IT'S MORE TO US, IT'S PERSONAL
Trusted Montgomery Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer
Montgomery has served as the capital of Alabama for over 150 years, witnessing significant transformations that reflect the evolving South. This dynamic city, characterized by a shifting population and vibrant business sector, sees a substantial amount of cargo moving throughout its streets, which increases the risk of commercial vehicle accidents.
If you or a loved one has been involved in such a commercial vehicle accident in Montgomery, you understand how overwhelming the aftermath can be. Navigating the legal landscape can be complicated, but with a dedicated Montgomery commercial vehicle accident lawyer by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we manage the legal details. At Wettermark Keith, we are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Understanding Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Commercial vehicle accidents in Montgomery can have devastating consequences due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. These incidents often result in severe injuries and significant property damage that can make it difficult to establish who is truly at fault for the wreck.
Understanding the nature of commercial vehicle accidents is essential for victims seeking compensation and justice. In Alabama, the trucking industry is a significant contributor to the economy, with total wages exceeding $6.4 billion in 2021 and an average salary of $50,859. This economic importance underscores the prevalence of commercial vehicles on our roads and the potential risks associated with them.
Types of Commercial Vehicles Involved
Several types of vehicles fall under the category of commercial vehicles, each serving different purposes and contributing to road traffic in unique ways. Common types include:
Trucks: This category includes large freight trucks, delivery trucks, 18-wheelers, and tractor-trailers, which transport goods across Montgomery and the entire state of Alabama. Their size and weight make them particularly hazardous in accidents.
Buses: Public transit buses and charter buses in Montgomery carry multiple passengers, increasing the risk of injury to both occupants and pedestrians in the event of an accident.
Vans: Delivery vans and service vehicles used by companies can also be involved in accidents, especially in urban areas where traffic congestion is common.
Heavy Equipment: Construction vehicles such as dump trucks, bulldozers, and cranes can cause serious accidents on Montgomery, AL roads if not operated safely.
Service Vehicles: This category includes vehicles used for emergency services (like ambulances and fire trucks) as well as utility service vehicles that may work on roads, posing additional risks.
Taxis and Rideshares: Vehicles used for ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Lyft, are also common in Montgomery and can be involved in accidents like any other commercial vehicle.
Understanding the different types of commercial vehicles involved in accidents can help pinpoint the specifics of a case and the parties responsible for any negligence.
Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Montgomery AL
Several factors contribute to the high incidence of commercial vehicle accidents in Montgomery and its surrounding areas. Recognizing these common causes can aid in identifying liability:
Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, impairing reaction times and decision-making abilities. Regulations exist to limit driving hours, but violations can still occur, particularly in busy areas like Montgomery, AL.
Distracted Driving: Commercial drivers may become distracted by cell phones, GPS devices, or even passenger interactions. Distractions can significantly impair a driver’s ability to respond to hazards.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for commercial vehicles. Neglecting routine checks can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, resulting in accidents.
Hazardous Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, fog, and ice can create perilous driving conditions. Commercial drivers in Montgomery must adjust their speed and driving behavior accordingly, but not all adhere to safe practices.
Overloaded Vehicles: Exceeding weight limits can impair a vehicle's handling and braking capacity. Commercial vehicles that are overloaded are more likely to be involved in accidents due to decreased stability.
Do I Really Need A Lawyer?
When involved in a commercial vehicle accident, you might wonder whether hiring a lawyer is necessary. While it’s possible to navigate some personal injury claims on your own, commercial vehicle accidents often involve complex legal issues that can significantly impact your case. For example, determining liability can involve multiple parties, including drivers, trucking companies, and vehicle manufacturers, each with their own insurance policies and legal defenses.
A local Montgomery attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate the nuances of your situation, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Having legal representation is especially crucial in Alabama, where local laws and regulations can vary and influence the outcome of your claim. Ultimately, an injury lawyer can provide valuable support, helping to alleviate the stress of legal proceedings so you can focus on your recovery.
How Commercial Vehicle Wrecks Are Different
Commercial vehicle accidents often involve multiple parties, including the driver, the trucking company, and sometimes even manufacturers. This complexity means that establishing liability can be challenging. For instance, if a driver was fatigued due to overwork, the trucking company might also share liability for failing to enforce proper rest periods.
An experienced Montgomery commercial vehicle accident lawyer will help navigate these complexities, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation. They can also assist in gathering crucial evidence, such as driver logs, maintenance records, and eyewitness statements, which are essential in building a strong case.
Common Injuries from Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Injuries sustained in commercial vehicle accidents can be severe and have lasting impacts on victims' lives. Here are some of the most common injuries:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Often resulting from violent impacts, TBIs can lead to long-term cognitive difficulties, affecting memory, concentration, and overall quality of life.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can result in varying degrees of paralysis or chronic pain, drastically altering a victim's mobility and independence.
Broken Bones: Fractures are prevalent in these accidents and can require extensive medical treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation, leading to significant recovery times.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Injuries such as whiplash can be debilitating, causing pain and limited range of motion that may take weeks or months to heal, affecting daily activities.
Internal Injuries: Often life-threatening, internal injuries may not be immediately evident following an accident. Prompt medical attention is crucial to address these hidden dangers.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Victims may experience anxiety, depression, or PTSD as a result of the traumatic event, which can significantly affect their mental health and daily functioning.
Burns and Lacerations: Depending on the nature of the accident, victims may suffer from severe burns or deep cuts that require extensive medical care and long-term rehabilitation.
Wrongful Death: In the most tragic cases, commercial vehicle accidents can lead to fatalities. Surviving family members may face not only the emotional toll of losing a loved one but also financial hardships due to lost income and medical expenses.
Steps To Take After a Commercial Vehicle Accident in Montgomery, AL
Experiencing a commercial vehicle accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps immediately afterward is crucial for your safety and legal protection. Here’s what you should do:
- Ensure Safety First: Check yourself and others for injuries. If it is safe to do so, move to a secure location away from traffic.
- Call Emergency Services: Contact the police and report the accident. This creates an official record, which is vital for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can have serious consequences later.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs. Gather information from witnesses, including names and contact details.
- Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance details from all parties involved, including commercial vehicle drivers. Make note of the vehicle's license plate number and company information.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid discussing fault or liability at the scene. Stick to the facts when speaking with others and the police.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Provide them with all the information you've gathered.
- Consult an Attorney: Speak with a lawyer experienced in commercial vehicle accidents. They can help you navigate the complexities of your case, protect your rights, and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Our 3-Step Process
Step 1: Contact Our Office
To schedule a consultation today with one of the best personal injury lawyers in Alabama, call our Montgomery office number now at 877-715-9300, or email us through the Free Contact form.
Step 2: We Review Your Case
During free case reviews, we examine the details of your accident. If you qualify for compensation after we view your case, then our firm will assign you a personal injury lawyer dedicated to obtaining justice for you or your loved one
Step 3: We Fight For Your Rights
As one of Montgomery’s top personal injury firms, Wettermark Keith is committed to protecting your rights as a client and ensuring your maximum compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
To prove negligence in a commercial vehicle wreck case, you must establish four key elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. First, demonstrate that the driver or company had a legal duty to operate the vehicle safely. Next, show that they breached this duty through actions such as reckless driving or failing to maintain the vehicle.
Finally, you need to link this breach directly to the accident, proving that it caused your injuries and resulting damages. An experienced personal injury lawyer in Montgomery can help gather the necessary evidence, navigate the legal complexities, and build a strong case to support your claim.
Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, soft tissue injuries, and internal injuries. The severity of these injuries can vary significantly based on the nature of the accident.
The timeline can vary widely based on the complexity of the case, the willingness of insurance companies to negotiate, and court schedules. Some cases in Montgomery may settle within months, while others may take years to resolve.
Yes, cases involving minors have specific legal considerations. It’s essential to consult with a Montgomery commercial vehicle accident lawyer to ensure that your child's rights are fully protected and that you meet all necessary legal requirements.
In Alabama, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to act quickly to preserve evidence and strengthen your case.
No Recovery, No Fee - Guarantee
We believe that everyone deserves access to quality legal representation, which is why we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t incur any upfront costs; you only pay if we successfully secure compensation for you. By aligning our success with yours, we are fully motivated to maximize your settlement while relieving you of financial concerns during your recovery. Our transparent process ensures you know exactly what to expect, allowing you to focus on healing without the added stress of legal fees.
Wettermark Keith: Top Montgomery Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorneys
Choosing the right legal representation after a commercial vehicle accident can make all the difference in your recovery journey. At Wettermark Keith, our dedicated team of Montgomery commercial vehicle accident attorneys is committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. With our extensive experience, compassionate approach, and contingency fee structure, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss your case and let us help you navigate the path to justice and recovery.
Wettermark Keith, with offices located throughout Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida, has an excellent reputation as one of the most accomplished personal injury firms in the country. Wettermark Keith’s reach is not only regional, but it also includes a diverse range of practice areas, including personal injury cases, auto wrecks, trucking wrecks, nursing home abuse, medical malpractice, on-the-job injuries, social security disability, and veterans’ disability claims, to name just a few.
At Wettermark Keith, we believe in taking cases personally. Our purpose is to practice with care and compassion - to tell our client’s stories and make their voices heard. We do this by building strong relationships based on constant communication and an unwavering dedication to truth and trust. Winning cases isn’t our goal - caring for you is. Winning is just how we show it. As we say, It’s more to us, it’s personal.
Wettermark Keith was extremely professional and helpful. This personal injury law firm helped my husband over 10 years ago when he fell and broke his foot on vacation. I called them first because I liked their TV commercials. They are very nice people and I would call them again if I needed a lawyer.
- Juanita
Law firm Wettermark Keith has exceeded my expectations! I recommend these lawyers to anyone and everyone I come across. Their commitment to their clients is outstanding. Communication is easy. And I got my settlement very fast. I definitely recommend working with Lee Hawker. He is very gracious and kind. He looked out for me and my family and went above and beyond for us. I’m very grateful!
- Alexa
My personal embattlement with the Social Security Administration went downhill. From a personal recommendation, I reached out to Wettermark Keith law firm. Brian Smith and his team took my case and throughout the whole process, I felt more than just another number. Frequent updates were provided, and emphasis was placed on ensuring all needed documentation was in place. In the end, the accident case resulted in a favorable victory. A big thank you to my lawyer Brian Smith and the team at Wettermark Keith for the hard work throughout the entire personal injury process.
- Dallas
I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Mark English at Wettermark Keith law firm after my car accident in December 2021. He was very thorough in everything, did a wonderful job of explaining everything that was happening, and was super easy to get in touch with when I needed him. I never had a question that was left unanswered by this lawyer. He's very kind and patient, and he made the personal injury claims process so easy for me. I absolutely recommend him, it was a pleasure working with him!
- Rose
I am so elated that I utilized Mr. Muhammad Abdullah’s services. In the beginning, he told me the compensation that I would receive for my personal injury claim and I actually received more than that! After my car wreck (in my brand-new vehicle), I was actually surprised that I was in the pain that I was in. Mr. Abdullah made sure I saw the necessary people for therapy and worked hard to get me back into my car after the accident. I felt that he was diligent, listened to my concerns, and quickly got me back in my car and compensated! I will be utilizing Mr. Abdullah again and again, anytime I ever have to hire a lawyer.
- Madinah
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