DHL truck drivers are often given too many stops over too many miles, putting them and the public at risk for disaster. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash with one of these vehicles, speak with a Michigan DHL truck accident lawyer. They can help you hold the negligent parties accountable so you secure the resources you need to recover.
Collisions with trucks are a much bigger deal than collisions with another personal vehicle. The sheer size and weight of them mean that even a small ‘fender bender’ can cause significant damage and injury. Each Michigan truck accident lawyer with White Law PLLC has decades of experience to support you in your physical and emotional recovery while passionately advocating for your right to maximum compensation.
Why DHL Truck Accidents Happen
DHL truck drivers are required to carry a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate and drive DHL trucks. Unfortunately, when you are responsible for a truck averaging 164,000 lbs, one mistake can cause lifelong injury or death. Some of the reasons trucks may have accidents include:
- Cell phone use or other distractions
- Drugs or alcohol
- Exhaustion
- Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo
- Poor maintenance
- Road or weather conditions
Most accidents are caused by someone else’s negligence, whether it be the truck owner, the driver, or the cargo loaders. If you have sustained significant injuries in an accident because of carelessness, you deserve the support of a DHL accident attorney in Michigan. They can help you calculate the value of your medical bills and future care.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has regulations in place for DHL truck drivers to prevent accidents. Drivers are required to log their time of resting and travel digitally, which makes it easier for our Michigan personal injury lawyer to collect data and build your case. By using these records and other relevant evidence, they can strengthen your claim of liability against the at-fault parties.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Common DHL Truck Accident Injuries
Injuries in accidents can vary widely. Some people may walk away with scrapes and bruises, and some may not walk away at all. The most common injuries seen in truck accidents are:
- Anxiety
- Broken bones
- Depression
- Head injury
- Internal bleeding
- Lacerations
- Recurring nightmares
Physical injuries are common in truck accidents, but emotional injuries should be addressed as part of your compensation. If you are experiencing symptoms like nightmares, depression, or anxiety, it may be beneficial to see a mental health provider for evaluation and intervention. Keeping a pain journal can help your attorney support your claim for pain and suffering damages.
Factors that Can Increase the Severity of Your DHL Truck Accident
While there are many contributors to how severe your accident is, some of the main factors are:
- Speed of the vehicles involved
- Weight of the truck
- Type of collision
- Where you were located in your vehicle
- Whether you were wearing your seatbelt
A study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has shown that using your seatbelt can reduce the risk of serious injury or death in an accident by 50% or more. In an accident involving a heavy DHL truck, the seatbelt can save your life, allowing you to return to your loved ones. Your attorney can demonstrate you were wearing it to fight against the defendant’s claims you are partially at fault for your injuries.
We’re not just lawyers. We’re passionate advocates who will ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Damages in Your DHL Truck Accident Case
If you have been severely injured in a DHL accident, an attorney will likely speak with you about damages to claim. You can request compensatory damages to reimburse you for all the expenses you have incurred because of the accident. These include costs such as:
- Lost wages and benefits
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
If our attorneys feel it is appropriate, costs for future medical needs or devices associated with the accident can be included in damages claims. If you are left with a permanent disability or can no longer work, your lawyer may advise you to seek additional compensation to allow you to support yourself and your family. After a full assessment of your case, your White Law attorney can give you a better estimate of the potential value of your claim.
Other Damages in Your DHL Truck Accident Case
When the defendant’s actions are deemed intentional or egregious, the judge may award punitive damages. They are rare, seen in only about 5% of cases. Punitive damages are separate from the compensatory damages you seek for your injuries and are intended to punish the defendant harshly.
If you have lost a loved one to a truck accident, a DHL truck accident lawyer in Michigan may determine that you are a candidate for a wrongful death claim. This compensation may be used to cover the medical or funeral costs of your loved one, pay for their lost income, or take some financial pressure off of you. A financial award or settlement will never replace a loved one, but it can provide time and space to heal.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
Steps to Take Immediately After a DHL Truck Accident Lawyer
Immediately following an accident, call 911 for medical and police assistance for everyone involved. Ask paramedics to evaluate you if you do not need emergency transport to a hospital. The police will produce a report that can benefit your case.
You can begin your own paper trail by taking pictures of the scene and any injuries you have. Continue documenting how your injuries heal as you recover. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, the weather, and anything else that may have contributed to the crash.
Do not minimize your injuries when speaking to others. Even if you are treated at the scene, schedule a full evaluation with your doctor within 24-48 hours. Your physician can identify any “silent” injuries, such as internal bleeding or brain damage, as well as establish a link between the accident and your medical condition.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Contact a DHL Truck Accident Lawyer in Michigan Today
Being in a collision with a DHL truck can be a traumatic experience. Aside from the pain and anxiety of the injury itself, negotiating with insurance companies can be long and stressful. A Michigan DHL truck accident lawyer will be in your corner, working in your best interest.
White Law PLLC offers 20-plus years of experience serving over 30,000 clients. We have secured over 1 billion dollars in settlements and jury awards. If you have been injured in a DHL truck accident, reach out for a free consultation today.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
