Accidents involving large trucks can lead to devastating injuries and long-drawn-out legal battles. When you are involved in a crash with a truck, it’s important to have a Rochester Hills truck accident lawyer on your side. Having legal representation can help you better understand the legalities of your situation and know the direction you should take.
Determining liability can be challenging when a truck accident occurs because of the number of parties potentially involved, such as the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and others. This is why you should work with a Rochester Hills personal injury lawyer who understands the intricacies of these cases and can conduct a thorough investigation to identify all responsible parties. Your lawyer can also handle communication with insurance companies and negotiate on your behalf to ensure your rights are protected.
Michigan’s Laws Governing Truck Accidents
Michigan follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning that after an accident, each party typically files a claim with their insurance provider, regardless of who was at fault. However, in cases involving severe injuries or death, you may step outside the no-fault system and pursue a liability claim against the at-fault party. To do so, the injured person must meet certain thresholds, such as incurring medical expenses exceeding a specific amount or suffering a “serious impairment of body function.”
Under the Michigan legislature, truck accident victims have three years from when the incident happened to file a personal injury claim. The statute of limitations is vital to keep in mind, as failing to file within this period could result in losing your right to seek compensation. If a government-owned truck is involved in the accident, special rules and shorter deadlines may apply, making it even more critical to consult with a Rochester Hills truck accident attorney promptly.
Michigan also follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are deemed more than 50% responsible, you may be barred from recovering damages altogether. A lawyer can help you build a strong case to minimize any accusations of fault on your part and maximize your potential recovery.
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Statistics of Truck Accidents in Michigan
The impact of truck accidents on Michigan’s roadways is significant, often resulting in severe consequences for those involved. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, large trucks were involved in a disproportionate number of fatal crashes in the state in 2021. The following statistics highlight the need for increased safety measures and accountability:
- There were 111 total fatalities in crashes involving large trucks
- 20 fatalities were large truck occupants (13 in single-vehicle crashes and 7 in multiple-vehicle crashes)
- 82 fatalities were occupants of other vehicles involved in crashes with large trucks
- 9 fatalities were non-occupants (pedestrians, cyclists, etc.) involved in large truck crashes
Pursuing legal action not only helps truck accident victims secure the potential compensation they need. Compensation is important to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, but also serves as a catalyst for change within the trucking industry. By bringing attention to the severe consequences of truck accidents and the need for improved safety measures, successful legal claims can encourage trucking companies and drivers to prioritize responsible practices and compliance with regulations designed to protect all road users.
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Why You Should Consider Accident Reconstruction
In a complex truck accident case, accident reconstruction can be a valuable tool when it comes to presenting your evidence. This process is meant to determine how the crash occurred and who was at fault. It typically involves the following:
- Analyzing physical evidence from the scene, such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and debris
- Reviewing data from the truck’s event data recorder (black box)
- Examining driver logs, maintenance records, and other relevant documentation
- Consulting with experts in fields like engineering, physics, and biomechanics
Having accident reconstruction can help establish critical facts about the impact and crash. It includes information such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the sequence of events leading up to the impact, and whether any mechanical failures or violations of trucking regulations contributed to the accident. This information can be essential in proving liability and strengthening your case.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
What to Look for in a Truck Accident Lawyer in Rochester Hills
When choosing a truck accident attorney in Rochester Hills to represent you, look for someone with extensive experience handling these complex cases. Ask about their track record of success in similar matters and whether they have the resources necessary to thoroughly investigate your claim and take it to trial if needed. Look for an attorney who is responsive, communicative, and willing to take the time to understand your unique situation and goals.
It’s also important to find a lawyer who is compassionate and understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll a serious accident can take on victims and their families. Your attorney should be a strong advocate for your rights and keep you informed at every stage of the legal process. Many Rochester Hills truck accident lawyers offer free initial consultations, allowing you to discuss your case and get a sense of their approach before deciding to hire them.
Consider working with a local attorney who is familiar with the courts, judges, and legal community in the Rochester Hills area. This knowledge can be invaluable in navigating the legal system and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Working with a team like White Law PLLC meets all of these points.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Let Us Help You Prove Your Truck Accident Case
You should never put off legal guidance when you are hurt in a truck accident. Contact White Law PLLC and speak with a Rochester Hills truck accident attorney today. Schedule your free consultation to discuss your rights and options for pursuing the compensation you feel you deserve.
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