Being involved in a truck accident is one of the most jarring events that someone can experience. Commercial tractor trailers have huge blind spots, require more time and space to maneuver, and can weigh 20 to 30 times more than a standard car. When a collision occurs, occupants of cars frequently suffer severe physical and psychological injuries. The financial consequences of these accidents can also be shattering.
If you or someone you love was seriously injured in a truck accident, several parties may be held accountable for the damages. The South Carolina truck accident attorneys at Land Parker Welch LLC help victims and families recover compensation to move forward in the aftermath of these crashes. We understand the challenges you face and are ready to put our experience and compassion to work for you.
Schedule a free consultation with an experienced truck accident lawyer by calling or filling out our contact form today.
What Happens Immediately After a Truck Accident?
If you’ve been in a truck collision, it’s common to feel uncertain about what to do next. Here are some tips:
- Move to a safe location. If you can, move your vehicle from the flow of traffic to a safe spot. This can reduce the chances of a secondary crash.
- Check for injuries. If you’re able, check yourself and any passengers for injuries.
- Call the police. Make sure to get a copy of the police report.
- Seek medical attention. Whether or not you or anyone else was badly injured, it’s critical to see a doctor as soon as possible after a crash. You might have injuries that initially have subtle or invisible symptoms but can get worse without proper treatment. Getting timely medical treatment will also be important if you need to file an injury claim later.
- Collect evidence. Gather as much evidence from the accident scene as possible. This includes the contact and insurance information for all driver(s) involved in the wreck, witness contact information, and photographs, along with anything else you believe is relevant to the case.
- Contact an experienced Manning truck accident lawyer. An attorney can help you dig deeper into the cause of your accident by requesting information from trucking companies, medical professionals, and other expert witnesses. Police, insurance providers, and other truck company representatives will conduct their own investigations, too. A lawyer can also handle all negotiations with insurers for you and fight for a full and fair settlement on your behalf.
- Notify your insurance company. Check your auto policy carefully. There are usually deadlines to notify the company of the accident or you risk losing access to coverage. If you talk to a lawyer before the time limit expires, he/she can talk to the insurance company for you to protect your rights.
It’s essential to act quickly in the aftermath of a collision involving an 18-wheeler. While you’re seeking treatment for your injuries, the truck driver, his/her employer, and the employer’s insurer(s) will likely be working to “get the story straight.” You should contact an experienced truck accident attorney right away to ensure that he/she can secure:
- Data recorders and in-cabin cameras
- Inspection records
- Driver logbooks documenting work shifts, rest periods, and other information required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
- Administration (FMCSA)
- Truck company records
How to Prove Liability After a Truck Wreck in South Carolina
Since truck accidents tend to have disastrous consequences, resulting injury claims are often correspondingly expensive. The more valuable a claim is, the more that at-fault parties usually try to deny responsibility to avoid costly payouts. A strong case must be supported by solid evidence like:
- Photographs
- Video surveillance
- Police accident reports
- Driver and witness statements
- Black box and driver logbook data
- GPS and driver cell phone records
- Toxicology results
- Truck manufacturing and maintenance reports
- Truck owner inspection and repair records
- Driver safety and compliance history
Can I Sue for a Commercial Truck Accident?
Yes. If someone else’s negligence caused the crash that injured you, you can file a truck accident lawsuit in South Carolina. If you’re unable to reach a fair settlement with the liable party(s), you might be forced to file a lawsuit to get appropriate compensation. Be aware that you must file a truck accident claim within three years in South Carolina.
Who Can I Sue After a Truck Accident?
Determining liability is a critical component of any personal injury case. With truck accidents, identifying the liable party can be particularly complex.
In the average two-car car accident, liability usually falls on one or both of the drivers. When it comes to commercial truck crashes, many other parties may be to blame, such as:
- Truck drivers: Truckers might violate commercial regulations or drive in a reckless, distracted, or intoxicated manner.
- Trucking companies: Sometimes, companies hire unqualified truckers, make unreasonable demands of their workers, or fail to follow trucking regulations.
- Truck owners: Some trucks are leased through third-party organizations, which can be held responsible if they fail to regularly maintain or repair their rigs.
- Truck maintenance providers: Trucks require thorough maintenance. Negligent third-party mechanics or repair shops can be held liable if they fail to maintain the vehicles.
- Truck parts manufacturers: Companies that design or manufacture defective truck components can be held liable if an equipment failure causes a wreck.
- Cargo manufacturers or loaders: Improperly load cargo can cause deadly accidents if loads shift during transport.
- Government entities: A local or state government agency might be liable if dangerous road conditions like potholes or areas of limited visibility cause a truck accident.
Identifying all of the potentially at-fault parties will help ensure the appropriate entities are held responsible. It’s important to have a truck accident lawyer investigate your case so that you seek compensation from everyone who should be held liable.
Should I Hire a Manning Truck Accident Lawyer?
Truck accident cases involve a mixture of state and federal laws, and insurers are represented by high-powered corporate lawyers. Obtaining maximum compensation will depend on presenting a solid and convincing case. A dedicated Manning truck accident lawyer can fight for you to be compensated fairly in these challenging cases.
A truck accident attorney can:
- Investigate your case thoroughly
- Determine all liable parties to pursue compensation from all possible sources
- Identify and gather strong evidence to support your case
- Negotiate full and fair settlements with insurance companies
- Represent you aggressively at trial if necessary
How Can Land Parker Welch LLC Help Me?
With more than 120 years of combined legal experience, the 18-wheeler accident lawyers at Land Parker Welch LLC, have the background and the compassion you need to help you pursue compensation and win justice.
Our attorneys fight for accident victims and families throughout Manning and the surrounding South Carolina areas. To arrange your free consultation, call or contact us online immediately.
