Just because you get into an 18-wheeler accident in Grand Rapids does not mean you will receive damages. Even if a trucker or another party is at fault, you may still have to fight for compensation. Fortunately, a Grand Rapids truck accident lawyer will advocate for you and help you get money from any at-fault parties.
At White Law PLLC, we removed the guesswork from trucking accident claims. A Grand Rapids 18-wheeler accident lawyer is available to discuss your case. To get started, contact us today.
How an 18-Wheeler Accident Differs from a Car Crash
Car drivers must follow various state and federal regulations, while truckers are required to comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules. For example, FMCSA hours of service regulations help prevent truck drivers from spending long periods of time behind the wheel. If a trucking driver breaks these regulations and causes an accident, both the trucker and their employer may be held accountable.
While a car driver may be solely responsible for a crash, there may be questions about who is at fault in an 18-wheeler truck accident. There are times when a trucker is negligent and they are responsible for a collision. Conversely, there are instances where a trucking driver’s employer, a truck parts manufacturer, or other parties are at fault.
If you suffer a personal injury in a car accident, your insurance policy or the at-fault driver’s coverage may cover your losses. Comparatively, if you get hurt in an 18-wheeler crash, you may still be able to file an insurance claim. However, the cost of your claim may be significant, and this may lead an insurer to do everything they can to avoid paying it. A Grand Rapids personal injury lawyer from White Law PLLC could be a valuable resource for your personal injury claim.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Possible At-Fault Parties in an 18-Wheeler Trucking Accident
An 18-wheeler accident attorney in Grand Rapids can review the facts of your case. This can help the lawyer figure out who is responsible for your crash. Possible at-fault parties in a trucking accident include:
- Truck driver
- Trucking company
- Truck or parts manufacturer
White Law PLLC has a team in place that has plenty of legal experience. We can connect you with a Grand Rapids 18-wheeler accident lawyer who can help you identify any at-fault parties and request the most damages possible. For more information, reach out to us.
We’re not just lawyers. We’re passionate advocates who will ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident
Call 911 to report your trucking collision. Medical professionals and police officers will come to the scene to assist you and anyone else who may be injured. In the days after your crash, you can get a police report that details what happened during your accident.
Notify your auto insurance company about the collision. You may be covered under your no-fault insurance coverage. If this coverage is not enough, additional help may be required to get full compensation for your losses.
Contact a Grand Rapids 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer following your crash. This attorney can provide tips and recommendations on what to do from here. They can help you decide if now is the right time to file a claim against any at-fault parties.
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
When to File an 18-Wheeler Crash Claim
According to Michigan Compiled Laws §600.5805, there is a three-year period of limitations for filing an injury claim. This means you have a maximum of three years from the date of your trucking collision and injury to seek compensation from any at-fault parties. If you miss this window, you may not be able to recover damages at a later time.
You can request economic and non-economic damages in a truck crash claim. Economic damages are quantifiable, and they account for losses such as your medical bills and property damage. Non-economic damages are subjective, and they include compensation awarded for pain and suffering.
Partner with a Grand Rapids 18-wheeler accident attorney so you can submit your claim right away. Also, choose a lawyer who has a track record of great case results. This attorney can help you build a body of evidence that may compel a judge or jury to rule in your favor.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
How to Prove Fault in an 18-Wheeler Trucking Accident Case
You are responsible for providing enough evidence to make it clear to a judge or jury that you are in no way responsible for your crash and deserve to be awarded damages. An 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Grand Rapids can help you collect and evaluate proof. Evidence you may be able to use to support your claim includes:
- A truck’s black box
- Video footage from a truck’s in-cab camera
- Trucker logbooks
- Truck maintenance records
- Police report
- Accident scene photos and videos
- Witness statements
- Medical records
An 18-wheeler accident attorney in Grand Rapids can help you prove negligence. To do so, they consider a wealth of evidence and work with you to prepare an argument that explains what happened during your crash and why someone else is at fault. If your attorney succeeds, you can get 100% of the damages you initially requested to cover your personal injury or wrongful death claim.
How Comparative Fault Relates to an 18-Wheeler Crash Case
Per Michigan Compiled Laws §600.5805, there is a comparative fault statute in effect that applies to trucking accident cases. Basically, you can recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault for a truck crash. If you are found to be partly or primarily responsible, you may not get the full compensation you originally requested.
For instance, you may submit a claim for $10,000 in damages in a truck accident lawsuit. A judge or jury may find you are 20% at fault. In this instance, you receive $8,000.
Or, a judge or jury may find you are 51% at fault in a trucking crash. If this happens, you are not awarded any damages. At this point, the defendant in your case does not have to pay you anything, and you are fully responsible for your crash costs.
Hire an 18-Wheeler Trucking Crash Lawyer
White Law PLLC is a top choice for those in need of legal help after an 18-wheeler collision. Our attorney can take a look at your case. To request a free consultation, contact us today.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
