Traffic accidents can be traumatic, no matter what vehicle is involved. However, the devastation can be even more substantial when there are larger vehicles, such as commercial trucks and trailers. Statistics show that there were over 5600 deaths due to truck accidents in 2021, around a 12% increase from the previous year. Accidents also increase with the number of these heavy goods vehicles on the road every year. This has led to increased demand in individuals seeking an experienced truck accident lawyer to help navigate these potentially complicated lawsuits.

Why Do Truck Accidents Happen?

There is no single reason that causes truck accidents. Various factors can play a part in these devestating accidents, including road conditions, truck maintenance, and dangerous driving. The most common cause of truck accidents is a violation of traffic or safety laws. In fact, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 1 in 5 truck accidents are caused by driver error. These mistakes can be committed by either the truck driver or drivers of other vehicles who lack understanding or respect for the larger vehicles they share the road with. Some of the causes of truck accidents include:

  • Distracted driving
  • Driver fatigue
  • Failure to adjust to road and weather conditions
  • Driving under the influence
  • Speeding or reckless driving
  • Insufficient training for truck drivers
  • Poor maintenance of trucks

When you are involved in a truck accident, it is up to your truck accident lawyer to help prove which of these causes contributed to the accident and which party needs to shoulder the blame. A truck accident lawyer can represent either side of the lawsuit. At Butler, Vines & Babb, we have successfully defended various truck accident cases and represented those injured in this type of accident.

Why Do You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer?

There is much to unpack regarding a truck accident lawsuit, regardless of which side you are on. Thanks to the significant size and weight of the vehicles involved, the resulting injuries can be severe, stacking up hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses. Then there is the cost of ongoing medical costs, lost wages, repair or replacement of damaged property, and more. Beyond the financial aspects, there is the question of liability. Who caused the accident? It's not as cut and dried as choosing between the truck driver or the other vehicle. It may be necessary to involve the trucking company, the vehicle manufacturer, or even a third party loading or freight company. This is tricky to navigate when you don't know what you are doing. That is why having an experienced truck accident lawyer in your corner is so important.

What to Do When Involved in a Truck Accident

If you are ever involved in a truck accident, it can be incredibly overwhelming trying to navigate the whole experience. Here are some basic tips you can follow that will help guide you to the essential steps you need to take.

  1. Seek Medical Attention - One of the first things you need to do when involved in a truck accident is to seek medical attention. It is essential to do this even if you assume your injuries are minor. Sometimes, the symptoms of things like whiplash or internal bleeding do not become apparent immediately. It is better to be safe than sorry, so get seen by a medical professional as soon as possible and have all of your injuries documented. Your medical records may become key evidence during a truck accident lawsuit.
  2. Choose the Right Truck Accident Lawyer - Truck accident lawsuits can be complicated, so choosing the right truck accident lawyer is essential. You will want someone who has experience in these types of lawsuits and can be in your corner and help secure the best result.
  3. Exchange Information - As with any accident, when you are involved in a truck accident, you should exchange contact details with everyone involved if possible. Ideally, this would include names, contact information, and insurance details. Sometimes, it may not be possible to get this information immediately due to safety or medical treatment. However, you should get any information you can, even if it's just noting down license plates or the company's name on the side of the truck.
  4. Contact the Authorities - It is essential to file a police report when you are involved in a truck accident. This is necessary to document the details of the accident and gather any witness statements.
  5. Take Photos of the Accident - If it is safe to do so, you should take pictures of the accident from all possible angles. These photos may be helpful to your truck accident lawyer when putting together your case.

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Butler, Vines and Babb is a leading law firm in Knoxville, TN, with extensive litigation experience in Medical Malpractice LawBirth Injury LawTrucking Accident LawPersonal Injury Law, and Business Law. Contact us today at www.bvblaw.com or call 865-637-3531.

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