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Expert birmingham truck accident lawyer
Birmingham, AL is one of the South’s main hubs for commerce. As a result, the city’s highways and interstate system are heavily traveled by large commercial trucks carrying goods to and from downtown.
When you mix the abundance of commercial vehicles with everyday Birmingham traffic, it’s no surprise that truck accidents frequently injure Birmingham drivers. When it comes to finding a truck accident lawyer, Birmingham’s #1 guide is right here.
Causes of Birmingham Truck Accidents
Because of their size and weight, trucks are held to rigorous governmental restrictions on their driving practices. These restrictions are designed to keep the truck drivers and other motorists safe, but some drivers still prefer to flaunt the law, putting you and your family at risk.
Some of the most common causes for Birmingham truck accidents are:
- Unseen vehicles
- Improper lane change
- Misjudging stopping distance
- Following too close
- Improper turn
- Fallen cargo
No matter the cause of your accident, you should seek a truck accident lawyer. Birmingham locals know that standing up for your truck accident case calls for the expertise only accident attorneys from Wettermark Keith can provide. You deserve that kind of justice.
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How Are Truck Accidents Different from Car Accidents?
In order to drive a car, you have to go through a permit test, a probationary period, and an eye test. Then, you are able to drive a car, given that you have practiced with a licensed driver for many hours and have car insurance. This might seem like a lot, but in order to drive a large truck or tractor-trailer, there are even more steps you have to take.
There are many regulations in the trucking industry that are intended to keep the roadways safe. Getting in a trucking accident is usually an indication that the trucker did not do something properly, resulting in your injury. This is different from car accidents in that trucks are larger and heavier, often causing more severe injuries.
Additionally, truck drivers are usually the contractors or employees of another company, meaning you’re dealing with more than just another driver and their insurance company. Also, instead of just pointing at broken laws or careless driving as the cause of the crash, you may also find that the truck driver was not being compliant in his duties, including driving for longer than legally allowed, carrying more weight than is permitted, or not following other laws specific to truck drivers.
There’s only so much you can learn from research online. To truly know the law and get justice, you’ll need the help of a law firm.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
Experiencing a truck accident can be unexpected and overwhelming, leaving many unsure of what steps to take next. Our advice is to approach the situation calmly and methodically. While the aftermath can feel chaotic, addressing the critical aspects promptly can make a significant difference.
First and foremost, assess your situation and that of the other driver, if possible. Check for any immediate medical needs and call 911 or ask someone nearby to do so. Emergency responders—including police, paramedics, and firefighters—will arrive quickly. While waiting, ensure your environment is safe. If necessary, relocate yourself and your vehicle to avoid further danger.
Once the immediate crisis is under control, it’s time to gather evidence. Capture photographs of the accident scene with your phone or camera, and take detailed notes about the events as you remember them. Speak with any witnesses and, with their permission, record their statements for accuracy.
When law enforcement arrives, be sure to file an accident report, clearly detailing the circumstances of the crash. Afterward, notify anyone who needs to be informed, like family members. Importantly, reach out to a Birmingham truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. The dedicated team at Wettermark Keith is ready to guide you through the process of seeking compensation.
Proof in a Truck Accident Case
Establishing proof in a truck accident case is crucial for securing fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Unlike standard car accidents, truck accidents often involve additional complexities due to the size of the vehicle, the potential involvement of multiple parties, and regulatory standards specific to the trucking industry. Here are key elements of proof that can strengthen your case:
- Accident Reports: Official police reports are vital. They document the details of the accident, including statements from involved parties and witnesses, and can provide an unbiased account of what occurred.
- Photographic Evidence: Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries can be powerful evidence. These images help illustrate the severity of the accident and the conditions at the time.
- Witness Statements: Eyewitness accounts can provide critical context and corroborate your version of events. Collect contact information from witnesses at the scene, and consider recording their statements with permission.
- Medical Records: Documenting your injuries through medical records is essential. These records not only verify the extent of your injuries but also establish a connection between the accident and your medical treatment.
- Driver Logs and Vehicle Maintenance Records: In truck accident cases, it’s essential to examine the truck driver’s logs and the maintenance records of the vehicle. These documents can reveal if the driver was adhering to regulations regarding hours of service or if the truck was properly maintained. Your attorney will help you obtain these critical records, ensuring that all relevant information is included in your case.
- Expert Testimony: In some cases, it may be beneficial to bring in accident reconstruction experts or medical professionals to provide testimony regarding the accident’s impact on your life.
- Insurance Documentation: Collect all relevant insurance information from the trucking company and the driver involved. This includes liability coverage details, which are crucial for determining who is responsible for damages.
Establishing a strong case requires thorough evidence collection and a clear understanding of the legal aspects involved. A knowledgeable Birmingham truck accident lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring that all necessary proof is gathered to support your claim effectively.
Truck Accident Birmingham Compensation
Being compensated isn’t just about making someone else pay for their wrongdoing. Compensation, when sufficient for the severity of the crash, helps to pay for the financial, physical, and emotional burden that’s been placed on you. After being involved in a truck accident, here are some potential types of compensation you can pursue:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damages
- Physical therapy
- Medical equipment
- Counseling
You don’t have to face the daunting costs of recovering from an accident by yourself. Hire a personal injury lawyer to get the compensation you deserve.
How a Truck Accident Lawyer in Birmingham Can Help
Even if you feel confident in pursuing justice on your own, you should consider hiring a truck accident lawyer. Birmingham attorneys at Wettermark Keith will know when you are compensated fairly and when you are not, and that kind of knowledge only comes from experience. If there are multiple parties involved (like a trucking company, the driver, and the insurance company, for instance), a lawyer can be the main touchpoint for all of them, keeping all communication in line and ensuring that you aren’t taken advantage of.
Birmingham truck accident lawyers are also helpful when you are recuperating from major injuries. There is a time limit for filing claims and getting compensated in commercial truck accidents, and sometimes, that time limit will run out before you are fully healed. Don’t wait to handle the case yourself… just call accident lawyers in Birmingham.
Truck Accident Attorney - Birmingham
We’ve got over 50 years of combined experience in fighting for cases like yours. At Wettermark Keith, we believe in each and every one of our clients and tirelessly fight for their rights. We’ve seen firsthand how a truck accident can affect a person’s life, and our greatest passion is seeing these cases come to justice.
We’re so confident in every truck accident attorney at Wettermark Keith that we offer a no-fee guarantee, meaning that you won’t pay anything until and unless we win. To learn more about us and what we can do for you, fill out the form below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can sue for injuries sustained in a semi-truck accident, but the process can be complex. To pursue a successful claim, it’s essential to establish liability, which may involve the truck driver, the trucking company, or even vehicle manufacturers. A skilled Birmingham truck accident lawyer can guide you through this process, helping you gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case.
It's important to note that not every attorney is a trial attorney. While many lawyers can handle personal injury cases, those with specific experience in truck accident litigation are best equipped to navigate the intricacies of these claims. A dedicated Birmingham truck accident lawyer will have the expertise to advocate for you, whether through negotiation or trial, ensuring that your rights are fully protected.
After a truck accident, prioritize your safety and health. First, check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 if necessary. Ensure the scene is safe and move vehicles out of harm’s way if possible. Gather evidence by taking photos, exchanging information with the other driver, and obtaining witness statements. Finally, contact a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible to help you navigate the next steps.
A Birmingham truck accident lawyer offers crucial support throughout the claims process. They can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. Their expertise in truck accident laws and regulations ensures that your rights are protected, and they work to maximize your compensation for injuries and damages.
Compensation in a truck accident case can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. A skilled attorney can help assess the full extent of your damages and pursue all applicable compensation on your behalf.
In Alabama, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including truck accidents, is typically two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to act quickly and consult a Birmingham truck accident lawyer to ensure you meet all legal deadlines and protect your right to compensation.
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