Semi-Truck Accident Attorney in Newport News

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Each year, thousands of injuries and deaths occur involving large trucks. In crashes involving passenger vehicles and big rigs, 98% of the deaths occur to individuals in the smaller vehicles. Many regulatory entities are established to ensure that trucks abide by proper standards of care for others on the road. The following parties establish standards and oversee the safety of commercial vehicles:

• Virginia State Officials
• The Federal Highway Administration
• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

National licenses have been required for the operation of commercial vehicles. Even with the high number of regulations and oversight, many truck accidents are caused by negligence of either the driver or the trucking company. Negligence can include driver fatigue, speeding, or improper maintenance of the vehicle. Our team stays informed about both state and federal laws regulating the trucking industry, offering an edge in identifying any violations that may have contributed to your accident. We are meticulous in our investigation processes, ensuring that no detail is overlooked as we seek to protect your rights.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents

Many truck drivers spend extensive hours driving along roads and highways. With the long amounts of time spent on the road, driver fatigue is one of the most common causes of truck accidents. Under federal laws regarding hours-of-service regulations, interstate commercial drivers cannot drive more than 10 hours at a time or drive after working 15 hours until they have received an 8-hour break. Additionally, commercial drivers are limited to 60 driving hours in a 7-day period or 70 hours in an 8-day period. Another common cause of truck accidents is drug abuse by the truck driver. Additional common causes of truck accidents associated with negligence include:

Addressing these causes requires a thorough understanding of both trucking regulations and enforcement. Our team is dedicated to uncovering the specifics of what led to your accident, whether it was due to a driver's lapse in judgment or systemic issues within a company. By holding the responsible parties accountable, we aim to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Severe Injuries from Truck Accidents

Trucking accidents can cause severe injuries that may impact you for the rest of your life. These injuries can also require extensive medical treatment and care, which can cause medical bills to pile up. By obtaining compensation for your injuries, we can help you get back on your feet following an accident. Some of the most common injuries you could sustain in a trucking accident include:

• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Burns and Scarring
• Brain or Head Injuries
• Broken Bones
• Internal Bleeding or Organ Damage

Beyond the physical toll, such injuries can lead to significant emotional and psychological distress, affecting your overall quality of life. Our legal team understands the profound impact these injuries can have, and we strive to ensure that all aspects of your suffering are considered when seeking compensation. We work closely with medical experts to accurately evaluate the extent of your injuries and the potential long-term effects on your life. This comprehensive approach strengthens your legal case and aids in pursuing the full amount of compensation you deserve.

Understanding Truck Accident Liability

Determining liability in a truck accident is not as straightforward as determining liability in a car accident since there are usually many possible liable parties. At times, there is more than one party held responsible. Of these possible parties, the two that are most often held accountable are the trucking company and the truck driver.

Usually, a truck driver is held responsible if their own behavior, such as drinking and driving, led to the accident. Sometimes the driver is held accountable if they own the truck that caused the accident. The trucking company the trucker works for, however, is most often found liable for damages. Companies sometimes encourage their drivers to break trucking regulations in order to help save time and money. No matter the cause of your accident, our team of attorneys has the skill and knowledge to properly investigate your case and hold the responsible party accountable.

Other potentially liable parties might include vehicle maintenance companies if improper upkeep was a factor, or manufacturers if defective parts contributed to the accident. Navigating these complexities requires an in-depth investigation of every detail, from the truck's on-board diagnostics to driver logs and company records. Our experience in handling such multifaceted cases allows us to meticulously prepare and strategize your approach, ensuring that no liable party evades accountability.

Contact Our Newport News Truck Accident Attorney Today

If any commercial truck law is violated and that violation results in a serious accident, the victim can pursue compensation for his or her injuries. If the accident cost your loved one their life, we can also help you file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party. At Larry King Law, our Newport News personal injury attorney can fight on your behalf for just compensation. With almost 50 years of legal experience, you can trust your case into our lawyer's hands. Contact our firm today for the legal guidance you need!

We understand that the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, with emotional, physical, and financial burdens that may seem insurmountable. Our attorneys are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive support through every step of the legal process. By trusting your case to our capable hands, you'll have the assurance that we are fighting diligently to secure the best possible outcome for you and your family. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we are prepared to stand by you, advocating for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Local Insights: Newport News Trucking Industry

Newport News, with its strategic location and extensive infrastructure, is a hub for the trucking industry. The city’s proximity to major interstates like I-64 and I-664 facilitates significant freight and trucking activities. As a result, it is common to see a large volume of commercial trucks on the roads, contributing to the city's economic activity but also increasing the risk of accidents. Understanding the local trucking regulations and patterns can be critical in addressing truck accident cases. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles and the Virginia State Police ensure adherence to state laws, striving to maintain safety standards. Local drivers and companies are expected to follow stringent guidelines to reduce incidents on the road. At Larry King Law, we have in-depth knowledge of these local nuances, which equips us to effectively handle cases within this jurisdiction, ensuring that all regional factors are taken into account.

We also focus on the role of Newport News Shipbuilding and the accompanying trucking logistics, as this major industry in the area contributes to frequent commercial activity. This connection means that our attorneys not only understand general trucking laws but are also finely attuned to the specific dynamics and demands of the local shipping and transportation sectors. Being locally based allows us to offer relevant guidance and representation, backed by familiarity with the area-specific challenges and opportunities in legal proceedings related to trucking accidents.

FAQs: Essential Questions about Truck Accidents

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?

Immediately following a truck accident, it is crucial to ensure safety first. Move to a safe location if possible and check if anyone requires urgent medical attention. Call 911 to report the accident, providing clear and precise information about the location and extent of injuries, if any. While waiting for emergency services, gather as much information as possible. Exchange details with the truck driver, including names, contact information, insurance details, and truck registration numbers. If safe, take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damages, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Speak to witnesses and collect their statements and contact information. However, avoid discussing fault at the scene. Once everything is documented and after receiving necessary medical attention, reach out to Larry King Law to understand your legal options. Early consultation with our team can help secure and preserve valuable evidence and guide you through the legal intricacies following such a traumatic event.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Virginia?

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims related to truck accidents is typically two years from the date of the accident. This timeframe applies to filing a lawsuit for compensation for injuries, pain and suffering, and other damages incurred due to the accident. It is important to note that this does not mean you should wait until the end of this period to seek legal advice. Preparing a comprehensive and robust case requires time to investigate the accident, gather necessary documentation, and consult with experts, if needed. Larry King Law encourages potential clients to reach out as soon as possible to ensure all legal deadlines are met and your rights are effectively protected.

What compensation can I seek after a truck accident?

After a truck accident, victims can seek compensation for a range of damages, including but not limited to medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and both physical and emotional suffering. Compensatory damages aim to cover not only immediate medical costs but also future medical needs, especially for severe injuries requiring long-term care. In some instances, victims may be eligible for punitive damages if the accident was a result of particularly negligent or reckless behavior by the defendant. Discussing your specific circumstances with Larry King Law ensures that you are pursuing all forms of compensation available to you, tailored to the details of your incident.

What are the common legal defenses used by trucking companies?

Trucking companies might use several common legal defenses to mitigate liability in accident claims. One approach is arguing contributory negligence, claiming that the victim shared some responsibility for the accident. Companies may also question the severity of the injuries or the causation link between the accident and the claimed damages. Additionally, they might put forth evidence of compliance with regulations to dispute claims of negligence. At Larry King Law, we are adept at countering these defenses through comprehensive case-building. Our team scrutinizes all evidence and documentation, strategically addressing any arguments posed by the defense to advocate effectively for our clients’ rights.

How is fault determined in a truck accident?

Fault in a truck accident is determined through a thorough investigation that examines multiple factors, including driver behavior, mechanical issues, and compliance with regulations. Evidence such as police reports, eyewitness testimonies, vehicle logs, and inspection records are analyzed to build a clear picture of the circumstances surrounding the accident. Experts may also be consulted to reconstruct the accident for better clarity. In Virginia, establishing fault can be complex due to contributory negligence rules, which bar recovery if the plaintiff is found to be even slightly at fault. This makes it imperative to have a knowledgeable legal team like Larry King Law assess and accurately present the evidence to ensure fair adjudication.