Truck Accident FAQ

Handling the aftermath of a vehicle accident, whether it's a passenger car mishap in downtown Houston or a major auto accident involving a commercial truck on the interstate, can be exhausting. As injury victims grapple with the trauma, they also confront challenges ranging from dealing with insurance company adjusters and understanding the nuances of their truck accident claim to securing fair verdicts.

That's where the advice of a car accident lawyer comes into play. These professionals are trained to handle truck accident cases, ensuring motorists don't feel overwhelmed, especially when commercial vehicles like tractor-trailers are involved.

This article sheds light on frequently asked questions surrounding motor vehicle accidents. Whether you're seeking insights on the initial consultation with a lawyer or understanding settlement offers, FindLaw's guide aims to give you the information you need for your personal injury case.

What is a truck's black box?

The black box in a truck, also known as an event data recorder (EDR), captures vital data regarding the truck's operations, such as speed, brake usage, and more. In the event of a truck accident, this data can be invaluable for determining the cause.

By reviewing the recorded speed of the truck, investigators can determine if the truck was speeding or if sudden acceleration or deceleration played a role in the accident.

By analyzing the engine revolutions per minute (RPM), investigators can also infer if the truck was accelerating or decelerating, and at what rate.

The black box can also record hard braking events, indicating if the driver was frequently braking harshly, which could be a sign of distraction or fatigue.

When combined with other evidence from the accident scene, such as tire marks, vehicle damages, eyewitness accounts, and surveillance footage, the EDR data can provide a comprehensive understanding of the accident's causative factors. It can help determine if the truck driver was at fault or if external factors like road conditions or vehicle malfunctions played a role. In a court setting, this data can be pivotal for personal injury claims, insurance settlements, and legal proceedings.

If my family member died in a truck accident, can I sue?

Yes, if a loved one tragically dies in a truck accident, you may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. Consulting a truck accident lawyer can provide clarity on your rights and potential remedies.

Here's a brief overview:

Rights of the Survivors

Typically, the immediate family members (spouses, children, and parents) have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. In some jurisdictions, extended family or dependents may also have this right.

If the deceased had a will, the named executor or personal representative could be the one to file the lawsuit on behalf of the survivors. In some states, a court needs to appoint someone, called a special administrator, to file the wrongful death action.

Economic Damages

These cover measurable monetary losses, such as:

• Lost Earnings: Compensation for the deceased's potential future earnings had they survived.

• Medical Bills: Costs incurred from the injury leading to death.

• Funeral and Burial Costs: Reimbursement for expenses associated with laying the deceased to rest.

Non-Economic Damages

These are more subjective and can include:

• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the loss of companionship, care, or affection from the deceased.

• Pain and Suffering: Although challenging to quantify, this accounts for the emotional pain and trauma experienced by the survivors.

• Loss of Guidance and Nurture: If the deceased left behind minor children, this covers the loss of parental guidance.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the defendant's conduct was particularly reckless or malicious, the court might award punitive damages to punish the offender and deter similar behavior

What information should I collect after a truck accident?

If you're involved in a truck accident, do this after getting medical help:

• Obtain the truck driver's name, phone number, and insurance policy details

• Record the trucking company's name

• Take photos of the accident scene, property damage, and any injuries

• Secure a copy of the police report or accident report

• Document any medical attention or medical treatment received

Can I sue for a truck accident that happened years ago?

It depends on the statute of limitations in your state. For example, in Texas, the statute is typically two years from the date of the accident. In Maryland, it's three years. Always consult a truck accident attorney to understand the time constraints related to your accident case.

How do I know if the truck driver did something they weren't supposed to do?

Truck drivers must follow specific regulations. In the U.S., the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees these regulations. These regulations cover hours of service rules, driver drug testing, and vehicle maintenance.

An accident lawyer can investigate these issues, possibly using the truck's black box data, to determine if there were any violations like speeding or not taking mandatory breaks.

What should I do if a truck accident causes a life-changing disability?

If you suffer serious injuries leading to disabilities from a truck crash:

• Seek immediate medical care

• Document all medical bills and expenses

• Contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss potential compensation for medical expenses, loss of earning capacity, and other damages

As a truck driver, what should I do if I get hurt in an accident?

If you're a truck driver injured on the job:

• Report the accident to your employer

• Check to see if you're covered by workers' comp or your company's insurance claim process

• Ensure you're given adequate time for breaks and rest as per regulations

• Consult with a personal injury attorney to explore your rights and potential personal injury claim

What should I know about truck accident laws?

Truck accident laws regulate:

• How truck drivers operate (e.g., mandatory breaks)

• Insurance coverage (liability insurance) for trucking companies

• How accident victims can pursue compensation

• Statute of limitations for filing lawsuits

States may have unique truck accident laws, so it's wise to consult a local truck accident lawyer or personal injury attorney for specifics.

Speak to a Lawyer Today

For more details and a potentially free case evaluation, contact a car accident lawyer or personal injury attorney. Remember, every accident case is unique, so tailored legal advice is always best. Your state laws may differ from another state's so it is always a good idea to contact an attorney for advice.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with an attorney for any legal-related questions.