Truck accidents are not just devastating but also complex. You typically deal with severe injuries, potentially lifelong disability, a totaled car, and long-term financial stress. Additionally, you may have to handle multiple liable parties and complex federal trucking regulations when proving who is at fault and how to recover compensation.
The legal process is overwhelming, especially if you’re not working with a skilled Colorado truck accident attorney. Lawyers already know how the legal system works, what trick insurance companies play to settle for a lowball offer, and how to get you the truck accident compensation you deserve.
Let’s find out why and how having a truck accident attorney in your corner can help.
Truck Accidents Need Specialized Legal Representation
When a car or motorcycle collides with a truck, the consequences are far-reaching. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks mean injuries are severe, if not fatal. But the complexities don’t stop there.
Getting truck accident compensation requires you to deal with more than one liable party. Depending on the situation, you may have to negotiate for damages with the truck driver, the trucking company, and even vehicle manufacturers.
In other words, you’ll need to hire a seasoned Colorado truck accident attorney. They know how to negotiate settlements, file the required paperwork, and get you the best possible compensation.
A Component Colorado truck accident attorney helps:
Identify Violations of Federal Trucking Regulations
Typically, truck accidents involve violations of regulations issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. For example, drivers may exceed the number of hours they’re allowed to drive, leading to fatigue-related accidents.
Sometimes, trucking companies fail to maintain their rigs or ignore the loading limits. A professional attorney will investigate whether the company or driver violated these rules. That, in turn, increases your chances of proving the fault and getting rightful truck accident compensation.
Bring in Expert Witnesses
Truck accidents are complex, and with multiple liable parties involved, proving fault requires you to work with expert witnesses and accident reconstruction. A seasoned Colorado truck accident attorney has access to both.
If required, your lawyer may rope in an accident reconstruction expert who can analyze the crash scene, vehicle damage, and driver logs. Likewise, they can work with healthcare experts, who can help establish that your injuries are caused by the accident, not by a prior medical condition.
Sue All Liable Parties
Sometimes, more than just the driver may be at fault. You could hold the trucking company accountable for improper maintenance or the manufacturer for providing defective parts. A qualified lawyer knows how to identify all parties responsible and helps you recover truck accident compensation from them.
Save You from Settling for Less
Insurance companies often try to settle truck accident claims quickly and for less than you deserve. They might push you to accept a lowball offer, especially if you’re still recovering from your injuries. Having a specialized truck accident attorney by your side saves you from being pressured into accepting an unfair settlement.
Your Colorado truck accident attorney will negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf, making sure your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering are covered. In some cases, punitive damages may be available if the trucking company’s actions were egregious. Your attorney will also check if you’re eligible for these damages and get fully compensated.
File A Claim within the Deadlines
Time is of the essence when filing a claim. Colorado has a statute of limitations that typically allows you two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, if the accident involved a government vehicle or entity, the deadline may be 180 days.
A professional truck accident attorney knows these limits and helps you file a claim before the statute expires. They’ll also file your paperwork, avoiding delays caused by technical or clerical errors.
Hire the Right Colorado Accident Attorney
While you need legal help, not all truck accident attorneys in Colorado are made equal. You must work with someone who has handled cases similar to yours, dealt with insurance companies, and understands the complexities involved in your claim.
Here are a few key qualities to look for:
- Specialization: First, make sure your attorney specializes in truck accidents and understands the specific federal and state laws applicable to commercial vehicles.
- Negotiation Skills: A good truck accident lawyer will fight to get you the best settlement possible, not just settle for what the insurance company offers.
- Track Record: Look for an attorney who has successfully handled similar cases and can show positive results.
- Attention to Detail: Truck accidents involve multiple parties and complex details. A thorough attorney will investigate every angle and gather the evidence.
- Empathy and Communication: You need an attorney who listens, understands your situation, and communicates clearly throughout the process.
Get Legal Help Today
Truck accidents can lead to severe injuries, including burns, broken bones, and possible loss of limbs. You need enough compensation to cover your recovery, lost wages, and long-term physical therapy.
If you’ve been in a truck accident, don’t wait. Contact our attorneys at Manning Herington Accident & Injury Attorneys to evaluate your claim and decide the legal strategy.
Call 720-649-4747 or fill out our online form to speak with our team.
