People riding in passenger vehicles are incredibly vulnerable in collisions with tractor-trailers. Because of their sheer weight, trucks can cause considerable damage to cars—and those riding inside them.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, nearly 4,000 people died in big rig crashes in 2016. Of those fatalities, 66 percent were passenger vehicle occupants, 17 percent were truck occupants, and 16 percent were motorcyclists, bicyclists, or pedestrians.
Sadly, truck accident victims who are fortunate enough to survive often sustain serious injuries. Fortunately, they may be able to recover compensation for the damages associated with their injuries—and any lasting repercussions—by filing a personal injury lawsuit.
If you were hurt in a collision with a drunk, drowsy, or distracted trucker, turn to Ballard Law, PLLC for strategic legal guidance during every stage of the claims process. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
William E. Ballard is proud to represent accident victims throughout Mississippi. Visit our website at www.ballardlaw.ms to learn more, or call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free case evaluation with a truck accident attorney in Madison.
Read on to learn what you should know about the claims process following a tractor-trailer collision:
- Some Pieces of Critical Evidence May Be Time-Sensitive
In the state of Mississippi, accident victims typically have three years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim; however, that does not necessarily mean you should postpone the proceedings. Waiting just half a year could prove detrimental to the case because motor carriers are only obligated to retain their drivers’ logs for six months. Since the logs may contain critical evidence—like proof of speeding, for example—it is essential to act as soon as possible following a crash.
- Multiple Parties May Be Liable
It is natural to assume the trucker is liable for your injuries; however, depending on the circumstances of the accident, others may also be responsible. Potentially at-fault parties include
- The cargo loading company;
- The motor carrier who employed the trucker;
- The government entity responsible for maintaining the roads;
- The manufacturer of the truck or any of its equipment; and
- The truck’s maintenance providers or mechanics.
- Proving Liability May Be Easier, but Securing a Fair Settlement May Be Harder
Commercial drivers must follow strict federal regulations that do not apply to the average motorist. Since truckers must document their driving habits, for example, it can be easier to identify even minor violations and ultimately prove their liability in an accident.
Unlike passenger vehicle motorists, though, transportation companies usually have access to skilled legal experts and strategic insurance adjusters who know how to negotiate for the smallest settlements possible. Thus, it may be easier to prove fault in a truck accident, but it can be a lot harder to secure the compensation you deserve.
If you were hurt in a crash with a tractor-trailer, you do not have to go up against the opposing party alone. Contact Ballard Law, PLLC today to enlist a legal ally who is not afraid to take on even the largest motor carriers.
Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Madison. You can learn more about truck crash claims in Mississippi by visiting USAttorneys.com.
