Commercial Truck Accident Attorney
At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we recognize that commercial truck accidents are among the most devastating incidents on our roadways.
Our experience has shown that these accidents often result in severe injuries, fatalities, and significant property damage. Due to the size and weight of large commercial vehicles such as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, or 18-wheelers, these incidents can cause catastrophic damage.
Our team believes that understanding the complexities of commercial truck accidents is crucial for anyone involved in such an incident.
Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents
Several factors can contribute to commercial truck accidents:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to drowsiness and reduced reaction times.
- Distracted Driving: Use of mobile phones, eating, or other distractions can take a driver’s attention away from the road.
- Speeding: Trucks require longer stopping distances, making speeding especially dangerous.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Neglected brakes, tires, or other critical components can lead to mechanical failures.
- Improper Loading: Unbalanced or unsecured cargo can cause a truck to tip or lose control.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, or ice can make it difficult for large trucks to maneuver safely.
- Inadequate Training: Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers may not handle their vehicles properly in challenging situations.
Unique Aspects of Commercial Truck Accidents
We understand that commercial truck accidents differ significantly from regular car accidents. The size and weight disparity often leads to more severe injuries. We’ve found that liability in these cases can be complex, potentially involving multiple parties such as the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or cargo loaders.
Legal Considerations
When handling commercial truck accident cases, our team at Schierer & Ritchie, LLC focuses on several vital legal aspects:
- Comparative Negligence: In some cases, multiple parties may share fault for the accident, affecting the compensation amount.
- Federal Regulations: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets rules for the trucking industry, including service hours, maintenance requirements, and driver qualifications.
- Evidence Gathering: It’s crucial to collect evidence quickly, including the truck’s “black box” data, driver logs, and maintenance records.
- Statute of Limitations: The time limit for filing a lawsuit after a truck accident varies by state.
Steps to Take After a Commercial Truck Accident
We recommend the following steps if you’re involved in a commercial truck accident:
- Contact an experienced attorney who handles commercial truck accidents
- Prioritize safety and call emergency services immediately
- Document the scene if possible
- Gather contact and insurance information from all parties involved
- Seek medical attention, even for seemingly minor injuries
How Schierer & Ritchie, LLC Can Assist
Our legal team at Schierer & Ritchie, LLC is committed to providing comprehensive support in commercial truck accident cases. We conduct thorough accident investigations to uncover all relevant facts and evidence. Our approach involves identifying all potentially liable parties to explore every avenue for compensation.
We negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of our clients, leveraging our experience to advocate for fair settlements. Throughout the process, we work diligently to address compliance with relevant laws and regulations, ensuring that all legal requirements are met. Suppose a satisfactory resolution cannot be reached through negotiation. In that case, we are prepared to represent our client’s interests in court, presenting a strong case based on our meticulous preparation and legal expertise.
Preventing Commercial Truck Accidents
While not all accidents can be prevented, several measures can reduce their likelihood:
- Stricter enforcement of hours-of-service regulations
- Regular vehicle maintenance and inspections
- Improved driver training programs
- Implementation of advanced safety technologies in trucks
- Public awareness campaigns about sharing the road safely with large trucks
Commercial truck accidents are complex incidents with potentially life-altering consequences. Understanding the unique aspects of these accidents, knowing how to respond if involved in one, and being aware of prevention strategies can help improve road safety for everyone.
Contact us Today
We encourage you to seek professional legal guidance if you or a loved one has been involved in a commercial truck accident. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we offer experience navigating the complex legal landscape of commercial truck accidents. Our team is prepared to review your case and discuss potential strategies for seeking fair compensation for your injuries and losses.