Injured In A Truck Collision? Take These 6 Steps:
Between the construction of new homes and businesses, the necessity of bringing shipped items into Reno or sending them out of the city, and being located in a state with highways that link to large cities, commercial trucks are a common feature on streets in our region. While the commercial trucking industry is heavily regulated, accidents still happen. If you’ve been injured in an accident with a big rig truck, you’re likely facing medical expenses that continue to mount. You should speak with a Reno Truck Accident Lawyer or an Injury compensation lawyer in Reno from Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC who is knowledgeable about trucking law and can determine your eligibility for compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
Trucks of all sizes and shapes fill Reno roads, playing a vital role in our local economy. However, their activities come with a cost. Truck accidents cause catastrophic injuries and tragic fatalities throughout Nevada, and Reno is no exception.
Understanding The Aftermath Of A Truck Collision
At the accident scene, immediately call 911. Remain there until first responders arrive. Tell them what happened, but take care not to say anything that someone could misinterpret as you taking the blame for what happened.
Seek Immediate Medical Assistance After The Truck Accident
Seek medical attention right away. Even if you feel okay, go see your doctor for a check-up as soon as possible. Many severe, even life-threatening, truck accident-related injuries do not necessarily show symptoms immediately. Seeking medical care ensures that you receive prompt treatment for any hidden injuries, and also creates important records of your treatment that may prove vital to recovering compensation in any legal proceeding.
Request Or File A Police Report As Soon As Possible
If you have been involved in an accident and need to file a police report, it is important to act quickly. You should contact the local authorities immediately so that they are aware of the incident and can investigate accordingly. Additionally, you will want to notify your insurance provider as soon as possible so that they can begin the claims process. Make sure to include only the relevant details, such as the location of the accident and any witnesses or other involved parties, but refrain from offering further information, as it’s easy to use your own words against your best interest. It’s also advisable to create a comprehensive record of all related expenses for reimbursement purposes.
Schedule A Free Consultation With Our Reno Accident Lawyers
Contact an experienced Reno truck accident injury attorney right away. The sooner you have knowledgeable legal counsel looking out for your interests, the better your chances of recovering any compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
We’ll Help You Determine A Fair Settlement For Your Injuries
Your attorney can help you understand your rights and negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement. In any case, make sure to consult an experienced Reno truck accident lawyer before signing anything or agreeing to a settlement. Insurance companies often try to get accident victims to accept unfair offers that don’t fully compensate them for their medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Mediate & Negotiate To Resolve The Personal Injury Dispute
Once you’ve consulted a truck accident lawyer in Reno, the attorney can work to resolve your dispute through mediation or negotiate with the other party for a fair settlement. If necessary, your lawyer can take your case to court and fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve.If you have been injured in an accident involving a commercial truck, don’t hesitate to contact Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the legal process and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.
Contact Our Lawyers For A Free Case Evaluation
Common Types Of Truck Accidents Handled By Our Reno Personal Injury Lawyers:
Head-On Collisions
We have been representing individuals who were involved in head-on collisions with large trucks. These types of accidents often result in the most serious injuries and fatalities.
Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents can occur when a truck takes a sharp turn too quickly or if there is an issue with the weight distribution in the vehicle.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions with large trucks can be caused by either driver’s negligence, such as following too closely or failing to stop in time.
Blind Spot Collisions
Large trucks have blind spots that can cause collisions if a driver is not paying attention or does not check their mirrors before changing lanes.
Tire Blow-Outs
Tire blow-outs can cause a truck to veer off course and crash into other vehicles if the driver is unable to regain control.
Jackknife Collisions
Jackknife collisions occur when the trailer of a truck swings around to be parallel with the cab, often causing severe damage and injuries.
Wide Turning Accidents
Wide turning accidents occur when a truck driver takes too wide of a turn and collides with another vehicle or property.
Spilled-Load Accidents
Spilled-load accidents occur when the cargo in a truck is not properly secured and falls out of the vehicle, causing road obstructions and potential collisions.
Meet Our Experienced Team Of Reno Truck Accident Attorneys
Reno’s Leading Personal Injury Law Firm
Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC has served clients in the Reno area for over 20 years. Our team of experienced Reno truck accident lawyers understands the complexity of these cases and knows how to fight aggressively for our clients’ rights. We have a proven track record of success and are here to guide you through every step of your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Meet the AttorneysReno Truck Accident LawyersWith 5-Star Rated Reviews
Client Testimonials
I suggest using Benson & Bingham if you’re in need of an injury accident attorney! They have an amazing staff and made the entire process easy and stress free handling my case with compassion and a remedy of great efficacy!
I picked this place and I’m so glad that I did. Ida was very helpful and professional. If I had questions they were answered. I would definitely use them again in the future and I would definitely recommend them to anyone. Thank you for your service I appreciate it.
What I love about Benson & Bingham, especially from my attorney, Lina, I felt informed and cared for my health. She made sure I was ok at all times through my injury. I hate I had the accident, but it was comforting to know I was well taken care of.
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Award-Winning Law Firm Serving Reno
Benson & Bingham: Obtaining Exceptional Results For Truck Accident Cases
Total Settled By Verdicts For Clients
At Benson & Bingham, our Reno truck accident lawyers have obtained exceptional results for victims involved in personal injury cases. We have successfully collected over $500,000,000.00 in damages on behalf of our clients and their families.
SEMI / COMMERCIAL ACCIDENT
Our experienced Reno truck accident attorneys obtained a settlement of $2,650,000.00 for the victim and their family after they were involved in an accident with a semi-truck. We were able to negotiate the highest amount possible under the circumstances and ensure that our clients recovered fully.
TRACTOR TRAILER ACCIDENT
At Benson & Bingham, we obtained a settlement of $1,540,000.00 for the victim and their family after they were involved in an accident with a tractor-trailer. We successfully navigated the legal process and negotiated a favorable outcome on behalf of our clients.
Why Choose Our Reno Truck Accident Lawyers
Our Reno truck accident attorneys are dedicated to providing the highest quality legal representation and personalized service. We understand the complexities of these cases and have a proven track record of success in obtaining maximum compensation for our clients. When you choose Benson & Bingham, you can be sure that we will fight aggressively on your behalf and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the entire process.
Visit Our Law Office In Reno
Reno, NV 89502
Our office is conveniently located in Reno, Nevada and we are available to meet with you in person or virtually. We understand the importance of providing personalized service and will work collaboratively with you throughout your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how our experienced Reno truck accident lawyers can help you recover the compensation that you deserve.
Injuries Caused By Truck Accidents
Accidents that involve commercial trucks often involve severe injuries and fatalities. Those who survive such accidents are often left with debilitating and sometimes permanent injuries. Some common injuries that are involved in truck accidents include:
Internal Bleeding
or hemorrhaging, generally caused by the truck rolling over or falling onto a passenger car.Cuts Or Impalement
from pieces of broken glass or metal.Neck, Head Or Spinal Injuries
that may leave a victim paralyzed or suffering from severe head or brain trauma.Burns From The Airbags Or Fuel
or hazardous materials that the truck is carrying. Fires started by a fuel tank that ruptures in an accident can also cause burns.Broken Bones,
which are often severe due to the impact of colliding with a large vehicle.
What Damages Can I Claim In A Truck Accident Case?
How Much Compensation Will I Receive?
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the most common type of damages that can be recovered in a truck accident case.
- Lost wages. This includes the wages you have already lost as a result of your injuries and any future wages that may be lost as a result of long-term disability.
- Medical costs. This includes the cost of any medical treatment, whether covered by insurance or not
- Therapy. This includes any physical, occupational, or psychological therapy that may be required as a result of the accident.
- Property damage. This includes the cost of any damage done to your vehicle or personal property.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are intended to compensate you for the losses and hardships that cannot be quantified in monetary terms. These damages can include:
- Pain and suffering. Your injuries cause you to suffer long-term or permanent pain.
- Loss of use. Full or partial loss of use due to damage or amputation.
- Loss of companionship. Unable to engage in activities such as housework, hobbies and family activities. Loss of consortium. Unable to have a physical relationship with your spouse due to injuries from your accident, a court may award you damages for loss of consortium.
- Future wages. Partial or complete loss of income.
- Future medical costs. Additional surgery, therapy, and follow-up appointments.
Punitive Damages
In some cases, a court may award punitive damages if the at-fault party acted with gross negligence. Punitive damages are intended to punish and deter reckless behavior. In Nevada, punitive damages are limited to three times the amount of compensatory damages if the amount of compensatory damages equals or exceeds $100,000. If compensatory damages amount to less than $100,000, the law caps punitive damages at $300,000. At Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, we understand how difficult these cases can be for our clients and their loved ones. We are dedicated to providing compassionate representation and helping you achieve a successful outcome.
Did A Truck Driver Crash Into You? Get In Touch With Our Lawyers For A Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, our truck collision injury attorneys can help. We understand the complex nature of these cases and will fight aggressively to ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help with your case.
Common Causes of Reno Truck Accidents
In spite of the regulations that are in place, commercial truck accidents still occur due to negligence on the part of the truck driver. Some common negligent driving behaviors seen in truck accidents include:
Distracted Driving
Truck drivers spend a lot of time in their vehicles and fall prey to the same distractions that confront other drivers, such as texting or talking on their phones, eating, and adjusting vehicle controls. Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers can help you determine if distracted driving was a factor in your Reno truck accident.
Improperly Loaded Or Overloaded Trucks
Loaded trucks that operate on U.S. highways cannot weigh more than 129,000 pounds. Those that are overloaded or are not loaded properly are harder to control, hence the tight regulations.
Alcohol Or Drug Impairment
Alcohol and illegal drugs aren’t the only substances that can impair a driver. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs can also lead to impaired driving. Our truck accident attorneys can investigate whether a driver was under the influence of drugs at the time of your crash.
Speeding & Reckless Driving
Pressured to meet deadlines, commercial truck drivers sometimes exceed the speed limit to reach their destination as quickly as possible. While speeding is a major cause of traffic accidents involving any type of vehicle, fully loaded trucks can weigh up to thirty times more than passenger cars and require a lot more distance to come to a safe stop in the event of roadway hazards.
Poor Truck Maintenance & Repairs
Trucks transporting goods across the country rack up a lot of miles. Along with those miles comes the need for frequent maintenance. At Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, we can review trucking records to determine whether the vehicle involved in your crash was properly maintained and serviced.
Driver Is Fatigued & Falling Asleep
The National Safety Council reports that driver fatigue worsens reaction time, awareness, and ability to sustain attention. Surveys suggest that violations of the hours of service regulations do occur, and that such violations increase the likelihood of fatigued driving.
Truck Accident Attorneys Serving Throughout Reno
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Commercial Trucking Is A Highly Regulated Industry In Nevada
Because of their large size and high risk of causing catastrophic injuries to others in accidents, commercial trucks and their drivers are held to a higher standard than the drivers of passenger vehicles. Commercial truck drivers or the companies for which they work for are required to purchase a higher amount of insurance than other drivers, must obtain special licenses, and are subject to regulation by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Some of the regulations that they must abide by include:
- Hours of Service rules. Fatigue is a major concern among lawmakers in regards to long-haul truck drivers whose tight deadlines often force them to drive long distances and through the night. Hours of service regulations require that drivers take an off-duty break of at least thirty minutes every eight hours. Drivers can work no more than 60 hours every seven days or 70 hours every eight days, after which time the driver must take an off-duty break of at least 34 consecutive hours.
- Medical fitness for duty testing to ensure that drivers are medically able to meet the demands of the job.
- Workplace drug and alcohol testing in accordance with federal law.
- Electronic logging devices to record hours of service. Regulators inspect these devices and the information that they provide to ensure that the driver and shipping company are abiding by the hours of service laws. The information from these devices can also be accessed in the event of an accident to determine if a driver was negligent in his or her duty to obey the law and drive safely.
- Proper securement of cargo to prevent it from shifting during transport. Shifting cargo is a major source of rollover accidents with big rigs.
- Rules prohibiting texting while driving and requiring hands-free cell phone usage.
- Safe transportation of hazardous materials that may harm people, wildlife, and the environment should the materials spill during an accident.
FAQs About Truck Collision Injury Claims In Reno
What Are The Most Common Truck Inspections Required By Federal Law?
Trucks go through several types of inspections, including roadside inspections and driver vehicle inspections. Below we discuss some of the most common truck inspections:
- Roadside inspections. If a driver undergoes a roadside inspection, the driver must provide his or her employer with the inspection report. The truck company then has 15 days to correct all violations, sign the report, and mail it to the address indicated on the report. The carrier must keep a copy of the report for 12 months from the date of the inspection.
- Annual inspections. Commercial vehicles, including trailers, must undergo inspection at least once every year. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations have a list of items that must be inspected. The motor carrier must keep a copy of the inspection report for a minimum of 14 months from the report date. A motor carrier may perform the inspection itself.
- Driver vehicle inspections. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration also requires that drivers conduct a daily, post-trip inspection report at the end of each driving day. The report should note any deficiencies or defects that the driver has noticed. If the issue affects the safety of the vehicle, a driver must repair it immediately. Otherwise, the motor carrier must certify that the repair does not pose a safety hazard and thus doesn’t need to be rectified immediately. Copies of driver vehicle inspections must be kept for a minimum of 3 months.
Working with a lawyer will help you more effectively determine who bears liability for your truck accident.
What Are The Nevada State Laws Pertaining To Commercial Trucks?
In addition to the federal regulations, truck drivers in Nevada are also regulated by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles motor carrier section . The state rules govern the length and weight of trucks permitted to transport goods on roadways in the state, and also how the vehicle should be registered within the state. Trucks from out of state that weigh more than 10,000 pounds that are used for business within the state are required to bear a non-resident business permit within 10 days of commencing operations within the state. Additionally, trucks transporting hazardous materials into or through the state are required to obtain a hazmat permit.
Nevada’s joint and several liability rule allows for truck accident attorneys to hold truck drivers accountable in multi-vehicle crashes, even if the trucker was only one percent responsible for the accident. Joint liability means that each at-fault party is responsible for the full amount of damages; several liability means that each at-fault party is only responsible for their share of the liability in an accident, and the victim is left to collect each responsible party’s share separately. In most cases, including most traffic accident cases, only several liability applies. However, in the case of an accident involving a commercial truck, joint liability is available as well.
How Much Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth?
Every Reno truck accident has its own facts and circumstances, so the size of a victim’s potential injury claim can vary widely. The amount of money you might receive for injuries and losses you sustained in a Reno truck accident will likely depend on:
- The extent and severity of your injuries, and your prospects for making a full physical recovery.
- The amount of time and energy making a full recovery will take.
- The amount of money you have spent, and will need to spend, on medical care and other services, because of your injury.
- The amount of income you have lost, and will lose, because of your injuries.
- The negative impact your injuries have had on you physically, emotionally, and socially.
- The number of individuals or entities who have a legal liability to you for your injuries.; and
- The financial resources available, either through insurance or assets, to pay you the compensation you deserve.
Who Can I Sue For My Truck Accident Injuries? Can I Sue The Driver Or Trucking Company?
Well, it depends. As a general rule, victims of Reno truck accidents have the right to take legal action seeking compensation from anyone whose actions or decisions caused them harm. Truck accidents have a wide variety of causes, and so, lots of individuals or entities might have legal liability for the damages they cause.
Typically, experienced Reno truck accident lawyers will evaluate whether an injured client has a legal claim against:
- The truck driver or any other motorists whose actions led to the crash;
- The employer of any of those drivers, if they were working at the time of the crash;
- Any mechanic or maintenance contractor who may have failed to keep a truck or other vehicle in working order, leading to the crash;
- Anyone who improperly loaded or secured cargo on the truck, causing it to crash; and
- The manufacturer of any defective car or truck part that failed, leading to the crash.
These are just some of the parties who may have a legal liability to a Reno truck crash victim. Working with an experienced Reno truck accident lawyer is the most reliable way to figure out who may have liability to you for your injuries.
How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit After A Truck Accident?
Under Nevada law, in most cases, you have just two years from the date of your injuries in a Reno truck accident to take legal action for compensation. That is why it is so important to hire an experienced Reno truck accident injury attorney as soon as possible. Two years might seem like a long time, but for lawyers, it is not. Experienced attorneys know that to ensure a Reno truck accident victim has the best possible chance at recovering maximum compensation, getting to work right away after an accident can make a world of difference in the final outcome.
What Happens If I Have To Go To Court For My Truck Accident?
It is possible that your truck accident case may have to go to court. At Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, we are well-versed in the litigation process and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. If a trial is necessary, our attorneys will be prepared with compelling arguments and evidence.
Should I Work With An Insurance Company After Having A Truck Accident?
If you have been injured in a truck accident, we strongly advise that you do not speak to the insurance company before consulting with an experienced attorney. Insurance companies employ skilled negotiators who may attempt to get you to accept an inadequate settlement offer or try to place blame on you for the crash.
Do I Need A Personal Injury Lawyer To File A Claim For Compensation After A Truck Accident?
Yes, a qualified personal injury attorney is your best bet for recovering the compensation you deserve. Our experienced truck accident lawyers have successfully recovered millions of dollars for our clients in settlements and at trial. We understand the complexities of these cases and will fight tirelessly to ensure that you receive the justice you deserve.
How Do I Recover Damages After Truck Accident In Reno?
If you have been injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to recover damages. Recoverable damages include medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded by the court.
Should I File A Police Report For A Minor Truck Accident?
Yes, the law requires that you report any accident involving injury or property damage to the police and file a written accident report. Your attorney can help you understand whether filing an official accident report is necessary in your case.
What Should I Look For In A Reno Truck Accident Attorney?
Truck accidents often saddle victims with extensive injuries, significant medical expenses, tens of thousands of dollars of lost income, and a diminished quality of life. An experienced Reno truck accident lawyer aims to remedy as many of those harms as possible by seeking maximum compensation for an injured client.
After a Reno truck accident, look for an attorney who has represented victims of truck accidents who suffered injuries similar to yours. Do not make the mistake of hiring an attorney who handles car accidents only. Truck accidents often involve far more legal and factual complications than crashes between passenger vehicles.
Find a Reno truck accident lawyer who has the know-how and resources to track down all of the parties who might have a legal liability to you, and the determination to hold as many of them accountable as possible.
Also, favor an attorney who has a track record of success in and out of the courtroom. Many personal injury lawyers spend their lives negotiating settlements, but shy away from taking a case to trial. Skilled truck accident injury attorneys have the confidence to prepare and pursue a case as if it will end up in front of a Reno judge and jury. Make a lawyer with those skills your pick to represent you after a Reno truck accident leaves you injured.
How Should I Deal With Insurance Companies?
When dealing with insurance companies, it is important to remember that they are in business to make money. As such, they will try to pay out as little as possible on your claim. It is best to avoid speaking directly with the insurance company and instead, let an experienced truck accident attorney handle all of your communications.
Why Do Truck Accidents Frequently Cause More Serious Injuries Than Auto Accidents?
The larger size and weight of trucks, combined with higher speed limits on highways, makes truck accidents more serious than auto accidents. In addition, the cargo carried by commercial trucks can cause hazardous conditions for nearby drivers.
Read Our Personal Injury Blog & Learn More About Truck Accidents
Contact Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers For A Personalized Case Consultation
If you sustained an injury or lost a loved one due to a truck accident in Reno, let us help you determine your legal options. We also serve clients in Lake Tahoe, Sparks, and Carson City. Schedule your free consultation today by contacting Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC online or by calling us at (775) 600-6000.