Talk for Free with an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
Our Truck Accident Lawyers Will Stand By Your Side, Every Step of the Way.
Truck drivers play a critical role in providing goods to businesses and consumers across North Carolina. With countless commuters relying on the same NC highways and rural roads as truckers, it only takes one misstep by a driver to alter your life in an instant. Following a tractor-trailer accident, victims often endure not only physical injuries but also the emotional trauma that such events leave in their wake, alongside substantial financial losses.
When a truck accident does occur, responsible parties such as trucking firms and manufacturers can and must be held accountable for the harm they cause. However, pursuing justice and compensation following a traumatic tractor-trailer collision can seem overwhelming. Insurance companies representing these trucking companies will deploy various tactics to undermine your suffering and avoid significant payouts, even if their driver is at fault. Our team of lawyers will advocate for you against big trucking and insurance companies and won’t back down when it comes to securing the compensation you need to make a full recovery. Contact us today for a free case evaluation by calling (919) 781-1107.
When a truck accident does occur, responsible parties such as trucking firms and manufacturers can and must be held accountable for the harm they cause. However, pursuing justice and compensation following a traumatic tractor-trailer collision can seem overwhelming. Insurance companies representing these trucking companies will deploy various tactics to undermine your suffering and avoid significant payouts, even if their driver is at fault. Our team of lawyers will advocate for you against big trucking and insurance companies and won’t back down when it comes to securing the compensation you need to make a full recovery. Contact us today for a free case evaluation by calling (919) 781-1107.
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Thorough Investigation is Critical FOR YOUR CASE
About Our Process for Investigating Tractor-Trailer Accidents
Proving fault in a truck accident case can be challenging due to the multiple parties that may share liability. Whether the accident was caused by defective equipment, improper loading, or driver error, there are many factors to investigate to secure the compensation you need.
Documentation such as medical records, the accident's police report, visual evidence like photos or videos, and eyewitness testimonies, among others, serves an important role in proving negligence in tractor-trailer accidents. However, delaying the collection and authentication of evidence only makes things more challenging. As a result, individuals without legal representation often find themselves inadequately compensated.
Having an attorney from Henson Fuerst on your side can make all the difference. Our experienced team will conduct a thorough investigation to ensure no detail is overlooked and all responsible parties are held accountable.
Following a serious tractor-trailer collision, preserving any physical evidence is crucial to substantiate your claim. The North Carolina truck accident attorneys at Henson Fuerst possess the necessary experience in investigating such accidents and are equipped with the resources and knowledge to secure rightful compensation for your injuries.
Compiling Accident Data
To bolster your truck accident claim in the aftermath of a severe injury collision, our attorneys utilize a variety of investigative methods to determine the cause of the crash, including:
- Retrieving medical records and consulting with your physician regarding the specifics of your truck accident injuries
- Procuring an official accident report from law enforcement authorities
- Issuing preservation of evidence notices to prevent evidence tampering
- Accessing black box data
- Reconstructing truck accident sequences
Determining Causative Factors
Truck accidents can result from various factors. Our North Carolina 18-wheeler accident attorneys meticulously investigate all potential contributing factors to discern the accident's root cause, including:
- Driver fatigue
- Visibility issues
- Driver reaction times
- Exceeding driving hour limitations
- Substance impairment
- Faulty load distribution
- Incorrect trailer loading
- Vehicle maintenance and repair deficiencies
We Solicit the Help of Experts to Build the Strongest Case on Your Behalf
In aiding truck accident investigations, Henson Fuerst's North Carolina 18-wheeler accident attorneys often enlist the expertise of accident reconstruction engineers. These professionals are impartial and well-versed in scrutinizing pre-accident factors leading to truck accidents. Their analysis includes but is not limited to:
- Black box data
- Collision damage assessment
- Road conditions evaluation
- Skidmark analysis
- Eyewitness statements
- Vehicle remnants inspection
Truck accident reconstruction engineers' information can serve as expert testimony in legal proceedings, significantly influencing truck crash claim outcomes.
Black Box Data Retrieval
A black box is an internal recording mechanism in trucks and other commercial vehicles. It monitors speed and engine performance metrics. Most modern commercial trucks and some passenger vehicles are equipped with black box recording devices. Black boxes record critical information in a truck, such as:
- Deceleration rates
- Acceleration or deceleration forces
- Impact velocity
- Pre-impact time intervals
- Wheel performance metrics
- Airbag deployment status
In instances where black box devices survive a truck collision, Henson Fuerst's North Carolina truck accident lawyers leverage this vital accident data to substantiate your case.
Our utilization of accident reconstruction engineers enables us to reconstruct and analyze the events leading up to your truck accident, pivotal in securing your claim's success and obtaining the necessary compensation.
"My husband was in an auto accident with life threatening injuries. I called Henson Fuerst Attorneys for assistance in my husband's case. Our attorneys handled all our legal needs while my husband went through extensive medical recovery and helped take stress off of us so we could focus on my husband's care. They were very attentive to our case and us personally. My husband and I are very happy with their professional services and care. I highly recommend Henson Fuerst to anyone who requires assistance with an injury case. Thank you so much for all your efforts in our case."
Cheryl S.
Car Accident
Frequently Asked Questions For A Truck Accident Attorney
In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a bodily injury or property damage claim is three years from the accident date. This means that you must either settle or file a lawsuit within that specified timeframe. For wrongful death cases, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of death. Exceptions to these deadlines exist, underscoring the importance of consulting an experienced North Carolina truck accident lawyer to assess whether you can still file a claim.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), are federal statutes governing interstate commercial truck drivers and their companies. They complement state laws that regulate the trucking industry.
Depending on the type of vehicle you drive, whether you transport passengers or hazardous materials, and if you operate for-hire, different FMCSR regulations may apply. Regulations include:
- Alcohol Use and Testing
- Proper Handling of Hazardous Materials
- Hours-of-Service Tracking and Mandatory Rest Periods
- Mandatory Inspections, Repairs, and Maintenance
- Driver Training and Qualification Files
Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in catastrophic accidents. Our truck accident lawyers
The North Carolina truck accident lawyers at Henson Fuerst have a deep understanding of the FMCSR
can assist in deciphering these intricate regulations, striving to substantiate your case and secure the compensation you need for your injuries.
According to FMCSR, commercial motor vehicle operators must fulfill several requirements, including:
- Being at least 21 years old
- Possessing adequate experience and/or training to safely operate a commercial vehicle
- Passing an approved pre-employment physical examination and undergoing routine medical assessments every 24 months thereafter
- Holding a valid commercial motor vehicle driver's license in a single state
- Providing an employer with a list of any motor vehicle traffic law violations within the past 12 months
- Possessing proficiency in reading and speaking English to interact with the public, understand traffic signals, respond to official inquiries, and maintain records.
Both the truck driver and the trucking company bear responsibility for meeting these requirements.
Yes. Our personal injury lawyers represent anyone injured due to another party's negligence, including tractor-trailer drivers. Whether it pertains to a personal injury claim, workers' compensation claim, or Social Security disability claim, we regularly advocate for truckers injured in accidents.
The compensation you’re entitled to for a truck accident case hinges on various factors, including the severity of your injuries and the circumstances surrounding your case. An attorney from Henson Fuerst will examine your medical records, obtain police reports, and conduct a comprehensive investigation to bolster your case and secure the compensation you need.
Following a truck accident, safeguarding your right to compensation is paramount. To protect your interests, the North Carolina truck accident lawyers at Henson Fuerst recommend the following steps if you've been injured:
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Describe the accident in detail, either in writing or through a detailed diagram.
- Gather evidence, including photographs of injuries, the accident scene, and involved vehicles.
- Obtain a copy of the police report.
- Contact Henson Fuerst for guidance and support regarding your accident claim.
The financial ramifications of a truck accident begin immediately and may persist for years. So, obtaining a comprehensive settlement or verdict is crucial for your long-term financial stability. Although an accurate estimate depends on various factors, including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Impact of injuries on daily life
- Prognosis
- Quality-of-life changes
- Pain and suffering
What Are the Primary Causes of Tractor-Trailer Accidents in NC?
Tractor-trailer collisions arise from diverse causes. We have decades of experience advocating for truck accident victims in North Carolina. The tractor-trailer accident attorneys at Henson Fuerst have handled truck accident cases caused by a variety of reasons, including:
Reckless Driving
Despite the heightened potential for damage in tractor-trailer accidents, drivers frequently engage in hazardous driving practices. When such behaviors lead to accidents, drivers can be held accountable for resultant damages.
Inadequate Truck Maintenance
Given the extensive mileage trucks cover weekly, diligent maintenance is imperative. Neglecting such upkeep renders trucks hazardous swiftly. In instances where truck accidents occur due to trucking companies' lack of regular maintenance inspections, they bear responsibility for ensuing injuries or property damage.
Equipment Malfunction
Equipment failures on tractor-trailers create perilous situations for all road users. A product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor may be pursued if such failures stem from defects.
Improper Cargo Loading
It is essential to carefully load tractor-trailers in accordance with stringent regulations. Improper loading risks spillage onto the road, causing accidents and injuries. Additionally, uneven distribution of cargo weight could result in truck overturning, leading to severe injuries.
Blind Spots
Truck drivers' limited visibility areas, termed "No-Zones" by the FMCSA, pose risks when other vehicles occupy them. Accidents occurring due to sudden maneuvers by truck drivers while other vehicles are in these zones may be attributed to the other drivers.
Related Car and Truck Accident Stories
Our truck accident lawyers are committed to keeping our community informed about the latest developments and initiatives concerning truck safety and accident prevention. Explore our recent blog posts here:
Preservation of Evidence in Your Truck Accident Case
Preservation of Evidence Letter
Following a severe truck collision, relying solely on the insurance company to safeguard your rights may not always be advisable. Insurance providers often aim to reduce truck accident settlement payouts to the fullest extent, and gathering crucial evidence is crucial.
To counteract this potential mishandling of evidence, the North Carolina truck accident attorneys at Henson Fuerst will dispatch a written Preservation of Evidence Letter. This letter will meticulously detail the specific items and materials deemed essential for preservation.
To counteract this potential mishandling of evidence, the North Carolina truck accident attorneys at Henson Fuerst will dispatch a written Preservation of Evidence Letter. This letter will meticulously detail the specific items and materials deemed essential for preservation.
What Does the Evidence Letter Include?
The Preservation of Evidence Letter may request the preservation of information such as:
- Driver log books
- Driver qualification files
- Gas receipts
- Inspection reports
- Driving tickets
The letter may additionally demand an impartial vehicle inspection conducted by a neutral specialist, such as an accident reconstruction professional, to ascertain the truck accident's cause.
Your North Carolina truck accident lawyer will utilize the preserved evidence to strengthen your claim. The accumulation and preservation of ample evidence maximize our chances of securing the compensation essential for your injuries.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident?
In a truck accident, several parties could potentially be involved, depending on the circumstances of the accident. These parties may include:
1
Truck Driver
The individual operating the truck at the time of the accident is typically one of the primary parties involved. Their actions, such as negligence or recklessness, could contribute to the cause of the accident.
2
Trucking Company
The company that owns the truck and employs the driver may also be liable for the accident. They have responsibilities regarding vehicle maintenance, driver training, scheduling, and adherence to regulations.
3
Truck Manufacturer
If a mechanical failure or defect in the truck contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the truck or its components could be held responsible.
4
Other Drivers
If other vehicles were involved in the truck accident, those drivers could also be considered parties in the case. Their actions or negligence might have played a role in the collision.
5
Cargo Loaders
Those responsible for loading the cargo onto the truck may be involved if improper loading contributed to the accident, such as causing the truck to become unstable or lose control.
6
Government Entities
In some cases, poor road conditions or inadequate signage or maintenance by government agencies could be contributing factors. In such instances, those responsible for maintaining the roads may be involved.
7
Insurance Companies
The insurance companies representing any of the above parties will likely be involved in the process, as they may handle claims, investigations, and negotiations for compensation.
It's essential to thoroughly investigate the accident to determine all relevant parties involved and their respective roles in causing or contributing to the incident. Consulting with a truck accident law firm can help navigate the complexities of determining liability and seeking appropriate compensation. If you have questions about a truck accident you were involved in, call Henson Fuerst at (919) 781-1107.
Securing Compensation Is No Simple Task with Insurance Companies
Tractor-trailer accidents can result from various factors, such as driver fatigue, inadequate maintenance, or overloading. Regardless of the cause, the consequences of a collision between a commercial truck and a passenger car can be catastrophic.
Insurance companies understand the devastating impact of tractor-trailer accidents and recognize the vulnerability of victims post-accident. However, as representatives of trucking companies, they might coerce you into accepting swift settlements before your injuries' full extent is evident. If you reject their offers, they employ various tactics to dispute your claim and minimize your rightful compensation. We at Henson Fuerst refuse to tolerate this unfairness.
At Henson Fuerst, our North Carolina truck accident lawyers possess extensive experience investigating truck accidents. We leave no stone unturned in ensuring you and your family receive the maximum compensation for your truck accident under the law. Through a successful claim, we can alleviate your financial burdens by securing comprehensive compensation to restore your quality of life.
We Are Committed to Restoring You and Your Family's Well-Being
The aftermath of a truck accident is often fraught with emotional turmoil and stress. Truck accident victims grappling with financial pressures and family responsibilities may find themselves susceptible to manipulation by insurance adjusters. You don’t have to endure the added strain of dealing with such complexities while recovering from injuries. Our truck accident lawyers comprehend the various strategies employed by insurance companies to diminish your rightful compensation and stand prepared to counter them on your behalf.
No one anticipates being involved in a truck accident. However, when the unthinkable occurs, you deserve legal representation dedicated to facilitating your recovery. By entrusting the truck accident lawyers at Henson Fuerst with your representation, you gain a relentless advocate committed to your cause, allowing you to focus on physical rehabilitation and emotional healing. With us, you're not merely a client but part of our extended family. Our truck accident attorneys prioritize understanding the full extent of your accident's impact, both physically and emotionally, to ensure you receive fair compensation encompassing medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We confront corporate defendants without hesitation and persist until justice is served.