Center Point Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

 Across the broad highway systems, trucking accidents can cause significant disruption, frequently resulting in serious injuries for those involved. In these chaotic moments, trucking injury lawyers serve as unwavering supporters, providing guidance and assistance to survivors. These legal experts are adept at navigating the complex landscape of trucking regulations

Truck Company Negligence for Poor Commercial Truck Maintenance

Truck accidents tend to be especially severe. Drivers and occupants of smaller passenger cars can sustain serious, disabling, or life-threatening injuries. Although driver errors are often the cause of these accidents, sometimes it stems from truck company negligence. This could be the case if equipment problems are to blame, which may result from poor commercial truck maintenance.

Poor Maintenance and Trucking Company Negligence

The trucking industry is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which enforces rules pertaining to various areas, including the upkeep of commercial vehicles. Every truck company is responsible for maintaining its big rigs.

While manufacturing defects are sometimes to blame, many times it is a failure in commercial truck maintenance. When this is found to be a contributing factor in an accident or the outright cause of it, a truck company can be considered negligent and liable for damages.

Types of Truck Equipment Problems

Certain types of equipment are more likely to cause a crash or exacerbate the impact of one. Some common equipment failures include:

- Brake Failure: Worn-out brakes (pads or shoes) can lead to an inability to stop, resulting in collisions.
- Tire Problems: Blowouts, worn treads, and improperly inflated tires can cause loss of vehicle control.
- Lighting and Visibility Issues: Inadequate functioning of lights and windshield wipers can impair visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Trailer Problems: Improperly attached trailers can swing out of control or detach, endangering nearby vehicles.

Damages That May Be Recoverable in a Claim Stemming from a Truck Accident

When a truck company’s negligence causes an accident, victims can seek compensation for various financial losses:

- Medical Expenses: Ambulance services, hospitalization, follow-up visits, medications, physical therapy, and future medical costs.
- Lost Income: Compensation for the period during which the victim is unable to work due to injury, and potential long-term earnings loss if the injuries cause permanent disability.
- Property Damage: Repair costs or replacement value of the damaged vehicle.
- Physical and Emotional Losses: Compensation for pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, reduced quality of life, mental anguish, PTSD, and other psychological harms.

Why Hire a Car Accident Attorney?

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a car crash, you may wonder, "Why would I hire a car accident attorney?"

When You May Not Need an Attorney

You might not need to hire an attorney for every car accident case. Examples include:

1. Property Damage Only: The other driver’s insurance company covers the damages.
2. Minor Injuries: Injuries required minimal medical treatment.
3. Fair Settlement: You reach a satisfactory settlement with the insurance company.

However, consulting with an attorney is advisable in more severe cases, especially before signing any forms or giving statements to insurance adjusters.

When to Consult an Attorney

Consider consulting an attorney if:

1. Hospitalization: You were hospitalized for your injuries.
2. Surgery: You required surgery due to the accident.
3. Permanent Injuries: You sustained permanent injuries.
4. DUI: The other driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Common Mistakes Without Legal Representation

1. Low Settlement Offers: Accepting offers without understanding the full extent of your financial responsibilities.
2. Policy Limits: Not verifying coverage limits and potential additional policies like umbrella coverage.
3. UIM Claims: Failing to properly pursue underinsured motorist coverage.

Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney

A qualified attorney can:

1. Protect Your Rights: Ensure your rights are upheld under Iowa law.
2. Handle Communications: Manage contact with all insurance companies, reducing stress and potential errors.
3. Maximize Recovery: Identify all applicable insurance policies to maximize your compensation.
4. Manage Medical Expenses: Deal with subrogation companies, hospitals, and other providers to increase your net recovery.
5. Provide Experienced Advice: Offer guidance on case value and represent you in court if necessary.

How Does a City Truck Accident Claim Differ from a Regular Truck Accident?

A city truck accident claim differs mainly because it involves the government, requiring the claim to be filed with City Hall instead of an insurance company.

Filing a City Truck Accident Claim

City trucks can include:

- Fire Engines
- Buses
- Utility Vehicles
- Garbage Trucks

When injured in an accident with a government vehicle, you must fill out an Automobile Claim Form and submit it to the Legal Department at City Hall. The form requires:

- General information about your car and injuries.
- Witness details.
- Accident description.
- Relevant documents and evidence, such as photos of injuries and vehicle damage.
- Two different estimates for claimed property damage.

If the claim is denied, you may pursue a lawsuit, with which a personal injury attorney can assist.

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.