Our Greensboro Truck Accident Lawyers Hold Trucking Companies Accountable
With over 150 years of combined experience, the team at Lewis & Keller is skilled at standing up to trucking companies and fighting for the rights of those injured in truck accidents. Our attorneys understand exactly how to gather the right evidence, how to build a compelling case on your behalf, and how to negotiate with insurance companies to get you the best settlement possible. We don’t get paid until we win, so there are no upfront costs to work with us. A truck injury lawyer in Greensboro is standing by to discuss your case for free.
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What Causes Trucking Accidents?
There are a variety of factors that can cause a trucking accident. Some of the most common factors are:
Severe Weather Conditions
Conditions like rain, snow, and fog can impair a driver’s vision, making it more difficult to drive. Truck drivers must exercise caution and drive slowly during inclement weather in order to maintain control of their vehicles and navigate the roads safely.
Driver Fatigue
Commercial truck drivers are required to rest after a certain number of hours on the road. A truck driver may choose to skip their rest period to get to their destination sooner or may be asked to do so by the trucking company. This can cause the truck driver to become overly tired and doze off while driving, which can cause an accident.
Distracted Driving
Talking on the phone, texting, or eating while driving can distract the truck driver from the road and result in an accident.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
Drugs and alcohol impair a driver’s judgment and vision and can cause slower reaction times. The likelihood of an accident under these circumstances is significantly higher, as even remote roads with little traffic can be dangerous for an impaired driver.
Shoddy Repair Work or Maintenance
If a commercial truck is not properly maintained, critical systems can fail. These systems include:
- Brakes
- Engine
- Tires
- Transmission
Inadequate Driver Training
If a truck driver is not thoroughly trained, they may be unable to operate the vehicle correctly, keep accurate maintenance records, or take rest breaks at the right times. These oversights can cause accidents due to reckless driving, driver fatigue, or vehicle system failure.
Recklessness of Passenger Vehicles
In some cases, large truck accidents are caused by other vehicles on the road. Passenger vehicles can cause accidents with big trucks by:
- Driving in a truck’s blind spots, or “no-zones,” where the truck driver has limited or zero visibility
- Changing lanes abruptly in front of a truck
- Failing to adjust speed when a truck begins to change lanes or merge
- Misjudging a truck’s speed and making unsafe turns in front of a big truck
- Driving between large trucks or following too closely (tailgating)
Our Results Speak For themselves
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7000000
Motorcycle accident resulting in paralysis.
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3000000
Auto accident resulting in post traumatic stress disorder.
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1393000
Workplace accident resulting in a traumatic brain injury.
Common Injuries Caused by Truck Accidents
Because trucks are much larger than passenger vehicles, truck accident injuries are often more severe and have lasting effects. The most common injuries caused by truck accidents include:
- Head & Brain Injuries: These can range from concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which may result in long-term disabilities. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, mood changes, and memory loss.
- Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis: Damage to spinal cord tissues can lead to paralysis and other severe, life-altering consequences.
- Internal Organ Damage: The force from truck crashes can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys. These types of injuries may not be immediately apparent following an accident.
- Broken Bones: Fractures can occur in various parts of the body due to the significant impact of truck accidents.
- Neck & Back Injuries: Whiplash, herniated discs, and spinal cord injuries can result from the impact and can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues.
- Burns: These can occur in truck accidents, especially if the truck was carrying flammable materials. Burns can range from first-degree (least severe) to fourth-degree (most severe), and can potentially require limb amputation and/or long-term rehabilitation needs.
- Psychological Trauma: This can encompass a range of emotional and mental health issues. Common psychological effects from truck accidents include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and fear of driving.
If you were involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Even if no injuries are apparent, some conditions like internal injuries or TBIs can have delayed symptoms. Additionally, it’s important to consult with a Greensboro truck accident lawyer to determine your legal options.
Our Greensboro Truck Accident Attorneys
Who Is Responsible for Collisions with Commercial Trucks?
When it comes to commercial truck accidents, more than one party can be responsible. Every case is unique, but the parties typically found responsible for these types of accidents are the truck driver, the trucking company, the vehicle maintenance technician, or other drivers on the road with the truck at the time of the accident.
The Truck Driver
Truck driver negligence is a common reason for trucking accidents, often caused by fatigue from long hours on the road, distracted driving, driving under the influence, or failure to comply with traffic regulations. If a truck driver’s negligence or reckless behavior leads to an accident, they can be held liable for the damages and injuries that occur as a result.
The Trucking Company
Trucking companies can also be held accountable for collisions involving their vehicles. This can be due to inadequate training programs for drivers, failure to enforce driving hour regulations, or neglecting to maintain their fleet properly. If it is determined that a trucking company’s practices contributed to an unsafe environment that led to the accident, they could be responsible for compensation.
The Vehicle Technician
Maintenance personnel and vehicle technicians play a vital role in ensuring commercial trucks are safe to operate. If an accident is caused by mechanical failure due to improper maintenance or repairs, the technician or maintenance company might be held liable.
Other Drivers on the Road
Not all truck accidents are solely the fault of the truck driver or company. Other drivers on the road can contribute to collisions through aggressive driving, failure to follow road signs, or driving under the influence. In such cases, these drivers may also be held responsible.
PUT AN AWARD-WINNING FIRM ON YOUR SIDE
Lewis & Keller is a recognized Best Law Firm in Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law, as well as Personal Injury Litigation-Plainitffs by U.S. News and World Report. The firm has also been given an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
Founding partner Mike Lewis has procured the title of one of the Best Lawyers in America for personal injury litigation and eminent domain, and was also distinguished as a North Carolina Super Lawyer in personal injury. These accolades wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of all of the attorneys at Lewis & Keller and their clients who placed their trust in them.
Why You Should Speak with a Lawyer Immediately After a Truck Accident
Seeking legal counsel immediately after a truck accident is critical. A lawyer can help preserve evidence, investigate the crash, and ensure your rights are protected. They can navigate the complexities of commercial trucking regulations, deal with insurance companies, and help determine the parties at fault.
Do You Have a Case?
Determining whether you have a case after a truck accident involves several factors. Here are the basics our team will need to know first:
- Who was injured?
- What injuries were sustained?
- How did the injury occur?
- When did the incident take place?
After receiving the answers to these questions, we can dig deeper to uncover evidence, determine who’s at fault, and put together a strong case on your behalf.
Lewis & Keller Attorneys at Law Are Champions for Every Client
At Lewis & Keller, we stand by our commitment to serve each client with dedication and fight for the justice they deserve. Our experienced team understands the intricacies of truck accident claims and how to anticipate any pitfalls. Let us be a champion for you. Contact our truck accident lawyers in Greensboro for a free case review.
