries.
Broken bones: Fractures and breaks are common in truck crashes, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs.
Head and brain injuries: Head injuries can range from minor bruising to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs can cause long-term cognitive issues and may require extensive medical treatment.
Back injuries: The force of a truck accident can cause back injuries such as herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and other spinal injuries.
Spinal cord injuries: The spinal cord is a delicate and vital body part. Spinal cord damage can result in permanent paralysis and other life-altering conditions.
Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma in a collision can cause injuries to organs such as the liver, kidneys, and spleen. These injuries can be life-threatening and require emergency medical care.
Burns: If the truck catches fire or leaks flammable materials, the driver or passengers may suffer severe burns.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is vital. It’s crucial to see a doctor for a checkup even if you feel fine after the accident. Doing so is important to your health and your personal injury case.

After seeking medical treatment, speaking with an experienced personal injury lawyer will help you understand your rights and avoid saying anything that could negatively affect your case.

Available Damages in a Truck Accident Case

If another party caused your truck accident, you might be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. The types of compensation available in your case can vary depending on the circumstances of the accident and the injuries you or your loved one sustained.

Damages in a truck accident can include the following:

Medical expenses: Truck accidents can result in serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, hospitalization, medication, physical therapy, and rehabilitation. Compensation may cover current and future medical expenses related to the accident.
Lost wages: If you miss work due to your injuries, you might be entitled to compensation for lost income. This damage includes the wages you would have earned if you had been able to work and any future earnings lost due to long-term issues.
Pain and suffering: Truck accidents can result in physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish that affect your quality of life. Compensation may be available for these consequences of the accident.
Loss of enjoyment: Serious injuries may prevent you from participating in previously enjoyable activities. You might qualify for compensation for this profound loss.
Property damage: If your vehicle or personal property was damaged in the accident, you might be entitled to compensation for repair or replacement costs.
Punitive damages: In certain cases, the court may award punitive damages to punish the defendant for reckless or negligent behavior. Punitive damages are also called “exemplary damages” because they serve as an example to deter similar conduct.
Wrongful death: If you lost a loved one in a truck accident, you might be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, and other damages related to their death.

It is important to note that the types and amounts of compensation available in an accident can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the collision and the extent of your injuries. An experienced lawyer from our firm can help you understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation.

Determining Liability in a Truck Collision

Determining liability in a truck accident is a complex process that requires a thorough investigation of the accident scene, police reports, and other relevant evidence, such as electronic control module (ECM) data. This investigation aims to determine who was at fault for the accident and to what extent they were responsible for the damages.

In many cases, the truck company may be found to be partially or wholly responsible for the accident. This liability can result from failing to maintain the truck, overloading the cargo, or violating safety regulations.

It is important to note that determining liability in a truck collision case can be an arduous task, especially when dealing with large and well-funded trucking companies. This is because truck companies often have teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters working to protect their interests and minimize their financial exposure.

That’s where hiring an aggressive attorney comes in. A qualified truck accident lawyer can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and build a solid case to hold the responsible parties accountable.

The Responsibilities of Trucking Companies

Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring the safety of their truck drivers, the cargo on board, and other drivers on the road. They are required by law to follow strict regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

These rules include ensuring that their trucks are in proper working condition, their drivers are trained and licensed, and their cargo is safely secured. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in serious accidents.

Maintenance

Trucking companies must maintain their vehicles and keep them in good working condition. This includes regular inspections and maintenance to ensure that brakes, tires, and other critical components are operational. They must also keep accurate records of maintenance and inspection schedules.

Training and Licensing

Trucking companies are also responsible for properly training drivers and ensuring they are qualified to operate commercial vehicles. This obligation includes verifying that operators have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and ensuring that they have undergone proper safety training.

Secured Cargo

In addition to these responsibilities, trucking companies must ensure their cargo is safely secured. An improperly secured load can shift in transit, causing the truck to become unstable and contributing to an accident.

If you have been involved in a truck accident, a truck accident lawyer can help you hold the negligent party responsible.

What a Lawyer Can Do for Your Commercial Vehicle Accident Case

If you or a loved one has been involved in a commercial vehicle accident, it’s essential to seek the help of a qualified lawyer. Here are some ways a truck accident attorney can assist you in your case:

Explain your rights: Beginning with your free consultation, your attorney can explain your legal rights and options at every stage during your case.
Investigate the accident: A lawyer can gather evidence and investigate the crash to determine who is at fault. This step includes reviewing police reports and “black box” data, gathering witness statements, and examining the damage to the involved vehicles.
Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurers may try to settle for less than your case is worth, but a skilled lawyer can negotiate a favorable settlement on your behalf. They can also handle all communication with the insurance company, so you don’t have to.
Pursue all available damages: If you’ve been injured in a commercial vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages. A lawyer can help you determine the damages you’re entitled to and pursue them from the at-fault party.
Hold trucking companies accountable: If the trucking company’s negligence contributed to the accident, a lawyer can hold them accountable and recover compensation. In many cases, they can be held vicariously responsible for their employee’s actions.
Provide legal guidance and represent you in court: A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, explain your rights, and advise you on the best course of action. They can also represent you in court if your case goes to trial.

A lawyer from our team can handle all aspects of your commercial vehicle accident case, from investigating the crash to negotiating with insurance companies and recovering damages. They can also provide valuable legal guidance and ensure you receive your rightful compensation.

Truck Collision Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2020 there will be over 4,800 fatal crashes involving large trucks (gross vehicle weight rating greater than 10,000 pounds) on American roads.

Additionally, over 100,000 large commercial vehicles were involved in injury crashes. Unfortunately, those riding in smaller passenger vehicles typically bear the brunt of these collisions.

Truck Accident Causes

Various factors, including driver error, vehicle malfunctions, and environmental conditions, can lead to commercial truck accidents.

Below are some of the most common causes of semi-truck collisions:

Driver fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, which can impair judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents.
Distracted driving: Truck drivers may become distracted by their phones, GPS systems, or other factors that take their eyes and minds off the road.
Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous for any driver, especially those operating large commercial trucks.
Speeding: Truck drivers may feel pressure to meet tight delivery schedules, which can lead to speeding and other reckless behavior.
Vehicle maintenance issues: Commercial trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they are in good working condition. Failure to perform the necessary maintenance can lead to mechanical issues that increase accident risk.
Defective truck parts: A defective part sometimes leads to a mechanical malfunction, causing a crash.
Improper loading: Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and tip over or crash.

It’s important to note that these are not the only causes of commercial truck collisions, and accidents can still occur even when all safety measures are taken. One of our experienced attorneys can help pinpoint the accident’s cause and seek compensation from the appropriate parties.

How Long does It Take to Get Compensation After a Truck Accident?

The timeline for receiving compensation after a truck wreck can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Sometimes, a settlement can be reached relatively quickly; in other cases, it may take several months.

Factors that can impact your case’s timeline include:

The severity of your injuries.
The complexity of the case.
The willingness of the trucking company and its insurance company to negotiate.

An attorney from our law firm can help expedite the claims process by conducting a thorough investigation, negotiating with the insurance company, and filing all necessary paperwork promptly.

Time Limits for Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit

If you have been involved in a truck collision and are considering filing a truck accident lawsuit, it is important to be aware of the time limits involved. These time limits are known as “statutes of limitations” and vary depending on the state and the type of claim.

In many states, the deadline for filing a personal injury claim in a motor vehicle accident case is two to three years from the accident date. However, some states have shorter or longer time limits.

Failing to file your claim within your state’s statute of limitations can result in losing your right to seek compensation. This impending deadline is one of many reasons why it is important to act quickly and seek the help of a qualified personal injury attorney.

Time Is of the Essence for Other Reasons

In addition to the statute of limitations for filing a claim, other time limits may apply to your truck accident case. For example, there may be a specific deadline for filing a claim with the trucking company’s insurance carrier or pursuing a claim against a government entity (if the accident involved a government-owned truck).

An experienced truck accident lawyer can help you navigate these time limits and ensure that your claim is filed correctly. They can also compile evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court (if necessary).

Our experienced attorneys understand the importance of quickly gathering and preserving key evidence before it is lost or destroyed.

Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one have been involved in a truck accident, it’s important to secure legal representation as soon as possible. An experienced truck accident attorney can help you navigate the claims process and get the maximum compensation available in your case.

At Heninger Garrison Davis, we understand the devastating impact a serious injury can have on your life. That’s why we are committed to providing truck accident victims compassionate and effective legal representation. Please don’t wait until it’s too late!

Erik S. Heninger