Youngstown Trucking & Commercial Vehicle Accidents Attorneys
Seek Experienced Legal Counsel with Our Youngstown Truck Accident Lawyers
Unlike an ordinary car accident, a collision involving a commercial semi-truck or tractor-trailer tends to be more catastrophic in nature. Not only do truck accidents result in severe and even fatal injuries, but obtaining a reasonable settlement can prove challenging since victims must often face big corporations and their powerful legal teams.
If you have been injured in a trucking accident in Ohio, our Youngstown personal injury attorneys at Hartwig Law LLC are not afraid to go up against trucking companies and help you obtain the compensation necessary to make the best recovery from injury possible. With more than two decades of legal experience, we can guide you through the complexities of the legal system, and protect your rights and best interests through the process.
Protect your rights with the help of our Youngstown truck accident attorneys. Call us at (330) 899-4446 or contact us online to schedule your free legal consultation today!
Proving a Truck Accident Claim
In order to recover monetary damages in a commercial truck accident case, you must prove that the truck driver or another party (trucking company, manufacturer, cargo or shipping company, etc.) caused the collision and your injuries. You need to state that the at-fault party acted in a negligent manner, which resulted in your injuries and damages.
The following are the basic elements of an Ohio truck accident claim:
- The other party had a duty of care toward you
- The other party breached this duty by acting in a negligent or careless manner, causing an accident and injuries
- The other party’s breach of its duty caused your injuries
- You suffered injuries that you can be compensated for
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents
Here are some of the most prevalent causes of trucking accidents that highlight the complexities and risks associated with commercial driving:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to exhaustion, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Texting or using mobile devices while driving is a common contributor to accidents.
- Improper Loading: Overloaded or improperly loaded vehicles can become unstable and lead to accidents.
- Poor Maintenance: Lack of regular inspections and maintenance can result in mechanical failures that cause crashes.
- Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and ice can significantly affect driving conditions, especially for large vehicles.
Understanding the contributing factors is crucial in establishing liability and pursuing compensation.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
In trucking and commercial vehicle accidents, multiple parties may share liability, complicating the claims process. Potentially liable parties include:
- The Truck Driver: If the driver was negligent, was driving under the influence or violated traffic laws, they may be held accountable.
- The Trucking Company: Employers can be liable for their employees' actions under the doctrine of vicarious liability. If the company failed to properly train drivers or enforced unsafe practices, it may also face liability.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: If a defect in the vehicle contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held responsible.
- Maintenance Contractors: If a third-party company was responsible for vehicle maintenance and failed to uphold safety standards, they may share liability.
- Other Drivers: In multi-vehicle accidents, other drivers’ actions can also contribute to liability.
Our experienced legal team can help you gather evidence and demonstrate to the judge, jury, or insurer that you deserve financial compensation. Additionally, we can strengthen your case with the use of eyewitness and expert testimony, to prove that the at-fault party failed to act how other individuals and businesses in the same industry would have in similar circumstances.
Get the legal support you need contacting us online or calling at (330) 899-4446 to schedule your free consultation today!
Types of Compensation Available in a Truck Accident
Victims of trucking and commercial vehicle accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical bills related to the accident, such as hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and therapy.
- Lost Wages: Victims may recover lost income due to missed work during recovery and potential future earnings if the injuries affect their ability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation may also cover physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life resulting from the injuries.
- Property Damage: Victims can seek compensation for damage to their vehicle and other personal property involved in the accident.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
What to Expect During the Legal Process in Ohio
Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be daunting, especially when dealing with insurance companies and legal proceedings. At Hartwig Law, LLC, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge about the legal process.
Here’s a step-by-step overview of what you can expect when you choose us to represent you:
- Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a free consultation where we listen to your story, assess your case, and discuss your options.
- Investigation: Our team will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Filing the Claim: We will handle all paperwork and communication with insurance companies, ensuring that your claim is filed correctly and on time.
- Negotiation: Our experienced attorneys will negotiate with the insurance companies to secure the best possible settlement for you.
- Litigation (if necessary): If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court, advocating fiercely for your rights.
Let Us Help You Recover the Compensation You Deserve
The commercial trucking industry is subject to a wide variety of state and federal regulations, which establish trucker qualifications, rules on hours of service, cargo securement, vehicle inspection and maintenance, and other safety standards.
When commercial truck drivers or trucking companies fail to adhere to these safety regulations, they put the lives with those they share the road with in danger.
However, truck drivers and their trucking companies to violate state and federal laws for trucks to increase profits and productivity. When someone is hurt or killed, these parties must be held responsible for their blatant disregard for safety regulations.
Do not hesitate to contact our Youngstown truck accident lawyers and schedule a free consultation today. Call now - (330) 899-4446
Commonly Asked Questions
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
In Ohio, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. It’s essential to act promptly to preserve your rights.
What If I Was Partially At Fault For the Accident?
Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you share some fault, although your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
How Much Compensation Can I Expect?
The amount of compensation varies widely based on the specifics of the case, including the severity of injuries, medical expenses, and lost income. An attorney can help assess your potential damages.
Cases Won for Our Clients
Contact Us to Explore Your Legal Options
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$975,000 Settlement Auto Accident
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$60,000 Settlement Car Accident
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$155,000 Defective Products
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$68,000 Settlement Dog Bite
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$228,000.00 Jury Verdict Stark Drunk Driving
What Sets Us Apart From The Rest?
Hartwig Law LLC is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.