Truck accidents are among the most complicated and serious incidents that occur on the roads. There are many different types of truck accidents, each with its own common causes and complexities regarding subsequent injury claims.

Determining liability in truck accidents can be challenging, especially since multiple parties may be involved. However, the type of collision that happened can often help determine the cause and liable parties.

If you or your loved one suffered injuries in a truck accident, never wait to seek legal advice from a truck accident lawyer who can investigate what happened and pursue any possible legal claims. Ensure you hire an attorney with experience handling high-stakes truck accident cases, as they will be familiar with the complications and issues that might arise.

Accidents in Residential Areas

Not all truck collisions happen on the interstate. Truck crashes in residential areas might happen when a truck driver fails to navigate narrow streets or turns properly. These accidents can pose a significant risk to pedestrians and other vehicles in the vicinity.

Head-On Collisions

Due to the size and weight disparity between a truck and a passenger vehicle, head-on collisions with trucks can be catastrophic. These accidents often occur when a truck crosses the centerline or travels in the wrong direction on a one-way road.

Rear-end and Override Collisions

Rear-end collisions involving trucks can happen when a truck driver fails to maintain a safe following distance and collides with the vehicle in front. Override collisions refer to when a truck runs over the back of a smaller vehicle, causing severe damage and injuries.

Rollovers

Large semi-trucks are prone to rolling over, and rollover triggers can include excessive speeding, sharp turns, or imbalanced cargo. These accidents can result in the truck rolling onto its side or even flipping over. A rollover truck accident often causes a truck to collide with other vehicles or results in a chain reaction crash.

Jackknifes

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming an L or V shape with the cab. These accidents can happen when the truck driver hits the brakes abruptly or the cargo suddenly shifts, causing the trailer to swing out of control. Jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to further collisions and traffic congestion.

Investigating Truck Crashes with the Right Legal Support

If you have been in a truck accident, you should have the right legal support to investigate the crash thoroughly. Gathering evidence is essential in determining liability and ensuring fair compensation for the victims. Here are some key pieces of evidence that can play a crucial role in an investigation:

Preserving Evidence

Preserving evidence is crucial in truck accident cases. This includes collecting photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries sustained. Obtaining witness statements and documenting road conditions, weather conditions, and any relevant signage or traffic signals is also important.

Event Data Recorders

Event data recorders (EDRs), also known as “black boxes,” are devices installed in commercial trucks that record various data, such as speed, braking, and engine performance. Retrieving and analyzing the data from EDRs can provide valuable insights into the cause of the accident.

Electronic Logging Devices

Electronic logging devices (ELDs) are mandated in commercial trucks to track the number of hours a driver spends behind the wheel. A truck accident lawyer can use ELD data to determine if a truck driver violated hours-of-service regulations, which can play a significant role in determining liability.

Trucking Company Records

Obtaining records from the trucking company, such as driver logs, maintenance records, and safety training records, can provide vital information about any negligence or non-compliance issues that may have contributed to the accident.

Witness Accounts

Eyewitness accounts can provide valuable information about the events leading up to the accident. Identifying and interviewing witnesses can help establish a clear picture of what happened and who may be at fault.

Dashcams and Video Footage

In some cases, dashcam footage or video footage from surveillance cameras in the vicinity of the accident can capture the entire incident. This video evidence can provide crucial details and support the victim’s claims.

Your truck accident lawyer can gather all relevant evidence and build a strong case to prove liability based on the type of truck crash that happened. They can also present evidence of your injuries and losses to seek the full compensation you need for financial support. You only need to schedule a free consultation and discuss your situation with a legal professional. Learning about your rights and options after serious truck accident injuries costs nothing.

Consult a Truck Accident Attorney as Soon as Possible

The aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially when navigating the legal process and dealing with insurance companies. Always seek legal advice from an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible. An attorney with experience handling truck accident cases can guide you through the complex legal procedures, protect your rights, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to filing a truck accident lawsuit. Statutes of limitations vary from state to state, so consult an attorney promptly to avoid missing any crucial deadlines. Contact a personal injury attorney near you who handles truck accident cases to discuss your situation and explore your legal options.