If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Angier, you’re likely facing a challenging situation. With severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost wages, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your rights.
At Whitley Law Firm, our Angier truck accident lawyers understand the importance of securing the compensation you need to move forward. Our experienced Angier personal injury lawyer can provide you with the guidance and support you need during this difficult time.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Angier
One of the most important steps after a truck accident is to prioritize your safety and the safety of others involved. This initial response is paramount, as it sets the tone for the entire process.
Next, call the authorities and report the accident. Provide them with as much detail as possible, including the location, number of vehicles involved, and any injuries. Be honest and accurate, as this information will be used to create an official report.
It’s indispensable to remember that you may be in a state of emotional shock after a truck accident. This can impair your judgment and decision-making abilities, making it difficult to think clearly. Take a few deep breaths, try to remain calm, and focus on the task at hand.
For a free legal consultation with a truck accident lawyer serving Angier, call (800)785-5000
An Angier Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help You Understand Trucking Regulations
You’re likely aware that the trucking industry is heavily regulated, but you may not know the specifics of these regulations. To guarantee safety on the roads, trucking companies and drivers must adhere to industry standards and federal safety guidelines, such as those set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Trucking Industry Standards
One important aspect of these standards is truck safety ratings, which are assigned based on a company’s compliance with regulations and their accident history. You can check a company’s safety rating through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration‘s (FMCSA) website.
Additionally, trucking companies are required to implement driver training programs that meet specific standards. These programs must cover topics such as hours of service, cargo securement, and vehicle inspection procedures.
Federal Safety Guidelines
How do federal safety guidelines impact your safety on the road? As a driver, you may not realize the extent to which federal oversight regulates the trucking industry. These guidelines cover various aspects of trucking operations, including:
- Driver qualifications: Certifying drivers meet specific requirements, such as medical certifications and hours of service regulations.
- Vehicle maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance to prevent mechanical failures that can lead to accidents.
- Cargo securement: Proper loading and securing of cargo to prevent shifting or falling during transport.
- Hazardous materials transport: Special regulations for transporting hazardous materials to minimize risks.
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Dealing With Insurance Companies in Angier
Insurance adjusters are already on the scene, gathering evidence and taking statements, even as you’re still reeling from the aftermath of your truck accident. Their goal is to minimize the insurance company’s financial responsibility, and they’ll use various tactics to achieve that.
You need to be aware of insurance tactics, such as offering a quick settlement or downplaying the severity of your injuries. These tactics are designed to get you to settle for less than you merit.
It’s important to remember that insurance companies are not on your side. They’re looking out for their interests, not yours. Don’t give them a statement or sign anything without consulting an experienced Angier truck accident lawyer.
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Proving Liability in Angier Truck Accidents
When you’re involved in a truck accident, you’ll need to identify the parties responsible for your injuries and damages. This means you’ll have to investigate whether the truck driver’s negligence contributed to the accident and review vehicle maintenance records to determine if faulty equipment played a role.
Determining Fault Parties
In the aftermath of a devastating truck accident, the pursuit of justice begins with an important question: Who bears responsibility for the harm inflicted? As you seek to hold those responsible for your suffering accountable, it’s important to identify the parties at fault.
To determine fault, your Angier truck accident lawyer will investigate and analyze various factors, including:
- Truck maintenance records: Were routine maintenance checks neglected, contributing to the accident?
- Driver logs and records: Did the driver violate hours-of-service regulations or engage in reckless behavior?
- Scene investigation and evidence: What physical evidence, such as skid marks or debris, can help recreate the accident sequence?
- Eyewitness testimony: What do witnesses say about the events leading up to and during the crash?
Truck Driver Negligence Claims
As you examine the factors contributing to the truck accident, one vital aspect that often comes into play is the role of the truck driver. Their actions, or lack thereof, can markedly impact the outcome of the accident.
Another common issue is logbook fraud, where drivers falsify records to conceal excessive driving hours or other violations. Your lawyer will review the driver’s logbooks and other documents to identify discrepancies and inconsistencies.
Vehicle Maintenance Records
Beyond the truck driver’s role, another aspect of investigating a truck accident is examining the vehicle’s maintenance records. You’ll want to explore the truck’s vehicle history to identify any potential issues that may have contributed to the accident. Some areas to focus on include:
- Routine maintenance schedules: Were regular maintenance checks performed as required, and were any issues addressed promptly?
- Repair records: Are there any records of recent repairs, and were they done properly?
- Inspection reports: Were pre-and post-trip inspections conducted, and did they reveal any safety concerns?
- Compliance with regulations: Were all necessary safety regulations and standards met, such as those related to brake maintenance and tire condition?
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Calculating Damages and Compensation in Angier
Your truck accident has left you with a mountain of medical bills, lost wages, and a plethora of other expenses. To recover from these financial burdens, you’ll need to calculate the damages and compensation you’re entitled to.
Economic losses are tangible expenses that can be quantified, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. These losses are typically easy to calculate, as they’re backed by documentation like receipts, invoices, and pay stubs.
Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are more subjective and harder to quantify. These include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Contact an Angier Truck Accident Lawyer Today
You’ve taken the first step by seeking information; now it’s time to take action. Don’t let the insurance companies or trucking corporations dictate the terms of your compensation. By working with an experienced Angier truck accident lawyer at Whitley Law Firm, you’ll ensure that your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
Call (800)785-5000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form