The trucking sector keeps the USA’s wheels turning as it delivers over 70% of all freight in the states per year. Logistics are a lifeline between products and buyers; everything from medicine to groceries travels on wheels. Truck drivers are the heroes no one talks about until a disaster, or unprecedented event happens. They work around the clock to deliver supplies to communities and are permanently exposed to the risks associated with driving big vehicles. When trucks are involved in accidents, serious injury and death are more likely to occur due to the size and density of the vehicle. This is when you need your Tampa semi truck accident lawyer to come in.
The trucking industry employs 3.5 million drivers, who work longer hours than the average American employee. Unfortunately, the long hours and challenging conditions increase the risk of a big auto accident. In 2018, trucks were involved in 112,000 injury crashes and 414,000 property damage-only accidents. Truck driving is considered one of the most dangerous jobs in America because truck accidents can quickly turn deadly.
If you were involved in a truck accident, you’re probably experiencing severe health issues, expensive medical bills, and months or even years of pause from work. Working with a truck accident lawyer can help you get compensation to get back on your feet. Supposing this is the first time you’re hiring a truck accident lawyer, here is a list of questions you should ask them.
Who is responsible for the accident?
When the other driver plows through a red light and hits you or your car, the answer to this question is obvious. However, the legal doctrine can determine that the truck company should be held responsible for the accident and not the driver (supposing that the truck driver is at fault). Your lawyer should check the information, conduct an investigation and determine who is responsible for the accident.
What damages can I get compensation for?
The damages are financial losses you experienced because of the truck crash. You can get compensation for your medical bills, emotional distress, lost wages from work, and property damages. If you wonder how much are truck wreck settlements, you should know that the value depends on who is at fault for the crash, the trigger, the severity of health issues you experience, and the amount of insurance available.
Do you have experience working with truck accidents?
In these accidents, you need additional evidence to prove who is responsible, and you need an experienced professional to handle the case. They may even have to get in touch with the truck company and access the driver’s rest logs and maintenance history of the vehicle.
Do you have experience facing a corporate legal team?
If the truck involved in the accident belongs to a large trucking company, it’ll definitely have an entire legal team to handle the situation. Their only mission is to pay the victims of accidents as little as possible and prove the company shouldn’t be held responsible for the crash. Your lawyer should have experience negotiating with corporate legal teams to ensure that they get you enough compensation.
