Almost any motor vehicle accident can result in serious injuries, but the impact from an accident with a large truck is often more devastating. This is because large trucks have a much greater weight and mass than passenger vehicles, which makes them more difficult to maneuver, and more likely to cause catastrophic injuries to those inside or nearby.
A truck accident lawyer who is experienced in this area of law can help clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and more. They may also be able to file a lawsuit against the trucking company and other parties involved in the accident, seeking punitive damages.
The right truck accident attorney can also help clients fight insurance companies to get a fair settlement. Many insurance agencies work hard to limit their liability and protect their bottom line, so they will try to pay as little as possible for a claim. An experienced attorney can counter these tactics and negotiate a fair settlement for their client.
Evidence Gathering
After a truck crash, victims should take several pieces of crucial evidence to their lawyer. These include:
Detailed photographs of the scene of the accident, taken from multiple angles. This should include the accident vehicles, any visible damage to the surrounding environment, and any tire skid marks on the road surface. Copies of any medical bills and documentation concerning loss of income due to the accident. Your lawyer will use these documents to calculate your economic losses.
Your lawyer can also use information from the truck’s black box, a device similar to an airplane’s black box that records important data in the event of an accident. Commercial trucks are required to have this device installed, and it can provide valuable information about the cause of the accident.
You should also be sure to exchange contact information and license plate numbers with any other drivers or pedestrians involved in the accident, as well as a copy of your own insurance policy. This will allow your lawyer to determine the names and contact information of any other parties who could be responsible for the accident, and it will make it easier to track down witnesses later. You should also collect any photos of the accident scene that you can, as these will be a vital piece of evidence in your case. Lastly, it is important to find out how your lawyer charges for their services before hiring them. Some charge a flat fee, while others work on a contingency basis and only receive payment if they successfully secure compensation for their client.