Carter Lake Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

 Within the extensive realm of highways, trucking accidents can cause substantial disturbances, frequently leading to serious injuries for those involved. In these challenging times, trucking injury lawyers stand as unwavering advocates, providing support and direction to survivors. These legal professionals specialize in navigating the complex terrain of trucking laws and regulations.

Types of Records Needed for an Iowa Truck Accident Claim

When filing an injury claim after a truck accident, your Iowa truck accident lawyer will need to gather specific records to use as evidence. While some documentation can be collected independently, an attorney's assistance is often required to obtain information about the driver and the trucking company.

Key Records to Gather

Police Report

The police report filed after your collision is crucial evidence in your case. It describes the accident scene and contains the officer’s opinion on who (or what) was at fault. If the other driver was impaired, this will also be noted in the report.

Medical Records

To recover compensation for your injury claim, you must establish your injuries and the costs associated with current and future treatments. Medical expenses often comprise a significant portion of the compensation sought, making thorough documentation essential.

Truck Driver’s Driving Records

A history of reckless driving by the truck driver can strengthen your case. Your lawyer can demonstrate that the trucking company was negligent in allowing a driver with a poor record to continue operating their vehicles.

Truck Regulations and Laws for Drivers in Iowa

Truck drivers in Iowa must adhere to state regulations in addition to those enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These laws may be cited by an injury lawyer when bringing a truck accident injury case, especially if the driver violated these laws.

Key Iowa Trucking Laws

Texting and Phone Use

All drivers, including those operating semi-trucks, are banned from texting while driving. Additionally, talking on a hand-held cell phone is prohibited.

Accident Reporting

An accident report must be filed in Iowa if:
- Property damage of all vehicles is $1,500 or greater
- At least one person is injured
- At least one person is killed

Transportation of Hazardous Materials

The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) enforces rules for the transportation of hazardous materials. Trucks carrying such materials must have a placard. In case of an accident involving hazardous materials, local law enforcement, Iowa State Patrol Communications, the Iowa DOT’s Office of Motor Vehicle Enforcement, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) should be notified.

Filing a Truck Accident Claim for Falling Cargo

Drivers struck by falling cargo from a large truck can file a truck accident claim. This situation, known as an unsecured load, is familiar to many truck accident lawyers. Cargo such as pipes, logs, and boxes, if not properly secured, can fall onto the roadway, creating hazardous conditions.

Filing a Claim for Falling Cargo

Victims of accidents caused by falling cargo can file a claim even if the truck did not physically crash into another vehicle. Truck drivers and companies are responsible for securing cargo to prevent it from falling. To file a claim, a driver must have suffered damages or injuries caused by the falling cargo.

Determining Accident Liability

Liability in such cases is crucial. If the truck driver loaded the cargo, they might be held responsible. If another employee of the trucking or shipping company loaded the cargo, that person might share the responsibility.

Respondeat Superior

If the driver is hauling cargo for a company, the company may be liable under the principle of respondeat superior, which holds companies responsible for employees' actions during employment. The victim must prove the negligence of the driver or another employee.

Product Defects

If a defect in the trailer caused the cargo to spill, the manufacturer of the trailer could be liable. Multiple parties could be at fault, and an Iowa law firm can help establish liability.

Contacting Walker, Billingsley & Bair

At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, our team is committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. We handle all injury cases on a contingency fee basis and manage all necessary documentation and communications.

Walker, Billingsley & Bair is prepared to act fast to defend your rights after a truck accident in Iowa. Contact our office at 641-792-3595 to speak with an attorney.