An accident involving an 18-wheeler truck can be devastating for victims, and our Birmingham, AL truck accident lawyer can help you on your path to recovery. Accidents involving trucks are some of the most dangerous and deadly crashes every year. If you have been injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler, your injuries and losses may be catastrophic.
There are ways to receive compensation for your losses and start the process of recovering from such an accident. Contact Marsh, Rickard & Bryan, LLC today to discover how we can help you recover in the aftermath of a truck accident.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
There are many different causes of truck accidents, but if your accident was caused by the negligence or fault of another party, you can seek compensation to cover your losses. The at-fault party could be a number of people from the truck driver to the owner or even the trucking company. A driver may be driving recklessly or under the influence. The owner of the truck may have neglected upkeep of key parts of the truck or certain safety features that led to the accident. A trucking company may participate in negligent hiring practices, safety training, or promote unsafe working conditions that can result in an accident.
If you have been in a truck accident, a Birmingham truck accident lawyer can help you determine who is liable for the accident and the full extent of their liability in order to maximize the compensation you receive.
Liability and Seeking Compensation
As stated, truck accidents are among the most dangerous accidents on the road each year. Because of the disproportionate size and power of 18-wheelers, truck drivers and trucking companies are held to a high standard of operation and safety. Acts of carelessness or negligence on their part can have catastrophic consequences, and thus may entitle you to compensation.
In seeking this compensation, you may file a claim with insurance or a lawsuit against the at-fault party. Insurance companies will often attempt to deny or undervalue a claim, even going as far as attempting to place the blame on you, the victim. Lawyers representing the insurance companies and at-fault parties will work hard to fight against your claims and keep you from receiving compensation.
A Birmingham truck accident lawyer has experience fighting back against insurance companies and their teams of lawyers. They will fight hard to protect your rights and deliver justice and the compensation that you deserve. This compensation may include payment to cover costs of medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, emotional anguish, property damage, and more. A lawyer will consult with you on your case, advise you on the best course forward, gather evidence to prove liability in the at-fault party, and represent you in any negotiations and court proceedings that take place for your case.
Contacting with Our Attorneys
A truck accident lawyer has knowledge of the law and negotiating skills that makes them a vital aid in your financial recovery. They also have experience working with victims of truck accidents and advocating for and defending their rights. If you are prepared to take a key step towards recovering from a truck accident, contact Marsh, Rickard & Bryan, LLC today to schedule a consultation.
The Severity Of Commercial Vehicle Collisions
Commercial vehicle collisions, particularly those involving trucks, are among the most catastrophic road incidents. Their sheer size and weight make them capable of causing significant damage, injuries, and unfortunately, fatalities. These accidents often result in more severe consequences than typical car accidents due to several inherent factors related to trucks. Our Birmingham, AL truck accident lawyer understands how to obtain evidence for your case, as well as seek the proper amount of compensation. The lawyers at Marsh, RIckard & Bryan, LLC would be happy to review the details of your case in a consultation. Continue reading to learn about some of the reasons truck accidents are often so serious.
Impact Of Size And Weight
One of the primary reasons truck accidents are more severe is the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. When a truck, often weighing up to 80,000 pounds, collides with a passenger vehicle, the impact is significantly greater than in collisions involving two smaller vehicles. This disparity in size and weight not only increases the likelihood of severe damage to the vehicle but also elevates the risk of serious injuries to the occupants.
Common Injuries In Truck-Related Accidents
Injuries from these accidents vary widely but often include severe trauma. Head and brain injuries are common, ranging from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which can have long-lasting or permanent effects. Spinal cord injuries are also frequent, potentially leading to paralysis or other permanent disabilities. Broken bones, internal injuries, and severe lacerations are also typical in these collisions. Due to the massive forces involved, recovery from these injuries can be prolonged and complicated, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
The Complexity Of Truck Accident Cases
Handling the aftermath of a truck accident is often more complex than dealing with a regular car accident. Multiple parties may be involved, including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and others. Determining liability can be intricate due to the involvement of commercial entities and the possibility of mechanical failures, regulatory violations, or driver fatigue contributing to the accident. This is why it is crucial to have a Birmingham truck accident lawyer on your side to assist in proving fault and seeking compensation.
Contact Us Today
Given the complexities and the severe nature of injuries in truck accidents, securing knowledgeable legal representation is crucial. Our Birmingham truck accident lawyers understand the nuances of trucking regulations, the intricate process of investigation, and the approach needed for these challenging cases. They can play a pivotal role in ensuring that victims receive fair compensation for their injuries, which may include medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it is essential to act promptly. Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial for health and legal reasons. It’s equally important to consult with our qualified attorney who can offer guidance and support through the legal process. An experienced attorney will help protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Remember, time is of the essence in these cases, so reaching out for legal assistance as soon as possible is vital. Reach out to Marsh, Rickard & Bryan, LLC to see how you can get the compensation you deserve.
Fault In Commercial Vehicle Collisions
Collisions involving commercial vehicles often present complex challenges. Determining liability involves dissecting multiple layers of responsibility, from direct actions on the road to overarching corporate policies, as well as state and federal rules and regulations. We recommend reaching out to our experienced Birmingham, AL truck accident lawyers if you’ve been involved in an accident.
Driver error remains a leading cause of vehicular collisions. This could include reckless driving, fatigue, impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs, or simply failing to adhere to traffic laws. However, while the driver’s actions are pivotal, they are just one part of a larger picture.
Trucking companies have a legal obligation to ensure the safety of their operations. This duty encompasses various aspects such as hiring competent drivers, conducting regular vehicle maintenance, and adhering to all federal and state regulations. When an accident occurs, the investigation may reveal negligence on the part of the company, such as inadequate driver training or pressure on drivers to meet unrealistic schedules.
The Manufacturer’s Liability
Occasionally, the fault may lie with the vehicle itself. In these instances, the manufacturer of the truck or specific parts may be held liable if a mechanical failure contributed to the accident. Common issues include faulty brakes, engine problems, or defective safety equipment. Product liability claims can be complex. Experienced Birmingham truck accident attorneys and product liability attorneys like those at Marsh, Rickard & Bryan know how to handle such cases.
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 ensure 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. An experienced attorney can navigate the complex web of potential liabilities, advocate on your behalf, and ensure that your case is presented effectively.
Take The Next Step Towards Protecting Your Rights
Experiencing a commercial vehicle accident can be overwhelming, and the path to recovery is often fraught with legal complexities. It is essential to act swiftly to protect your interests. Marsh, Rickard, & Bryan, LLC is available to assist with your case. Let us help you understand your legal options and guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today to get started!
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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