At Bernard Law Group, we understand that accidents involving large trucks, such as override truck accidents, can be devastating. With the size and weight of semi-trucks, even a seemingly minor collision can cause catastrophic injuries and property damage.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an override truck accident in Seattle, our experienced team is here to help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Override Truck Accidents
An override truck accident occurs when a large truck, such as a semi, runs over the back of a smaller vehicle. This can happen in various situations, such as the smaller vehicle suddenly braking, poor visibility, or a truck driver failing to maintain a safe following distance. These accidents are hazardous because the truck’s weight and force can crush the smaller vehicle, leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), large trucks were involved in over 4,700 fatal crashes in 2020 alone, and many of these crashes were caused by override or underride scenarios. When a semi-truck is involved in an accident, the consequences can be severe, with victims often facing long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and significant financial burdens.
How We Can Help as Your Seattle Override Truck Accident Lawyer
As your Seattle override truck accident lawyer, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support. Our team of experienced attorneys will investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and consult with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
We understand the unique challenges truck accident cases pose, including dealing with trucking companies and their insurance providers and navigating federal regulations that govern the trucking industry.
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Common Causes of Override Truck Accidents
Override truck accidents can be caused by various factors, including:
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours, leading to fatigue impairing their judgment and reaction time.
- Distracted Driving: Whether using a cell phone, eating, or adjusting in-cab devices, distractions can cause truck drivers to miss critical cues on the road.
- Speeding: Large trucks require longer stopping distances, and speeding reduces the driver’s ability to avoid collisions.
- Improperly Maintained Trucks: Faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or other maintenance issues can make it difficult for truck drivers to stop in time to avoid an override accident.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and ice can reduce visibility and make it harder for truck drivers to see smaller vehicles.
We can hold the responsible parties accountable if any of these factors contributed to your accident. As your override truck accident attorney in Seattle, we work to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Seattle Laws Governing Truck Accidents
Washington State law imposes strict regulations on trucking companies and their drivers. These regulations are designed to reduce the risk of accidents and protect the public.
For example, truck drivers must adhere to federal Hours of Service (HOS) rules, which limit the number of hours they can drive without taking a break. Violating these rules can result in tired drivers who pose a serious risk on the road.
Additionally, Washington’s comparative fault laws allow accident victims to recover compensation even if they are partially at fault for the crash. Under RCW 4.22.005, a plaintiff’s recovery may be reduced in proportion to their percentage of fault, but they can still recover damages if the other party is more at fault.
At Bernard Law Group, we are well-versed in the federal and state laws governing trucking accidents and use this knowledge to build a compelling case for our clients.
Federal Regulations for Trucking
Federal laws also play a significant role in trucking accident cases. The FMCSA oversees various safety regulations that trucking companies and drivers must follow.
These include:
- Weight Limits: Trucks must adhere to weight restrictions to prevent dangerous conditions on the road.
- Maintenance Requirements: Regular maintenance checks are mandatory to ensure trucks are in proper working order.
- Driver Qualifications: Truck drivers must meet specific licensing and training requirements to operate their vehicles.
As a Seattle semi-accident attorney, we will thoroughly investigate whether any of these federal regulations were violated and how they contributed to your accident.
Why You Need an Experienced Seattle Accident Lawyer
Truck accident cases are more complex than typical car accident claims due to the number of parties involved and the intricate nature of the trucking industry. You may be dealing with the truck driver, the trucking company, the vehicle’s manufacturer, and multiple insurance companies. Without experienced legal representation, you may be disadvantaged when pursuing compensation.
We have extensive experience handling truck accident cases and know how to tackle these challenges head-on. We work to alleviate the burden on you and your family while fighting for the compensation you deserve. We offer compassionate, personalized service and are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
What to Do After an Override Truck Accident
If you’ve been involved in an override truck accident, there are several steps you should take to protect your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should always be your top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional.
- Document the Accident: Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles and any visible injuries. Get the contact information of any witnesses.
- Report the Accident: Contact local law enforcement and file a police report. This will serve as an official record of the accident.
- Contact an Experienced Attorney: The sooner you speak with a Seattle accident lawyer, the better. We can help you preserve evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and guide you through the legal process.
Compensation Available for Truck Accident Victims
As your accident attorney in Seattle, we will pursue compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: This includes hospital stays, surgeries, doctor’s visits, physical therapy, and any ongoing care you may need.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries have caused you to miss work, we will seek compensation for your lost income and any reduced earning capacity in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: This covers the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, we will pursue compensation to cover repairs or replacements.
Proven Results in Truck Accident Cases
We have successfully represented numerous clients in truck accident cases, securing significant settlements and verdicts. Our track record demonstrates our dedication and legal knowledge when handling complex truck accident claims.
When you work with us as your override truck accident attorney in Seattle, you can rest assured that we will fight for your rights every step of the way.
Need Justice? Reach Out Today for Legal Counsel
Contact Our Seattle Override Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an override truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner we can start working on your case, the better our chances of securing the compensation you deserve. At Bernard Law Group, we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Seattle override truck accident lawyer. Let us fight for you while you focus on recovering from your injuries.
