A large truck has a gross vehicle weight of at least 33,000 pounds, but large semi-trucks can be as much as 80,000 pounds when fully laden. Stats show that semi-trucks account for 53% of all collisions. In 2023, there were 170,716 large truck accidents. Given how heavy they are, it is hardly surprising that truck accidents are often devastating to the drivers caught up in them.
Leading causes of truck accidents include driver fatigue, mechanical failure, and driver impairment, with 6.7% of large truck accidents involving driver intoxication.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, a truck accident lawyer is essential. Here’s what to look for.
Experience Handling Truck Accident Cases
One of the most important things to look for in a truck accident lawyer is experience. You’ll want to choose an attorney who has a proven track record of successfully handling cases specifically involving truck accidents. Truck accident cases can be complex and involve multiple parties, so you need a lawyer with knowledge of trucking regulations, insurance, and how to build a strong case.
A quick Google search for the best truck accident lawyer near me should provide a list of top-rated local trucking accident law firms. Experienced truck accident attorneys will know how to thoroughly investigate the accident, identify all liable parties, demonstrate how negligence contributed to the crash, and maximize client compensation.
Resources to Take on Large Trucking Companies
Truck accident cases often involve going up against large trucking companies with significant legal and financial resources. It’s crucial to have a lawyer with the resources and tenacity to stand up to corporate defense attorneys.
Look for a firm with the staff, expertise, and funding to do exhaustive case research, reconstruct accident scenes, consult with medical and technical experts, and take cases to trial if fair settlements aren’t offered. An attorney with robust resources can build a strong case and create leverage to negotiate top dollar settlements for clients.
Knowledge of Trucking Laws and Regulations
Truck accident cases involve complex regulations that govern truck driver qualifications, training, hours of service, truck maintenance, cargo loads, and more. A knowledgeable truck accident lawyer will be intimately familiar with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations and how violations can contribute to wrecks. They can use evidence of regulatory breaches to prove negligence and win injury claims for victims.
Willingness to Go to Trial
Most truck accident lawsuits settle out of court, with only 4% of cases going to trial, but you need a lawyer willing to take your case to trial if necessary. An attorney who fully prepares cases for litigation shows insurance companies that they are serious and won’t settle for lowball offers. This aggressive posture produces top-dollar settlements for clients – even a minor accident could be worth as much as $100k.
Look for a truck accident lawyer with ample trial experience and success persuading juries to award maximum damages to injured plaintiffs. Knowing your lawyer will litigate sends a message that you aim to recover full and fair compensation.
A good truck accident lawyer has genuine compassion for clients and commits to getting them justice and compensation for injuries. Look for an attorney who listens closely to your story, is empathetic, and personally invested in getting you maximum compensation so you can move forward after an accident. You want a lawyer who will treat you like more than just a case file or payday.
