Truck Accident Lawyer Birmingham, AL

Commercial vehicle collisions differ significantly from typical passenger car accidents. A fully loaded big rig can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while the average car weighs around 5,000 pounds. This massive weight difference means that when crashes occur, the results are often devastating.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, approximately 5,900 accidents involving large trucks and buses occur annually nationwide, with fatal crashes increasing by 17 percent in recent years. In Alabama, Birmingham sees a significant portion of these collisions due to heavy interstate traffic and the convergence of major freight routes through the metro area.

Several factors contribute to these wrecks:

• Driver fatigue from exceeding federal hours-of-service regulations
• Inadequate training or hiring practices by trucking companies
• Poor vehicle maintenance leading to brake failures or tire blowouts
• Distracted driving or speeding to meet unrealistic delivery schedules

We investigate every aspect of your case. Our team examines logbooks, maintenance records, black box data, and company policies. Trucking companies often have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests immediately after a crash. You need experienced advocates on your side who understand federal regulations and Alabama law.

The injuries from these collisions can be life-altering. Spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, severe burns, and multiple fractures require extensive medical treatment. Some victims face permanent disabilities that prevent them from returning to work. Beyond medical bills, families struggle with lost income, home modifications, and ongoing care needs.

Alabama’s two-year statute of limitations means time is limited to file a claim. We handle commercial truck accident cases throughout the Birmingham area, building strong cases that demonstrate liability and document the full extent of your damages.

Living with the aftermath of a serious collision changes everything. Medical appointments, financial stress, and physical pain can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to face this alone. Our Birmingham attorneys offer straightforward guidance and aggressive representation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Contact our office today to discuss your situation and learn how we can help you move forward.

Types of Truck Accident Cases We Handle

Commercial truck accidents in Birmingham can result in devastating injuries and significant financial losses. These collisions often involve multiple parties, from trucking companies to insurance carriers, making the claims process more complicated than typical car accidents. Understanding the different types of truck accidents can help you recognize the specific factors that may have contributed to your crash.

Commercial vehicle collisions happen in several distinct ways, each with unique causes and liability considerations:

• Jackknife Accidents – When a truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, often due to sudden braking or slick road conditions
• Underride Collisions – A passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer, frequently causing catastrophic injuries or fatalities
• Rollover Crashes – Trucks tip onto their side or roof, commonly caused by speeding around curves, improper loading, or mechanical failures
• Blind Spot Accidents – Collisions occurring in a truck’s “no-zones” where the driver cannot see other vehicles
• Wide Turn Accidents – A truck swings wide to make a turn and strikes vehicles in adjacent lanes
• Rear-End Collisions – When a truck’s weight and momentum make it difficult to stop in time, leading to significant impact force
• Cargo-Related Crashes – Improperly secured or overloaded cargo shifts or falls, causing the driver to lose control or creating road hazards
• Tire Blowouts – Poorly maintained tires fail at highway speeds, causing the driver to lose control

Each type of truck accident presents different challenges when it comes to proving fault and recovering damages. The attorneys at Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC work with accident reconstruction professionals and industry specialists to build strong cases for injured clients throughout Birmingham and the surrounding areas.

Common Injuries in Truck Accidents

Truck accidents often result in severe, life-altering injuries due to the immense size and weight of commercial vehicles. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Can result in cognitive impairments or long-term disabilities.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: May lead to partial or full paralysis.
• Internal Organ Damage: Can cause life-threatening complications.
• Broken Bones And Lacerations: Often require multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation.

Our legal team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries take, and we are dedicated to helping you recover the full compensation needed to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The Importance of Thorough Investigation

In some cases, entities other than the driver or company may hold partial responsibility. This could include other drivers who indirectly caused the incident, companies responsible for cargo loading, or even municipal bodies in charge of road maintenance and safety features. Identifying these parties is crucial for a comprehensive assessment of liability.

Establishing liability accurately requires a detailed and methodical investigation. Legal professionals often collaborate with accident reconstruction experts, mechanical engineers, and safety consultants to gather and analyze evidence. This process is vital to make sure that all factors contributing to the accident are considered.

If you find yourself involved in a commercial vehicle accident, securing skilled legal representation is imperative. Our experienced attorney can manage the complicated web of potential liabilities, advocate on your behalf, and make sure that your case is presented effectively.

Using Technology To Enhance Cases

Visual evidence can have a powerful impact at trial. After gathering all the evidence following a truck crash or 18-wheeler accident, our experienced lawyers use cutting-edge visual presentation methods such as “Sanction” and “Case Map” in their truck accident cases. The ability to use illustrations, photos, graphs and timelines to fully explain complicated concepts and confusing chains of events is a powerful tool in the courtroom.

Our personal injury attorneys utilize a multi-step process to build a compelling claim for our clients:

1. Accident Investigation: We work closely with accident reconstruction specialists and review electronic logging device (ELD) data, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
2. Evidence Collection: Gathering maintenance records, driver logs, and company safety policies is crucial in establishing negligence.
3. Expert Testimony: We partner with industry experts, including mechanical engineers and medical professionals, to provide credible testimony.
4. Negotiation With Insurers: We have extensive experience negotiating with trucking companies and insurers who may try to minimize payouts.

Our thorough approach means that we prepare each case as if it’s going to trial, so that we are always ready to fight for your rights.

Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In Alabama

Truck accidents happen for many reasons, often leading to severe injuries and property damage. The size and weight of commercial trucks make them more dangerous in collisions, especially on highways and busy roads. Knowing the most common causes of these accidents can help us understand what factors contribute to crashes and why legal action may be necessary. Our Alabama truck accident attorney can offer guidance and assistance.

• Fatigue Causes Crashes: Truck drivers spend long hours on the road, and fatigue is a major cause of accidents. Federal regulations limit driving hours, but some drivers push beyond these limits to meet deadlines. Fatigue reduces reaction time, impairs judgment, and increases the risk of falling asleep at the wheel. When a truck driver is too tired to focus, the chances of a serious accident increase.
• Speeding Causes Crashes: Speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents involving commercial trucks. Large trucks require more distance to stop, and driving too fast makes it harder to react to sudden traffic changes. Aggressive driving, such as tailgating or unsafe lane changes, also increases the risk of collisions. When a truck driver does not allow enough space between vehicles, accidents can happen in an instant.
• Improper Truck Maintenance: Trucks travel thousands of miles each week, and proper maintenance is necessary to keep them safe. Worn-out brakes, faulty steering systems, and underinflated tires can all cause accidents. When trucking companies or drivers neglect routine maintenance, mechanical failures can lead to crashes. Poorly maintained trucks put everyone on the road at risk. If you’ve been affected by a truck accident then reach out to our personal injury lawyer from our firm today.
• Distracted Driving: Distractions take a driver’s attention away from the road, increasing the chance of a crash. For truck drivers, distractions can include using a phone, adjusting GPS systems, or eating while driving. Even a momentary lapse in attention can be enough to cause a serious accident. Given the size and weight of trucks, any distraction can have devastating consequences.
• Poor Cargo Loading: Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transit, making a truck difficult to control. Overloaded trucks can also cause tire blowouts or brake failures. Cargo that is not secured correctly may spill onto the roadway, creating hazards for other drivers. Trucking companies and drivers must follow weight limits and secure loads properly to prevent accidents.

Truck accidents can result in significant injuries and financial losses, and determining liability is not always straightforward. If we or a loved one has been injured in a crash, working with our commercial vehicle accident lawyer can help you understand your options. Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC has experience handling truck accident claims and can assist with seeking fair compensation. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help with our case.

Determining Liability in a Truck Accident Case

Determining liability in truck accident cases can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties. Our Alabama attorneys thoroughly investigates every detail to identify all responsible parties, which may include:

• Truck Driver: Drivers might be negligent due to fatigue, impairment, or distracted driving.
• Trucking Company: Companies could be liable for poor hiring practices, inadequate training, or pressuring drivers to exceed safe hours.
• Vehicle Manufacturer: Defective parts like faulty brakes or tires could contribute to the accident.
• Maintenance Provider: Neglecting routine inspections and repairs can lead to dangerous malfunctions.
• Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift, causing the truck to lose balance.

Our in-depth approach is designed to make sure no detail is overlooked, every possible cause is investigated, and every source of compensation is pursued on your behalf.

Birmingham Truck Accident Infographic

Birmingham Truck Accident Statistics

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), more than 5,000 tractor-trailer (18 wheelers) are involved in fatal crashes in the country each year. That number continues to rise every year. In fact, there has been an almost 50 percent increase in fatal truck crashes compared to just 10 years ago.

If you or a loved one has been injured, contact our office to speak with one of our Birmingham truck accident lawyers to find out what type of financial compensation you may be entitled to. Many of these crashes result in serious to catastrophic injuries and the financial impact on families can be devastating.

Birmingham Truck Accident FAQs

Will My Case Go to Trial?

Whether a truck accident case goes to trial depends on various factors, such as the details of the case, the willingness of parties to negotiate, and the strength of evidence. Many cases are settled out of court through negotiations between lawyers and insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, our lawyer may recommend taking the case to trial to pursue the compensation you deserve. At Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC, our preparation for trial is thorough and extensive.

What if the Trucking Company Disputes Liability?

If the trucking company disputes liability in your case, it can complicate the legal process. Our Birmingham truck accident lawyer will investigate thoroughly, gathering evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, and possibly expert testimony to support your claim. We will negotiate with the trucking company’s insurance and legal representatives to establish liability and seek fair compensation for your injuries and damages. If a settlement cannot be reached, our lawyer may advise pursuing litigation, where the evidence gathered will be presented in court to argue your case effectively and advocate for your rights against the trucking company’s defenses.

Can I Sue for Punitive Damages in a Truck Accident Case?

You may be able to sue for punitive damages if the actions of the truck driver or the trucking company are deemed reckless, which is called wanton conduct, or if a death occurred. Punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant and deter similar misconduct in the future by the defendant and others like them. Our motor vehicle collision lawyer will assess the circumstances of your case to determine if punitive damages are warranted. Factors such as the severity of the negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing involved in causing the accident will influence whether punitive damages can be pursued as part of your overall compensation claim.

Should I Accept the Insurance Company’s First Settlement Offer?

Don’t sign anything without first speaking with our attorney. Initial settlement offers are often lower than what you may be entitled to for your injuries, damages, and losses. Our personal injury lawyer can assess the offer in relation to the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. We can negotiate with the insurance company to seek a fair and comprehensive settlement that adequately compensates you for all current and future losses resulting from the truck accident.

Have you been harmed in a truck accident? Your case may be more complicated than a traffic collision between two private drivers. However, these cases require specific knowledge and skill – which we possess. Contact our Alabama personal injury law firm today for a free consultation with our experienced Birmingham truck accident attorney.

Why Do I Need a Truck Accident Lawyer?

Our firm has a proven track record of success in truck accident cases. With decades of experience in Alabama courtrooms, we have recovered millions of dollars for our clients. When you choose us, you are choosing a team that prioritizes your story, your recovery, and your future. We take the time to understand the full extent of your injuries and losses, allowing us to advocate effectively on your behalf. Our compassionate, client-centered approach means that your needs come first, and we will fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.

Birmingham Truck Accident Glossary

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, understanding the legal terms and processes can be challenging. Below, we break down several key terms frequently encountered in truck accident cases to help you better understand your rights and options when working with our Birmingham, AL truck accident lawyer.

Negligent Hiring

Negligent hiring is a concept in truck accident law where a trucking company may be held responsible if it hires drivers without adequately vetting them. Trucking companies are expected to verify the qualifications, driving records, and histories of their drivers. If a company hires a driver with prior traffic violations, substance abuse issues, or other problematic behaviors, and that driver is later involved in an accident, the company may be liable for negligent hiring. This can include instances where the company failed to check for valid commercial driver’s licenses or overlooked previous employment history that indicated a risk. When negligent hiring is a factor, the injured party may pursue compensation from the trucking company, especially if evidence shows a nexus between the driver’s past conduct and the collision.

Respondent Superior

Under the doctrine of respondent superior, an employer can be held liable for the actions of its employees if those actions were carried out within the scope of their employment. This is particularly relevant in truck accident cases. If a truck driver causes an accident while operating the vehicle within the line and scope of their employment, the trucking company may be held accountable for any damages. This legal principle allows victims not only to file claims against the individual driver but also to pursue compensation from the employer. The rationale behind this doctrine is that employers are in a better position to bear the financial burden of accidents caused by their employees. Thus, it can provide a broader scope for recovery in cases where the truck driver alone may not have sufficient resources to cover the damages.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Violations

The FMCSA sets regulations to enhance the safety of commercial trucking operations, and any violations of these rules can be pivotal in truck accident litigation. Common FMCSA violations include breaches in Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, which dictate how long a driver can operate a vehicle before taking mandatory rest breaks. Other violations involve insufficient vehicle maintenance, failure to perform mandatory drug and alcohol testing, and non-compliance with safety inspections. When a trucking company or driver fails to adhere to FMCSA regulations, it can significantly bolster a victim’s case. By demonstrating that these violations contributed to an accident, plaintiffs may strengthen their claims for compensation.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded in addition to compensatory damages in cases where a defendant’s conduct is found to be particularly reckless or wanton. Examples might include operating a vehicle while impaired, falsifying safety records, tampering with vehicle monitoring devices, or knowingly allowing a driver with a history of serious offenses to continue operating trucks. The purpose of punitive damages is to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. However, these damages may only be awarded in cases where there is clear evidence of egregious misconduct.

Accident Reconstruction Analysis

Accident reconstruction is often an essential process in determining the cause of a truck accident. Attorneys often collaborate with individuals in this field to collect and analyze evidence such as black box data, skid marks, ECMs, and surveillance footage. These individuals apply scientific principles to reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to and during the collision. For instance, black box data can reveal the truck’s speed, braking patterns, and engine performance right before the crash. Skid marks can indicate whether the driver attempted to stop or change direction suddenly. The findings from accident reconstruction can be crucial in establishing fault, especially in cases where multiple parties may be involved. This analysis helps build a strong case by pinpointing the actions or failures that contributed to the accident, thereby helping to determine liability.

Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC, Birmingham Truck Accident Lawyer

2222 Arlington Ave S Suite 210, Birmingham, AL 35205

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Contact Our Birmingham Truck Accident Lawyer Today

At Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC, we prioritize helping our clients understand their legal rights and options after a truck accident. Our team works diligently to investigate all aspects of your case, exploring every potential source of liability.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, contact us today to discuss your case and learn about your legal options. We’re here to support you in pursuing the compensation you deserve. Contact our firm to schedule an appointment to discuss legal options following a serious trucking accident. We are ready to put our team of experienced trial attorneys to work for you.

Client Review

“Choosing the firm of Marsh, Rickard and Bryan was one of the best decision I ever made. Attorney Jeff Rickard, Cathy Chancellor and the entire team were fantastic! Any questions or concerns I had were answered and/or addressed promptly. I was very impressed with the professional service that this firm provided for me and the expertise with which concluded in a favorable outcome.”

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