Manchester Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

 In the broad expanse of highway networks, trucking accidents can lead to significant disruption, often resulting in severe injuries for those affected. In such trying circumstances, trucking injury lawyers serve as reliable supporters, offering guidance and support to survivors. These attorneys are experts in the intricate field of trucking laws and regulations.

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

City truck accident claims differ significantly from regular truck accident claims due to the involvement of government entities. This distinction means that filing a claim involves different procedures and challenges, and victims often need the assistance of a personal injury lawyer to navigate the complexities of the legal process.

Filing a City Truck Accident Claim

City trucks, such as fire engines, buses, utility vehicles, and garbage trucks, are typically government-owned. If you are involved in an accident with a government vehicle in Iowa, you must file your claim with City Hall rather than an insurance company. The process begins with completing an Automobile Claim Form and submitting it to the Legal Department at City Hall.

This form requires detailed information about the accident, including:
- Your car and any damages.
- Injuries sustained.
- Witnesses to the accident.
- A description of the incident.

When submitting the form, you must include relevant documents and evidence, such as photographs of injuries and damages and two estimates for the claimed property damage. If the city denies the claim, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover damages. Seeking assistance from a personal injury attorney can ensure that the claim is correctly filed and all essential information is included to avoid devaluation or voiding of the claim.

Importance of Legal Assistance in City Truck Accidents

The legal process for city truck accident claims can be more problematic than regular truck accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 390 traffic fatalities in Iowa in 2010. If you are injured due to the negligence of a city truck driver, consulting a lawyer is crucial. An experienced attorney can help review the details of your case and determine if you have the right to file a city truck accident claim.

Preserving Evidence in Regular Truck Accident Claims

In regular truck accident claims, particularly those involving commercial trucking companies, the preservation of evidence is critical. Trucking companies have the right to destroy certain records after a specified period. However, sending a spoliation letter can help prevent this. This letter advises the company to preserve all pertinent documentation, which is essential for establishing fault in the accident.

Key Records to Preserve

One of the most important records is the driver’s record of duty status, which includes:
- Time on and off duty.
- Use of the sleeper berth.
- Time spent driving.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations require these records to be maintained for at least six months. Other valuable documents might include the driver qualification files, which contain information about the driver’s motor vehicle record, employment application, annual review of driving record, certification of violations, and medical examiner’s certificate. Ensuring these records are preserved is essential, as they may demonstrate whether the truck driver was qualified to operate the vehicle.

Steps to Take After a Semi Truck Accident

If you are involved in a semi truck accident, the first step is to contact a truck accident lawyer to explore your options for seeking financial restitution. You will need to file a truck accident claim with the responsible insurance company, but be wary of the insurance adjuster's tactics, as they may not have your best interests in mind.

Insurance Adjuster Tactics

Insurance adjusters may try to:
- Underestimate the value of your claim.
- Delay investigations to frustrate you into accepting a lower settlement.
- Use medical professionals to downplay your injuries or claim you had pre-existing conditions.

If the insurer refuses to pay what you deserve, you may need to pursue compensation through a lawsuit. An Iowa truck accident lawyer can represent your interests in court, ensuring you focus on recovery rather than dealing with insurance companies.

Determining Liability in Truck Accidents

Proving negligence is crucial in a truck accident lawsuit. You may claim damages from several responsible parties, including:
- The truck driver.
- The trucking or shipping company.
- The safety director.
- The vehicle inspector.
- The truck manufacturer.

An experienced attorney can investigate your case to determine liability and help you seek compensation for medical bills, permanent disability, and lost wages.

Common Types of Fatal Truck Accidents

The five most common types of fatal truck accidents include:
1. Underride accidents - Smaller vehicles drive underneath large trucks.
2. Override accidents - Large trucks drive over smaller vehicles or pedestrians.
3. Jackknife accidents - The trailer folds into the truck after sudden braking.
4. Head-on collisions.
5. Rollovers.

While these are common scenarios, truck accidents can occur in various ways. Understanding the nature of the accident is essential for pursuing 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.