Thousands of lives are devastated by truck accidents in Alabama every year. More than 8,500 trucks crashed on Alabama roads in one recent year, leading to 2,330 injuries and 130 deaths. People who have never been in a truck accident may think they are mostly the same as car accidents — but that is not true. Here are five top reasons to hire a truck accident attorney after a crash.
1. There Are Many Rules and Regulations in the Trucking Industry
Truck drivers and trucking companies have many rules they are required to follow. For example, all large-truck drivers in Alabama must have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to prove they can safely handle these large vehicles. There are also rules from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) on how long truck drivers can be behind the wheel without taking a break.
These rules are meant to keep everyone on the road safe. Violating them can be considered negligence. A truck accident lawyer can investigate the crash to see if the truck driver or anyone else broke the rules.
2. An Attorney Can Help You Determine Liability
Several different parties could be liable for an Alabama truck accident. Truck drivers cause preventable crashes when they drive while dangerously drowsy, distracted, or even intoxicated. Trucking companies who do not conduct background checks or monitor their drivers may be found negligent. Maintenance crews and cargo loaders may be negligent if they do not do their jobs correctly. An Alabama truck accident attorney can determine all the parties responsible for your injuries.
3. An Attorney Will Help You Identify All the Damages You’re Entitled To
Truck accidents frequently cause catastrophic injuries with significant long-term effects. You have the right to seek compensation for any losses related to a truck accident someone else caused. A lawyer can help you maximize your potential compensation. With the right legal help, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Reduced future earnings
- Lower quality of life
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Damaged personal property
4. The Insurance Company Doesn’t Have Your Best Interest in Mind
The truck driver or trucking company’s insurer does not care about you, no matter what they say. Their goal is to limit their financial liability and pay as little as possible for your injuries. You need someone in your corner who will aggressively protect your rights and fight for fair compensation. The best person to do that is an experienced truck accident attorney.
5. An Experienced Attorney Will Develop the Right Strategy for Your Specific Case
Every truck accident is different. You need to consider that when pursuing compensation for your injuries. What is the best way to show you are not liable for your injuries? Should your goal be to reach an acceptable insurance settlement? Or is it worth taking your case to court? How do you document the full extent of your injuries and other losses? These are crucial questions you need to answer. A truck accident attorney can help you find the right strategy for your circumstances.
Injured in an Alabama Trucking Accident? Contact Our Skilled Truck Accident Attorneys Today
The Alabama truck accident lawyers at Stokes Stemle, LLC have extensive experience with these cases. We are prepared to enforce your rights. Call us or visit our contact page today for a free consultation.
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