Hiring a Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer
If you are in the midst of a semi-truck accident, it is best to speak to a semi-truck accident lawyer immediately. These lawyers are experienced in handling large-scale cases, and they know the various steps to take after a collision. Whether you are the driver or the passenger, your lawyer will be able to guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Expertise of semi-truck accident lawyers
If you have been in a car accident and were hit by a semi-truck, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. This is because a semi-truck accident case can involve many parties and can become complex. You should make sure that the attorney you choose has extensive experience handling similar cases. A Chicago truck accident attorney can fight on your behalf and help you secure compensation for your injuries.
Because of the large size of the vehicles, drivers have to take extra care and experience to avoid collisions with other vehicles. These drivers must also abide by traffic laws. Large trucks have more weight and are more difficult to maneuver than other types of vehicles. As a result, truck accidents can cause significant permanent injuries. It is also important to find critical evidence and to work with accident reconstruction experts to determine how the accident happened and who is responsible.
Cost of hiring one
The cost of hiring a semi-truck accident lawyer can vary widely, and you should always discuss the fee structure with your attorney before hiring him or her. Attorneys generally charge a percentage of the amount of compensation they win for their clients. This percentage is usually around 30 percent of the amount of compensation recovered, but in some cases, this can be much higher.
In addition to the lawyer’s time, truck accident victims may also need to pay for experts to help them reconstruct the crash. The costs of these professionals often exceed the cost of hiring a lawyer, since it requires the expertise of an expert in accident reconstruction.
Steps to take after a crash
When involved in a car accident involving a semi-truck, you should stay calm and contact emergency services. If you are hurt, turn on your hazard lights so other drivers will see you. Call 911 or the state highway patrol, and let them assess the situation. They will instruct you on what to do next. Call a physician if necessary, and make sure everyone involved is okay.
Take pictures and notes, and gather as much information as possible. This evidence may help you in court, as you will have a clearer memory of the crash and who was at fault. If possible, talk to witnesses about the accident.
Liability of truck manufacturer
Truck accidents are often caused by overloaded or unevenly loaded trucks. The truck driver, shipping company, or manufacturer can all be held liable, depending on the circumstances. For example, the truck driver may not have checked his load before he hit the road, causing the accident. A lawyer can help determine who else is responsible. If there was a death, family members can bring a wrongful death lawsuit.
The truck manufacturer may also be responsible for the accident if the truck was manufactured improperly or has a design flaw that caused the accident. A truck owner-operator may also be held liable if the truck was not properly maintained. A defective part could result in a tire blowout, mechanical failure, or faulty brakes. These manufacturers can be held liable for the accident, and may pay for the victims’ damages.