Kansas City truck accidents can result in long-term anguish and fear for the victims. Medical costs, lost wages, and mental distress could be responsible for the challenge. Most victims wonder when they should find a personal injury lawyer. The answer usually depends on the facts of the accident and the injuries incurred. The following information will facilitate easy understanding of key facts about truck accidents. You will know when to contact a lawyer, how to do it, and how to protect your rights.
Why Truck Crashes are Different from Car Accidents
Truck crashes are more destructive than typical car crashes. A truck carrying cargo weighs between 20 to 30 times its car counterpart. This size and weight difference make the crashes violent. The victims get seriously hurt with fractured bones or head injuries. There’s another key distinction—liability can be complex. Truck drivers, trucking firms, and even cargo loaders are at fault. There may be more than one insurance firm. That can mean victims encounter several adjusters and legal teams. Because of this, victims may require legal aid sooner.
Signs You Should Call a Personal Injury Lawyer
You may not require a lawyer for a small fender-bender with no injury. But when there are a few warning signs, legal representation is wise.
Call a lawyer if:
- You receive serious injuries that necessitate ongoing care.
- The accident caused the death of someone you care about.
- The truck company’s insurance company is pressuring to settle quickly.
- You are found to be at fault for the accident when you were not.
- Evidence will be lost if a step is not taken in a hurry.
A personal injury lawyer in Kansas City can act fast to get evidence before it disappears.
Most Common Causes of Truck Crashes in Kansas City
Truck crashes happen for a myriad of reasons. They are due to driver mistakes in certain situations. They are also a consequence of improper maintenance of trucks.
Some common causes follow:
- Driver Fatigue – Sitting behind the wheel for long hours can lead to delayed reaction time.
- Speeding – Semis take longer distances to stop, so speeding is dangerous.
- Distracted Driving – Eating or using the phone while driving can cause deadly mistakes.
- Improper Loading – Hauling cargo can make a truck unbalanced.
- Mechanical Failure – Faulty brakes or tires may lead to loss of control.
Knowing the cause assists your attorney to prove fault.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Truck Wreck
A better lawyer does more than prepare documents. They fight for your rights and take up the fight with insurance companies.
They can:
- Investigate the wreck and secure evidence.
- Question witnesses and read police reports.
- Speak with wreck experts to reconstruct the accident site.
- Negotiate in good faith with insurers.
- Go to court if needed.
An attorney also keeps you from being taken advantage of by trucking company tricks.
What to Do After a Truck Crash
What you do after a crash can affect your case. Proceed as outlined below to safeguard your health and your claim.
- Get Medical Care – Even when injuries seem minor, get checked out.
- Call the Police – A police report can be useful evidence.
- Gather Evidence – Photos and information.
- Gather Contact Info – Witness names and phone numbers.
- Don’t Make Recorded Statements – Insurers will use your words against you.
- Call a Lawyer – The sooner you call, the more you’ll gain.
Knowing Your Rights as a Truck Crash Victim
Kansas law allows victims to get back payment for damages. This can include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If a loved one is fatally injured in a truck collision, family members can sue for wrongful death. Deadlines, also called statutes of limitations, must be met. Missing these deadlines will shut your door to seeking damages. A lawyer can track these dates, file the claims and help the legal process.
The Role of Insurance Companies
Insurance companies generally try to settle claims for less than they are worth. They might call you shortly after the wreck with a speedy offer. Although the offer might be enticing, it might not pay for future expenses. Once you sign, you can’t renegotiate later. An attorney can examine the offer and inform you whether or not it’s reasonable.
Why Acting Quickly Is Important
Proof in truck accident claims vanishes rapidly. Truck corporations can “misplace” driver logs or maintenance reports. Witnesses forget over time. By acting fast, your lawyer can secure vital evidence before it vanishes.
When a Case May Go to Trial
The majority of truck accident claims never go to trial. If insurers refuse to pay fair damages, court may be required. A trial allows a judge or jury to decide what to do. Your lawyer will present evidence and question witnesses. While trials are longer, they can also lead to larger awards.
Choosing the Right Lawyer
Not all personal injury lawyers handle truck crash cases. Look for one with a successful truck accident history.
Some questions to ask:
- How many truck collision cases have you handled?
- Have you won any of them?
- What is your success rate?
The proper lawyer with the proper experience can make a significant difference in result.
Final Things to Think About for Kansas City Truck Crash Victims
Truck accidents are life-changing crashes. If you’re hurt, you don’t need to face off against the trucking company alone. A Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer can fight for your compensation and justice. Prompt response, awareness of your rights, and the proper lawyer are steps of utmost importance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When do I need to hire an attorney after a truck wreck?
You should call an attorney immediately after getting checked out by a doctor. The sooner you call an attorney, the faster they can keep and protect important evidence.
2. Can I represent myself in my truck accident case?
You can, but I would not recommend it. Truck wreck cases can be complicated and most of the time you have more than one party involved.
3. What damages can I recover in a truck wreck case?
You can recover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A family member can recover funeral expenses in a wrongful death case.
4. How long will it take before my truck wreck case settles?
It depends on what happened in the wreck and whether you are willing to settle. Some cases settle in a few months, while others settle in a few years.
5. Do I pay my attorney in advance?
Most personal injury attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. You only pay if your attorney wins your case.
