Accidents with commercial trucks often cause catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical care and long-term recovery. Seeking fair compensation after a truck accident is no easy task, especially when dealing with powerful trucking companies and their insurers. Victims need a skilled Concord truck accident lawyer.
At Mogy Law, we are here to help truck accident victims receive the justice they deserve. If you have been in a trucking accident in Concord, NC, contact our law offices today for a free consultation.
How a Concord Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help Victims
A skilled Concord truck accident lawyer can make all the difference in your case.
Knowledge of State and Federal Regulations
One of the key challenges in truck accident cases is navigating the intricate web of federal and state regulations that govern the operation of commercial trucks. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes rules for driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading to ensure safety on the road.
A knowledgeable attorney will review these regulations and look for evidence of violations.
Gathering Evidence
Proving fault in commercial truck accident cases requires meticulous evidence collection and a thorough understanding of traffic laws and trucking regulations. An experienced truck accident lawyer will investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, gathering key pieces of evidence such as:
- Police reports and witness statements.
- Black box data and maintenance records from tractor-trailers.
- Evidence of safety violations, such as not following Hours of Service rules.
Settlement Negotiations
Dealing with the insurance company after a truck accident can be daunting. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts, offering settlements that may not fully cover the victim’s medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. A truck accident lawyer in Concord, NC will negotiate with the insurance company to maximize your settlement.
Representation in a Lawsuit
If negotiations don’t lead to a fair settlement, a truck accident lawyer will be prepared to represent you in court. Your personal injury attorney will prepare a strong case and advocate for your rights.
Let our law firm be your trusted advocate as you navigate this challenging time. Contact Mogy Law for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Concord, NC
Truck accidents can occur for various reasons. Here are some of the most common causes of truck accidents in Concord, NC.
Driver Fatigue
Many truck drivers work long hours to meet tight deadlines. This can lead to fatigue, impairing their judgment and reaction times. Drowsy driving is a significant risk factor that often results in serious accidents.
Distracted Driving
Distractions, such as texting, using a GPS, or adjusting the radio, can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road. These distractions can lead to devastating collisions, especially with large commercial vehicles.
Speeding
Truck drivers may feel pressured to exceed speed limits to make deliveries on time. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles. However, some may neglect routine inspections and repairs. Mechanical failures, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, can lead to catastrophic accidents.
Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can create hazardous driving situations. Trucks require longer stopping distances, and poor visibility can severely affect a driver’s ability to navigate safely.
Inexperienced Drivers
Inexperienced truck drivers may not have the skills necessary to handle large vehicles, especially in challenging driving situations. Lack of training can lead to poor decision-making on the road.
Improper Loading
Cargo must be loaded correctly to ensure stability. Overloading or improper weight distribution can cause trucks to tip over or become difficult to control, leading to accidents.
Who Can Be Liable for Trucking Accidents?
In the aftermath of a truck accident, identifying the responsible parties is crucial for pursuing financial compensation. Liability can extend beyond just the truck driver. Here are the key entities that may share responsibility for a truck accident in Concord, NC.
Truck Driver
The truck driver is often the first person considered when determining liability. If the driver was negligent—such as driving under the influence, texting while driving, or exceeding the speed limit—they can be held accountable for the accident.
Trucking Company
The trucking company that employs the driver may also bear responsibility. Companies have a duty to ensure their drivers are properly trained and that the vehicles are well-maintained. If the company fails to enforce safety regulations or ignores maintenance issues, it can be liable for accidents that occur as a result.
Cargo Loader
In some cases, those responsible for loading and securing the cargo can be held liable. Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transit, leading to loss of control and accidents. If a cargo loader doesn’t follow safety standards, they may share liability for any resulting damages.
Vehicle Manufacturers
Defective parts or vehicles can lead to serious accidents. If a truck’s brakes fail or a tire blows out due to manufacturing defects, the vehicle manufacturer may be held accountable. Establishing that a defect contributed to the accident can significantly impact the outcome of a personal injury claim.
Compensation in Truck Accident Claims
After a truck accident in Concord, NC, victims can seek financial compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other losses. Here are the main categories of damages in truck accident claims.
Medical Bills
Truck accident victims often suffer devastating injuries that require extensive medical treatment. You can seek compensation for medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical expenses for ongoing care.
Lost Wages
You can recover compensation for lost income during your recovery and the loss of future earnings if you are unable to return to your previous job. A skilled truck accident attorney can help document your losses and present a compelling personal injury case.
Property Damage
Truck accidents often result in significant damage to vehicles and personal property. Compensation for property damage can cover repair costs or the fair market value of your vehicle if it is deemed a total loss.
Pain and Suffering
Truck accident victims can also seek compensation for pain and suffering. This covers the physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life from the accident. For example, traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries can cause life-long disabilities.
Punitive Damages
In cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, North Carolina may award punitive damages to the victim. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault party. An experienced truck accident lawyer will evaluate the circumstances of your case to determine if you could seek punitive damages.
North Carolina law typically limits punitive damages to three times the amount of compensatory damages or $250,000, whichever is greater. However, this limit doesn’t apply to auto accidents caused by drunk driving.
Wrongful Death Claims After Fatal Truck Accidents in North Carolina
If you’ve lost a family member in a fatal truck accident, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. In North Carolina, these claims must typically be filed within two years of the person’s death. The personal representative of the deceased’s estate, usually a surviving spouse or close family member, is responsible for filing the lawsuit.
Compensation can cover various expenses and losses, including medical costs, funeral expenses, lost income, and even pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before their passing. It’s crucial to work with an experienced attorney when dealing with these complex cases.
How Much Does a Concord Truck Accident Attorney Cost?
At Mogy Law Firm, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront fees when hiring a truck accident lawyer. Instead, our payment comes from a percentage of the compensation we secure for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.
Unlike many attorneys who take 33% of your settlement, Mogy Law stands apart with a flat 25% contingency fee. This means you keep more of your compensation—because we believe your recovery should come first.
What Is the Deadline to File a Truck Accident Case in North Carolina?
North Carolina law sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit after a trucking accident. In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically three years from the accident date. If the accident victim dies, the family has two years to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
It’s crucial to act quickly after a truck crash. Evidence can deteriorate, and witnesses may forget critical details over time. You should contact a truck accident lawyer in Concord, NC as soon as possible.
What Makes Truck Accidents More Complex Than Car Accidents?
Truck accident cases are significantly more complex than standard car accident cases. Unlike passenger car accidents, crashes involving commercial trucks often involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and even cargo loaders. An experienced truck accident lawyer will investigate the circumstances of the crash to identify all responsible parties.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes rules for tractor-trailers and commercial trucks. A skilled truck accident lawyer in Concord, NC understands these regulations and will search for evidence of safety violations.
What Are the Most Common Truck Accident Injuries?
Truck accidents often result in serious injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, internal bleeding, and other life-threatening conditions caused by the force of impact.
- Chest Injuries: Broken ribs, lung injuries, and blunt trauma to the chest are common in high-impact collisions.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Ranging from concussions to severe brain damage, TBIs can lead to long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly affecting mobility and quality of life.
- Neck and Back Injuries: Whiplash, herniated discs, and other injuries to the neck and back are common, often causing chronic pain and limited movement.
Why Choose Mogy Law?
Mogy Law stands out for several reasons.
- Proven Track Record of Success: Our law firm has recovered millions for accident victims in North Carolina.
- Get More With Mogy: Unlike many attorneys who take 33% of your settlement, Mogy Law has a flat 25% contingency fee. You keep more of your compensation.
- Dedication to Clients: Our team combines empathy with experience. Check out testimonials from clients.
Contact Mogy Law for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been in a truck accident in Concord, NC, our experienced legal team is here to help. Our personal injury lawyers at Mogy Law understand the complexities of truck accident cases and are committed to fighting for your rights.
Don’t wait to take action. The time to file your claim is limited. Contact our law firm today for a free consultation by calling (901) 443-9133 or filling out our online form. Your recovery is our priority.
