Truck accidents are almost always more serious than other types of accidents because of commercial vehicles’ size and weight. Truck accidents can cause severe injuries, extensive property damage, and even death. If you were hurt in a truck accident in Shelby, North Carolina, or the surrounding areas like Burke County, Catawba County, or Caldwell County, you deserve to be represented by an experienced Shelby truck accident lawyer.
Truck accident cases require specific knowledge and experience. At the Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, our personal injury lawyer team has a proven track record of handling complex truck accident claims. Our team understands the federal and state regulations governing the trucking industry and uses this knowledge to build strong cases for our clients. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Truck accidents differ from car accidents in various ways. First, vehicles’ mere weight and size might result in more serious damage and injuries. Trucks also have bigger blind spots, need more skill to turn, and take longer to stop. Additionally, truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, and, potentially, manufacturers of truck parts.
The complexity of these issues calls for a thorough understanding of both state and federal rules controlling the trucking sector. Our company has a lot of experience working with the particular difficulties presented by truck accident cases so that all negligent parties are identified.
Truck drivers and trucking companies in North Carolina must adhere to stringent federal and state regulations designed to ensure safety on the roads. Federally, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets regulations such as hours-of-service rules, which limit the number of hours a driver can be on the road to prevent fatigue, and mandatory rest periods.
Additional state-specific rules that apply in North Carolina include weight restrictions, vehicle inspections, and the need for truck drivers to have a current Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) enforces these regulations and inspects trucks to ensure compliance. Violations of these regulations can be crucial in establishing fault in a truck accident case. Knowing both federal and state regulations, our lawyers in Shelby can spot any regulatory violations that might have led to the accident.
Determining liability in truck accident cases can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties. The driver of the truck, the trucking company, the owner of the truck, the manufacturer of the truck or components of the truck, and the company responsible for loading the truck, might all be liable for the accident.
Each party’s degree of fault must be thoroughly investigated. For instance, the trucking company may be liable for inadequate training or maintenance, while the manufacturer could be responsible for a defective part. Our firm conducts comprehensive investigations to identify all liable parties and builds a strong case for maximum compensation.
Handling insurance companies following a vehicle accident might be intimidating. Insurance adjusters could try to diminish your claim or persuade you to accept a low payoff. It is critical to keep records of all communications with insurance agents and refrain from providing comprehensive statements without first consulting a lawyer. Lawyers can talk to insurance companies on your behalf, arrange a fair settlement, and watch out for your rights.
At Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, we have the experience to manage these negotiations effectively, striving to secure the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
The degree of the injuries, property damage, and negligence involved determines how much a truck accident settles for. Factors such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term disability are considered in determining the settlement amount. Consulting with a Shelby truck accident lawyer can help you understand the potential value of your case.
North Carolina has specific laws and regulations governing truck drivers and commercial vehicles. These include hours-of-service rules limiting how long drivers can be on the road, mandatory rest periods, and regulations on vehicle maintenance and weight limits. Additionally, truck drivers must hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and adhere to state and federal safety standards. Violations of these laws can significantly impact liability in truck accident cases.
It is crucial to gather and present compelling evidence of your damages to negotiate a higher settlement in a truck accident case. This includes medical records, receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, proof of lost wages, and expert testimonies. Clearly documenting your pain and suffering and the impact on your daily life can also strengthen your case. Working with an experienced lawyer can enhance your negotiation strategy, ensuring you achieve a fair settlement.
In North Carolina, it is generally illegal for passengers under 16 years old to ride in the open bed of a pickup truck while the vehicle is in motion. There are some exceptions, such as if the vehicle is being used in a parade, on a farm, or in an emergency. However, safety should always be a priority, as riding in the bed of a truck can be extremely dangerous and increase the risk of severe injury in an accident.
If you or someone you care about has been involved in a truck accident, Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, is here to help. Our Shelby truck accident lawyers are dedicated to providing individualized and effective legal assistance. Contact us for a consultation to discuss your case and learn about your possibilities for collecting the compensation you deserve.