Sumner Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

Trucking accidents on the extensive highway networks can cause significant interruptions, often leading to serious injuries. In such difficult times, trucking injury lawyers serve as trustworthy allies, offering support and advice to those impacted. These attorneys specialize in the detailed aspects 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. Unlike regular truck accident claims, which are typically filed through an insurance company, city truck accident claims must be filed with the city's legal department, such as at City Hall.

Filing a City Truck Accident Claim

City trucks can include:
- Fire engines
- Buses
- Utility vehicles
- Garbage trucks

When you have been injured in an accident with a government vehicle in Sumner, you need to fill out an Automobile Claim Form and submit it to the Legal Department at City Hall. The form requires general information about your car, any injuries, witnesses to the accident, and a description of the accident. You must also attach relevant documents or other evidence, such as pictures of injuries sustained, damages to your vehicle, and other pertinent physical evidence. The form also requires two different estimates for any property damage claimed from the accident.

If the city denies your claim, you may pursue a lawsuit to recover damages. A personal injury attorney can assist with this process, ensuring that all essential information is included and preventing the risk of your claim being devalued or voided.

Truck Regulations and Laws for Truck Drivers in Iowa

Truck drivers in Iowa are subject to both state and federal regulations enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These laws may be cited by injury lawyers when bringing a truck accident injury case, especially if the driver violated any regulations.

Iowa Laws for Truck Drivers

One important law in Iowa pertains to texting. All drivers, including those operating semi-trucks, are banned from texting while driving. Talking on a hand-held cell phone is also prohibited.

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

Additionally, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) enforces rules regarding the transportation of hazardous materials, which require trucks transporting such material to have a placard. In the event 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.

Injury Lawyers Can Review Truck Regulation Violations

Laws for truck drivers include maximum weight and length requirements when operating on Iowa’s roads and highways. If a law or regulation violation caused a crash, an injury lawyer can help determine fault and liability for the accident. Victims can consult an attorney about the truck regulations that may have been violated and discuss how it may affect their claim.

Types of Records Needed for an Iowa Truck Accident Claim

When filing an injury claim, your Iowa truck accident lawyer will need to gather specific types of records to use as evidence in your case. While you may be able to collect some documentation on your own, an attorney can help you obtain information on the driver and the trucking company.

Police Report

The police report filed after your collision is crucial evidence. 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 should be noted in the report as well.

Medical Records

To recover compensation for your injury claim, you must establish your injuries and the actual expenses and estimated costs for any future treatment or therapy. As medical expenses often comprise a large portion of the compensation sought, providing adequate evidence is crucial.

Truck Driver’s Driving Records

If there is a pattern of reckless driving on the part of the truck driver, it can strengthen your case. Your truck accident lawyer can demonstrate that the trucking company was at fault by allowing the driver to continue operating despite a pattern of reckless behavior.

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.