Rocky Mount, NC Truck Accident Lawyer

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Rocky Mount, NC Truck Accident Attorney

Being involved in a traffic accident can be a traumatic experience. However, it can be even worse when the collision occurs with a truck, particularly 18-wheelers or semi-trucks. Because these large trucks are considerably larger and heavier than the average vehicle, there is a greater risk of damage and injury. If you have been involved in a truck accident, a Rocky Mount, NC, truck accident lawyer can help.

Rocky Mount NC Truck Accident Lawyer

Choosing a Truck Accident Lawyer You Can Trust

At the Law Offices of Wade E. Byrd P.A., we understand how serious a truck accident can be. It can be disorienting to go through an accident of this magnitude and have to manage the aftermath, including injuries and property damage. If you’ve suffered losses as a result of a truck accident, we can help you receive the compensation you deserve to recover your damages.

We are experienced in the legal process following a truck accident. We can take assertive action in order to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the justice you deserve. We can look at the details of your case and discuss your options with you, striving for the greatest possible outcome.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents happen for a number of reasons in Rocky Mount, NC. Sometimes, they are caused by truck driver error. Other times, truck malfunctions are at play. Accidents can also be the result of external causes. Some of the most common causes may be:

  • Fatigued driving. Truck drivers are required to drive long distances, often for an extended period of time. While there are regulations in place that require drivers to take necessary rest and not be overworked, there are still moments when drivers get fatigued, especially if they or their employer do not follow these trucking regulations. Fatigued driving causes a driver’s abilities to be severely inhibited, increasing the risk of an accident.
  • Driving errors. Driving errors can include reckless driving, speeding, failing to yield, running red lights, or other actions that are outside the realm of safe driving. At times, truck drivers are working hard to meet strict deadlines. This can cause some drivers to cut corners as they try to reach their destination.
  • Distracted driving. With the increased use of technology, it is becoming more common to drive distracted. At times, drivers may be texting or trying to use a GPS system while they are operating their trucks. Distracted driving takes their focus off the road, even momentarily, and can lead to an accident.
  • Equipment problems. Sometimes, an accident can be caused by issues with the truck. This may include brake issues, tire blowouts, improperly loaded cargo, or defective steering.
  • External issues. At times, an accident occurs that was not the fault of the truck driver or the vehicle. Examples include other drivers’ negligence, poor road conditions, inclement weather, and inadequate road signage.

Negligence in a North Carolina Truck Accident Case

In North Carolina, the pure contributory negligence rule is followed for personal injury claims, including those involving truck accidents. Pure contributory negligence means that an accident victim cannot recover any damages if they are in any way at fault for the accident, even if they are 1% responsible and the defendant is 99% at fault.

How a Lawyer Can Help

If you have been injured in a truck accident, a lawyer can help you with the process following the incident while you focus your efforts on recovery. An attorney can evaluate your case, including the details of the accident, any injuries you may have, and how the accident has impacted your life. This data gathering will help determine if you have a strong case against the truck driver or trucking company and your options for moving forward.

An attorney can gather any and all necessary evidence, including photographs from the scene, police reports, and truck driver logs. They can examine your records, as well as those of the trucking company. They can also reconstruct the accident to better understand what happened at the scene.

A truck accident lawyer can help build your case and determine the liability and negligence, as well as the potential for a settlement. They can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf so you receive a fair settlement. Finally, if you need to file a claim, they can represent you in court.

Rocky Mount Truck Accident Lawyer FAQs

Q: How Much Are Most Truck Accident Settlements?

A: The size of truck accident settlements is different for each case. This is because every situation is unique, and many factors influence the settlement amount. Some elements that contribute to the final settlement amount include medical bills, injuries, the extent of property damage, lost wages, and how negligent the driver was.

Q: What Are the Trucking Laws in North Carolina?

A: The trucking laws in North Carolina cover many different regulations and are mostly in adherence with federal laws. These regulations cover the number of hours a truck driver can work in a given period, the weight limits of a truck, insurance requirements, regular vehicle maintenance requirements, and mandatory driver drug and alcohol testing.

Q: How Do I Negotiate a Settlement to Get a Larger Settlement From a Truck Accident?

A: Negotiating a settlement to get more money from a truck accident requires a great deal of preparation and documentation. It is recommended that a truck accident lawyer who is skilled in these types of negotiations be hired to lead the case. However, even if you are unable to secure an attorney, make sure you have evidence of the accident, your injuries, medical bills, and property damage bills (such as car repairs) when negotiating a settlement.

Q: What Should I Do if I’ve Been Involved in a Truck Accident?

A: If you’ve been involved in an accident with a commercial truck, the first thing to do is contact emergency services so that you and anyone else involved in the accident can receive medical care. If you don’t need immediate medical care, remain at the scene and contact law enforcement to file an official accident report. Gather evidence from the accident, such as photographs, videos, and witness statements, to help with any future case.

Contact the Law Offices of Wade E. Byrd P.A. Today

If you have been involved in a truck accident, the Law Offices of Wade E. Byrd P.A. can help you. We can support you through the legal process while you recover with peace of mind. Contact us today to speak with a representative.

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