Flagstaff Truck Accident Lawyer

Flagstaff Truck Accident Attorney

Ground transportation is essential to our modern economy, so it’s no surprise that semi-trucks add up to 13.4% of registered vehicles in the United States. The trucking industry is indeed growing, and as more fleets hit the road, the risk of getting into an accident with these large vehicles increases as well. With this increased risk, it’s important to remember that a Flagstaff semi truck accident lawyer can be an invaluable resource to use.

The process of submitting a personal injury claim in instances involving commercial trucks can be complex. Not only are there higher instances of extreme injuries or death, but it can also be difficult to understand who is liable for the injuries sustained in an accident.

While the risk of getting into a crash with a semi-truck is daunting, take solace in knowing that personal injury lawsuits can help you receive compensation after an accident. Keep reading for a complete overview of personal injury cases involving semi-trucks.

Agencies in the Trucking Industry

The trucking industry is regulated by many entities at both the state and federal levels. Because of this, there can be many liable parties in this kind of personal injury suit. Your attorney will assess the accident and figure out what parties are responsible for paying damages in a personal injury claim.

Federal agencies

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates the loading and unloading of trucks at off-highway locations, such as warehouses or retail locations. The Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for Commercial Driving Licensing, assessing vehicle safety, and all driving on interstate highways. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) deals with pollution control and prevention from the industry. The Federal Aviation Administration plays a hand in managing ground crew safety.

State agencies

In Arizona, the state agencies involved in semi-truck operations include the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) and the Department of Public Safety (DPS). These entities enforce the rules and regulations that promote highway safety. This includes all audits, inspections, and enforcement operations required by state law as well as the Federal Hazardous Material Regulations and the Federal Motor Carrier Regulations.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents in Flagstaff, AZ

There are four semi-truck factors to keep in mind: braking ability, size, weight, and field of vision. Drivers must take into account how large trucks operate on roadways and act accordingly. Below is an overview of negligent behaviors that often result in semi-truck accidents.

Unsafe acts by passenger vehicles

• Driving within the blind spots beside and behind a semi-truck
• Miscalculating the speed at which trucks travel through an intersection
• Switching lanes to close to a semi-truck
• Driving on the right side of a semi-truck that is attempting a right turn
• Improper merging into traffic triggers semi’s to swerve or quickly brake
• Failure to allow semi-trucks to merge or change lanes
• Passing semi-trucks in an unsafe manner
• Passing a truck without bracing for possible cross-wind or air turbulence
• Riding between semi-trucks
• Not sufficiently pulling stopped or slow vehicles out of travel lanes

Unsafe actions by semi-truck operators

• Inadequate training that does not fully cover driving methods, semi-truck safety, and defensive driving techniques
• Compensation systems that promote semi-truck operators to speed and drive more consecutive hours
• Scheduling or company expectations that force semi-truck drivers to promote efficiency over safety

What to do in the event of a Truck Accident

If you do find yourself in an auto accident that involves a semi-truck, there are key actions to take right away.

• Get everyone to safety and assess any injuries
• Call the police. Be sure they arrive at the scene and have an official record of what happened
• Exchange information with all parties involved in the accident. Make sure you have their name, phone number, and auto insurance information. Also make sure to get the company name, driver name, and all DOT numbers on both the tractor and trailer of the semi-truck
• Take pictures of the scene and all identifying information. Hold on to any documentation you receive from the accident, including all bills
• Consult a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident
• Seek medical treatment in a timely fashion for all of your injuries
• Make a claim with your car insurance provider

Flagstaff Truck Accident FAQs

How Much Are Most Truck Accident Settlements?

Most truck accident settlements can range from a couple of thousand to several hundred thousand dollars. The settlement amount will often depend on the specific complexities and circumstances of the case. Each case is unique in its own way, and it will be evaluated accordingly.

One way to help ensure that you get the highest settlement amount available to you is to engage the help of a personal injury attorney who has taken cases involving an auto accident. It’s important that you be fully compensated for the extent of your injuries.

Can Someone Sue You for a Car Accident in Arizona?

Yes, someone can sue you for a car accident in Arizona. Guilty or negligent parties in a car accident can be sued for damages and injuries that they caused. The injured party can sue to recover medical expenses, lost income, damaged property, and pain and suffering damages.

If it is found that the faulty party was negligent, such as texting on their phone while driving or driving while intoxicated, then the settlement amount could be greater. To help ensure a favorable outcome, it can help to work with an experienced accident attorney.

How Much Is a Neck and Back Injury Settlement?

A neck and back injury settlement can range anywhere from $10,000 to hundreds of thousands of dollars. It often depends on the extent of the injury. Neck and back injuries are considered to be very serious, and they can lead to lifelong effects for the injured party. There are three main factors that may affect the settlement. Those factors are the severity of the injury, the level of treatment required, and if the injury leads to permanent impairment.

Is a Settlement Negotiable?

A car accident settlement is negotiable. It is important to note, however, that once the settlement agreement has been signed, it cannot be changed. Negotiation is a very important part of the case, and it is critical that you negotiate to get a settlement amount that will truly compensate you for your injuries.

Working with an experienced injury attorney who can guide you through the negotiation process is beneficial. An attorney can help you explore all areas of the case and help you fight to negotiate the most reasonable deal for you.

For Car Accidents in Arizona, What Is the Statute of Limitations?

Car accidents in Flagstaff, Arizona have a statute of limitations of two years from the day the accident occurred. If you want to file a personal injury claim against the responsible party, you need to do it before two years from the date of the crash. If you wait until after the two-year mark, you may lose your ability to pursue reasonable legal action against the negligent party. Generally speaking, it is wise to file the claim as soon as possible.

Connect with representation for semi-truck accidents in  Flagstaff, AZ

One of the most important decisions to make after getting into a semi-truck accident is choosing the right personal injury attorney. An experienced law firm will take the guesswork out of your case and allow you to focus on healing while they fight for you in court.

Glazer, Hammond & Smets, PLLC is the best personal injury representation in Northern Arizona. Attorney Keith Hammond has over thirty years of experience with personal injury cases, earning him a top-notch reputation for doing right by his clients.

You do not need to deal with a truck accident alone. Reach out to Glazer, Hammond & Smets, PLLC, and schedule your consultation today.