West Virginia Truck Accident Lawyers
Parkersburg firm represents victims of catastrophic crashes
Crashes involving autos and trucks can be especially severe, accounting for a high percentage of fatal traffic accidents. The weight and force of a tractor-trailer, semi, or 18-wheeler moving at high speeds create a tremendous impact when colliding with a smaller vehicle. Devastating injuries and catastrophic vehicle damage are almost inevitable.
These accidents can lead to high monetary recoveries against trucking companies. So, the trucking companies and their insurers act quickly to protect their interests. Their representatives often arrive at the scene of an accident immediately to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and record statements.
What to do if you are in a truck crash
If you are involved in an accident with a truck, it is important to avoid speaking with anyone except the investigating police officer. In fact, do not speak to anyone at the scene regarding the accident. Any statement you make, no matter how innocent, can be misconstrued to imply the accident was your fault. Write down the names and contact information of any witnesses at the scene who can support your version of how the wreck occurred. If a passenger in your vehicle has a camera or a cell phone and is physically able to do so, it would be a good idea to take some photographs of the vehicles at the scene of the wreck, including any identifying markings on the truck or trailer.
Do not sign any medical or other releases. Be sure to seek immediate medical treatment, even if there is no apparent injury. Shock and adrenaline from the accident can camouflage serious head, neck, and spine injuries. Talk to the West Virginia truck accident lawyers of Goldenberg, Goldenberg & Stealey, PLLC as soon as possible so the evidence can be preserved and your rights protected.
Establishing fault in truck accidents
Proving liability in trucking accidents is more complicated than in a car crash. The driver, trucking company, truck manufacturer, and others may be held responsible—and so may you as the driver of the automobile in the collision. Outside experts are called in to investigate and testify, particularly when the potential damages are large.
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Association, one of the leading causes is driver fatigue, but there are many possible contributing factors to investigate:
|
|
Because the stakes are so high, trucking company and insurance investigators look carefully for any evidence that the passenger car contributed to the accident. They want to establish that you were drinking, speeding, or violating other traffic laws. That is why—even while you are still grieving or injured—you need smart legal representation to keep them from deflecting the blame to avoid justly compensating you.
Securing justice for the injured and wronged
If you are involved in a truck accident, call 800-516-7017 or contact Goldenberg, Goldenberg & Stealey, PLLC online immediately to protect your rights to claim damages.
