Were you injured in a collision involving a tractor-trailer? Car crashes are devastating as is, but big rig accidents are particularly disastrous, especially when you take the size and weight of these trucks into consideration.
If you sustained injuries or incurred damages as a result of the incident, consider reaching out to a Sierra Vista big rig accident lawyer at Zanes Law.
For two decades, we have recovered over $500 million in compensation for our clients, and we want to help you as a Sierra Vista truck accident lawyer.
Who Is Liable for a Big Rig Truck Accident?
The person or party that caused the collision is the one who will be held liable. However, as your lawyer, it is our responsibility to prove that they are the ones at fault.
When you retain legal counsel, your Sierra Vista personal injury lawyers can begin looking into potential sources of liability. In other words, we can examine the facts of the accident, reach out to professionals for insight, and hear accounts from people who witnessed the collision.
Our main goal is to pinpoint the initial cause of the accident and who was behind the actions that led to the collision. In a big rig accident, the parties that might be responsible are as follows:
- Truck drivers
- Trucking companies
- Cargo loaders
- Manufacturers
- Other motorists
Truck Driver
Truck drivers are often under a lot of pressure because they are expected to meet tight deadlines. It’s not uncommon for them to end up driving for long hours, which may lead to some of them neglecting safety protocols along the way.
Fatigue, distracted driving, and speeding are all factors that can result in serious accidents. If the driver’s actions are found to be negligent, they can be held liable for the accident.
Trucking Company
Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles and adequately training their drivers. However, some companies choose to cut corners, which results in a failure to enforce regulations related to driver safety, vehicle maintenance, or loading protocols.
When a trucking company prioritizes profits over safety, it can be held liable for accidents caused by its negligence. We can investigate whether or not this behavior was part of the reason behind the incident that left you damaged and injured.
Cargo Loaders
Poorly loaded cargo can cause the truck to become unbalanced, making it difficult for the driver to control the vehicle. If the cargo shifts during transit or exceeds weight limits, it can lead to rollovers or other serious accidents. As a result, the party responsible for loading the truck might be held accountable.
Manufacturers
Sometimes, a big rig accident is caused by mechanical failure, such as brake failure, tire blowouts, or other defective parts. When a defective component contributes to an accident, the manufacturer or distributor of that part may be held liable according to product liability laws.
Other Motorists
In some cases, another motorist’s actions can trigger a chain reaction that ends in a big rig accident. For example, if a car decides to cut off a truck or stop suddenly in front of another vehicle, these behaviors might cause the truck to lose control, resulting in an accident. So, if another motorist is at fault, they may share liability.
For a free legal consultation with a big rig accidents lawyer serving Sierra Vista, call (866) 499-8989
Damages a Sierra Vista Big Rig Attorney Can Help You Recover
Before you retain legal counsel, you might be wondering what a lawyer can do for you as the victim of a big rig accident. Ultimately, the physical, emotional, and financial toll that you are experiencing is not something you should have to endure all on your own.
That’s why we recommend hiring an attorney with experience handling personal injury cases. We want to ease the weight on your shoulders and carry the responsibility of building a case on your behalf. That way, you can focus more of your attention on healing.
Here are common types of damages we might be able to help you recover:
- Medical expenses
- Loss wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Loss of consortium
Medical Expenses
Big rig accidents often result in serious physical pain, such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage. The costs of medical treatment can quickly add up when you consider how many hospital stays, surgeries, and physical therapy appointments you might need.
And these calculations do not even include any and all rehabilitation plans you may require down the line. We can work to ensure that you are fairly compensated, not only for all your current expenses but future ones, too.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your loss of wages. This includes not only the income you have already lost but also any future earnings you will be unable to earn due to long-term damage or permanent injuries.
Pain and Suffering
In addition to financial damages, you may be entitled to compensation for the emotional and physical pain you have endured as a result of the accident. Pain and suffering damages are often awarded to victims who experience long-term physical pain, mental anguish, or a diminished quality of life if not all three.
Property Damage
If your vehicle was totaled or your personal property was damaged in the accident, you might be able to seek compensation for the cost of replacing or repairing your car. We can help ensure that you receive fair compensation so that you can afford the extent of your property damage.
Loss of Consortium
In cases where the accident has severely affected your relationships with loved ones—such as with your spouse or your children—you may be entitled to damages that fall under the category of loss of consortium. This is intended to compensate for the loss of companionship, affection, and support after your injuries.
Sierra Vista Big Rig Accident Lawyer Near Me (866) 499-8989
Statute of Limitations for Big Rig Accidents in Arizona
In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a claim after a big rig accident is two years from the date of the accident. This means that you must take legal action within 24 months of the collision, and if you fail to do so, you could lose your right to pursue compensation.
Now, this is the general rule of thumb, but there are also exceptions to this statute, and they might apply to your case depending on the circumstances of the incident. For starters, if your claim is against a government entity, you might only have six months to file your claim.
Also, if a wrongful death lawsuit follows as a result of the accident, you may be subject to deadlines that differ from the statute of limitations. Given the intricate nature of personal injury law and how convoluted legal jargon can be, it’s wise to consult your attorney for clarification.
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Contact a Sierra Vista Big Rig Accident Law Firm Today
Have you or someone you love been hurt in a collision with a tractor-trailer? If so, you do not have to figure everything out on your own, especially when Zanes Law is on your side. We’re here to help big rig accident victims in our community seek justice.
We want to represent you in your pursuit of compensation, and we can help you obtain a fair settlement offer, which you rightfully deserve. Don’t wait to reach out for legal help—contact our Sierra Vista big rig accident law firm today.
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