Introduction
Las Vegas is a major transportation hub with frequent truck accidents. According to reports, in 2019, the city witnessed 5,237 fatal truck collisions. Moreover, 72% of these fatalities occurred to the other drivers.
Also, smaller roadways are more susceptible to truck accidents. Therefore, heavy trucks can cause catastrophic accidents, causing serious injuries or fatalities.
However, identifying the responsible party for a truck accident can be complex as it involves multiple parties.
As we know, commercial vehicles have their own rules, and so do their drivers.
In cases of truck accidents, different parties may share liability. Therefore, you must determine the party at fault to file a successful truck accident lawsuit.
So here’s a guide to help you in the journey of fighting and securing your compensation when faced with a truck accident.
What Can Cause A Truck Accident?
Truck accidents in Las Vegas often result from various factors, including the following:
Driver fatigue: Long hours of driving without adequate rest leads drivers to doze off, causing accidents.
Driving under the influence (DUI): Drinking affects a driver's ability to make sound decisions or coordinate their hands on the steering wheel.
Speeding: Speeding reduces maneuverability, causing rear-end collisions.
Distracted driving: Distracted driving while texting or talking on the phone causes crashes.
Untrained drivers: Adequate training can help safely maneuver on narrow roads or complex road situations.
Poor weather: Weather disturbances, such as rainy or foggy, can affect a driver's ability to see ahead and make decisions.
Poorly maintained trucks: This can cause brake or tire malfunctions, making them a significant risk on the road.
Improperly loaded cargo: Improperly loaded cargo can cause the car to become unstable and fall off, leading to accidents.
Understanding The Legalities
Here are some of the major factors you must consider when evaluating the legal implications of a truck accident—
1. Identifying The Liable Party
Commercial truck accidents are complex and involve multiple parties and extensive investigations. The key parties you can hold accountable are the following:
Truck drivers if the accident resulted from driver error, such as fatigue or violation of traffic laws.
Trucking companies if they needed to enforce regulations or provide more training.
Truck manufacturers if mechanical defects caused the crash.
Cargo loaders if they secured or distributed cargo that caused the accident.
Maintenance providers, when maintenance negligence causes the accident.
Other drivers if their actions contributed to the accident.
Therefore, a skilled Las Vegas truck accident lawyer can help you identify negligent parties and pursue a claim that addresses the full scope of damages.
2. Knowing The Commercial Trucking Regulations In Las Vegas
Commercial trucking is heavily regulated, with legal proceedings. Therefore, in Las Vegas, lawyers scrutinize complianceAdherence to the rules, regulations, and requirements set forth by the grantor, ensuring proper use ... with the following bodies:
HOS regulations.
CDL requirements.
Maintenance standards.
Cargo regulations,
Insurance coverage.
Violations can show negligence and significantly influence the outcome of a case.
Thus, legal experts use these regulations to establish liability and advocate for victim's compensation. Moreover, they pursue punitive damages in cases of gross negligence.
Also, they examine the truck's maintenance and inspection, cargo weight, size, and securement.
3. Know Your Next Step
You must report the incident immediately if you have been involved in a commercial truck accident.
In Las Vegas, attorneys recommend ensuring safety, notifying law enforcement, and informing insurance companies. If possible, move to a secure location and check for injuries. If necessary, call 911.
The police will file an official report, which may be crucial in the legal process.
Moreover, it is vital not to admit liability or sign any documents before consulting a lawyer. This information will serve as the foundation for any future legal action.
4. Know The Court’s Next Step
When dealing with a personal injury claim, it's important to remember that the first offer from the other party's insurance company may be quite low.
Their goal is to save as much money as possible, so it is up to you and your lawyer to negotiate a fair settlement by presenting additional evidence. If an agreement cannot be reached, the case may end up in court.
However, it's worth noting that the initial evaluation of your case and the gathering of evidence are crucial as they set the foundation for your lawsuit.
The Implications Of A Truck Accident
Truck accidents can significantly impact victims' emotional and financial well-being. It causes injuries like the following:
Whiplash.
Organ damage.
Limb amputations.
Nerve and back injuries.
Brain damage.
Burns.
Paralysis.
Broken bones.
Moreover, post-accident emotional trauma can lead to flashbacks, nightmares, depression, and survivor's guilt.
However, insurance companies may need to provide adequate coverage for these costs.
You can navigate insurance coverage complexities and comparative negligence with a truck accident lawyer. They help you investigate the accident scene, consult with doctors, determine earnings loss, and account for pain and suffering.
