Motor vehicle accidents are dangerous, but the results can be devastating when a semi-truck is involved. The weight and size of both semi and commercial trucks combined make for a deadly mix when involved in accidents, and can result in life-threatening injuries or death.
There are several crucial factors that victims need to consider following the unfortunate event of a truck accident. In Utah, state laws protect the rights of victims who have been injured in a semi-truck accident to seek compensation for their injuries and losses. Hiring an attorney who specializes in cases such as these raises the chances of victims receiving the compensation they deserve.
Who Is Liable in Semi-Truck Accidents?
Unlike car accidents, which usually involve your insurance company and the other driver’s insurance company, semi-truck accidents are much more complex and can involve numerous parties. As a result, liability can fall on several different people or companies.
The truck driver may be at fault if they violated traffic laws or hours-of-service regulation, or the trucking company could be at fault for failing to train the driver or for failing to schedule proper maintenance. Other parties at fault can be the manufacturer of the truck, owner of the cargo, local government or contractors, trucker’s employer, or cargo loaders.
On top of figuring out liability, victims also need to navigate federal regulations on several of these parties. These regulations involve extensive knowledge, so hiring a specialized attorney to help negotiate them is usually the best course of action for the victim.
Compensation You May Be Able to Recover
Following the traumatic events of a semi-truck accident, victims are left with mountains of bills to face. Financial hardship can weigh heavily on victims, from medical bills that can amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars, to income loss due to the inability to work following the accident. This is where an attorney can help.
Despite the sizable claim that an insurance company may offer, even one that covers medical bills associated with the accident, the offered amount still may not cover the other expenses that an accident can entail. Additionally, those left with severe injuries may be unable to work for some time, resulting in income loss that can be disastrous for the family.
In the event of fatality resulting from the accident, victims’ families are sometimes left without a provider, leaving dependents in a difficult place. A qualified attorney can help mitigate the financial stress and hardship by assisting victims in receiving a larger settlement that will aid in covering accident-related costs.
What Should I Do After a Truck Crash in Utah?
Following the accident, seek medical help immediately. Accidents involving a semi-truck or other commercial trucks can result in serious injuries. Although these injuries may not be blatantly obvious, it is important to seek medical attention promptly following the accident to highlight potential underlying injuries.
Victims who are not seriously injured should document the scene if they are able. Taking pictures will help in the claims process later on. Photos should include damage to the vehicles involved as well as any other important factors of the accident. Noting the conditions is also a good idea, like the weather and time of day.
Trust The Best Utah Truck Accident Attorneys
Hiring a qualified attorney is one of the next steps in a truck accident case. A truck accident attorney can help victims navigate the case by working to help the victim get the compensation they deserve. However, this process can take a while, especially if there were extensive injuries resulting from the accident.
Evidence will be documented and information collected to build a case for the victim. In addition, the victim’s attorney will guide the victim through the insurance claims process, helping mitigate any further damage that can occur if the victim were to say the wrong thing. When it comes to choosing an attorney, it is important to choose one well-versed in what you are dealing with.
Attorneys at Feller & Wendt are here to help people who suffer injuries get back to their regular lives. Our team has a track record of successful claims and can help you recover the compensation you need. Call (801) 499-5060 or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
