In the United States, 4,862 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes in 2018. These vehicles are massive and impose significant damage on other drivers. They have to comply with federal regulations on driving hours, maintenance, cargo loading, and more. If you are injured in an accident with a truck, an 18 wheeler accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.
An experienced attorney will level the playing field against insurance companies and other parties that are trying to reduce or deny your claim. They will understand the tactics used by these companies as they deal with them all the time, and will fight to make sure you get the maximum settlement possible.
Experienced truck accident attorneys can also provide the evidence you need to establish negligence. They will gather all relevant documents including police reports, witness testimony, and forensic evidence such as skid marks, black box data, accident reconstruction, and other technical details. An attorney will also be able to obtain the truck driver’s records and trucking company records, which can reveal evidence of negligent hiring, training, or maintenance.
A good truck accident lawyer will have a network of experts to assist with your case, such as an accident reconstructionist, medical professionals, and financial specialists who can calculate your total losses and future needs. This will ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible for your damages, which include not just property damage but loss of income, ongoing medical expenses, and physical pain and suffering.
Unlike standard motor vehicles, commercial vehicles must carry higher liability insurance coverage to cover the cost of injuries caused by their accidents. However, the insurance companies representing these trucking firms often fight to erode victims’ compensation amounts, even when they are found responsible for the crash. An 18 wheeler accident lawyer will be able to negotiate with these insurance companies and work out a fair compensation amount for your expenses and losses.
Truck Accidents Cause Serious Injuries
Raphaelson & Levine have seen firsthand how devastating 18-wheeler crashes can be. Their accidents are often catastrophic, resulting in serious injuries or death to the occupants of passenger cars. These accidents are usually due to driver fatigue and a lack of proper training or supervision. Truck drivers are under intense pressure to meet demanding delivery schedules and often drive long shifts, which can lead to poor judgment and reflexes.
Injuries from an accident with a semi can be devastating to your life and the lives of those you love. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a collision with an 18-wheeler, contact our offices for a free consultation.
New York law has strict deadlines for filing a personal injury lawsuit, and a seasoned 18-wheeler accident lawyer will make sure your case is filed within the appropriate time frame. Our legal team is available to discuss your legal options for getting compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and more. Call us now for a free case review and confidential consultation with an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer.