EXPERIENCED LAS VEGAS TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYER
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WHY CHOOSE OUR LAS VEGAS TRUCK ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
No Fee Until You Win
At The Schnitzer Law Firm, we understand how some truck accident victims hesitate to seek legal assistance due to financial constraints. Therefore, we operate on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case.
Specialized and Certified Legal Expertise
We recognize the importance of seeking assistance from an experienced Las Vegas truck accident attorney when filing a claim. Therefore, we offer exceptional legal services, expert advice, and guidance to ensure favorable results.
Focused and Personalized Client Service
When you work with an experienced Las Vegas truck accident lawyer from The Schnitzer Law Firm, you can be assured of receiving outstanding legal assistance and support. Our team will thoroughly examine your case to develop personalized strategies and help you obtain the compensation and justice you deserve.
Direct Access to Expert Legal Representation
We are dedicated to keeping you informed with real-time updates on the progress of your case. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind and confidence in our firm’s ability to handle your truck accident case.
UNDERSTANDING TRUCK ACCIDENTS IN LAS VEGAS
Truck accidents usually involve a commercial truck, such as a big rig or a tractor-trailer. Due to their size and weight, these accidents often result in more severe injuries and property damage than accidents involving standard vehicles. If you have been in a truck accident in Las Vegas, it’s crucial to find a knowledgeable, experienced Las Vegas truck accident lawyer nearby to help you obtain compensation and effectively handle this type of personal injury claim.
Types Of Truck Accidents
Several factors affect the types and severity of truck accidents. Some may be caused by human error, others by environmental conditions. Here are some common types that occur:
Rear-End Collisions
This type of accident occurs when a driver fails to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead or from abruptly applying the brakes.
Rollover Accidents
Trucks are prone to tipping over, especially in curves or when swerving to avoid obstacles.
Blind Spot Accidents
Large trucks have significant blind spots where smaller vehicles are not visible during lane changes or turns.
Lost Load Accidents
Cargo on commercial trucks must be properly secured to prevent it from falling off or shifting during transit to avoid accidents.
Underride Accidents
Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides under the rear or side of a truck, often in rear-end collisions or when the truck suddenly stops or changes lanes without warning. The smaller vehicle’s occupants can suffer severe injuries or fatalities.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions occur when a truck and another vehicle going in the opposite direction crash against each other. Given the truck’s size, these are among the most severe truck accidents due to the possibility of a high-impact collision, which can result in catastrophic injury or fatality.
Jackknife Accidents
In a jackknife accident, the truck’s cab and trailer fold in on each other, resembling the shape of a jackknife. This happens when the truck brakes suddenly or improperly, causing the trailer to swing out of control. Semi trucks are especially prone to jackknifing, which can block lanes or collide with nearby vehicles, creating hazardous situations.
Wide Turn Accidents
Trucks need extra space to make turns, and wide turn accidents happen when a truck swings wide while turning and collides with nearby vehicles.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
Truck accidents pose a much higher risk of severe injuries and fatalities compared to accidents involving standard vehicles. Furthermore, another driver’s negligence near a truck can result in a multi-vehicle collision. As a result, a victim of such accidents may experience one or a combination of the following injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spine or neck injuries
- Broken bones
- Soft-tissue damage
- Burns
- Lacerations
- Permanent disfigurement or scarring
- Death
What Are Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
TRUCK DRIVING IS HIGHLY DEMANDING AND REQUIRES THAT DRIVERS TRAVEL FOR SEVERAL HOURS AT A TIME TO MOVE CARGO ON SCHEDULE. SOME COMMON CAUSES OF TRUCK ACCIDENTS ARE:
- Failure to take breaks when tired
- Speeding and other traffic violations
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Improper truck maintenance
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Another driver’s lack of reasonable care when driving nearby
- Poor road conditions, including weather and defective or negligent construction
In Las Vegas, it is essential to find a lawyer specializing in truck accidents near me to determine the cause of the accident and establish fault.
DETERMINING LIABILITY IN A TRUCK ACCIDENT
Determining who is at fault in a truck accident can be complicated because multiple parties are involved, and each case has unique circumstances. The process involves several steps and considering various factors:
Investigating the Accident
An in-depth investigation is crucial to determine liability. This includes:
- Police Reports: The authorities’ initial findings provide important details about the cause of the accident and the people or organizations involved.
- Evidence from the Scene of the Accident: Collecting evidence that can provide more information about the accident, such as photos and video.
- Witness Statements: Statements from witnesses present at the accident scene can provide more information about how the accident occurred.
- Vehicle Data: Electronic logging devices (ELDs) and black box data from semi trucks can show driving patterns, speed, and braking behavior before the crash.
Identifying Potentially Liable Parties
Truck accidents can occur due to the negligence of the liable party:
- Truck Drivers: The driver’s actions, such as speeding, fatigue, distracted driving, or impairment, can contribute to the accident.
- Trucking Companies: Companies may be liable for inadequate training, poor maintenance, or forcing drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations.
- Truck Manufacturer: Manufacturers can be held responsible for accidents caused by faulty parts or design flaws.
- Cargo Loaders: If cargo isn’t loaded or secured properly, it can cause accidents, such as commercial truck accidents. Those responsible for loading the truck can be held accountable.
- Other Drivers: In some cases, other motorists may have contributed to the accident through negligent behavior.
Analyzing Federal and State Regulations
Truck drivers and trucking companies are required to adhere to regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Nevada state laws. Violating these regulations, such as exceeding the maximum driving hours or neglecting vehicle maintenance, can lead to legal accountability.
Reviewing the Driver’s Employment and Driving Records
Examining the truck driver’s record for previous accidents, traffic violations, and adherence to training requirements can provide valuable insights into whether the trucking company failed to consider any warning signs when hiring or keeping the driver.
Evaluating Maintenance Records
It is crucial to prioritize regular maintenance to ensure the safety of trucks. Keeping detailed maintenance logs and inspection records makes it possible to verify whether the truck has been serviced appropriately and to identify any overlooked mechanical issues.
Consulting Experts
Accident experts, mechanical engineers, and other specialists have the skills to thoroughly investigate how an accident occurred. They can meticulously analyze factors to determine the causes and contributing factors of the accident.
Determining Comparative Negligence
In Nevada, if you are found to be partially at fault for an injury, your compensation will be reduced to your percentage of fault. Accurately determining the degree of fault for each person involved is essential to resolving truck accident cases.
Legal Representation
Seeking help from experienced personal injury lawyers is crucial for navigating the complexities of truck accident claims. A lawyer can gather evidence, consult experts, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation for the injured party.
Work with the Top Las Vegas Truck Accident Lawyer at The Schnitzer Law Firm
At The Schnitzer Law Firm, we provide top-tier legal representation with the best truck accident attorney. Our experienced Las Vegas personal injury attorney diligently follows all laws and regulations, conducting thorough investigations to accurately establish liability and secure the maximum compensation for our clients. Our award-winning success reflects our dedication, hard work, and commitment to achieving the best outcomes. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you recover and navigate the complexities of your truck accident case.