Truck Accident Lawyer in Denver, NC

How Is Fault Determined In Truck Accidents?

In North Carolina, determining fault in truck accidents involves a thorough investigation of the incident. Multiple factors are considered to establish liability, including police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the accident scene, such as photos and videos. Additionally, expert analysis of vehicle damage, road conditions, and truck maintenance records may be necessary.

North Carolina follows a contributory negligence rule, meaning if you're found even partially at fault, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. This makes it crucial to have skilled legal representation. A Denver, NC truck accident lawyer can navigate these complexities and build a robust case on your behalf.

Truck accident attorneys in Denver, NC from Teddy, Meekins & Talbert, will work to gather and analyze all relevant evidence, consult with experts, and interview witnesses to establish fault accurately. They will also negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation. For these reasons, having a knowledgeable attorney by your side is essential to protect your rights and interests after a truck accident.

Who Can Be Responsible in a Truck Accident Case?

One reason truck accident cases are more complicated than car accident cases is that many truck accidents have several liable parties. Some of the parties who may be liable for a truck accident in Denver, NC, include:

• The truck driver — A truck driver’s negligent behavior could lead to an accident in numerous ways. These run the gamut from speeding and tailgating to impaired and distracted driving. Truckers also frequently ignore federal safety regulations by going too long without taking a required break. That can lead to severe fatigue, which may also lead to an accident.
• The trucking company — Trucking companies are responsible for thoroughly vetting potential drivers as well as monitoring their drivers’ behavior. However, many trucking companies will look the other way and hire drivers with poor safety records or without the necessary qualifications. Trucking companies have also been known to overlook drivers who don’t drive safely or may be abusing drugs or alcohol. All of these behaviors are examples of negligence.
• The owner of the truck — If a truck driver is driving or leasing their truck from their employer or another party, the truck’s owner can sometimes be held liable for an accident caused by the driver’s negligence.
• The cargo loader — A truck’s cargo needs to be loaded and positioned carefully to prevent the cargo from shifting and throwing off the truck’s balance. If a cargo loader is careless and their negligence causes an accident, they could be held liable.
• A parts manufacturer — Many truck accidents are caused by defective parts, such as tires, brakes, and so on. Parts manufacturers can be held liable for an accident if the evidence shows a defective part contributed to the crash.
• The truck maintenance provider — To help minimize the chances of an accident, trucks must have rigorous maintenance checks. But sometimes, maintenance workers make sloppy repairs or aren’t as thorough with their checks as they should be. If a maintenance provider’s negligence contributed to a truck accident, the provider can be held liable for your injuries.

Causes of Truck Accidents in Denver, North Carolina

Truck accidents in Denver and elsewhere in North Carolina happen for many different reasons, including:

• The truck driver is impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• The truck driver is distracted.
• The truck driver is severely fatigued.
• The truck driver is speeding.
• The truck driver is following too closely.
• The truck driver isn’t careful enough when changing lanes, passing, or merging.
• The truck suffers a mechanical defect.
• The truck’s cargo shifts as the truck is moving.
• The truck driver encounters bad weather.

Common Types of Truck Accidents

Types of Damages Available After a Truck Accident

A personal injury lawsuit can help you recover compensation for many different losses after a truck accident. For example, you could potentially claim compensation for:

• Lost wages
• Damaged personal property
• Reduced earning potential
• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

Time Limit for Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Denver, NC

You have three years from the date of a truck accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you will most likely be denied the ability to pursue compensation for your injuries through the legal system.

What to Do After a Semi-Truck Accident

Here’s what you need to do after a semi-truck accident in Denver, NC, if you want the best possible chance of claiming compensation for your injuries:

• Get the truck driver’s name, personal insurance information, company insurance information, driver’s license number, and the name of their employer.
• If any potential eyewitnesses are nearby, get their names and contact information.
• Take as many photos of the crash scene as you can. Be sure to get photos of your injuries, the damage to your vehicle, and the damage to the truck.
• See a doctor as soon as possible. Either the day of the accident at a hospital or see your doctor the next day. Be sure to save your medical records as well.
• Don’t talk to any insurance companies, not even your own. Let your lawyer talk to the insurance companies to minimize your chance of saying something that could hurt your case.
• Hire a truck accident attorney as soon as possible.