Hit By a Negligent Trucker? Call (402) 882-7080
As someone who has suffered significant losses in a truck accident, you may be wondering what you can do to get justice. The prospect of bringing a legal battle against a powerful trucking company may not seem like a pleasant one; however, you should not give up your right to fight for compensation out of fear. It is possible to win your case with professional legal help from a dependable law firm.
The experienced Nebraska truck accident attorneys at Cullan & Cullan LLC can give you the tools you need to pursue coverage for past and future medical expenses, loss of wages and earning capacity, pain and suffering and more. You may be entitled to vast sums in damages, possibly ranging in the millions. If you have any questions regarding your case and legal options, feel free to call us today at (402) 882-7080. We offer free consultations.
Truck Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2012, there were 3,921 people killed and 104,000 people injured in truck accidents. Close to 73 percent of the fatalities were occupants of other involved vehicles. The total number of large trucks involved in accidents was approximately 333,000. The majority (81 percent) of fatal accidents involving large trucks were multiple-vehicle crashes.
What Causes Most Truck Accidents?
A truck accident can occur in myriad ways, though there are some contributing factors that are more common than others. Truck driver negligence is one such major cause of truck accidents and includes the following bad road behaviors:
- Speeding: The NHTSA 2012 report states that approximately 18 percent of truck drivers involved in fatal accidents that year had at least one prior speeding conviction on their record. Truck drivers that speed has less time to react to emergency obstacles and need more space to come to a complete stop. Speeding is often accompanied by abusing the brakes, which can lead to mechanical failure.
- Drunk Driving: Alcohol’s effects on the brain include delayed reaction and bad judgment, which, when combined with operating a very large motor vehicle, can lead to disastrous results. In 2012, approximately two percent of truck drivers involved in fatal accidents recorded blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of .08 or higher.
- Fatigued Driving: The effects of fatigue on the brain are similar to alcohol, if not worse. This is why truck drivers are required to take adequate rest between driving sessions under Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. However, faster delivery time equals greater profit in the trucking industry, and therefore some companies encourage or even push their employees to exceed regulatory hours in order to make a good time.
If your accident was caused by a negligent truck driver, you may pursue litigation against both the truck driver and his/her company. It is highly advised that you consult with an Omaha personal injury attorney to determine whether you have a valid claim.
Speak With Our Negligent Truck Driver Lawyers in Nebraska
After you have received medical attention (which is an absolute must), contact an Omaha negligent truck driver lawyer at Cullan & Cullan LLC right away. Failing to file your claim within the statute of limitations is the same as forfeiting your right to pursue compensation. Another reason why you should act promptly is that evidence tends to fade with time. The sooner we get started on your case, the stronger chances you’ll have of attaining a full and fair settlement.