Harlan Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

 Within the vast realm of highways, trucking accidents can create considerable disruption, often causing serious injuries for those affected. In such turbulent situations, trucking injury lawyers stand as steadfast supporters, offering guidance and assistance to survivors. These legal experts are adept at handling the intricate landscape of trucking laws and regulations.

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

A city truck accident claim differs significantly from a regular truck accident claim primarily because it involves a government entity. This distinction affects where and how claims are filed, the complexity of the process, and the legal hurdles that must be overcome.

Filing a City Truck Accident Claim

City trucks can include fire engines, buses, utility vehicles, and garbage trucks. When you're injured in an accident involving one of these vehicles in Harlan, the process for seeking compensation is distinct. Instead of dealing with an insurance company, you file a claim with the city. This involves filling out an Automobile Claim Form and submitting it to the Legal Department at City Hall.

The form requires you to provide general information about your car, any injuries, witnesses, and a detailed description of the accident. You'll need to attach relevant documents and evidence, such as pictures of injuries, vehicle damage, and other pertinent physical evidence. Additionally, you must include two different estimates for the claimed property damage.

If the city denies your claim, you may pursue a lawsuit to recover damages. This process can be intricate, and it’s advisable to seek the help of a personal injury attorney to avoid missing essential details that could devalue or void your claim.

Seeking Help from a Personal Injury Lawyer in Harlan

In Iowa, truck accidents, including those involving city trucks, can result in serious injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 390 traffic fatalities in Iowa in 2010. If you're injured due to the negligence of a city truck driver, contacting a lawyer can help ensure your rights are protected. Attorneys can review your case, help file claims, and represent you if your claim is denied.

Truck Company Negligence for Poor Commercial Truck Maintenance

Truck accidents can be severe, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities, especially for occupants of smaller vehicles. While driver errors are common causes, sometimes poor maintenance due to truck company negligence plays a significant role.

Poor Maintenance and Trucking Company Negligence

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry, including the maintenance of commercial vehicles. Truck companies are responsible for keeping their vehicles in safe operating condition. When a truck company fails in this duty, and poor maintenance contributes to an accident, the company can be held liable.

Types of Truck Equipment Problems

Several equipment issues can cause or exacerbate truck accidents:

- Brake failure: Worn brakes can prevent a truck from stopping in time, leading to collisions.
- Jackknifing: This can occur when front brakes are depowered or removed, causing the trailer to fold and potentially strike other vehicles.
- Tire issues: Blowouts, worn treads, or improperly inflated tires can lead to loss of control.
- Lighting and visibility problems: Faulty lights or windshield wipers can impair visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Trailer issues: An improperly attached trailer can swing out of control or detach, posing significant danger to others on the road.

Damages Recoverable in a Truck Accident Claim

When truck company negligence causes an accident, victims can seek compensation for various damages:

- Medical expenses: This includes ambulatory services, hospitalization, follow-up visits, medication, physical therapy, and future medical costs.
- Lost income: Compensation for the time lost during recovery, including reduced earning capacity if the injuries are disabling.
- Property damage: Costs for repairing or replacing the vehicle.
- Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, reduced quality of life, mental anguish, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Truck Regulations and Laws for Drivers in Iowa

Iowa enforces several laws and regulations for truck drivers, supplementing those by the FMCSA. These regulations can be crucial in determining fault and liability in truck accident cases.

Iowa Laws for Truck Drivers

Key regulations in Iowa include:

- Texting and cell phone use: Truck drivers are prohibited from texting and using hand-held cell phones while driving.
- Accident reporting: An accident report must be filed if property damage exceeds $1,500, if there are injuries, or if there is a fatality.
- Transportation of hazardous materials: Specific rules apply to trucks carrying hazardous materials, including mandatory placards and notification of appropriate authorities in case of an accident.

Injury Lawyers and Truck Regulation Violations

Truck accident victims can benefit from consulting an attorney to review potential regulatory violations. An injury lawyer can help determine if the truck driver or company violated any laws, which can significantly impact the outcome of a claim.

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.