Fayetteville Trucking Accident Lawyers

Commercial trucks’ sheer size and power can pose serious risks on the road. A truck collision with a passenger vehicle can be devastating. At Osborne & Wilmoth Law Firm, our lawyers have extensive experience representing clients who have suffered catastrophic injuries in commercial trucking accidents. We are committed to helping you get the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses.

Understanding the Unique Risks of Trucking Accidents in Fayetteville

Trucking accidents differ significantly from typical car crashes due to the size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. When two cars collide, their relative size often limits the damage. However, even a low-speed accident with a commercial truck can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Victims often face extended recovery times and substantial medical expenses.

Moreover, truck accident claims can be more complex. Identifying the at-fault party can be challenging due to various regulations established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that govern truck maintenance, driver qualifications, and hours of service. If these regulations are violated, the responsible party may change, adding complexity to your claim.

Steps to Take After a Trucking Accident in Fayetteville

If you are involved in a trucking accident, your immediate priority should be your health and safety. Here are key steps to follow:

Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention immediately, even if you do not see visible injuries. Some injuries, like internal trauma, may not manifest right away.
Exchange information with the truck driver, including insurance details, and report the accident to your insurance company. However, avoid accepting early settlement offers or providing unnecessary details to the adjusters.
Avoid social media posts about the accident, as insurers may use your statements to downplay your injuries and weaken your claim.
Contact an experienced lawyer to discuss your legal options.

How Fayetteville Truck Accident Claims Are Processed

In a personal injury lawsuit related to a truck accident, simply proving the accident occurred is not enough. You must demonstrate that the truck driver’s negligence caused your injuries. This could include showing that the driver violated hours-of-service regulations, was driving under the influence, or ignored traffic laws.

Trucking accidents often involve powerful insurance companies and experienced legal teams working on behalf of the trucking company. These entities will try to limit their liability and may even attempt to shift the blame onto you. To effectively pursue your claim, having an experienced attorney on your side is essential to gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court.

What Are Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Fayetteville?

Trucking accidents can happen for many reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

Distracted driving: Truck drivers often use GPS systems, eat meals, or communicate with friends and family while driving, which can divert their attention from the road.
Drowsy driving: Federal regulations limit the number of hours a trucker can drive, but some drivers exceed these limits, leading to exhaustion and reduced reaction times.
Intoxication: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another dangerous factor that impairs judgment and increases the likelihood of accidents.

Inclement weather: Fayetteville’s weather can impair a truck driver’s ability to maintain control of their vehicle.
Mechanical failures: Sometimes, the fault lies not with the driver but with the truck manufacturer or the trucking company. Defective parts or a lack of proper vehicle maintenance can lead to accidents, making the company or manufacturer liable for the resulting damages.

What Types of Compensation Can You Recover After a Trucking Accident?

After a truck accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you can seek compensation through a personal injury claim. The damages you may recover typically fall into two categories:

Economic damages: These are measurable costs such as medical bills, rehabilitation expenses, and lost income due to your inability to work.
Non-economic damages: These damages account for the emotional and physical toll the accident takes on you, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and a diminished quality of life.

In rare instances, you may also be awarded punitive damages if the at-fault party’s behavior was particularly reckless or egregious. Punitive damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar actions in the future.

Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Trucking Accident Case?

Trucking accidents often involve a maze of regulations, insurance policies, and liability disputes that can be overwhelming to navigate on your own. Having an experienced attorney who understands the complexities of trucking accident cases is critical.

A skilled truck accident lawyer can:

Investigate the accident thoroughly and gather crucial evidence.
Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you are not shortchanged.
Handle legal procedures and represent you in court if necessary.

At Osborne & Wilmoth Law Firm, we have the experience to handle even the most challenging truck accident cases. We will advocate for your rights every step of the way, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Contact the Fayetteville Trucking Accident Lawyers at Osborne & Wilmoth Law Firm

Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, but we are here to help. The dedicated Fayetteville trucking accident lawyers at Osborne & Wilmoth Law Firm are here to help you navigate the legal process. Call us at 479-521-7727 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.