The Coluccio Law team is committed to making a genuine and positive difference in the lives of persons and their families. Kevin Coluccio and Coluccio Law specialize in collisions involving commercial trucks and semi-trucks.
It is estimated that each year, there are roughly 5,000 people killed in semi-truck accidents. The most common causes of semi-truck accidents are truck driver fatigue, speeding, failure to follow traffic control devices, poor vehicle maintenance, distracted truck drivers, inexperienced truck drivers, and improper cargo loading.
Why are Semi Truck Accidents so Dangerous?
If a semi-truck collides with another vehicle at high speed, serious or fatal injuries are likely to occur. The size and weight of a commercial truck are two of the primary elements that contribute to fatal truck accidents.
Causes and Effects of Semi-Truck Accidents
Semi-truck accidents can be caused by several factors. Some common causes of semi-truck accidents are
- Driver fatigue
- Speeding
- Failure to follow traffic control devices
- Improper maintenance
- Distracted driving
- Driver inexperience
- Improper loading
- Substance abuse
It is important to note that not all semi-truck accidents are solely caused by points listed above. Sometimes poor road conditions, lack of training for drivers, bad weather, and unrealistic time constraints can contribute to accidents.
Semi-truck accident victims sustain a wide range of injuries, including neck and back injuries, head/brain injuries, broken bones, rib and/or torso damage (sometimes severe enough to cause internal damage), spinal cord injuries, surface injuries such as lacerations and bruising, and whiplash from the seatbelt.
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What to do if you are involved in a Semi-Truck Accident
Should you find yourself in a semi-truck accident here are a few points to remember:
- Determine whether there are any injuries and maintain a safe distance from the accident to ensure unnecessary further injuries. You are not allowed to leave the accident scene.
- Contact 911. This will alert first responders to ensure that those who are injured are taken care of. This will also start the documentation process for insurance purposes.
- It is important that you obtain the details of the semi-truck driver such as contact details, insurance number, motor carrier DOT number, operating number, and company name.
- It is imperative that you remain calm and not admit to anything. Anything you say may eventually be used against you.
- Document everything. Take photos of the accident. Obtain contact numbers from eyewitnesses, and ensure you have the details of the truck driver.
- Always seek medical attention after an accident regardless of how minor your accident was. Whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, internal hemorrhaging, shattered bones, and other ailments may not be visible at first due to adrenaline. They may, however, become a significant problem later, possibly resulting in lifelong damage or even death.
- Contact a lawyer that specializes in semi-truck accidents. An attorney can assist with the investigation, settlement negotiations, awarded damages, reimbursement for property damage, repairs/replacement, and medical expenditures.
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Factors affecting Semi-Truck Accident Settlement
A skilled attorney will assess numerous complex issues for a semi-truck accident claim, such as:
- Damage to Property: If a smaller vehicle collides with a semi-truck, the smaller vehicle often sustains significant damage. An insurance adjuster will assess the vehicle to determine whether the vehicle should be totaled or if it can be repaired.
- Medical Expenses: Truck accident injuries are frequently severe and necessitate continuing medical care. The cost of all medical care you have received, as well as any treatment you are projected to need in the future for your injuries, must be totaled.
- Loss of Income: Semi-truck accidents may require time off from work and that would result in a loss of income. Your future earning potential will be impacted if your injuries prevent you from returning to work or undertaking the same type of work in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: Your attorney will assess the total severity of your injuries and damages, as well as how they have affected your life and the lives of others around you.
- Permanent Limitations and Disabilities will be assets by medical experts and experts in assessing life care plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Semi Truck Accident Lawsuit
How much money can you get if you get hit by a semi-truck?
The overall compensation amount is mostly determined by the extent of the injuries, damages, and losses caused by the semi-truck accident. Many semi-truck accident lawsuits settle for six figures or more, with some exceeding a million dollars or more. Often insurance limits are a factor.
Can I sue for being hit by a Semi Truck?
If a truck driver’s carelessness or negligence caused serious injuries, you could seek legal redress through civil litigation. A personal injury lawsuit may be your greatest choice for obtaining financial compensation.
Conclusions
If you or your loved ones were involved in a semi-truck accident, contact Coluccio Law today. Let us handle your semi-truck accident case with meticulous legal advice and care. Kevin Coluccio is the only Washington State-based Truck Accident Certified Attorney by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA).
Coluccio Law offers a free consultation for potential personal injury cases.
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