Auto accidents involving 18-wheelers and other commercial trucks can be devastating. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident due to no fault of your own, we are here to help you fight for your rightful compensation. Contact a Rochester truck accident lawyer from Lacy Katzen LLP for a free initial consultation today.
Truck Accident Lawyer | Serving Clients in Rochester and Its Surrounding Areas
A typical passenger car weighs around 4,000 pounds, while a fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds. The sheer difference in size and weight can lead to severe injuries, or even fatalities, when these trucks are involved in accidents. Additionally, the extensive regulations governing the trucking industry, complex insurance policies, and larger financial stakes make tractor-trailer accident cases notably distinct from other motor vehicle accidents.
For this reason, if you’ve been wrongfully injured in a collision caused by a tractor-trailer driver, you need a competent Rochester auto accident lawyer in your corner who knows the ins and outs of these accidents and how to effectively pursue the compensation you deserve.
Common Types of Truck Driver Negligence
While the circumstances surrounding each accident are unique, there are recurring themes of negligence in the world of tractor-trailer trucking:
- Fatigue: Federal laws set limits on the number of hours truck drivers can be on the road. However, in a bid to meet deadlines, many drivers exceed these limits, leading to fatigue-related accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Like any other driver, truck operators can be guilty of distractions, such as texting or using the phone while driving, which greatly increases the chances of an accident.
- Impaired Driving: Drugs or alcohol can impair a driver’s ability to function and react, making the highways dangerous for everyone.
- Improper Training or Experience: Driving a tractor-trailer requires special skills and training. When companies put poorly trained or inexperienced drivers behind the wheel, the consequences can be disastrous.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: These trucks, given their size and the distances they cover, need regular maintenance. Neglecting this duty can lead to malfunctioning brakes, worn-out tires, and other issues that can precipitate an accident.
After a Truck Accident
If possible, you should try to take the following steps after a truck accident:
- Prioritize Safety: Ensure your safety and that of others involved by moving to a safe location if possible.
- Call 911: Report the accident to law enforcement, requesting medical assistance if there are injuries.
- Don’t Admit Fault: Avoid discussing fault or accepting blame, even if you think you may be partially at fault.
- Collect Information: Gather essential details, including the truck driver’s information, license plate, and insurance.
- Preserve Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Get Witness Statements: Collect contact information from witnesses who can provide statements.
- Consult an Attorney: Seek legal counsel from an experienced truck accident lawyer who can help you negotiate with insurance companies and pursue the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled.
Recovering Compensation
Compensation for a truck accident injury may encompass medical expenses for both immediate and future treatments, wages lost due to inability to work, and potential future earning losses. Additionally, victims may be entitled to damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and in extreme cases, punitive damages designed to penalize egregiously negligent parties. If the accident results in permanent disability or disfigurement, additional compensation may be warranted to address long-term implications and quality-of-life adjustments.
Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer Today
Lacy Katzen LLP has fought on behalf of commercial truck accident victims for decades. If you’ve been hurt by a truck driver due to no fault of your own, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
