Phoenix Truck Accident Lawyer

Commercial semi-trucks are significantly bigger than everyday cars because they have to have the durability to haul cargo across the country. Unfortunately, this massive difference in size means that a smaller car will take the brunt of the damage if there is a collision between the two, which could result in catastrophic injuries.

A Phoenix truck accident lawyer could help you seek financial compensation if you have been injured in a crash with a tractor-trailer. The compassionate attorneys at Elmm Law Group could help guide you through the process of pursuing a personal injury claim to recover from this traumatic experience.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Collisions

Because of an 18-wheeler’s enormous size and weight, truck drivers must have a higher level of skill to operate their vehicles safely. One of the most common causes of trucking accidents is driver error, which could take several forms, including distractions and fatigue. Federal regulations prohibit commercial truck drivers from using their cell phones while driving and place time limits on how long they can be behind the wheel. Yet, sadly, some truck drivers choose to participate in these dangerous behaviors anyway.

Semi-trucks also present unique dangers because of their cargo. The driver and crew are responsible for ensuring that all goods on the vehicle are secure and loaded correctly to avoid causing a pile-up on the highway. When they fail to do so, devastating collisions can occur.

Hauling this heavy cargo over long distances for hours a day also causes significant wear and tear on a tractor-trailer. This is why regular vehicle maintenance is required to ensure that all its components are in proper working condition. The driver and the company must replace or fix any part of the truck that could fail and cause a crash while in motion.

When two cars collide, the cause can usually be attributed to the negligence or carelessness of one or both drivers. However, there could be several different causes of a truck accident, and some may not involve the trucker. Regardless of the cause, being hit by a big rig could result in serious injuries. A Phoenix truck accident attorney could help you pursue a claim for financial compensation against the responsible party.

Responsibility for a Truck Crash

Responsibility for an 18-wheeler collision greatly depends on the facts leading up to the accident. The driver could be held responsible if they were distracted, fatigued, or otherwise failed to drive safely. For example, a truck has more blind spots than a smaller car, so the driver must constantly check them to ensure no other cars occupy those spaces.

If the accident was due to poorly secured cargo, responsibility could fall on the driver or the crew that loaded the truck. Finally, the company is responsible for maintaining and repairing its fleet of vehicles, so it could be held liable if a wreck was caused by faulty or incomplete maintenance.

Determining who was at fault for a tractor-trailer crash requires careful examination of the facts. A lawyer with extensive knowledge of truck accidents in Phoenix could review your case and help determine the most appropriate party or parties to file a claim against.

Time Limit to File a Truck Accident Claim

It is important to remember that Arizona has a time limit on when a personal injury lawsuit can be filed, whether you are filing against the driver or the transportation company. For injuries from a truck collision, your claim must be filed within two years after the date that the accident occurred.

Recovering compensation becomes difficult if your suit is not filed within this two-year window. That is why you should get in touch with a seasoned attorney in Phoenix as soon as possible after suffering injuries in a semi-truck crash.

Enlist the Help of a Knowledgeable Truck Accident Attorney in Phoenix

Getting hit by a large truck can be a terrifying experience and could result in severe injuries to you and your passengers. If you have been hurt, you may be entitled to recover compensation from the truck driver or the trucking company.

A dedicated Phoenix truck accident lawyer could help you pursue the financial recovery you need so that you can focus on your healing. Call Elmm Law Group to schedule a free initial consultation today.