Accidents involving trucks and other large commercial vehicles typically raise a different set of issues than accidents that take place between passenger automobiles. In addition to potentially causing a lot more damage, truck accidents often create the possibility that more than one party could be held legally responsible. The trucking industry is also extensively regulated at both the state and federal levels, which could add to the complexity of a truck accident case.
The first call you make after being hurt in an accident involving a truck should be to a Lexington truck accident lawyer. And not just any personal injury attorney but one who has a track record of successfully obtaining compensation for truck accident victims. A lawyer could, among other things, pursue any and all forms of compensation to which you might be entitled, including compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages – even pain and suffering.
Causes of Truck Accidents
Studies show that about half a million accidents are caused by commercial trucks in the United States each year – many leading to fatalities. Despite the existence of safety regulations, serious truck accidents continue to occur with surprising regularity.
The following are some of the most common causes of truck accidents in the Lexington area of South Carolina:
Fatigue
As they are under significant pressure to make deliveries on time, truck drivers often get too little sleep and that, in turn, causes them to lose concentration. An experienced Lexington truck accident lawyer has likely handled many cases involving truck driver fatigue.
Speeding
Largely due to delivery pressure, truck drivers routinely go over the speed limit, even in poor weather conditions. Speeding reduces reaction time and makes getting into a serious accident more likely.
Alcohol & Drug Use
It is an unfortunate truth that many truck drivers have faced legal consequences for operating their vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Poor Training & Maintenance
Truck drivers must undergo extensive training before being allowed out on the open road, as well as periodically make sure their trucks are in good operating condition. Failure to do either – or both – could and often does lead to a serious accident.
Identifying Liable Parties
Determining which party, or parties, might be liable when handling a truck accident claim is one of the most important jobs of a Lexington truck accident lawyer. Any of the following could potentially be made a defendant in a truck accident lawsuit:
Driver
The driver of a truck involved in an accident could be held liable under certain circumstances, such as if they ignored safety precautions, didn’t address a known mechanical issue, or were under the influence behind the wheel.
Employer
The company the driver works for could also face legal liability in the event of an accident, such as if a Lexington truck accident attorney could show that it cut corners on safety.
Cargo Loader
Many truck accidents are directly traceable to improperly loaded cargo. In these cases, a third-party company responsible for loading and securing the cargo could possibly be held liable.
Manufacturer
Defective parts like bad brakes and exploding tires are responsible for causing many truck accidents. A lawyer might be able to hold the manufacturer of a defective part liable under the law of product liability.
Contact a Lexington Truck Accident Attorney
A trucking accident could have devastating consequences on all individuals involved. With help from a Lexington truck accident lawyer, though, you may be able to obtain compensation from all those responsible. Contact a lawyer today to have your case evaluated by a local legal professional with experience in truck accident litigation.
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