When you’re involved in a truck accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. The size and weight of commercial trucks often lead to severe injuries, significant property damage, and even loss of life. If you or a loved one has experienced a truck accident in North Carolina, you need an experienced legal team to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident, it’s critical to contact a Sanford personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. There is often a limited window of time to pursue compensation for your injuries, and important evidence may be lost if swift action isn’t taken.
Many modern trucks are equipped with an Electronic Data Recorder (EDR), which stores valuable data such as the truck driver’s location throughout their route, the vehicle’s speed, and communications between the driver and the dispatcher. However, this data can be erased as quickly as two weeks after an accident unless steps are taken to preserve it. Similarly, driver logs—another key source of evidence for compensation claims—can be legally destroyed after six months under federal regulations. Acting quickly ensures this evidence is secured and available to strengthen your case.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often result from negligence, including:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to drowsy driving.
- Improper Loading: Overloaded or poorly secured cargo can cause rollovers or lost loads.
- Mechanical Failures: Inadequate truck maintenance may lead to brake failures or tire blowouts.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or other distractions can cause serious accidents.
- Reckless Driving: Speeding, tailgating, or ignoring traffic laws endangers everyone on the road.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?
Truck accidents are often complex personal injury cases. While the truck driver may bear some responsibility, other parties could also be liable depending on the circumstances of the accident. Potentially responsible parties include:
- The trucking company
- The owner of the trailer
- The owner of the cab
- The truck driver
- The driver’s employer
- A third party responsible for maintaining the truck
Determining liability can be complicated because multiple parties and insurance companies are often involved, none of whom are eager to accept blame.
Tip: Avoid speaking with an insurance claims adjuster before consulting a truck accident attorney. This step could mean the difference between securing fair compensation or being unfairly blamed.
Contributory Negligence in North Carolina
North Carolina follows the contributory negligence rule, one of the strictest liability standards in the country. Under this rule, if the trucking company, truck driver, or insurer can prove that you contributed in any way to the accident—no matter how small—you may be entirely barred from recovering compensation for your injuries. This makes it even more critical to work with an experienced attorney who can protect your rights.
Common Injuries in Truck Accidents
Due to the massive size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often result in severe and life-altering injuries. Even at low speeds, the force of impact from a truck collision can cause significant harm to those involved. Here are some of the most common injuries sustained in truck accidents:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Broken Bones and Fractures
- Internal Injuries
- Burns
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries
- Cuts and Lacerations
- Amputations
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma
What To Do After a Truck Accident
The moments following a truck accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can protect your health, safety, and legal rights. Here’s what to do if you’re involved in a truck accident:
1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention
- Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.
- Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Call the Police
- Report the accident to law enforcement. A police report is a critical piece of evidence for your claim.
3. Document the Scene
- Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Gather contact information from witnesses and any other drivers involved, including the truck driver’s name, employer, and insurance details.
4. Do Not Admit Fault
Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police or others at the scene.
5. Gather Truck-Specific Information
- Write down the truck’s license plate number, DOT number, and company name.
- Note any visible safety violations, such as overloaded cargo or worn tires.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
- Inform your insurer about the accident but avoid providing a recorded statement until you’ve consulted an attorney.
7. Preserve Evidence
- Save any medical records, repair estimates, and receipts related to the accident. This documentation is crucial for your claim.
8. Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer
- Consult an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can help preserve evidence, determine liability, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
By following these steps, you can protect your rights and build a strong foundation for your claim. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, contact us for a free consultation—we’re here to help you every step of the way.
How Can a North Carolina Truck Accident Lawyer Assist You?
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident and suffered injuries, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance right away. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help you in several important ways:
Collecting and Preserving Evidence
Evidence is vital to proving liability in a truck accident. Key evidence might include:
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- Driver and cargo logbooks
- The truck’s black box data
- Dashcam footage
- Driving records, including drug test results
- Truck inspection and maintenance reports
- Safety ratings
- The trucking company’s hiring, training, and supervision records
- Witness statements
- Official accident reports
Establishing Fault
Your lawyer will thoroughly investigate the case to determine who is at fault and build a compelling argument on your behalf.
Identifying Liable Parties
Given the number of entities involved in trucking operations, your attorney will identify all potentially responsible parties to maximize your compensation.
Calculating Damages
An experienced lawyer will ensure all your damages—medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more—are fully accounted for in your claim.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often delay or deny valid claims. Your attorney can apply pressure to ensure your rights are upheld and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Take Your Truck Accident Case to Trial if Necessary
If a fair resolution cannot be reached, your attorney will be prepared to fight for your rights in court.
Truck accidents can have life-changing consequences, but you don’t have to face the challenges alone. Contact a skilled truck accident lawyer today to protect your rights and secure the justice you deserve.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation and long-term care
- Emotional distress
Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
As the trucking industry continues to expand, accidents involving large trucks are becoming increasingly common. With highways often struggling to handle the volume of traffic they were not originally designed for, the growing presence of commercial trucks creates significant hazards for all road users. Protect your rights and your future by seeking legal help promptly after a trucking accident.
If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident caused by someone else’s negligence, the team at Wilson, Reives & Doran is here to help. We are committed to pursuing full compensation for your damages and will hold all responsible parties accountable, whether it’s the truck driver, the trucking company, or the vehicle manufacturer. Let us fight for the justice you deserve.