Dover Truck Accident Lawyers
Large commercial trucks are seen every day on Dover roads. They are still a vital part of the transportation industry, but their size and weight create significant risks for other drivers on the road. Accidents involving these vehicles often result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, or worse. Those affected may face long recovery periods, medical expenses, and legal challenges in seeking compensation for their losses.
Our Dover truck accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. assist individuals who have been injured in collisions involving large trucks. These cases often involve multiple parties and complicated legal frameworks that the average person cannot face alone. We are ready to explain the legal options available for those seeking compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident. First, let’s address some important questions.
What Are the Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents occur for various reasons, many of which involve driver behavior, vehicle maintenance, or external conditions.
- Fatigue is a leading cause of accidents, as long hours on the road can impair a driver’s ability to react quickly.
- Speeding and reckless driving also contribute to collisions, especially since a truck requires more time to come to a complete stop.
- Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, increase the risk of losing control of the vehicle.
- Poor weather conditions and road hazards further add to the dangers of operating a large truck.
Another factor is improper cargo loading. If a truck carries an unbalanced or overweight load, it can become difficult to control, increasing the likelihood of an accident. In some cases, trucking companies may neglect to conduct proper inspections or maintenance, leading to preventable mechanical failures. Driver inexperience and lack of proper training can also contribute to unsafe driving practices that result in accidents.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident?
Determining liability in a truck accident case involves looking at the crash from different angles. The truck driver may be responsible if reckless driving, fatigue, or impairment contributed to the crash. The trucking company can also be held accountable if it fails to enforce regulations regarding driver hours, vehicle maintenance, or proper training.
Manufacturers of truck parts may be liable if a mechanical failure caused the accident. If a defective brake system or faulty tire contributed to the collision, the company responsible for producing those parts may be held accountable. Cargo loaders and third-party logistics providers can also be liable if an improperly secured or overloaded truck leads to an accident.
What Steps Should Someone Take After a Truck Accident?
After a truck accident, seeking medical attention is the highest priority. Even if injuries do not seem severe, it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional to identify any underlying issues. Call 911; if an ambulance is not needed, follow up with a medical evaluation as soon as you can.
If possible, gathering evidence at the scene can help strengthen a legal claim. Taking photographs of the accident, collecting contact information from witnesses, and obtaining the truck driver’s information are important steps. Ask the responding police officers about obtaining a copy of their report; that can take several days. Our Dover truck accident lawyers also recommend keeping track of medical records, repair estimates, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
You will need to report the accident to your insurance provider, even if you do not think you are liable. It is not necessary to initiate a claim during the first call, but avoid admitting fault or saying anything else that might jeopardize your claim.
What Compensation Is Available After a Truck Accident?
Individuals injured in truck accidents may be eligible for various forms of compensation. Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment, can be included in a legal claim. Lost wages resulting from an inability to work due to injuries may also be recoverable.
Pain and suffering damages may be awarded based on the physical and emotional impact of the accident. In cases involving long-term disabilities or permanent injuries, compensation for future medical care and lost earning capacity may be sought. If a truck accident results in a fatality, family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional distress.
How Long Does Someone Have to File a Truck Accident Claim?
The timeframe for filing a truck accident claim depends on the statute of limitations in the state where the accident occurred. In Delaware, individuals generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Failing to file within this period may result in the loss of the right to pursue compensation.
How Can a Lawyer Help with a Truck Accident Case?
Truck accident cases involve gathering extensive evidence, multiple parties, and negotiations with insurance companies. A lawyer can assist with sourcing and organizing important documentation, including accident reports, medical records, and witness statements. They can also communicate with insurance adjusters to challenge low settlement offers that do not adequately cover damages.
In cases where liability is disputed, a lawyer can investigate the accident to determine fault. This may involve obtaining trucking company records, reviewing maintenance logs, and consulting accident reconstruction specialists. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, legal representation is essential for pursuing litigation to seek appropriate compensation.
Experienced Dover Truck Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Handle Cases Involving Multiple Responsible Parties
Truck accident legal claims can become especially complicated, so legal guidance is essential. Our Dover truck accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. successfully manage these cases, pursuing every potential avenue of compensation. For a free consultation, submit our online form or call 302-656-5445. Located in New Castle and Millsboro, Delaware, we work with clients throughout New Castle County, Kent County, and Sussex County.