Arlington Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents can happen at any time, day or night, and often lead to life-threatening injuries, property damage, or fatalities. When large commercial trucks cause these crashes, the size and weight discrepancies compared to passenger vehicles increase the likelihood of serious outcomes.

The aftermaths of these crashes tend to be more complicated as well. Determining liability can be challenging because several parties might be involved, including the truck company’s insurer. An Arlington truck accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King helps individuals pursue justice for their damages, allowing them to focus on their recoveries. We provide clarity on what you should expect after a truck accident and the options available for pursuing legal recourse.

What are the Most Common Types of Commercial Truck Accidents?

Understanding the most common types of truck accidents can help identify potential causes and liability. These include:

• Jackknife Accidents: When the trailer swings out of alignment with the truck, often due to sudden braking or slippery roads.
• Rear-End Collisions: Caused by a truck’s inability to stop quickly due to its weight.
• Rollover Accidents: Occur when a truck tips over, often from sharp turns or uneven loads.
• Blind Spot Crashes: Happen when other vehicles are not visible to the truck driver.

How Are Truck Accidents Different From Car Accidents?

Truck accidents often involve more legal and logistical factors than standard car accidents. Commercial trucks are subject to federal and state regulations, which may influence liability in an accident. These regulations cover aspects like driver qualifications, maintenance standards, and maximum allowable driving hours.

Another distinction is the size and weight of trucks, which can cause more significant damage and injuries during collisions. This may result in higher medical bills, property damage, and extended recovery periods for those involved. Truck insurance policies often have higher coverage limits than personal vehicle insurance, impacting settlement negotiations or litigation.

Finally, truck accident cases often involve multiple parties. In some situations, liability may extend beyond the truck driver to include the trucking company, maintenance vendors, or manufacturers of defective parts. An Arlington truck accident lawyer carefully analyzes the available evidence and applicable regulations in these cases.

What Compensation May Be Available After a Truck Accident?

Individuals injured in truck accidents may pursue compensation for various types of losses, depending on the circumstances of the case. Compensation may cover medical expenses, including emergency care, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment for injuries sustained in the accident.

Lost wages and diminished earning capacity may also be recoverable if injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently. Compensation for property damage, such as vehicle repair or replacement costs, can also be sought. Additionally, individuals may pursue damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic impacts of the accident.

The amount of compensation available reflects the severity of the injuries, the degree of negligence involved, and the evidence presented during settlement negotiations or court proceedings.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident?

Depending on the case’s specific circumstances, liability in truck accidents can extend to several parties.

• The truck driver may be held responsible if the accident occurred due to negligent actions such as speeding, distracted driving, or operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• A trucking company may share liability. Employers are generally responsible for the actions of their drivers if the driver was performing job-related duties at the time of the accident. Trucking companies may also be liable if they fail to adhere to maintenance requirements or hire drivers without proper qualifications.
• Maintenance providers who perform inadequate repairs or inspections can be at fault.
• Manufacturers of defective truck parts might be liable if their products cause accidents.
• Liability may also involve other drivers whose actions contributed to the accident.

Determining liability requires a thorough investigation of the facts and applicable laws. We examine these claims from every angle to establish which party(ies) are potentially accountable for damages.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Arlington?

Virginia law sets time limits for filing personal injury lawsuits, including those involving truck accidents; this time limit is known as the statute of limitations. In most cases, individuals have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit.

Adhere to this deadline, as filing a claim after the statute of limitations has expired will likely result in dismissal. Exceptions to the general rule may apply in certain circumstances, such as cases involving minors or individuals with incapacitating injuries.

How Can a Lawyer Assist With a Truck Accident Case?

One of a lawyer’s primary responsibilities is gathering and analyzing evidence to build a strong case. This may include reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, obtaining medical records, and consulting with accident reconstruction professionals.

In addition to evidence collection, a lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of their client. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, so you should not accept an initial settlement before getting a legal consultation. If a settlement cannot be reached, we can advocate for your interests in court.

Our trusted team members also assist with clarifying legal rights and addressing questions that arise during the process. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for the client while managing the procedural and substantive aspects of the case.

An Arlington Truck Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Offers Free Consultations

An Arlington truck accident lawyer will fight to protect your rights. For a free consultation, call the Law Offices of Duane O. King at 202-331-1963 or submit our online form. Located in Washington, D.C., National Harbor, Maryland, and Falls Church, Virginia, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.