The average semi-truck is about 72 feet long and can legally weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Any accident involving one of these large vehicles can result in devastating consequences for those involved. As such, the importance of adequate training and safety regulations within the trucking industry cannot be overstated.
If a truck driver, trucking company, or affiliated third party caused you to suffer injuries in an auto wreck, our skilled accident attorneys may be able to help you recover compensation for your damages. A Marion truck accident lawyer from Whetstone Perkins & Fulda could aggressively pursue fair financial restitution on your behalf.
Who Could Be Liable for a Commercial Truck Crash?
Just like motorists in commuter cars, commercial truckers have a legal duty to act reasonably and safely while behind the wheel. If a truck operator drives carelessly, causing an accident, the driver may face civil liability for your injuries. Depending on the circumstances, several other parties may be liable in a semi-truck accident case.
Trucking Companies
Some trucking companies prioritize saving money over preserving the safety of their workers and compel their drivers to violate federal driving time regulations to make deliveries quicker. If an overworked truck driver becomes too fatigued to operate the vehicle safely, the trucking company may face liability for an ensuing collision. Some trucking companies ignore red flags and put drivers on the road who have bad driving records. In that case, the company may be held liable for the driver’s foreseeable reckless conduct. Even if the company is not primarily responsible, it typically will be considered vicariously liable for the negligent actions of its employee.
Negligent Third Parties
Truck accidents can also stem from mechanical failures or improper loading or overloading of a truck. In these situations, negligent third parties such as the truck manufacturer, maintenance company, or loading dock workers may bear responsibility for the accident. A truck wreck lawyer in Marion could provide crucial guidance in identifying the at-fault parties in your claim.
Recoverable Damages Following a Serious Tractor-Trailer Wreck
Because commercial trucks can cause such extensive damage when they collide with smaller commuter vehicles, it is crucial that you seek adequate compensation to address the full scope of your losses. In addition to short-term expenses for emergency medical care, replacement of a totaled vehicle, and lost income due to missed work shifts, you and your attorney should also take into account the long-term consequences of a catastrophic accident that play out over time.
In addition to short-term and long-term economic damages, you should also consider the non-economic losses you have experienced due to the accident, such as lost enjoyment of life, pain, and suffering.
Can Missing the Filing Deadline Impact Your Right to Compensation?
The statute of limitations is the legal filing deadline that is applicable to all personal injury claims. Generally, plaintiffs have three years from the date of the accident to bring their case to court. Retaining a seasoned lawyer soon after an 18-wheeler accident in Marion could be essential to preserving your right to recovery and maximizing the amount of compensation available to you.
Contact a Marion Truck Accident Attorney for Assistance
Truck drivers have an equal or even greater responsibility to drive safely as other motorists on the road. If you were in a crash with an 18-wheeler, you may have a valid legal claim against the operator or their employer.
Because managing a case against a large commercial company can be challenging, you should work with a Marion truck accident lawyer on your claim. Contact our firm today to set up a consultation.
