Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Understanding the root causes of truck accidents is critical for building a strong case. Here are some of the most common factors that contribute to these collisions:

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours to meet tight delivery schedules. Federal regulations limit driving hours, but violations are common, leading to accidents caused by drowsy driving.
• Mechanical Failures: Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and mechanical defects are frequent causes of truck accidents. Maintenance records can play a vital role in identifying negligence.
• Reckless Driving: Speeding, tailgating, and improper lane changes by truck drivers often result in severe accidents.
• Improper Loading: Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, making the truck difficult to control.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and fog can exacerbate the risks of driving a large commercial vehicle.

A skilled truck accident lawyer will investigate every aspect of the accident to determine liability and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?

Truck accident cases are complex because multiple parties may share liability. Potential defendants include:

• Truck Drivers: If the driver was speeding, distracted, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they might be held accountable.
• Trucking Companies: Employers can be held liable for hiring unqualified drivers, failing to enforce safety standards, or pressuring drivers to violate federal regulations.
• Maintenance Crews: Negligent maintenance and inspections can lead to mechanical failures.
• Manufacturers: Defective truck parts, such as faulty brakes or tires, can contribute to accidents.
• Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift and cause accidents.

At Bigger Law, our truck accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations to identify all liable parties and pursue maximum compensation.

How a Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help

Hiring a truck accident lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take after a collision. Here’s how we can help:

1. Comprehensive Investigation
   We gather critical evidence, including police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and black box data. Our team also works with accident reconstruction experts to build a compelling case.

2. Dealing with Insurance Companies
   Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Our experienced attorneys handle all communication with insurers, ensuring you receive a fair settlement.

3. Calculating Damages
   We assess all the damages you’ve suffered, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs. This comprehensive approach ensures you’re compensated for the full extent of your losses.

4. Litigation Support
   If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our truck accident lawyers are prepared to take your case to court. With over 20 years of experience, Bigger Law has a proven track record of success against powerful corporations and insurance companies.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, follow these steps to protect your rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should always come first. Even if injuries seem minor, some symptoms may appear later.
2. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
3. Report the Accident: File a police report and obtain a copy for your records.
4. Avoid Talking to Insurance Adjusters: Do not give recorded statements or sign documents without consulting a truck accident lawyer.
5. Contact Bigger Law: Call 813-609-2993 for a free consultation with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the legal process.

Key Evidence Needed to Strengthen Your Truck Accident Case

Building a strong truck accident case requires compelling evidence to prove liability and demonstrate the extent of your damages. Here are the critical types of evidence that can make a difference in your case:

1. Accident Scene Evidence
   Photographs and videos of the crash site, including skid marks, vehicle positions, and debris, can provide valuable context. Documenting weather conditions, traffic signals, and road hazards is also essential.

2. Black Box Data
   Commercial trucks are equipped with event data recorders (commonly referred to as “black boxes”) that capture crucial details such as the truck’s speed, braking patterns, and time of impact. Accessing this data can reveal critical insights into the driver’s actions before the accident.

3. Driver Records
   Examining the truck driver’s logbooks, training certifications, and driving history can identify potential regulatory violations or a pattern of unsafe driving behaviors.

4. Maintenance Records
   Reviewing maintenance logs and inspection reports can uncover issues such as neglected repairs, defective equipment, or improper upkeep of the truck.

5. Witness Testimonies
   Statements from eyewitnesses can provide an unbiased account of how the accident occurred. Witnesses often observe details that may not be immediately apparent to those involved.

6. Expert Analysis
   Accident reconstruction specialists and forensic experts can help recreate the events leading to the collision. Their reports can strengthen your case and provide persuasive testimony in court if needed.

7. Medical Documentation
   Detailed medical records, treatment plans, and doctor’s notes are vital to proving the severity of your injuries. These documents also help calculate future medical expenses and long-term care needs.

What Compensation Can You Receive?

Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, medication, and ongoing rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to your inability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for emotional distress, trauma, and reduced quality of life.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other personal property.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious negligence, courts may award punitive damages to deter future misconduct.

Our truck accident lawyers are committed to maximizing your compensation and helping you rebuild your life.

Why Choose Bigger Law?

At Bigger Law, we have a reputation for delivering exceptional results. Our experienced team of truck accident lawyers has successfully represented victims in some of the most complex cases. We are relentless in our pursuit of justice and are not afraid to take on powerful trucking companies and insurers.

When you work with us, you’ll receive personalized attention and dedicated advocacy every step of the way. Don’t let a truck accident define your future—let us help you take back control.

Contact Us Today for a Free Case Evaluation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Call Bigger Law at 813-609-2992 or complete our free case evaluation form online. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Sources:

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
  The FMCSA provides detailed regulations and safety information regarding commercial trucking, including hours of service rules and safety statistics.
  Visit: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
  The NHTSA offers comprehensive data and research on traffic accidents, including those involving large trucks, as well as safety initiatives and guidelines.
  Visit: https://www.nhtsa.gov/

• U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
  The DOT provides insights into transportation safety, accident reports, and nationwide trucking safety standards to help reduce crashes and fatalities.
  Visit: https://www.transportation.gov/