Truck Accident Attorney in Salem

Large truck accidents result in more severe injuries and fatalities than car crashes. In Virginia, injured people could have a valid legal claim if another party’s wrongful actions harm them. However, strict federal and state regulations govern the trucking industry, and multiple parties could share liability for a collision. Consulting with an experienced attorney before seeking compensation can ensure you pursue the money you deserve from all possible sources.

One of the Best Truck Accident Lawyers in Salem

Are you looking for a Salem truck accident lawyer? Turn to the skilled attorneys at Lichtenstein Law Group PLC. With almost 100 years of combined legal experience, our team has developed outstanding litigation skills by taking on — and winning — the most challenging personal injury cases. Our attorneys can help you navigate complicated truck accident matters and recover maximum compensation for your losses. Contact us today for a free consultation.

What Makes Truck Accidents More Serious Than Car Accidents?

The most striking differences between semi-truck accidents and car wrecks involve the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Commercial trucks can weigh 20 to 30 times more than the average car, increasing the chances of severe injuries or deaths in a collision. Other factors that impact the potential severity of truck accidents include:

Longer stopping distance – Trucks need more time and space to come to a complete stop. If a trucker speeds or cuts in front of other vehicles, the driver may not have enough braking time to avoid a crash.
Less maneuverability – Tractor-trailers are too big to move with the same ease as cars. Drivers need more space to make turns, maneuver in traffic, and handle safely.
Instability – Trucks have a higher center of gravity than smaller vehicles, increasing the risk of rollover accidents. This is especially a concern if cargo is not secured correctly and throws the truck off balance.
Heavy wear and tear – The roads are hard on trucks. Without proper maintenance and repairs, trucking companies risk the safety of other motorists when brake systems and other critical components fail.

What are the Top Causes of Truck Accidents?

The leading causes of truck accidents include:

Driving fatigue – Many truck drivers work long hours. If they fail to take mandatory rest breaks, they put everyone on the road in harm’s way.
Distracted driving – A momentary distraction can result in a catastrophic truck accident. Common distractions include texting, eating and drinking, and cell phone use behind the wheel.
Drunk driving – The law prohibits truck drivers from consuming alcohol within four hours of driving their vehicle. Additionally, the legal blood-alcohol concentration for commercial drivers is 0.04 percent, half the amount allowed for non-commercial drivers.
Reckless driving – Speeding, failure to check blind spots, tailgating, and reckless operation of a big rig can result in devastating truck collisions.
Poor cargo loading – Improper cargo loading can lead to instability and rollover or jackknife truck accidents.
Road hazards – Unexpected road conditions, like missing maintenance hole covers, potholes, and missing or hidden signs, could cause a truck driver to lose control and strike someone else.
Poor vehicle maintenance – Commercial motor vehicles must always be in good condition. Inadequate vehicle maintenance can result in accidents caused by broken or failing equipment.
Bad weather – Weather conditions like snow, ice, fog, and heavy rain are potential hazards because they can reduce visibility and/or tire traction.
Inadequate training – Without proper training or enough experience operating large trucks, drivers are a greater danger to other road users.

What are Common Injuries That Occur in a Salem Truck Crash?

Truck accidents can result in devastating injuries, such as:

Whiplash
Broken bones
Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Spinal cord injury
Internal organ damage
Internal bleeding
Soft tissue injuries
Cuts and lacerations
Burns
Amputation
Emotional injuries like PTSD and anxiety

Accident victims often sustain serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and lead to long-term disabilities. Seek medical attention immediately if you have been in a truck crash to ensure you receive proper treatment. Contact one of our truck accident attorneys today.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident?

To claim compensation in a Salem truck accident, you must prove that another party was responsible for the crash that caused your injuries. Typically, the at-fault party will be one or more of the following:

Truck driver – Truckers may be liable for violations of traffic laws or hours-of-service (HOS) regulations.
Trucking company – The motor carrier could be liable for violating state or federal laws, improperly training/supervising the driver, or negligent hiring practices.
Cargo company – They may be liable for overloaded or improperly secured freight.
Vehicle or parts manufacturer – An automaker may be responsible if an accident was due to a defect in a component they produced.

Whenever multiple parties share liability for an accident, speaking with a Virginia truck accident lawyer is crucial. The state’s negligence laws can make it hard for claimants to recover the money they’re due, and an attorney can ensure the responsible party(s) are held accountable for their role in causing the wreck.

What Compensation Can Be Recovered for My Damages and Injuries?

When you file a personal injury claim following a truck accident in Salem, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses, including:

Medical expenses
Rehabilitation costs
Lost wages
Lost earning potential
Property damage
Pain and suffering

In Virginia, you can be barred from recovering compensation if you’re found even one percent at fault for a wreck. For this reason, you can expect the other party’s insurer to scrutinize the case thoroughly and blame you for some part of the crash. A truck accident attorney can fight to protect your right to compensation.

Do I Have a Time Limit for Filing My Salem Truck Accident Lawsuit?

The time limit for filing a Salem truck accident lawsuit is subject to the state’s statute of limitations. You have two years from the accident date to file for personal injuries or the victim’s death. You have five years from the date of the accident to file a claim for property damage. Talk to one of our Salem personal injury lawyers today.

Contact a Salem, VA Truck Accident Lawyer

You deserve to know your legal options if you suffered injuries in a Salem, VA truck accident. The experienced attorneys at Lichtenstein Law Group PLC can help you pursue justice and accountability for your injuries and losses. Our mission is to hold negligent drivers and trucking companies responsible so our clients get the necessary resources to move forward with their lives.

Getting started is simple. Contact us today for a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Salem.