Why truck accident cases are different
Thousands of large commercial vehicles travel the I-10 and I-12 corridors every day. When a fully loaded 18-wheeler hits a passenger car, the size and weight difference means the people in the car usually take the worst of it.
The trucking industry is heavily regulated under federal and state safety laws. Trucking companies must follow rules on driver hours, vehicle maintenance, cargo loading and driver qualifications. When a company cuts corners on safety, people get hurt. Building these cases takes a working knowledge of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and Louisiana trucking law, along with fast action to preserve evidence.
What to do after a truck accident
- Call 911.
- Get medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Get contact information from all drivers and witnesses.
- Photograph the vehicles, the scene and your injuries.
- Call us before you talk with the trucking company’s representatives or insurance adjusters.
For a closer look, read What to do in the first 24 hours after an 18-wheeler crash in Louisiana.
How we help truck accident victims
Truck accident cases often involve several parties, including the driver, the trucking company, insurance companies, cargo loaders and maintenance providers. We:
- Investigate federal and state safety violations
- Work to preserve critical evidence, including electronic “black box” data, driver logs and maintenance records
- Look at how the trucking company hired, trained and supervised the driver
- Retain accident reconstruction and trucking industry expert witnesses when the case needs them
- Negotiate with commercial insurance carriers
- Prepare every case for trial and try complex truck accident cases when a fair settlement is not offered
Common causes of truck accidents
- Driver fatigue and hours-of-service violations
- Distracted driving and cell phone use
- Improper cargo loading and overweight trucks
- Inadequate driver training
- Poor maintenance and defective equipment
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Impaired driving
Injuries from truck accidents
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Multiple fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Crush injuries
- Wrongful death
Truck accident injuries often mean extensive treatment, rehabilitation and long-term care. We pursue compensation for all of the losses the law allows, including past and future medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.