Semi-trucks are common around Oklahoma City as they haul cargo from warehouses to their final destinations. The injuries that result in these accidents can stay with victims for years. There are the initial medical bills and lost wages, but if the injuries are permanent, victims will suffer long-term pain and suffering.
Making matters worse, the trucking company will attempt to deny fault leading to contentious legal claims. If you suffer an injury, you must take appropriate steps to hold negligent parties responsible. Speak to the Oklahoma City truck accident attorney from BDIW Law for help with your semi-truck claim.
Why Truck Accidents Happen
Semi-truck drivers have the responsibility to follow the law and keep others safe. When they fail in their duty, it can result in devastating consequences. There are many things that can cause semi-truck accidents, but some are more common than others.
The most prevalent causes of semi-truck accidents in Oklahoma City include the following.
Distractions
Distracted driving is a prevalent cause of truck accidents. However, when a truck driver is distracted, it is worse than in passenger vehicles. Truck drivers often get bored or restless on the road and turn to radios, cell phones, and other devices for entertainment.
It is understandable that people will get bored when traveling long distances but using devices is never acceptable.
Fatigue
Truckers are driving for extended periods, and aside from boredom, they can also experience fatigue. The law places hours of service rules so truckers can rest properly before heading onto the road. Unfortunately, either from pressure or choice, drivers ignore these rules so they can get to their destination faster.
Driver Error
Controlling and maneuvering an 80,000-pound vehicle is challenging. One error can lead to the truck swerving into another lane, following too closely, and failing to yield. Driver error can cause serious truck accidents.
Our semi-truck accident lawyers in Oklahoma City see driver errors in many accidents.
Mechanical Defects
The upkeep of trucks is vital to safe driving. When there are errors or lack of maintenance, it can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Common mechanical defects include faulty engines, brakes, and steering equipment.
Speeding
Spending is dangerous for every vehicle. Semi-trucks take 40% longer to come to a complete stop. When you combine the additional stopping time and speeding, the chances of slowing down to avoid another vehicle are slim.
Road Conditions
When there are poorly maintained roads and other factors, it is dangerous for all motorists. Trucks take longer to react, and therefore hazardous road conditions can cause a semi-truck accident in Oklahoma City. Local governments are responsible for road upkeep and issue warnings of upcoming construction zones.
Cargo Issues
In addition to the thousands of pounds a semi-truck weighs, they also carry different types of cargo. Some cargo weighs upwards of 48,000 pounds. Loading the vehicle is a precise science. If the cargo shifts, it can cause the truck to roll over, striking other cars.
Carrying hazardous substances during a collision can also lead to hazards.
Semi-Truck Liability
The maintenance and operation of a semi-truck involve many different parties. When one person makes a mistake, it can throw the entire operation off. A semi-truck accident lawyer in Oklahoma City, OK, will investigate the cause and see who is liable.
Some responsible parties can include:
- Truck driver
- Trucking company
- Truck owner
- Cargo company
- Manufacturers
- Local government
An in-depth investigation is necessary to determine who is liable and what insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement with for your losses.
Injuries You Can Suffer
Depending on various factors, people involved in semi-truck accidents can face minor or severe injuries. Your injuries can heal in time or stay with you long-term. Prompt medical attention can help ease the pain and establish a treatment plan.
Injuries can limit your ability to participate in daily activities and require extensive care. You must work with semi-truck accident attorneys to fight for compensation for the treatment necessary for injuries such as:
- Spinal cord trauma
- Traumatic brain injury
- Neck and back injuries
- Amputations
- Permanent disfigurement
- Burns
- Broken bones
- Disc herniations
- Disabilities
Families can also file wrongful death claims when their loved ones die in a semi-truck accident. No rehabilitation or treatment plan for a fatality exists, but negligent parties must still answer for their actions.
Our Team Is Here To Assist You Every Step Of The Way.
SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYCompensation for Semi-Truck Accidents
The compensation you can seek for a semi-truck accident will depend on several factors, as every case is unique. The extent of your injuries will heavily impact your compensation claim. Other factors include permanent impairments from the injury, repair costs, insurance coverage, recovery length, missed work, the impact of your injuries, and more will determine your compensation amount.
Working with a semi-truck accident attorney in Oklahoma City, OK, can help you seek reimbursement for the following:
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Medical expense
- Mental anguish
- Lost earning capacity
- Disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
Insurance Policy Limits and Your Case
Trucking companies have higher insurance limits because insurance companies are aware that they can cause substantial losses when their driver causes a crash. While the coverage is available, it is not accessible. The insurance company will fight to reduce your claim dollar by dollar.
Coverage limits can vary by the size and weight of the truck and the cargo load. Insurance limits include:
- $5 million for trucks with hazardous freight
- $1 million for trucks carrying oil
- $750,000 for trucks weighing over 10,000 pounds not carrying hazardous cargo
- $300,000 for semi-trucks under 10,000 pounds not carrying hazardous materials
Even with these insurance limits, the insurer will negotiate for lower claims and push you to file a lawsuit and seek additional legal action. It is challenging to fight these insurance companies alone, and you should enlist the help of an Oklahoma City semi-truck accident attorney.
Speak to an Oklahoma City Semi-truck Accident Lawyer Today
After a semi-truck accident, you should maintain relevant records and provide them to your Oklahoma City semi-truck accident attorney. Keep a pain journal documenting how your injuries affect your life, if possible. We can use these and other documents to help your semi-truck accident claim.
After a semi-truck accident, you have legal options. Schedule an initial consultation with BDIW Law today.
