Bossier City Truck Accident Attorney
You Could Be Owed More Than You Expect
Truck accidents involving large, commercial vehicles differ from passenger vehicle accidents in two significant ways. First, because of their extra weight and mass, truck collisions tend to be far more dangerous. Second, because they involve commercial vehicles and professional drivers, the standards of legal accountability are significantly higher.
If you've been injured in a commercial vehicle collision anywhere in Bossier City, Shreveport, Minden, or the surrounding communities, you should consult with a Bossier City truck accident lawyer right away.
Contact usonline or call Joseph A. Gregorio, A Professional Law Firmat (318) 719-7515for a free consultation with an experienced and award-winning truck accident lawyer in Bossier City.
Our Truck Accident Law Firm is Ready to Help
At Joseph A. Gregorio, A Professional Law Firm, we handle commercial vehicle accident cases involving the following types of vehicles:
- Tractor-trailers
- Tankers
- Cement mixers
- Mobile cranes
- Garbage trucks
- Dump trucks
- Log carriers
- Refrigerator trucks
- Delivery trucks
Accidents involving tractor-trailers and large trucks yield a much higher possibility of catastrophic injuries, which means victims of these accidents have the right to demand higher levels of compensation. Unfortunately, securing the compensation you are rightfully owed is not always easy. The number of potential defendants, the high skill level of their attorneys, and the power behind corporate entities must be fought with aggressive, experienced legal counsel.
What To Do if You Are Hit by an 18-Wheeler
If you are in an accident involving an 18-wheeler, your first priority should be your safety and 911 should be called immediately. If possible, write down the driver and their employer's contact information including their drivers license, registration, and insurance. It is recommended that you give a statement to the police and try to collect witness statements from anyone who saw the accident happen along with with their contact information.
It's highly recommended that you avoid talking about the accident with the other driver involved and avoid discussing the accident with the insurance company until you have consulted an attorney. In many cases the insurance company has used what victims of truck accidents have said following the accident to reduce the amount of money the injured party is owed. If you are involved in a truck accident it may be in your best interest to enlist the expertise of a skilled attorney as soon as possible.
Truck Accident Statistics in Louisiana
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LA DOTD) reports that, in 2019, there were 2,697 large trucks and buses involved in collisions that resulted in injuries. Additionally, in the same year, there were 87 large trucks and buses involved in fatal accidents, comprising 14.7% of all fatal motor vehicle accidents in the state.
Sadly, many of these truck accidents could have—and should have—been avoided. When an accident is the result of negligence, victims and the loved ones of those wrongfully killed can seek justice and financial compensation for their damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of companionship/support, funeral expenses, and more.
The Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents
So, when is a truck accident caused by negligence? This is the crucial element of most personal injury and wrongful death claims, including those involving large trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles. In short, whenever a truck accident results from an error, oversight, or unlawful activity, it may be the result of negligence.
Some of the most common causes of truck accidents which can typically be attributed to negligence include:
- Drunk driving
- Fatigued driving
- Driving while distracted
- Unsafe driving maneuvers
- Reckless driving
- Speeding
- Dangerous lane changes
- Unsafe road conditions
- Defective construction
- Improper vehicle maintenance
- Insufficient truck driver training
- Hours-of-service violations
- Failure to follow safety regulations
- Defective vehicles/parts
In any case, there may be one or multiple liable parties. While a truck driver may act negligently, leading to an accident, he or she is still in the employment of a trucking company. Therefore, because that company is generally considered liable for the actions of its employees, the trucking company may be liable for your damages.
Additionally, the manufacturer of a defective truck part may be liable for an accident, but the truck driver may also be partially at fault if he or she did not conduct mandatory vehicle maintenance and safety checks.
Common Injuries & Damages in Truck Accident Cases
Due to the difference in size between trucks and cars, many victims in truck accidents sustain life-altering injuries. These injuries can impact every element of a persons life. These injuries may include:
- Neck and back sprains
- Fractures
- Injuries to shoulders and knees
- Head injury
- Scarring
- Wrongful death
When Should I Contact an Attorney After a Truck Accident?
The short answer is that it’s never too soon to contact a person injury attorney. If you believe you have a case, having an attorney on your side to assist in investigations and gathering information to support your claim can be vital to securing the compensation you deserve. Each state in the US has a predetermined time limit for filing claims.
The State of Louisiana’s statute of limitations in personal injury cases is one year, meaning you have one year from the date of your accident to file a claim and receive damages. By consulting with an attorney shortly after your accident you may have a better chance at being awarded the compensation you deserve.
The Importance of Hiring an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
When you've been involved in a truck accident, it's crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side who understands the complexities of these types of cases. At Joseph A. Gregorio, A Professional Law Firm, our Bossier City truck accident attorneys have the knowledge and expertise to navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Here are some reasons why hiring an experienced truck accident attorney is essential:
- Understanding of trucking regulations: Truck accidents often involve complex regulations and laws that are specific to the trucking industry. An experienced attorney will have a deep understanding of these regulations and how they apply to your case.
- Investigation and evidence gathering: Truck accident cases require a thorough investigation to determine liability. An experienced attorney will know how to collect and preserve crucial evidence, such as driver logs, maintenance records, and black box data.
- Negotiation with insurance companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when they try to minimize your claim. An experienced attorney will have the negotiation skills needed to fight for a fair settlement on your behalf.
- Proving negligence: Establishing negligence is crucial in truck accident cases. An experienced attorney will know how to gather evidence and build a strong case to prove that the truck driver or trucking company was at fault for the accident.
- Maximizing compensation: Truck accidents often result in serious injuries and significant damages. An experienced attorney will know how to calculate the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future damages, to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
Don't navigate the legal process alone. Contact our Bossier City truck accident attorneys today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you fight for your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
Fighting for Injured Victims Throughout Shreveport, Webster Parish, and De Soto Parish
Most corporate entities are very good at protecting their bottom line-even if it means shifting liability. At Joseph A. Gregorio, A Professional Law Firm, our allegiance has always been to the individual victims of personal injury accidents. We do not represent hospitals, insurance corporations, or large corporations; instead, we challenge them on your behalf!
For more than 30 years, our Bossier City truck accident attorney has helped our clients recover the compensation owed to them for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, emotional duress, and diminished earning capacity. Our relentless devotion has earned us the highest marks in a number of industry rankings, including the Million Dollar Advocates Forum® for the substantial settlements and verdicts we have secured for clients.
At our office, your initial consultation is always free, and we don't charge you anything out of pocket. If we are unable to secure damages for you following a trucking accident, you don't have to pay!
Call (318) 719-7515 or contact us online to get the process started today.
