Understanding The Personal Injury Process

The Role Of Federal And State Regulations In Truck Accident Claims

You might wonder why hiring a truck accident attorney is essential rather than hiring a different type of personal injury lawyer after a truck accident. Some attorneys choose to specialize in truck accident cases. They are much more complicated than a typical auto accident case, can lead to a much larger settlement, and more factors are at play than a car accident case. In particular, the regulations that govern commercial trucks can play a role in your legal claim.

Regulations Truck Drivers Must Follow

Truck accidents are often more complicated than car accidents because they involve multiple parties and regulations. For example, a truck driver must comply with hours of service regulations. They face limits regarding how long they can operate a commercial vehicle. Driving for long hours is dangerous because the truck driver might be too tired to operate safely.

Truck drivers are also required to follow stricter maintenance standards. For example, the trucking company must service the brakes periodically so that the truck can stop on time. 

Why a Truck Accident Attorney is Helpful

A trucking accident attorney is helpful because they can explain the regulations in place and how they might affect your truck accident. They can also help you determine if a failure to comply with a regulation contributed to your accident.

How to Seek Compensation

You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries if you can confirm that the truck driver violated a regulation and that you suffered damages as result. 

A truck accident attorney will gather evidence to prove the truck driver is at fault. They will then negotiate a settlement with the commercial truck insurance provider. The insurance provider will do everything they can to limit liability. However, an attorney will have experience with handling these negotiations and will be better able to represent your interests.

Calculating Your Expenses

The goal is to help you receive the largest settlement possible for your injuries, which will be determined partly by the damages you have suffered. For instance, you may be entitled to compensation for current and future medical expenses if you have medical bills. You might be entitled to compensation for your injuries if you suffered lost wages.

Once your attorney has helped you calculate the full extent of your damages, the next step is determining whether you are progressing with negotiations or taking the company to court to hold them accountable for not complying with regulations.


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