Types of Truck Accidents
A Semi-Truck Accident Attorney Can Assist You With Any Truck Accident
Trucks present unique risks in accidents such as jackknifing, rollovers, faulty equipment, or the failure to comply with trucking safety regulations. It is essential for victims of trucking accidents to partner with an experienced semi-truck accident attorney to secure the maximum compensation possible. In Missoula, MT, the attorneys at Tipp Coburn Lockwood, P.C., have many years of experience with these types of truck accidents and know how to help victims receive the compensation to which they are entitled. Specialized knowledge is required to make a claim in a trucking accident, and adherence to a special set of rules and procedures is the first step to having a successful claim.
Taking The Correct Approach
The ways in which a semi-truck accident case is approached depends on what caused the accident. If the accident was caused by driver fatigue, it is essential to examine the driving logs and determine whether safety regulations were violated. On the other hand, if the accident is due to faulty or malfunctioning equipment, it is necessary to examine maintenance logs and the role of the manufacturer. Once the cause of the accident is determined, a skilled semi-truck accident attorney can approach your case in a way that best fits the facts.
Truck accidents come in all shapes and sizes. The injuries are often catastrophic and the damage severe. Identifying the type of accident is key to securing reimbursement.
Understanding Jackknifing Accidents
Driving a semi truck requires certain skills, and drivers must undergo extensive training to learn proper driving habits. Inexperienced drivers, distracted drivers, and drivers who are fatigued are more likely to have an accident than drivers who are well rested and experienced. One of the most common types of trucking accidents is jackknifing, which happens when the trailer of a truck swings wide and runs at a 90 degree angle to the cab. The danger is that when the trailer swings out and skids along the highway, it destroys anything in its path. The wide sweeping motion demolishes smaller cars and causes serious injuries to those inside. The impact is sudden and victims can suffer broken bones, head and neck whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, and devastating damage to the spinal cord.
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What Causes Rollover Accidents?
- The rate of paralysis is higher with a rollover.
- The death rate rises with a rollover accident.
- Severity of brain and spinal cord damage is higher.
The reason the injuries are more severe with rollovers is because when a large truck rolls over a smaller passenger vehicle, the smaller vehicle is usually totally destroyed. The complete destruction of the car gives those inside little chance of escaping without injury.
Weight Capacity Violations
Trucking accidents are more serious than auto accidents due to the size and weight of a truck. The trucking industry has taken steps to minimize the damage done by placing weight load restrictions on trucking companies. When those restrictions are bypassed, the weight of a truck is so great that the damage done in an accident is catastrophic. Making a claim for damages in these circumstances requires an investigation into the practices of the company and identifying a pattern of violations. When found, the company can be held accountable for violating the rules and made to fully reimburse the victim.
DUI Trucking Accidents
DUI accidents are serious and become all the more devastating when a large truck is involved. Truck drivers are held to higher standards when it comes to drinking and driving, and an extra layer of accountability is added with a DUI trucking accident. Victims can seek compensation from the driver and the trucking company when a truck driver engages in drunken driving behavior.
Call Us For Help Recovering Compensation
If you have been in a trucking accident, let us work to ensure the recovery you deserve. We fully examine the facts of your case to pinpoint the cause of the accident and then demand compensation from every available source. To schedule an initial office consultation, contact us online or call us at 406-812-7634.
Tipp Coburn Lockwood
Our attorneys have been fighting for Montanans since 1959. Over the years, we have represented more than 7,500 clients and helped them recover millions of dollars in compensation. We are affiliated with renowned legal organizations, including The National Trial Lawyers and the Montana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
To schedule a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys, request a case review online or call us at 406-812-7634.
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Frequently Asked Questions
We represent clients facing both misdemeanors and felonies, including but not limited to:
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A public defender is a court-appointed attorney for those who cannot afford a private lawyer and must meet certain income requirements. However, public defenders often have large caseloads, which can impact their availability and approach. A private criminal defense attorney offers personalized attention, tailored legal strategies, and greater availability.
Hiring a private defense attorney offers:
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Penalties vary by charge but may include:
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Our firm was founded in 1959 and has represented over 7,500 clients across Montana. We are affiliated with The National Trial Lawyers and the Montana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Clients consistently highlight our:
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Visit our testimonials section for more feedback from previous clients.
We are based in Missoula, Montana, and serve clients across the state.
To begin your defense, schedule your free consultation by calling 406-812-7634 or contacting us online.