North Carolina Law Firm Advocates for Truck Accident Victims
Charlotte Personal Injury Attorneys
Between 2010 and 2017, the number of fatal truck accidents occurring in North Carolina rose an astounding 41 percent, from 104 to 147, and the number of people killed increased from 117 to 164. This disturbing trend began in 2006, when the state recorded 148 truck-related fatalities, the most since 1968.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Truck Accident
A truck accident often results in catastrophic injuries. Here’s what you need to do after the crash to take care of both your medical needs and your legal options:
Report the accident. Call 911 as soon as possible. Since a police report is the best way to document an accident, make sure that one is generated and ask for a copy of it.
Seek medical care. Get evaluated by a medical professional, even if you’ve been examined by an EMT at the scene. If you don’t seek care because you don’t have immediate symptoms but end up requiring medical attention later, and it might be hard to prove that this care is accident related.
Document the scene. If you are not seriously injured and you can safely exit your vehicle, document the evidence at the scene by taking photos, gathering contact information from witnesses and others involved in the crash, and take notes describing the road, weather conditions, and other factors that might have led to the accident.
Trucking Laws, Rules and Regulations
Operating a commercial truck is not easy, and drivers must comply with numerous state and federal regulations that exceed what is expected of other drivers. Commercial truck drivers are required to:
Possess a commercial driver’s license
Abide by mandatory daily driving limits
Avoid overfilling a truck
Obtain regular brake and tire inspections
Companies that employ truck drivers are also required to follow certain safety requirements, such as:
Ensure that hazardous materials are properly labeled, classed, described, packaged, and marked
Require their drivers to submit to routine alcohol and drug testing
Maintain minimum levels of insurance coverage
Keep detailed maintenance records
Hire qualified drivers and keep updated records of their routes, hours, traffic violations, accidents, and drug screening results
If a driver or trucking company fails to follow applicable rules and regulations, they may be held liable for the damages and injuries they cause.
Damages Available in North Carolina Truck Accident Cases
Because of the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, collisions involving them often result in severe, life-changing injuries and substantial monetary awards. Some of the damages that might be available in truck accident cases include:
Medical bills, present and future
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Rehabilitation expenses
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Permanent injury or disability
Disfigurement
Loss of enjoyment of life
Vehicle damages/ diminished value
Damages for loss of use of vehicle
If you were involved in an accident with a large truck, you’ve likely suffered significant property loss, multiple injuries, and damages that have affected your ability to work and enjoy life again. Although compensation won’t take away the pain you’re experiencing, a fair settlement can provide the financial resources you need to care for yourself and your loved ones.
Why You Need a Lawyer in a Truck Accident Case
Because of their commercial purpose, complicated regulations that vary from state to state, and the risks that a truck’s size and weight pose to other motorists, accidents involving large commercial trucks require the assistance of an attorney experienced with truck accidents. If you sustained serious injuries in an accident involving a truck, you have a right to fair compensation for your damages. The results-driven attorneys at the Law Offices of Estwanik & May PLLC will take decisive steps to move your case forward so that you can get your life back.
Contact an Experienced North Carolina Truck Accident Lawyer Today
Were you seriously injured in a truck accident in North Carolina? Call the Law Offices of Estwanik and May PLLC at 704-817-2004 to schedule your free consultation with a knowledgeable lawyer today.