Truck Accident Attorney in Charlotte, NC
No matter how often you frequent highways, interstates, and local roads, you likely share all of those roadways with tractor-trailers. While the trucking industry is a crucial aspect of our economy and provides goods and services through North Carolina and the rest of the country, a crash with a commercial vehicle can be catastrophic. If you have been injured in a wreck, a truck accident attorney from Edwards Injury Law can help.
Tractor-trailer accidents happen for many reasons; however, many crashes are entirely preventable. Say, for example, you are traveling down the highway when a semi appears to be racing up behind you. If the truck driver fails to pay attention and strikes your vehicle, the injuries and losses could be significant. Fortunately, accident victims have the right to seek compensation for their losses in North Carolina.
How Common Are Truck Accidents in North Carolina?
According to the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, there were nearly 16,000 truck accidents last recorded. As a result, 3,374 people were injured, and 152 people were killed. The deadliest accidents involved trucks with semi-trailers and passenger vehicles. Other types of trucks involved include:
- Single unit trucks with two axles
- Single unit trucks with three or more axles
- Trucks with trailers
- Tractor-trailers
- Double tractor trailers
- Unknown heavy trucks
Even as the state attempt to take action to reduce the number of accidents, numbers continue to rise. If you have been injured in a crash and don’t know where to turn, Edwards Injury Law is here to help.
What Are the Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents?
There are numerous reasons truck accidents occur. The majority of contributing factors are preventable, which is why victims often have legal options. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, many tractor-trailer crashes are the result of improper vehicle maintenance and long hours. When a truck driver is not performing their job correctly, there is a risk of a crash.
In addition to failing truck parts and fatigue, other common causes of crashes include distracted driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and speeding. All of those instances are likely to fall back on the driver. However, there are instances where the trucking company may be held accountable.
No matter the cause of your accident, a truck accident attorney from our firm can evaluate your situation and help you determine how best to proceed to get your life back in order.
What Do Injuries Look Like After a Truck Accident?
Accident-related injuries are often worse for the passenger-vehicle victims than the truck driver because of the sheer size difference between vehicles. In some cases, multiple vehicles are involved–particularly on highways and interstates with increased speed limits and more traffic congestion.
Injuries vary, as every truck accident is different. However, some of the most common injuries we see victims cope with include traumatic brain injuries, crushed or amputated limbs, spinal cord injuries, whiplash, and broken bones.
In order to protect yourself and any future claim you may file, it is imperative to seek medical attention after a crash. Not only do you want to ensure your injuries are properly evaluated, diagnosed, and treated, but you will benefit from having an official record of those injuries if you seek compensation.
How Is Fault Determined in North Carolina Trucking Accidents?
Per North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program, trucking commercial trucking companies and drivers must abide by the following regulations:
- Each vehicle must be insured with a mandatory minimum insurance coverage between $50,000 and $750,000 to cover personal injury and property damage.
- Vehicles must be regularly inspected.
- Companies and drivers must comply with weight and road restrictions.
- Truck drivers must meet age requirements and obtain a CDL.
- The law limits driving to 11 hours after 10 hours off-duty and 70 hours in eight days.
When state or federal law is broken, and an accident occurs, it is imperative to determine who is responsible for the crash. Doing so will help build a strong claim. In most truck accidents, three potential parties may be held accountable:
- Truck Drivers in most instances, your truck accident attorney will look to the trucker first when attempting to determine fault. If the truck driver acted with any negligence behind the wheel, they might be accountable for their actions and your injuries.
- Trucking Company in the event the trucker is not at fault for your crash, your lawyer will then evaluate the trucking company. Negligent hiring practices, improper vehicle maintenance, and illegal scheduling can contribute to a collision.
- Manufacturers in the event you believe a defective auto part resulted in a truck malfunction that caused your wreck, your attorney can work with experts to determine which component of the tractor-trailer failed. If it is confirmed that a vehicle defect caused the crash, you may be able to take legal action against the manufacturer.
What Is My Injury Claim Worth?
The value of every truck accident claim varies. Your truck accident attorney will collect information like your medical records and related bills, wage statements, and other applicable receipts or expenses to ensure your claim is appropriately valued.
In addition to determining what the accident cost you financially, your lawyer will also help you determine how the accident impacted your well-being and daily life, which is referred to as pain and suffering.
While most truck accident claims resolve through negotiations and a settlement offer, your lawyer will explain the litigation process in the event reaching a full and fair settlement is not a possibility.
Contact a Truck Accident Attorney From Edwards Injury Law
When you reach out for help from a truck accident attorney from Edwards Injury Law, you can rest assured that your case will be handled with the utmost respect and professionalism. As agents of change with a passion for justice, we work to be effective every day.
Black and veteran-owned, we are aware of the many adversities people face. We are here to explain your legal rights and options and help you meet your long-term health and financial goals. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.
Auto Accident FAQs
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