A truck accident injury can upend your life in an instant. Because of their tremendous size and weight, commercial trucks can cause catastrophic damage and devastating injuries to those in smaller vehicles. If you or someone you love has been in a collision with a large truck, you are likely facing physical pain, emotional distress and growing financial burdens. Overcoming the aftermath of such an incident can feel impossible, especially when trying to recover from injuries. Saavedra Law Firm is prepared to deliver the legal insight you need during this difficult time. Trust our Glendale truck accident lawyer for compassionate representation.
Litigation involving commercial truck accidents is fundamentally more complex than typical car accident cases. Truck drivers and the companies they work for must adhere to a strict set of federal and state safety regulations, in addition to standard traffic laws. For instance, interstate truck drivers must comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations that set specific hours of service to prevent driver fatigue. Violations of these rules, such as driving for too many consecutive hours without a break, are common causes of accidents.
Establishing negligence in these cases calls for a comprehensive grasp of these specific regulations. To hold a truck driver or their company accountable, you must prove they had a duty of care, breached that duty and that this failure directly caused your injuries and damages. A breach of duty can take place as improper cargo loading, inadequate vehicle maintenance, speeding, aggressive or distracted driving or failing to adjust to adverse weather conditions.
In a standard car crash, the fault usually resides with one of the drivers. However, in a truck accident, liability can extend far beyond just the person behind the wheel. A thorough investigation often reveals multiple parties who may share responsibility for the crash. This could include the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, a third-party loading company or even a mechanic responsible for repairs.
Arizona follows the rule of several liabilities, meaning each defendant is responsible only for their specific percentage of fault. This makes it important to pinpoint every potential liable party to help you receive compensation. For example:
Handling a truck accident claim by yourself is not advisable. Trucking companies and their insurers frequently have extensive resources aimed at reducing their liability. They may try to deflect blame or propose settlements that fall short of your actual losses.
A dedicated Glendale truck accident lawyer will conduct an in-depth investigation into your accident. This includes obtaining electronic logbooks, maintenance records and witness statements to build a strong case. They will analyze the evidence to determine if any federal or state regulations were violated and identify all sources of liability. Your lawyer takes on the burden of dealing with insurance adjusters and defense lawyers, allowing you to focus entirely on your recovery. While you heal, they work diligently to secure the compensation you require for medical expenses, lost income and pain and suffering.
At Saavedra Law Firm, we recognize the profound and life-altering effects a truck accident can have on you and your loved ones. Freddy Saavedra is committed to providing tenacious representation to injury victims. We know that every case is different; we take the time to listen to your story and understand your specific needs. If you have been injured in a truck accident, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our Glendale truck accident lawyer.